Write and Walk Retreat in Spain 2019

ABOUT

Escape to a mountain haven for a holiday to walk, write and retreat. Join writing coach Sarah Bullen from The Writing Room and international author Kate Emmerson on an inspirational and empowering writing retreat with daily walks, talks, food, wine and connection. (There is a lot more info about us both lower on the page.) 

NEXT STEP? sign up here to get all the information and an application form.

You can also read more about the retreat, reviews and the area on the website here

Beautiful settings make writing all the easier, and this one is rather breathtaking - surrounded by dramatic peaks, deep gorges, and crystal clear rivers, there is nowhere better to breathe in the pure mountain air and find your writing voice. 

Write ‘n Walk Retreat is more active than our ones in Greece or South Africa! This is for the writer, or walker, who will include daily writing sessions and life reflection along with local hiking guides who all share their passion - the majestic Asturias region; Spain’s best-kept secret. We are surrounded by dramatic peaks, deep gorges, and crystal clear rivers, there is nowhere better to breathe in the pure mountain air and stretch your limbs than at our restored farmhouse and writing studio. This is going to be an adventure (and holiday) of a lifetime.

We begin the day with some writing practice before a delicious organic breakfast in the main dining room, formerly a mill, before we head out for the day’s hiking. We walk beautiful mountain trails, averaging approximately 15 kilometers per day, accompanied by friendly and knowledgeable guides who will fill our days with a soulful blend of scenic hiking, historical insights, traditional experiences and wonderful food. 

You will savor local Asturian cuisine, sample aromatic cheeses and sip the traditional beverage, Sidra Asturianu, a cider made from locally grown apples. Trek through scenic gorges and alongside babbling brooks; dine in local taverns; explore 10th-century churches and relax under Spain’s oldest yew tree, El Tiexo, planted more than 1,000 years ago in a sacred meadow.

In the afternoon we have quiet writing time. In the evenings we gather for a structured writing workshop before storytelling and laughter around a dinner table. 

If you’re serious about your writing, you should be able to have a balanced, fun and creative week and come away with new knowledge and techniques — not to mention get fit and make some friends.  The amazing views, stunning venue, and utter serenity make this a superb place to do just that.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND? 

 The retreat, which is suitable for writers of all levels (complete beginners are welcomed!) It is time and space to write, think and wonder. For those working on a novel, memoir, workbook, online course, photography-based book this is a supported environment. 

This is a great retreat to bring a non-writing partner along.

Do you have to prepare for the walking? A level of walking fitness is required as some days we may walk 8 - 12kms or more if you take optional longer routes. We will advise you of the walking shoes to bring and other sensible preparations to make ahead of time. 

WHERE? 

We gather in a spectacular and untouched corner of northwest Spain. The beautiful venue is in a retreat centre and recently converted farmhouse on the hillside of a green valley in the hamlet of Faedo and is part of the Parque Natural Urbiñas-La Mesa in the heart of Asturias.

Nestled in Quirós Valley, the casa rural is surrounded by dramatic peaks, deep gorges and crystal clear rivers, and ancient forests, a paradise for those who love the great outdoors.  An intricate system of marked footpaths leads you from one small village to the next; up and over mountain passes; and through river valleys.  Our guides will take us on daily walks through the magnificent landscape via well-trodden pathways visiting remote villages where life continues largely unchanged.

Close by is the Senda del Oso, a 30-kilometer trail from Bárzana de Quirós to Trubia, which runs through these valleys following the track of an old railway line once used for transporting coal and iron ore to the sea.  In the next valley over, we will walk through the mystical canyon of Las Xanas to Pedrobeyo for a hearty lunch of Fabada, a typical Asturian white bean and chorizo stew.

Watch a video of retreat center: click here! 

COSTS 2019

Single room €2400

Sharing room €2100 

Deposit €450 

Please note our refund terms and conditions. The deposit is non-refundable which is why we suggest you FIRST full out the form

The cost INCLUDES:

Pick up and drop off on Day 1 and Day 8

*Wholesome and complete breakfasts

* Gourmet vegetarian dinners with wine

*Transportation throughout the trip when sightseeing and for the daily, guided

hikes and other activities

*2 cooking demonstrations / classes (optional if you want this)

* 7 nights of hotel accommodations with private bathrooms (limited single rooms available)

* Writing sessions to get your book on track with Sarah

* Life and soul sessions with Kate

* Guided walks in the surrounding mountains & river valleys (bi-lingual guide)

* Delicious and creative vegetarian dinners with wine

* Two Spanish cooking demonstrations with Chef Juan Carlos

* Use of multimedia room (living room) with a grand selection of international movies

* Daily cleaning service (bedrooms)

+Optional:

* Massage (around 50 Euros for an hour)

* Laundry (10 Euros a load)

* Rental bikes (12 Euros a day) 

The costs EXCLUDES:

* Flights 

* Lunches, most of these we take in small villages after our daily walk and you will bring cash for that. 

What past retreat participants have said.. (we have so many reviews we have a whole page of them )

There is a special magic that happens in this little village. Creativity is emboldened, a gentle release is inevitable and all anxiety seeps away, allowing and encouraging you to write your book. I was supported and held by the professional and talented partnership that is Sarah and Kate. They are an extraordinary team with heart, backbone and intellect and lots of experience with publishing. If you are considering a writing retreat don't think twice! Do it.  Gabi Lowe, author Get Me to 21

The course structure finally let me realise my book can be achieved with structure and the framework Sarah worked out with me. It taught me how to get from idea to a book. I loved writing all afternoon in my room overlooking the sea and all the expert speakers who came to give us their tips and advice – Julian Cowburn, UK, 2018

I loved it all. The place, the people, the experience, the sea, the lessons and the succinct and practical way to write a book. Sappho was inspired by the same sea and sun 2000 years ago and that touched my heart and words. Linda Smuts – 2018

I have so much clarity and belief in myself. It was just a magical experience in a tiny village with writing support and clear direction and feedback. I made friends for life. Di Atherton, 2018

This was mind-blowing. I was overwhelmed by the amazing people, the teachers, the food, the swimming, the guest speakers, the support and love. It allowed me to see my life in a new perspective. The time was very well structured and we were pushed to write and develop our books with guidance.

Grace 2018

The venue was magnificent and the facilitators world-class. This was more than a retreat it was a nurturing, relaxed and supportive writing journey that will take you out of your head and into your book. Ana Forsmann 2018

The venue is breathtaking and the organisation superb. Everything is taken care of and I finally got my book clear. Sue Nurick

If you want to write, you definitely can’t go wrong with Kate and Sarah. I was so happy there was clear course content and it took us down the path of planning and writing. Finally I am getting out of my head and writing my book – Patricia Harper 2018

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