KAA Writers Retreat in Tuscany

“Nonfiction Masterclass”

Seven transformative days of inspiration, creativity, and 1-on-1 coaching with publishing industry leaders

Sept 6th-13th, 2025

The Writing Experience of a Lifetime
In the Heart of Tuscany

KAA’s exclusive Writers Retreats are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with other authors and elevate your writing through workshops and 1-on-1 sessions with two former Big-5 publishing executives (one of whom is a New York Times-bestselling ghostwriter) and a top literary agent.

Away from the obligations that sneak between you and your creative output, this immersive experience is for aspiring and veteran authors at any stage of their writing process. Surrounded by the vineyards and olive groves of the iconic Chianti hills, there will be time to write, bond with like-minded peers, eat delicious Italian food, and embark on local excursions designed to inspire you.

By the end of the week, you’ll be empowered to take your writing to a whole new level. But the journey doesn’t end there–within 6 months of your retreat, we will review your progress as a writer and provide detailed feedback on your material.

Retreat Mentors

Roger Scholl

#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor, Former Big-5 Executive Editor with 55+ Bestselling Titles

Jessica Sindler

#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Senior Editor at Harper and PRH

Literary Agent (TBD)

A notable literary agent from a major agency who specializes in nonfiction trade books.

Inclusions at a Glance

Luxury Accommodations at a Private Villa (7 Nights)

A historic and luxuriously updated villa in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. Suites come with a private bathroom and full use of the villa’s amenities, including a private pool, tennis court, billiards room, gym, and gardens.

6-Month Progress Review with Manuscript & Query Letter Analysis

Within 6 months following the retreat, we will review your query letter and writing progress (up to 75,000 words) and provide detailed written feedback and consultation (approx. $7,500-$10,000 value)

Intensive Workshops

Intensive workshops led by publishing industry leaders, designed to help you improve your writing skills and better understand the publishing landscape.

Daily Meals & Michelin-Star Dinner

Daily continental breakfast, lunch, nightly 3-course gourmet Italian dinners by our chef, and one dinner out at a local Michelin-starred restaurant.

1-on-1 Mentorship

Collaborate 1-on-1 with each of your mentors to discuss your manuscript and receive tailored advice on elevating your writing and achieving your publishing goals.

Wine and Olive Oil from the Estate

Enjoy our delicious Chianti Classico and extra virgin olive oil while admiring the vineyards and olive grove from which they originate.

Cooking Class

Learn traditional Tuscan recipes and techniques from a local chef, followed by enjoying your creations paired with regional wines.

Free Time to Write or Explore

Between workshops and 1-on-1 sessions, you will have plenty of time to explore the region, enjoy the villa amenities, or work on your writing privately.

KAA Writers Retreats in the Press

Limited to a small group of participants, this retreat offers unprecedented access to publishing’s leading experts.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

Learn, Grow, Be Inspired

Picture yourself surrounded by ancient stone walls and endless vineyard views, sipping Chianti Classico while you discuss your latest book idea with a notable literary agent and editor. Later, you share some of your inspiration with your newfound author friends, who are excited to share their progress and receive your feedback as well. In the distance, you hear the ringing of church bells from the quaint medieval town of San Donato, visible across the valley, reminding you that it’s time to join your colleagues on the terrace for an Italian dinner seasoned with the herbs from the estate’s fragrant gardens. After an evening of rich conversation, you walk out onto your private terrace to see the starry Tuscan sky above the glow of distant hilltop towns.

Each day starts with freshly squeezed orange juice, espresso, and an early morning yoga session in the olive grove. Then maybe you’ll wade into the walk-in pool under the warm Tuscan sun. Or perhaps you’ll turn your attention to refining your book idea. Imagine sitting with your laptop far from the distractions of work and family, devoting yourself to writing a few new pages based on your editor’s feedback. However you choose to spend your day, the muse of creativity, combined with an environment tailored to focus your energy, will guide and inspire you.

The Experience

Workshops

Each day of your retreat features workshops led by our expert mentors, carefully tailored to the group’s specific needs and interests. Workshop topics rotate daily, drawing on each mentor’s unique expertise and specialization. These sessions cover essential aspects of writing craft, narrative voice development, and insider guidance on navigating the publishing landscape.

