Escape into Literature

Escape into Literature

Take a step out of a busy world and give yourself the time and space to pick up a book.

Nestled beside a sheltered beach with endless stretches of golden sand, and shaded by vibrant bougainvillea, our literary retreat is the perfect place for readers and writers to immerse themselves in words.

We’ll offer you uninterrupted time to read and write, surrounded by fellow book lovers who understand the joy of discovering new worlds between pages.

We’ll be welcoming visiting authors, who will join us to discuss their writing process, research methods, and latest work. These intimate sessions provide unique insights into the art of storytelling.

Our retreat offers a unique escape into literature, set against the stunning backdrop of Naxos’ sheltered beaches and olive groves. The gentle whisper of the Aegean Sea makes the perfect backdrop for tackling that to-be-read list or crafting your own stories.

This is your time – and nothing is compulsory. You can spend the days immersed in a book, emerging only for a quick dip in the Aegean, or you can find your book tribe. It’s up to you!

Perfect for:

• Solo readers seeking quiet inspiration
• Book clubs (discounts available for groups of 5 or more)
• Writers looking for fresh perspectives and uninterrupted time to read, research and write

Book clubs and writing groups are especially welcome. Instead of sitting around the coffee table, come to us and discuss your favorite novels over a glass of local wine as the sun sets over the Aegean Sea.

What’s included in our reading retreat:

• 5 nights in traditional Cycladic accommodation
• All meals, including relaxed dinners to inspire literary discussion
• Visiting guest authors
• Reading nooks throughout the grounds—with hammocks, sun loungers, and beachside spots
• Access to our small curated library, featuring reading recommendations from indie bookshops, including new releases, bestsellers, and genre and literary fiction
• Optional mix-and-match book groups for various genres (reading list provided upon booking), depending upon numbers and demand

Optional extras:

• Workshops (Greek cuisine, creative writing, or reading as therapy)
• Beach yoga
• Excursions to explore the island’s hidden treasures

There will also be ample opportunity for book talk – from our opening evening book swap, to cosy book chats over that novel you just couldn’t put down – its all about books. Discover new authors, make new friends and unlock the magic of sharing stories in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.

A typical day might include a Greek breakfast of fresh yogurt with honey, just-baked breads and patisseries, coffee, tea and fresh orange juice, followed by a daily what’s on briefing, and individual reading/writing time. After lunch under the olive trees, explore the island, take a workshop, have a swim or just pick up a book and read.

The day ends with an aperitif under the stars and a taverna dinner. Make friends for life over a glass of wine and endless conversations about books, books, and more books.

On days where we have a visiting author, there will be an early evening talk given by the author, followed by a question and answer session and a book signing – of course! The authors will join us for drinks and dinner afterwards.

What’s Included in This Package

• 4 nights accommodation
• 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals
• Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day
• Welcome drink
• Daily yoga classes
• Specialized workshops
• Course Manual
• Transportation during the retreat
• Airport pick-up and drop-off
• Parking
• Luggage storage
• Wifi connection

Draft Schedule

Day 1: Arrival & Welcome

• Afternoon: Check-in and settle into your Cycladic accommodation. Explore the grounds, find your favorite reading nook, or take a stroll on the nearby beach.
• Evening: Welcome dinner at the taverna. Join our book swap—bring a favorite book, share why you love it, and exchange it White Elephant style.

Day 2: Immersion in Words

• Morning: Breakfast followed by personal reading or writing time in your chosen spot—under bougainvillea, on a hammock, or by the beach.
• Afternoon: Optional creative writing workshop or free time for swimming, beach walks, or quiet reflection.
• Evening: Wine-paired dinner with a visiting author sharing their writing process and a Q&A session.

Day 3: Inspiration & Exploration

• Morning: Start the day with optional beach yoga, then dive into personal reading or writing time.
• Afternoon: enjoy uninterrupted reading.
• Evening: Dinner followed by a guided book discussion with fellow retreat guests.

Day 4: Creativity Unleashed

• Morning: Breakfast followed by an optional Greek cuisine workshop or dedicated time for writing and reading.
• Afternoon: Optional mix-and-match book group discussions by genre or more free time to relax by the sea.
• Evening: Farewell dinner with storytelling, laughter, and connections made over shared passions.

Day 5: Reflect & Depart

• Morning: A final breakfast and closing reflection. Spend a quiet moment on the beach or in a reading nook to soak in the tranquility before heading home.

Food

Guests love the food – they rated it 5 out of 5

Experience the flavors of Naxos with meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, bursting with the essence of the Mediterranean.

From traditional Cycladic dishes to modern Greek cuisine, each meal is a celebration of the island’s culinary heritage.

Dine at charming local tavernas, where authentic flavors and warm hospitality create unforgettable dining experiences.

Facilitators

We will have the crime writer Nikki Smith as our guest

Ros Johnson co-founder of Naxos Creative, trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama and has extensive experience as a voice coach and director. She served as Assistant Director at both the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield under Clare Venables and at the RSC with renowned voice coach Cicely Berry. At the National Theatre, she worked closely with Sir Richard Eyre on productions that went on to the West End. Over her career, she has coached celebrated figures like Dame Judi Dench, Madonna, Dame Maggie Smith, Ewan McGregor, and Benedict Cumberbatch.

Her expertise extends internationally; she has worked with the British Council in Kuala Lumpur and trained drama teachers in China. Four years ago, she co-founded the acclaimed, publicly funded Wells Theatre Festival, where she continues as artistic director. Now, with Naxos Creative, Ros brings her rich experience to leading voice and acting courses, marking the next phase of her inspiring career.

Neil Johnson, co-founder of Naxos Creative, previously led the performing arts department at a top UK music school. Now, he offers presentation and business development training across the UK, Asia, and Greece.

With a background in acting and training from the Guildford School of Acting, Neil has also worked as a project manager for the BBC and Tate Gallery, where he developed educational projects for young audiences nationwide. He produced and directed the IET Faraday Science Lectures, overseeing everything from concept to presenter training.

Neil has coached executives from companies like BT, American Express, Lego, and General Motors, as well as Bouygues Construction on presentations for major PFI bids. He’s also trained students, teachers, architects, lawyers, and even a celebrity chef and MP for media and public appearances. Neil holds a Professional Diploma in Management and an MB

Nola Denis

A former freelance journalist, Nola teaches at Bordeaux University and manages a French Jazz and Blues Band.

When not reading or writing, Nola enjoys traveling and pandering to the whims of her dachshund, Marley.

Naxos, the largest island in Greece’s Cyclades, is known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. The island boasts golden beaches, such as Agios Prokopios and Plaka, where turquoise waters meet soft sands, ideal for relaxation and water sports.

Inland, the mountainous terrain is dotted with traditional villages like Apiranthos, where time seems to stand still. Naxos is also steeped in mythology, famously linked to the god Dionysus and the tale of Theseus and Ariadne.

Visitors can explore ancient sites like the Temple of Apollo’s Portara, offering breathtaking sunset views over the Aegean Sea.