KAA Writers Retreats
Tuscany
Seven transformative days of inspiration, creativity, and 1-on-1 mentorship by publishing industry leaders
Seven transformative days of inspiration, creativity, and 1-on-1 mentorship by publishing industry leaders
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 #1 New York Times-bestselling authors, top literary agents, and Big-5 publishing executives.
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.
Upcoming 2025 Retreats and Dates
Women Only
May 24-31
#1 New York Times and Sunday Times-Bestselling Author and Celebrity Ghostwriter
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Big-5 Executive Editor with 35+ National Bestsellers
Former Literary Agent at WME and Rights Director at Hachette
Published Novelist, Retreat Coordinator, and Yoga Instructor
Co-Ed
Sept 6-13
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor, Former Big-5 Executive Editor with 55+ Bestselling Titles
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Acquisitions Editor at Harper and Penguin Random House
A notable literary agent from a major agency who specializes in nonfiction trade books.
Women Only
Sept 27-Oct 4
#1 New York Times and Sunday Times-Bestselling Author and Celebrity Ghostwriter
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Big-5 Executive Editor with 35+ National Bestsellers
Former Literary Agent at WME and Rights Director at Hachette
Published Novelist, Retreat Coordinator, and Yoga Instructor
Co-Ed
Oct 18-25
International Bestselling Author (1 Million Copies Sold) and Book Coach
New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Executive Editor at Penguin Random House
New York Times and Sunday Times Bestselling Author (5 Million Copies Sold), Winner of the National Book Award’s “Crime Thriller of the Year”
Inclusions at a Glance
A historic and luxuriously updated villa with panoramic views, private pool, tennis court, billiards hall, gym, and gardens.
Within 6 months of the retreat, we will review your progress and provide detailed written feedback and consultation (approx. $7,500-$10,000 value).
Intensive workshops designed to help you improve your writing skills and navigate the publishing landscape.
Continental breakfast, lunch, 3-course gourmet Italian dinners, and a dinner at a nearby Michelin-starred restaurant.
Collaborate 1-on-1 with each of your mentors to discuss your manuscript and receive tailored advice on your writing and publishing goals.
Enjoy delicious Chianti Classico, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamico while admiring the vineyards and olive groves from which they came.
Learn traditional Tuscan recipes and techniques from a local chef.
Between workshops and 1-on-1 sessions, you will have plenty of time to explore the region, enjoy the villa, or work on your writing.
KAA Writers Retreats in the Press
Limited to a small group of participants, KAA writers retreats offer unprecedented access to publishing’s leading experts.
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 new-found 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.
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.
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.
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
Meet Your Mentors
#1 New York Times and Sunday Times-Bestselling Author and Celebrity Ghostwriter
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Big-5 Executive Editor with 35+ National Bestsellers
Former Literary Agent at WME and Rights Director at Hachette
Published Novelist, Retreat Coordinator, and Yoga Instructor
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor, Former Big-5 Executive Editor with 55+ Bestselling Titles
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Acquisitions Editor at Harper and Penguin Random House
A notable literary agent from a major agency who specializes in nonfiction trade books.
#1 New York Times and Sunday Times-Bestselling Author and Celebrity Ghostwriter
#1 New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Big-5 Executive Editor with 35+ National Bestsellers
Former Literary Agent at WME and Rights Director at Hachette
Published Novelist, Retreat Coordinator, and Yoga Instructor
International Bestselling Author (1 Million Copies Sold) and Book Coach
New York Times-Bestselling Editor and Former Executive Editor at Penguin Random House
New York Times and Sunday Times Bestselling Author (5 Million Copies Sold), Winner of the National Book Award’s “Crime Thriller of the Year”
Who Are the Tuscan Writers Retreats 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 (which varies per retreat). 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.
Note: Additional dates and private retreats are available upon request. Please let us know if either of these interest you.
Why KAA Writers Retreats 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. The legacies of Michelangelo (whose one-time home is near the villa) and Leonardo da Vinci also linger here. 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. Imagine a #1 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 retreats provide a dedicated space and time to focus on writing, helping to keep you accountable for your creative goals. They offer an inspiring atmosphere that encourages deep reflection and exploration of your craft.
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.
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.
What Authors Say About Our Mentors
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
Courses and Workshops
1-on-1 Sessions
Meals
Manuscript Review and Analysis (optional)
Cooking Class
Wine (Chianti Classico DOCG), Olive Oil, and Balsamic Vinegar
Check-In/Check Out & Transfers
VILLA AMENITIES
Outdoor
Indoor
Gym
Views
Parking for 6+ vehicles (uncovered)
Bathroom Amenities
Housekeeping
VILLA FEATURES
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
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.