1-on-1 Mentorship

Receive personalized guidance during private daily sessions with each mentor. These invaluable interactions provide tailored feedback on your specific project, challenges, and writing goals. Your mentors will also take time to get to know you and familiarize themselves with your work in advance of the retreat to ensure you get the most value from the experience.

Explore

Between structured sessions, enjoy ample time to write, reflect, and find inspiration in the Tuscan countryside. Whether you choose to work on your manuscript, connect with fellow writers, or explore local villages and vineyards, this flexibility will give you the freedom for both productivity and relaxation.

The Villa: Poggio alle Corti

Your Private Tuscan Paradise

Poggio alle Corti is a nearly 1,000-year-old estate encompassing 14 hectares (35 acres) of gardens, vineyards, fruit orchards, forests, and olive groves. An idyllic setting for creative inspiration, this historic villa combines timeless Tuscan architecture with modern luxury, including a stone-lined pool, tennis court, billiards hall, and gym.

The estate will be solely occupied by the retreat participants.

Villa Inclusions

Private pool overlooking the Tuscan hills
Panoramic views of valleys, medieval towns, churches, and the estate’s olive grove and vineyards
Tennis court
Courtyard and Italian-style gardens
Estate-produced wines, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar
Professional-grade kitchen
Billiards hall with darts and table games
Fitness center
Luxurious bedding, pillows, and toiletries
Starlink Wi-Fi throughout
Air conditioning
And much more!

villa image new

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE VILLA

Meet Your Mentors

Roger Scholl

#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor, Former Big-5 Executive Editor with 55+ Bestselling Titles

Roger Scholl has spent nearly four decades as a senior editor, executive editor, and vice president at the Doubleday and Crown publishing divisions of Penguin Random House (PRH). He has acquired, edited and helped to orchestrate the publications of over 60 New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestsellers in the fields of business, leadership, self-improvement/self-help, behavioral psychology, history, science, politics, sports, biography, memoir, and current events. For ten years he served as the Editorial Director of the Doubleday Currency Business imprint, acquiring a select list of books by thought leaders, entrepreneurs, CEOs, and bestselling authors, including Arianna Huffington, Chip and Dan Heath, Marshall Goldsmith, innovation guru Eric Ries, physicist Michio Kaku, and prize-winning historian H.W. Brands.

In addition to acquisitions, Roger has worked as a collaborator and ghostwriter with dozens of notable authors and titles, many of which sold to major publishers. Some highlights include:

→ Collaborating with motivational guru and bestselling author Grant Cardone on an original audio script for The 10X Mentor for Amazon’s Audible division.

→ Shaping and editing a Simon and Schuster nonfiction history entitled Spies: The One Hundred Year Intelligence War Between East and West, by Calder Walton, a historian at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

→ Ghostwriting an expose by Joshua Powell, former chief of staff to the NRA’s Wayne LaPierre, called Inside the NRA, for the Twelve Imprint at Hachette, a crash project produced for publication in advance of the 2020 presidential election.

→ Ghostwriting the proposal by serial entrepreneur Marc Lore, the founder of Jet.com and former CEO and President of Walmart’s Ecommerce business, which was bought as a lead title for the Crown division of Penguin Random House.

→ Collaborating on a proposal by Hal Hershfield, professor of psychology at the Marshall School of Business at UCLA, called Tomorrow, about research into our future selves and its impact on our behavior, which was acquired by Little Brown (Hachette)

→ Collaborating on a book proposal for a business book called Pause, by Shawn Vanderhoven, which was pre-empted for a major advance by the Atria imprint at Simon & Schuster.

→ Helping publish Daron Acemoglu and Jim Robinson, economists at MIT who, along with a third economist, won the Nobel Prize for their work on Why Nations Fail.

Jessica Sindler

#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Senior Editor at Harper and PRH

Jessica Sindler spent her first two decades in publishing at imprints of Penguin Random House and HarperCollins, where she acquired, edited, and published numerous bestsellers and critically acclaimed titles in the areas of “big idea” prescriptive nonfiction, personal development, wellness, lifestyle, business creativity, narrative nonfiction, and memoir. Jessica is passionate about nonfiction that engages with a larger cultural conversation, and books by thought leaders who drive us toward change. She specializes in working with expert authors from a variety of fields, ranging from academics to journalists to scientists to wellness experts to entertainers, to help them translate their ideas for a general audience and share their stories with readers.

