May 12th – May 19th, 2025
Come write with us in Madeira on our international retreat in 2025. The island of flowers, as it is affectionately known, is a volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean, 520 km from the west coast of Africa. With a subtropical climate, Madeira boasts an abundance of flowers and lush vegetation, diverse landscapes, fantastic hiking trails and delicious food. Enjoy the luxury of a 5-star hotel/spa with attention to detail at every corner (https://www.savoysignature.com/saccharumhotel/en/). Surrounded by nature, you’ll write, walk, hike, read, swim, relax, and do it all again. This retreat emphasizes the natural environment of the island. Combined with focus on the process of writing and the satisfaction experienced when nature and art come together, this writer’s retreat is perfect for nature seekers and sea lovers. An excursion trip to the capital city of Funchal guarantees an experience rich with culture.
GETTING THERE
Fly to the Madeira airport.
Take a short taxi ride to the SACCHARUM HOTEL in Calheta.
Check-in!
We’re keeping it simple in 2025!
ACCOMMODATIONS
Each writer will have the luxury of her private room and private bathroom. Enjoy this elegant hotel known for its warmth and courtesy. Relax into the comfort of a writing community as we write together in two private reserved rooms—just for us! Need a breath of fresh air after writing all morning? Walk outside to the Beach Café operated by the hotel. Or take a walk by the water.
SCHEDULE
Writing workshop each morning – 9:30 AM to 12 Noon.
All workshops follow the Amherst Writers and Artists Method. These workshops will be led by Julie Maloney (www.juliemaloney.net) award-winning author, speaker, and founder/director of WOMEN READING ALOUD and Cherity Cook, author of almostfarmgirl.com, where she chronicles her life on her 36-acre ranch. She also teaches yoga with an eye towards healing mind/body disconnect. Julie and Cherity led a SOLD OUT writer’s retreat in England in April, 2024.
Afternoons are open for writers to relax on the vast property of the hotel or to opt in on another excursion trip. (Choices will be provided at additional cost to the attendee.) Most of all, this is a time to write within a supportive community, to move a project forward, or to recharge your creative life.
TOTAL COST
$5450 (Includes non-refundable $500 deposit upon registration)
- 7 nights – private bedroom and private bathroom
- WELCOME DINNER – SACCHARUM HOTEL
- Full breakfast buffet served daily – accommodating all diets
- 4 dinners include the Welcome Dinner and Closing Reception
- 6 Morning Writing Workshops beginning on May 13th
- 2 NITE WRITES
- Stunning excursion trip: MontePalace/Gardens in Funchal
- CLOSING RECEPTION
Stroll along by the marina and visit the many seaside cafes. Make discoveries. Find nooks to write. Unwind in the indoor swimming pool or on the rooftop infinity pool. Visit the Spa.
As director of Women Reading Aloud, I love seeing writers engage and grow into their writing journey. All you need is an open mind, an open heart, a writing notebook and pen.
– Julie Maloney
$500 non-refundable deposit secures your spot
Contact Julie Maloney for registration form and payment options: julie@womenreadingaloud.org
CANCELLATION POLICY
Balance due by 2/12, 2025
Cancellation before 3/12, forfeit 50% of trip price
Cancellation after 3/12, forfeit full amount.
