write. write more
creative writing retreat
Led by leading authors, literary agents and creative editors, attendees will benefit from daily writing workshops, critiques of retreat assignments, and focused one-on-one critique and discussion sessions on one of their works-in-progress. Enjoy hands-on tutoring from published authors and lively literary discussions in the splendour of our nineteenth century Chateau in the Loire. Acceptance on our retreats is not just on a first-come, first-served basis but also subject to vetting via a pre-camp questionnaire and discussion with our team.
Explore your creativity in the unique setting that is Chateau de la Motte Henry - cut off from the world and all its stresses, immersed in nature and surrounded by wildlife. In the tranquility of our Chateau and the surrounding wonders of the Loire, you will stay in luxurious, boutique style accommodation and enjoy delicious homemade food. There will be plenty of time to focus on your own work, relax in our grounds and explore the charm, beauty and heritage of the Pays de la Loire.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
EVERYTHING YOU COULD WANT, AND MORE.
Luxurious en-suite accommodation in the recently refurbished, 'fairytale' Chateau de la Motte Henry
Nutritious, specifically designed menu, including 3 meals per day, readily available snacks and all drinks
Great social and relaxation areas - lakeside decking, walled garden, woodland paths, secret picnic spots
Carbon offset of your trip to see us, paid for by us
Comprehensive Covid refund policy, if your attendance is rendered impossible due to Covid.
Ready access to explore your ideas with our host, Leigh Russell, a published author experienced in nurturing a love of reading and writing
Initial Skype or phone consultation to introduce ourselves, discuss our approach and your objectives
Informative group and small group discussions and creative writing practice
Time to reflect and relax in comfort, with excursions to local places of interest
THE VENUE
Chateau de la Motte Henry is a beautiful, 19th Century Chateau set in over 9 hectares of glorious parkland in the Pays de la Loire. Easy to get to from the UK and mainland Europe, the Chateau is equipped with first class health, fitness and leisure facilities to allow guests to relax and reenergise. The spacious accommodation remains true to the Chateau’s heritage, updated for modern convenience.
HEALTHY, NUTRITIOUS FOOD
LOVINGLY PREPARED
Our nutritionist and chef have designed an eye-catching, delicious menu, founded in local, organic produce. We serve the highest quality, locally sourced organic food to produce an energising and detoxifying menu throughout your stay. Vegetarians and vegans catered for.
SAMPLE MENU
BREAKFAST
Signature home-made Granola
Fresh fruit platter
Scrambled eggs with smoked trout & dill
Oat & Chia seed bircher pots with mixed berries
Wake up energising smoothies
Fresh orange and pink grapefruit juice
LUNCH
Moroccan Spiced Turkey Breast
Guacamole
Puy lentil, sun-dried tomato and feta salad
Minted cucumber & tomato salad
Chick pea & pomegranate cous-cous
Green Salad
DINNER
Roasted tomato & basil soup
South American sweet potato & haddock fishcakes, with a lemon & thyme sauce
Wilted Spinach
French Beans
Glazed Carrots
Raspberry & Chia Pot
UPCOMING RETREATS
Play your Cards Right
6th - 9th November 2026 | 4 days
From £775
Full Board, Shared Occupancy
Capture your Imagination
12th - 16th November 2026 | 5 days
From £1,500
Single room supplement £300. Accompanying partners £1,000
Death at the Chateau – Murder Mystery
20th - 23rd November 2026 | 4 days
From £795
Solve the mystery of the Death at the Chateau. Inclusive of food, drink and accommodation. Minimum 12 guests.
The Living Table
5th-9th March 2027 | 5 days
From £795
Single Room Supplement £200
Parkland Restoration Retreat: Gardening & Heritage Exchange
11th-15th March 2027 | 5 days
From £0
All-inclusive
Play your Cards Right
18th - 21st March 2027 | 4 days
From £775 or €895
Full Board, Single Occupancy Supplement £150
Write, write more
22nd-26th March 2027 | Creative Writing Retreat
From £1,000
Single room supplement £250.
Capture your Imagination
22nd - 26th April 2027 | 5 days
From £1,600
Single room supplement £300. Accompanying partners £1,000
Play your Cards Right
5th - 8th November 2027 | 4 days
From £775
Full Board, Shared Occupancy
Capture your Imagination
11th-15th November 2027 | 5 days
From £1,500
Single room supplement £300. Accompanying partners £1,000
The Living Table
18th-22nd November 2027 | 5 days
From £795
Single Room Supplement £200
Death at the Chateau – Murder Mystery
26th-29rd November 2027 | 4 days
From £795
Solve the mystery of the Death at the Chateau. Inclusive of food, drink and accommodation. Minimum 12 guests.
ENQUIRE NOW