Jessica’s notable titles include #1 New York Times bestsellers Daring Greatly and Rising Strong by Brené Brown; New York Times bestsellers The Education of an Idealist by Pulitzer Prize-winner Samantha Power, Find Your Path by Carrie Underwood, First, We Make the Beast Beautiful by Sarah Wilson, and Together We Rise by The Women’s March Organizers and Condé Nast; national bestseller Plant Over Processed by Andrea Hannemann; as well as Why Bob Dylan Matters by Harvard Classics professor Richard F. Thomas; and The Hidden Habits of Genius by Yale professor Craig Wright. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Jessica lives in Brooklyn and is a graduate of The University of Chicago.

You can learn more about Jessica on LinkedIn.

Literary Agent (TBD)

A notable literary agent from a major agency who specializes in nonfiction trade books.

Who Is the Tuscan Writer Retreat For?

Our retreats are ideal for anyone looking to elevate their craft and learn how to achieve their publishing goals. Retreat participants comprise a mix of established and aspiring writers, each with their own experiences, personality, and creativity. Our team of mentors will provide a curated workshop itinerary tailored to each group, based on the week’s theme and individual author needs.

Bring a Guest

Participants may bring a guest to share their room for an additional fee (+$4,500). Guests may use the grounds and amenities and enjoy meals with the group, but they may not participate in the workshops and 1-on-1 sessions.

I’D LIKE MORE INFORMATION

Why KAA Writers Retreat in Tuscany?

Connect With and Learn From Fellow Writers

The experience of connecting with fellow writers is transformative for a creative mind. Engaging with a diverse community of authors may offer a treasure trove of insights and wisdom, as each writer brings their unique journey, voice, and perspective. This rich exchange enables you to discover new writing styles, techniques, and narrative approaches—concepts you might not have considered alone.

The collaborative spirit fosters an environment where creativity flourishes.

Furthermore, if you wish to share your work with your peers, the practice of reviewing each other’s work becomes a formative process that sharpens your editing skills and enhances your ability to articulate constructive feedback.

The friends you make at the retreat may end up lasting a lifetime.

Be Inspired by Tuscany

Tuscany is a wealth of inspiration for every writer, rich in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. The rolling hills, lined with vineyards and olive groves, evoke a sense of peace and creativity that invites the pen to dance across the page. The region’s medieval towns, like Florence and Siena, breathe life into history, showcasing Renaissance art and architecture that tell stories of the past.

Dante Alighieri, an important figure in Tuscan literature, is an inspiration to this land. The Divine Comedy explores deep philosophical and existential themes that resonate through the ages. So too, the legacies of Michelangelo (whose one-time home is near the villa) and Leonardo da Vinci linger. Walking the cobbled streets, one can almost hear their whispers of love, loss, creativity, and the relentless quest for understanding.

In Tuscany, every sunset casts a golden glow on history, every vineyard tells a tale, and every landscape ignites creativity—a vivid backdrop for any writer’s journey into imagination and expression.

Exclusive Access to Top Experts in Writing and Publishing

The KAA Writers Retreat offers a unique and invaluable opportunity for you to connect and learn directly from some of the industry’s top experts. You’ll be mentored by a New York Times-bestselling writer sharing personal tips and strategies on style and storytelling craft; a former Big-5 executive editor whose custom feedback will demystify the qualities of a successful, publishable manuscript; and a seasoned literary agent offering tailored advice on how to pitch your work effectively and navigate the complexities of the publishing world.

This rare chance brings together powerful voices in publishing, allowing you to gain perspective and actionable guidance that will transform your writing journey. Workshops, discussions, and one-on-one feedback sessions ensure that each participant leaves with tools and inspiration to elevate their craft.

Accountability

Our retreat provides a dedicated space and time to focus on writing, helping to keep you accountable for your creative goals. It offers an inspiring atmosphere that encourages deep reflection and exploration of your craft. Whether you’re polishing existing work, embarking on a new project, or seeking guidance on overcoming writer’s block, this retreat is invaluable.

Being surrounded by fellow writers fosters a supportive environment where you can share challenges and triumphs and encourage one another. This combination of solitude and camaraderie helps cultivate productivity that can be hard to achieve at home, reigniting your passion for storytelling and creativity.

Furthermore, our retreats don’t conclude after just seven days. We believe that true growth occurs over time, so we offer a unique follow-up option. Six months after the retreat, we will reconnect to review your progress and reset specific goals tailored to your individual journey. This ongoing support ensures that you remain engaged and accountable, empowering you and keeping you on the path to achievement.

Incredible Value

The mentorship and intimate access to world-class publishing experts is something you won’t find anywhere else. Our writers retreats represent an extraordinary value when considering the true costs of organizing a similar experience independently, which would easily exceed $30,000 per person when including accommodations, meals, transfers, workshops, expert mentors, and excursions. Our retreats not only offer a unique opportunity to engage with multiple leading publishing experts for an entire week but also take place in a rare, all-inclusive historic villa. The focused time and attention you will receive amidst such inspirational surroundings is invaluable, providing insights and guidance tailored to you and your journey. This one-of-a-kind experience not only fosters personal and professional growth but also cultivates a supportive community, all while you relax and rejuvenate in an exclusive retreat setting.

6-Month Progress Review

Within six months of attending the retreat, participants have the opportunity to submit their writing concepts, fragments, or full manuscript drafts (up to 75,000 words) for comprehensive review, critique, and analysis. This in-depth evaluation encompasses feedback on various elements of storytelling, including pacing, coherence of plot arc, analysis of narrative drive, inventiveness, worldbuilding, character development, consistency, clarity, overall readability as well as marketability and target audience. The feedback is delivered through detailed margin notes of the manuscript, supplemented by a separate editorial letter that offers a thorough analysis and actionable suggestions for improvement. A Zoom consultation with one of your dedicated retreat leaders will provide personalized insights and guidance.

For Authors at Any Stage of the Journey

Whether you’re still dreaming about your first book or written a full draft

For Authors Who Haven’t Started Writing

KAA Writers Retreats offer invaluable support as you plan and envision your book. Your mentors will help you flesh out your ideas and create a solid foundation for your manuscript, guiding you through the essential elements of structure and thematic exploration. You will also gain insightful knowledge about the publishing industry.

For Authors Who Have Started Writing

You’ll receive tailored feedback on your draft material to help elevate your work and guide you through the next phases of the writing process. Through engaging workshops and one-on-one consultations, you’ll gain fresh perspectives on your writing and uncover areas for improvement that will elevate both your manuscript and your craft.

For Authors with a Completed Manuscript

Our mentors will help you shape and tighten your manuscript, ensuring it’s not only well-written but also compelling and market-ready. You will learn helpful tips for pitching to literary agents and publishers and explore various publishing options, allowing you to strategize your next steps with confidence. You’ll be fully equipped to present your work and navigate the often-daunting world of publishing with clarity and purpose.

6-Month Progress Review

By the end of the retreat, you will leave with a wealth of knowledge, renewed confidence, and inspiration to continue your writing journey. But our commitment to your success doesn’t end there. After six months, we’ll check in on you and review your progress, whether basic sketches or a fully formed manuscript. We’ll provide a detailed review and analysis and schedule a one-on-one call to discuss your progress in depth.

Your Investment

Pricing Options

**Private Room Package: $15,500 ($11,500 option*)**

Single occupancy suite
Private ensuite bathroom
Full retreat and villa access
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Transportation from Florence airport (if needed) and transfers

*Option: All inclusions and benefits, but does not include a 6-month follow-up comprehensive manuscript review and consultation

**Shared Room Package: $13,500 ($10,500 option*)**

Double occupancy suite for two retreat attendees
Ensuite bathroom
Full retreat and villa access
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Transportation from Florence airport (if needed) and transfers

*Option: All inclusions and benefits, but does not include a 6-month follow-up comprehensive manuscript review and consultation

Guest Addition: $4,500

One guest per room may accompany retreat attendees
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transportation from Florence airport (if needed) and transfers
Full access to villa and villa amenities
Does not include participation in retreat workshops or 1-on-1 sessions

All amounts are in US Dollars.

Available Rooms

Room 1

Super king-sized bed
South and west views over olive grove, valley, and pool
Large ensuite bathroom with double vanity, walk-in shower, and large free-standing tub
Large private terrace with extensive south, west, and north views.

