THE SICILY
writer’s retreat
immersive writing experience
FIVE DAY
June 11- 16
WHY
Join us in Pantelleria, a volcanic island in the Sicilian strait, to spend 5 days meditating, writing within the archeological lands of our guest house, swimming in hidden coves, making pasta from scratch, and creating work you’re truly excited about. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself dancing on the roof of a dammuso at sunset, hanging out with goats or having your tarot read by our clairvoyant friend Claire.
We started Trust and Travel to change the writer’s relationship to writing, to reframe the act from something solitary to an act of community. Our intention has always been to set the table and invite you to sit with us. To remind you that you are a writer and that you deserve the work, that the world needs to hear your story.
the brief
the
EXPERIENCE
Pantelleria is tucked away from mass tourism, untouched, and closer to Africa than Sicily itself. Its active volcanic activity makes it an incredible source of reviving energy. If you’re still wondering why we’re going here, think back to the first time you read your work out loud. That’s the feeling we’re going after.
the
INSPIRATION
We handpick locations that will challenge you to think deeper, inspire you to reconnect with your authentic voice, push your creativity to new heights and help shape the course of your writing life. A week dedicated solely to your art, your purpose, and your truth in one of the most stunning islands in the world.
the
INTENTION
Before landing in Pantelleria, turquoise waters reflect back an energy so vibrant, we immediately see ourselves in it. You’ll deplane and feel the African winds blowing a different type of heat, see a different type of Sicilian, and hear the joy in people’s voices. You will know, as we did, that this is a place that stays with you.
LOCATION
the
Parco dei Sesi is a luxury guest house, an Artist Residency and an organic farm set on 5 hectares of natural land facing the sea. Owners Margot and Massimiliano fell in love in the island and left their urban lives in Paris and Milan behind. Enriched by their own vision and values they have dedicated themselves to the renovation of this familial property, transforming it in the welcoming home it is today, rooted in history and craftsmanship.
WRITING SESSIONS
immersive
Our workshops are designed to unlock your creative potential, connect you with your authentic voice, and guide you on a journey you will never forget. Learning in a setting outside of everything you've ever known, surrounded by new perspectives, smiles, and life-changing experiences is at the core of what makes our retreats so special. We write to live life twice.
to notebook
FARM
We’ll enjoy the finest Mediterranean cuisine born from the rich soil of the gardens and the sustainable farms on the island. Have every meal at an open-air table with specially selected local and Sicilian products cooked with love. What is writing without sensory indulgence?
TO US
getting
We suggest you fly to Palermo and spend a night there. It’s one of the most vibrant, eclectic cities in Europe. Meet loads of writers also on the way to us. You’ll then wake up early and catch at 10:30 am flight to Pantelleria. You can also fly to Milan, and catch a flight to the island from there. We will have shuttles booked to bring you from the airport to the venue. There are only 2 flights a day to Pantelleria, so arriving to Palermo or Milan the day before guarantees you’ll arrive on time. Did we mention we love Palermo yet? Ask us about hotels and restaurant recommendations.
what’s included
Accommodations for 5 nights
All writing workshops
Morning yoga, meditation, and journaling sessions
All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Lake of Venus excursion and picnic
Open mic night
Optional one-on-one sessions with leaders
Arrival gift bag
Transportation to and from the venue from the airport
not included
*Airfare, alcohol, additional services
FAQs
-
You will first fly to Palermo (PMO) airport or Milan Bergamo (BGY) then catch a flight to Pantelleria (PNL) the morning of June 11th from there.
-
There is wifi at the venue, but we do mind and follow intentional phone practices. We require no phones during workshop or at any meals. We request the rest of the week that you leave your phone in your room or only use it very intentionally. This decision has been made after years of retreats and our quest to be present during this experience.
-
Travelers from the U.S. are allowed to enter Italy, and there are no restrictions on the type of travel permitted. The former Green Pass system is no longer mandatory and travelers will not need a negative test or proof of vaccination to enter Italy.
It’s important to keep in mind that the current situation is developing, and new restrictions could be put in place by the Italian government at any time. For more information on restrictions for U.S. travelers entering Italy, visit the U.S. Embassy in Italy website.
-
U.S. citizens may enter Italy for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. All non-residents are required to complete a declaration of presence (dichiarazione di presenza). For citizens of other countries, you can check whether you require a visa for tourist visits to Italy on the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
-
Absolutely. The retreat is designed to ignite your creative potential, whether you have experience writing or not. Workshops are all levels.
-
Check in starts at noon on June 11th. The retreat officially starts at 5pm. Plan to be at the venue early to settle in and join us for the welcome circle, opening ceremony and dinner. The retreat ends on June 16th by 11am.
-
Yes. If you are traveling on your own and would prefer to share a room, we will do our best to match you with a roommate.