Belmond La Residencia Launches Creative Writing Retreat with Acclaimed Author Diane Redmond
Creativity abounds. The village of Deia on Mallorca’s peaceful north-west coast has attracted poets, artists and writers for over a century. Famous British writers Alan Sillitoe, Robert Graves and D H Lawrence were all inspired by this artistic haven and now guests at Belmond La Residencia can follow in their footsteps on a six-night creative writing retreat.
One of Spain’s finest luxury boutique hotels, Belmond La Residencia’s twin manor houses sit in lush gardens sheltered by green mountains. Running from 17th – 23rd May and 4th – 10th October for groups of up to 10 writers at all levels, the creative writing retreat is led by acclaimed British author and dramatist Diane Redmond, who penned the Joshua Cross children’s historical adventure stories and a series of Watership Down books to tie-in with the TV series based on Richard Adams’ classic novel. Diane has also written for the stage, radio and television.
During the course, budding authors begin each day with a three-hour morning workshop, pursuing their genre of choice under Diane’s expert guidance. Subjects range from novels and children’s books to radio plays and television scripts, with guests working both one-on-one with Diane and in groups of two or three.
Afternoon activities include a visit to the house of world-famous novelist Robert Graves, where he wrote I, Claudius, Good-Bye to All That and The White Goddess; and a fascinating cultural tour of Deia.
Guests also have free time to work on their writing and enjoy facilities including an award-winning spa, tennis courts and two outdoor swimming pools. Creative types can further add to their repertoire by preparing mouth-watering Mallorcan dishes with the chef and booking a class with the artist, sculptor or ceramacist in residence; while those wishing to explore further afield can ride off in search of writing inspiration on one of the hotel’s vespas or trek along the nearby Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Each evening before dinner, guests receive feedback on their writing and present their works-in-progress to the rest of the group. Each participant on the retreat is encouraged to challenge themselves, re-work drafts and receive critiques, ensuring they leave Belmond La Residencia with unforgettable memories and a true sense of achievement.
Belmond La Residencia’s creative writing retreat is priced from £1,795 + VAT per person, including six nights’ accommodation with daily breakfast; five-day writing course with tuition and workshops; literary-themed excursions; and a three-course dinner on the first and last evenings. Available for stays from 17th – 23rd May and 4th – 10th October 2015. To book or for more information, call the Belmond UK reservations team on 0845 077 2222 or visit belmond.com.
