Melanie Whipman
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WRITING RETREAT
IN THE
​ALTEA FOOTHILLS

I’m very excited to offer another European writing retreat. It’s long overdue and I’m delighted to have found a glorious, inspirational location in the Altea Hills in Alicante Province where you will be able to immerse yourself in writing for a few days. We’ll be staying at two neighbouring - Villas Altea,  a stunning 950 m2 (10,000 sq ft) mansion with the most amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea, infinity pool, numerous terraces and a pine garden over three levels, and its sister villa which has similar delightful views, gardens, pool and amenities, There's plenty of space in both villas for you to find a peaceful spot to write by yourself. Although a tranquil haven, it’s only a 4 minute drive to the beach, 10 mins to Altea Old Town / Calpe Beaches and 40 minutes airport transfer.
As before, I will be tailoring the course to the attendees, but it's ideal if you're part way through a novel or memoir and feel a little stuck, or if you're a beginner and you'd like some inspiration and guidance to tackle some short stories or a longer project. As always, we will be discussing characterisation, voice, setting and structure - through group discussion, tutor-led exercises and workshopping.
Your days will be fuelled with delicious, locally sourced, home-cooked food created by Marisa, an Anglo/Spanish caterer and yoga teacher. 
I'm sorry, this is now full. Please do register interest for next year. Again, I'll be restricting the group to twelve students.

PROGRAMME:
October 12-16th 2026
Monday - Welcome drinks, mini wine-tasting, canapés, evening meal, introduction to the course.
Tuesday - Breakfast, lunch, dinner, writing workshops/tutor led discussion/free writing.
Wednesday - Breakfast, lunch, dinner, writing workshops/tutor led discussion/free writing. Trip to the waterfront/beach/cafes/restaurants and walks, depending on weather
Thursday - Breakfast, lunch, writing workshops, free time then readings, prize giving, celebratory bubbles at the villa, dinner at a local restaurant (at your own expense).
Friday - Breakfast before heading off to your return flights or to your continued adventures in Alicante Province.
Complimentary yoga/meditation/savasana sessions available on request during your free time.
Cost for single occupancy:
£890-£1200 depending on room size (all rooms are single occupancy with ensuites). Reduced rate for shared occupancy with fellow writers or for partners who would like to join you but who will not partake in the writing activities.
Extras will include flights (currently an EasyJet return is £68), transfers, final meal out at a restaurant, plus any alcoholic drinks (honesty bar) throughout your stay.
Please email me for further information or to book: [email protected]
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  • Home
  • LLAMA SUTRA
  • Creative Writing Courses
  • Published work
    • Short Story Reviews
  • Editing Services
  • STUDENT SUCCESS
  • PRISON WORKSHOPS
  • LIT LIVE FRENSHAM
  • EVENTS
    • Greek Writing Retreat
  • WRITING RETREAT