Room 2

King-sized bed
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Courtyard and garden views

Room 3

King-sized bed, or two singles
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Courtyard, garden, and vineyard views

Room 4

King-sized bed, or two singles
Private bathroom with walk-in shower
Small walk-out terrace
Olive grove and valley views

Room 5

King-sized bed, or two singles
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Valley view

Room 6 (available for guests willing to share a bathroom)

King-sized bed, or two singles
Bathroom with double vanity and walk-in shower (shared with one other room)
Valley and olive grove views

Private 6-Day Retreat

Imagine an exclusive writing retreat tailored just for you and your chosen guests, where creative inspiration meets personalized mentorship.

With your own private villa, you’ll enjoy an intimate, distraction-free environment that allows your ideas to flourish. Over the course of six days, you and up to 11 friends or family members will work side by side with seasoned industry professionals, receiving one-on-one guidance that caters specifically to your writing goals. You’ll have access to the villa’s amenities, and all the retreat inclusions noted above, while fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, all designed to elevate your writing journey.

Price $47,500 (+$5,000 per individual 6-month review)

What Authors Say About Our Mentors

“As an editor, Jaime Levine has a knack for identifying those issues unique to every manuscript: themes that benefit from clarification or reinforcement, passages that can be strengthened, areas where an author’s intention falls a bit short in execution. She’s adept at suggesting solutions and just as quick to encourage authors in discovering their own creative solutions. Her input makes books better!”

Jacqueline Carey

New York Times-bestselling author of the Kushiel’s Legacy series

“I knew it would take someone special to help me share my very difficult story, and I knew from the first time we spoke that Leslie Hinson was that person. Leslie is uniquely gifted in her way with words; she has a true gift that cannot be taught. She went above and beyond every step of the way and was a true pleasure to work with. My book turned out better than I could’ve ever imagined possible, and it’s all thanks to Leslie! She is a tremendously talented and eloquent writer, and I look forward to working with her again on my future projects.”

Rachel Ehrenreich

Author of Louder: Love, Lies, Deceit and Breaking the Narcissist’s Mirror

“There are not enough words to express how much I appreciate all Wendy did to make Lady Blue Eyes the wonderful success that it is. I enjoyed the journey from beginning to end. I look back at our first meeting and just knew it would be a wonderful collaboration. She is a terrific writer and she expressed my feelings so eloquently. She has become a treasured friend.”

Barbara Sinatra

Frank’s widow and author of Lady Blue Eyes

“I felt so lucky to have Becka Oliver…She helped me craft the perfect query letter that not only captured the heart of my novel but also stressed the elements agents would be most intrigued by…Her deep knowledge of and experience in the publishing industry combined with her love of books makes her the best possible person to have in your corner!”

Stacey Swann

Author of Olympus, Texas , a Good Morning America Book Club selection

“Becka Oliver is a brilliant editor and strategist…Becka’s years of experience as a literary agent in NYC have given her insights into the querying process that were invaluable in helping me navigate the ever-shifting landscape of the publishing industry. And beyond the editing and revisions, she also had incredibly useful suggestions for improving my pitch strategies and building a list of potential agents.”

John Pipkin

Author of Woodsburner and The Blind Astronomer’s Daughter

“Working with Jaime Levine was an absolute pleasure. Her passion, sharp editorial expertise, and unwavering kindness can elevate any project to the next level. She goes above and beyond, dedicating her time and attention to ensure the work reaches its full potential incredibly supportive, creating a collaborative and encouraging environment throughout the process.”

Liv Constantine

New York Times-bestselling author of The Last Mrs. Parrish

“Jaime Levine was my editor for a number of years, and we worked on quite a few books together. Jaime is an excellent, intuitive, creative, and sensitive editor and also a joy to work with on a personal and professional level. I cannot speak highly enough of her editorial abilities.”

Douglas Preston

#1 New York Times-bestselling author of The Lost City of the Monkey God and co-author of the Agent Pendergast thrillers

“Jaime Levine invests deeply in her clients, delving into character motivations and the author’s true vision for the story. She is dedicated, insightful, and one of the best brainstormers I have ever met. A dream editor.”

KJ Howe

Author of The Freedom Broker and Executive Director of the International Thriller Writers association (ITW)

“Wendy is the Queen of Words who can turn a phrase and make your heart sing. What a heaven sent gift she is to me.”

Goldie Hawn

Actress and author of A Lotus Grows in the Mud

I’m ready for this life-changing experience!

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

FAQs

Do I have to participate in all of the classes?

No, but we hope you do. Our team of mentors has carefully planned their courses to interest and benefit the entire group, no matter where you are with your writing.

Do I have to have a work-in-progress?

Not at all. The one-on-one meetings with editors, agents, and writing instructors can be catered to you and whatever project you have in mind, regardless of development status. If you have a complete manuscript, the work will be about revising and polishing the material and enhancing your craft. If you are partway through the writing process, you can get feedback on your progress and support on moving your book towards completion. If you have the desire to write a book and an idea of what interests you, but have not begun, your editor or writer mentor can work with you for a set time each day to strategize the concept and structure, enabling you to leave the retreat with an actionable outline you can draft a manuscript based on when you return home.

Can I save money by sharing a room?

Yes! If you’re willing to share a room and bathroom with another attendee, or if you’d like to forgo the 6-month progress review, the cost will be reduced (the amount varies per retreat).

You may also bring a guest for an additional fee. While guests may not participate in the workshops and 1-on-1 sessions, there will be optional activities and excursions to enjoy, they will join us for meals, and they will have free use of all the villa’s spaces and amenities.

Can I see a detailed list of the inclusions and amenities?

Please refer to the individual retreat pages for information on inclusions and a general itinerary. A detailed itinerary will be sent to all participants leading up to the retreat.

Pre-Retreat Prep

Attendee questionnaire
Submit existing writing, ideas, or manuscript draft for review (ideally, at least 1 month prior to the retreat)

Courses and Workshops

Vary per retreat

1-on-1 Sessions

60-90min drill down sessions with each of the retreat leaders
May include multiple sessions with key leaders (as needed)

Meals

Continental breakfast daily
Light lunch daily (typically a pasta, protein, and some vegetables)
Dinners: 3-course Italian dinner served tableside (al fresco, weather permitting)
One dinner at a local Michelin-starred restaurant

Manuscript Review and Analysis (optional)

Within 6 months following the retreat, attendees may submit their writing concepts, fragments, or manuscript draft (up to 75,000 words) for a full review, critique, and analysis, followed by a consultation. This review will include feedback on all aspects of the writing’s flow, structure, cohesiveness, story arc, character development, plot structure, marketability, target audience, and readability, as well as any other issues that may affect the quality of the work. The critique and feedback is provided in the form of liner notes along the margins of the manuscript, a separate editorial letter that provides in-depth analysis and suggestions, and a Zoom consultation with the editor. This review will be performed by one of your retreat leaders.

Cooking Class

Learn traditional Tuscan recipes and techniques from a local chef, followed by enjoying your creations paired with regional wines. This will constitute one of our nightly dinners.

Wine (Chianti Classico DOCG), Olive Oil, and Balsamic Vinegar

Attendees will enjoy wine, oil, and vinegar from the estate during their stay.

Check-In/Check Out & Transfers

We will arrange for transfers to the villa from Florence airport. Everyone flying in to Florence will be transferred to the villa.
If driving on your own, you may arrive at the villa no earlier than 3pm
Check out is 10am on the final day of the retreat
Transfers to Florence airport for departure are included

VILLA AMENITIES

Outdoor

Private pool (2.5 meters deep)
- Pool bar
- Outdoor shower
- Pool towels
- 12 lounge chairs
- Sun shades and cabana
Full-size tennis court with balls and rackets
Full-size bocce (lawn bowling) court
Trampoline with safety netting
Direct access to extensive trekking/hiking trails
Direct access to extensive cycling and mountain biking trails
Short walk to beautiful clear river suitable for swimming
Multiple terraces
Vineyard, olive grove, and fruit orchard (cherry, fig, apples, and more)
Outdoor barbeque
Ornamental gardens (flowers, herbs, shrubs)
Portable Bluetooth speakers
Shaded al-fresco dining for 12-16 people

Indoor

Full-size billiards table
Dart board
Ping-pong/table tennis table
High-definition smart TV with movies and video game system
Three wood-burning fireplaces (staff will light upon request)
Starlink Wi-Fi throughout
Board games and playing cards
Air conditioning in the bedrooms

Gym

Bench and free weights
Home gym resistance machine
Treadmill
Exercise bike

Views

360-degree hilltop views of vineyards, olive groves, churches, and medieval villas
Sunset and sunrise views
Clear view of the medieval town of San Donato and its bell tower (which you will hear ringing across the valley every hour)

Parking for 6+ vehicles (uncovered)

Bathroom Amenities

Luxury soaps and toiletries
Towels and linens refreshed midweek

Housekeeping

Daily bathroom and bedroom cleaning
General care and maintenance onsite

VILLA FEATURES

Original foundation and fortress walls built in 1100s (3ft- to 6ft-wide walls)
5 full bathrooms (recently fully renovated), 1 half bath
Modern full-sized Tuscan kitchen (renovated 2025)
- Oversized fridge
- Gas range stove
- Dual ovens
- Microwave
- Coffee (espresso machine, French press, drip coffee, moka coffee)
- Fully stocked kitchenware
- Juicer for fresh orange juice
- Ice box
- Prep counter
Security system and surveillance
10-15-foot ceilings (very rare with ancient villas)
Two large sitting rooms, each with working wood-burning fireplace
Luxury mattresses, pillows, and bedding
Heat and A/C throughout
Laundry room with washer and dryer
Courtyard

What can I do during my free time?

While some participants enjoy writing or socializing during their free time, others may want to relax and enjoy the villa’s many amenities or explore the region. Keep in mind that the villa is in the countryside, so you will not be able to rely on public transportation to take you to any regional attractions. If you think you’d like to explore, we suggest you rent a car at the Florence airport for the week.

There are many guides to this region available online, and we can also recommend to you specific local attractions, tips, and insights. Some of the many local attractions include:

→Medieval Towns and Villages (including San Gimignano, Castellina, Siena, Volterra, and many more)

→World Class Museums of Florence

→Chianti Wine Tours

→Monastery Tours

→Hiking/Biking

→Hot Air Ballooning

→Leaning Tower of Pisa

Major attractions within 2-3 hours via car or high-speed train:

→Rome

→Venice

→Cinque Terre

→Bologna

→San Marino

→Modena (Ferrari HQ and Museums)

→Orvieto

→Portofino

Accessibility

Unfortunately, the villa is not wheelchair accessible, except for the main floor (which contains no bedrooms). The pool and tennis court are close to the villa but only accessible by walking down a few stone steps. Please note that there are no handrails or disabled facilities in the bathrooms.

Dietary Restrictions

We are happy to provide vegetarian options, but we currently cannot accommodate vegan and gluten-free dietary restrictions.

Are plane tickets included in the price?

No. Participants will be flying in from all over the world with different budgets, timetables, and levels of comfort.

Will airport transportation be offered?

Yes, we will offer transportation to the villa from the Florence airport on Day 1 of the retreat. Participants who choose to fly into other neighboring airports (listed below) can decide to rent a car and drive directly to the villa, or travel by train to Florence and join the group on our airport shuttle. As you solidify your plans, our team can help you iron out these details. Please note that if you plan on exploring the region outside of our group activities, we highly recommend you rent a car for the week so you can come and go as you please.

→Pisa to Florence: 1 hour 45 minutes by train

→Bologna to Florence: 1.5 hours by high-speed train

→Rome to Florence: 3 hours by high-speed train

What is the payment and cancellation policy?

Payments

30% down payment is required to reserve your spot and select your room
The entire balance is due 60 days before the retreat’s start date
Payments can be made via credit card or wire transfer

Cancellation Policy

All payments are nonrefundable.

You may transfer your reservation to another person up to 30 days in advance or transfer your balance to another future retreat date.

In the case of force majeure, in which we are unable to safely run the retreat, your balance will be transferred to a future date of your choosing.

KAA Writers Retreat in Tuscany

“Nonfiction Masterclass”

The Writing Experience of a Lifetime In the Heart of Tuscany

The Experience

Workshops

1-on-1 Mentorship

Explore

Whether you’re still dreaming about your first book or written a full draft

Pricing Options

Private Room Package: $15,500 ($11,500 option*)

Shared Room Package: $13,500 ($10,500 option*)

Guest Addition: $4,500

Available Rooms

Room 1

Room 2

Room 3

Room 4

Room 5

Room 6 (available for guests willing to share a bathroom)

Price $47,500 (+$5,000 per individual 6-month review)

The Writing Experience of a Lifetime
In the Heart of Tuscany

**Private Room Package: $15,500 ($11,500 option*)**

**Shared Room Package: $13,500 ($10,500 option*)**