31st May - 5th June 2026 Domnista Greece
emma cowell
Discover Domnista: A Hidden Haven for Writers and Readers
Tucked away in the serene mountains of Central Greece, Domnista is a charming village where time slows down and inspiration flows freely. Surrounded by lush forests, fresh mountain air, and the gentle sounds of nature, it’s the perfect escape from the distractions of modern life.
Whether you're a writer seeking solitude or a reader craving quiet reflection, Domnista offers a rare kind of stillness that nurtures creativity. Wander ancient footpaths, sip Greek coffee in the village square, or let your thoughts drift with the wind—every corner invites contemplation and connection with your inner voice.
Join us at Yliessa Guesthouse in Domnista. Unplug, unwind, and write your next chapter—literally and figuratively. Nestled in the lush forests of Domnista, Evritania, it offers a serene escape for those looking to read, write, and reconnect with nature. Perched at 1,000 meters on the southern slopes of the Pindos mountains, this luxury, cosy, Swiss-style chalet is built from natural wood and stone, blending beautifully into its surroundings.
Guests stay in spacious, comfortable rooms with modern amenities and stunning views. In June, enjoy relaxing in the garden on sunbeds with a good book, or take a dip in the outdoor pool. An organic vegetable garden offers seasonal fruits and vegetables, and the on-site bar serves local tsipouro, homemade liqueurs, and light bites.
Yliessa is the ideal setting to slow down, reflect, and create—whether you're writing your next story or simply enjoying the calm of the mountains.
What’s included in your Itinerary
Experience & Excursions
Welcome Reception
On arrival we have lunch in a local taverna, quick dip and onto the mountains
Drinks, introductions & mezés on arrival. Local food.
Explore the Grounds
• Pool, library
• Yoga & reading spots Optional Excursions
• Visit the Resistance Museum
• Walk to Panta Vrehi Gorge
• Monastery of Prousos. • Evening trip to Karpenisi for dinner & shopping
Literary Highlights
White Elephant Book Swap
Bring a book, take a new one home. Genre-Based Book Clubs
Connect over your favorite genres. Author Events
• Live talk and Q&A with our guest authors
• Book signing & dinner under the stars Quiet Time for Reading & Reflection
Hidden corners, sunlit spots, and total tranquility.
Evenings & Farewell
Evening Aperitifs & Mingling
Relax and connect with fellow guests. Group Dinners
Shared meals at handpicked local tavernas. Departure Morning
• Breakfast from 7:00 am
• Smooth transfers to the ferry or airport
Reserve your place from just £150
Solo Occupancy £1700 (3 rooms) Shared Occupancy £2500 (£1250 each) (4 rooms)
Emma Cowell lives between Cornwall and Greece.
A former actress and BBC presenter, Emma has worked in fundraising for children’s charities for more than seventeen years.
Segueing from being paid to talk for a living into writing was a natural progression, since story telling has been at the heart of her career to date.
Outside of work, Emma is a keen angler and held a Cornish record for over 10 years until her crown was toppled. She is yet to get over it but tries to keep calm by practicing yoga and is a reformer Pilates devotee.
Also, a keen linguist, Emma is attempting to learn Greek to maintain her love affair with the country where she has set her sweeping and evocative bestselling debut novel One Last Letter from Greece published by Harper Collins, Avon in 2022. Her second novel, The House in the Olive Grove was published in May 2023. The Island Love Song was published on June 6th 2024. Under the Lemon Tree was released in May 2025
She is yet to achieve a level of language proficiency outside of tavernas and bakeries.
FAQs
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We take care of all the essentials so you can relax and fully enjoy your experience. