Like Heaven Writing Holidays in Tuscany

A lone cypress on a hill. A field of sunflowers in July. The harmony of old brick and stone in an ancient farmhouse. These are images of Tuscany, a land which has inspired artists throughout the centuries to produce some of their greatest works.

Would you like to sharpen your writing skills while sitting under the portico of an old Tuscan house looking out to a spectacular view of the hills surrounding Siena? This is the opportunity being offered at a writing holiday with the theme: ‘Character is destiny’ Fundamentals of Storytelling.

The workshop, largely based on writing exercises, has been designed for writers of fiction, memoir and creative non-fiction at early and intermediate stages of their writing careers. For beginners, we will provide tools to guide them in their later work. For more advanced writers, the writing exercises will help them focus on particular issues.

Accomodation and meals

Villa Madreselva is perched on the Montalbuccio hill to the southwest of Siena. As you pull through the grey iron gates and land on the gravel piazzale, a sweeping view of the Sienese countryside lies before you. Siena itself, with its unique history and famous horserace, sits on the opposite hill to the east, 3 kilometers away as a crow flies, and a ten minute drive by car.

Entering the house is like stepping into another era. Grandmother Edda carried out extensive renovations in the 1930’s and her linens, pictures, and furniture remain in use.
Workshop activities will take place in the garden, under the shade of the horse chestnut tree, or under the portico. Lunch and dinner for all participants will be prepared by Sandro and Gabriella Ciofi, our local caterers, and served at Villa Madreselva on the terrace under the pergola.

Cost
The cost of the holiday is 900 euros (1,100 dollars). This includes all workshop fees plus six nights of accommodation, from Sunday through Friday.