An inspiring summer writing retreat in Italy with award-winning historical novelist Rebecca Abrams

Summer Writing Retreat

Immerse yourself in the inspiring landscape of rural Italy on this very special one-week summer writing retreat led by acclaimed author and creative writing teacher Rebecca Abrams. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy dedicated time to focus undisturbed on your writing project in the company of a small group of like-minded fellow-writers and surrounded by the beauty and tranquillity of the Sabine Hills.

A woman sitting at an outdoor table on a vineyard terrace, writing in a notebook under a vine-covered pergola, with mountains in the background.

Course Details

Every morning of the retreat from 9.30-1.00 is set aside for participants to focus on their individual writing projects.  In the afternoon, you are free to continue writing, have a 1:1 tutorial with Rebecca, or take a break to explore the local area.

There will be optional daily outings to the local lake (15 mins drive from the castle) for anyone wanting a swim.

A buffet breakfast and light lunch are provided each day, served al fresco on the terrace. Dinner is provided at the castle on 4 nights of your stay, with outings to local restaurants the other 3 nights. The cost of all meals at the castle is included in the price of the retreat.

Interior view of an old, ornately decorated room with frescoed walls and ceiling, open double doors, and antique furniture including a yellow sofa and a wooden table.

Location:

The Summer Writing Retreat is held in a remarkable 17th century castle set amidst the stunning landscape of the Sabine Hills. Living for a week in this very special place, you will be immersed in history and nature.  Participants are also free to use the time as they wish. The castle is an excellent base from which to explore the local villages and unspoilt towns of rural Lazio, walk in the ancient woods and hills, visit the prehistoric caves, or swim in the fresh water lakes. For those in need of cultural pursuits, Rome and Tivoli are within 1 hour’s reach by car and train.

Cost for six-nights:

£1,200-£1,500 depending on room. This includes accommodation, optional one-to-one tutorials with Rebecca, breakfasts, lunches and 4 evening meals at the castle.   

The cost of flights and transfer and meals at local restaurants are not included.

How to Apply

Applications for the summer writing retreat are welcome from writers in all literary genres. There are places for a maximum of 8 writers and applicants must be over the age of 18.

Applicants are invited to submit a short description of their project (200 words max) and a sample of writing (500 words max). You will also be offered a free 20-minute consultation with Rebecca to discuss your creative project, writing goals and what you are looking to get out of the retreat.

Booking for the retreat closes on May 1st 2026.

Please fill in the form below and we will be in touch as soon as possible.

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A rustic bedroom with a four-poster metal bed frame, a small wooden side table, a window with sunlight streaming in, and exposed wooden beams on the ceiling.
Fruits on a wooden table near an open window showing green trees outside. The fruits include peaches, yellow plums, and cherry tomatoes.
View through a window showing green trees, mountain range in the distance, blue sky with some clouds, and a bird flying.
A dining table set outdoors with colorful plates, glasses, and bowls of food, overlooking a lush green mountain landscape in the background.
Group of ten women sitting on a covered porch with a stone pillar design, surrounded by green trees, smiling and enjoying a sunny day. There are papers, notebooks, and cups on a round table in front of them.
A serene lake surrounded by green forested hills under a blue sky with scattered clouds, with a wooden dock extending into the water where three people are sitting and one person is standing.

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