What You’ll Learn

Led by Claire McGowan, author of 25 books and former director of the Crime Writers’ Association, this practical and inspiring course helps you:

Start strong: find and shape a gripping premise

Build suspense and tension

Create believable, memorable characters

Understand how to pitch your novel to publishers

Overcome blocks and write with confidence

You’ll leave with new tools, fresh energy, and a clear sense of what your story needs next.

Why Skyros?

Set in Skyros Town, a maze of cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and sea views, this retreat is more than a writing course. It’s a chance to reconnect with your creativity in a place where time slows down and inspiration is all around you.

Every day starts with optional yoga, sea-view walks or meditation, followed by breakfast and your workshop with Claire. Afternoons are free for writing, relaxing on the beach, or joining:

Sing your heart out with Kate Daniels

Whether you only ever sing in the bath or sing regularly in choirs, this is the place for you to have a wonderful time learning glorious harmonies to some well-known and less well-known songs and tunes. We will look at popular jazz standards, world music, and some more contemporary songs and participants will be introduced to different rhythms, phrasing and given an opportunity to explore and experiment with their vocal range.

This is a course for all abilities. It is designed to be fun and relaxed. You don’t need to be able to read music or have any experience of singing in choirs, just come along to enjoy yourself! 
Evenings might include live music, group dinners or a quiet glass of wine watching the sun set over the Aegean.

Traditional Skyrian design accommodation

Rooms vary, often reflecting the charming mix of local craftsmanship and modern convenience with displays of antique ceramics, Skyrian furnishings, and always with thoughtful touches such as:

Kitchenettes for preparing quick meals or snacks

Air conditioning for summer comfort

Bathrooms with showers to freshen up after a day of exploration

 

Food & Drink

Meals are half board - usually breakfast and lunch but sometimes dinner instead - and served as a buffet.
All diets are catered for. Tell us your preference when you book. Tea and coffee are available throughout the day.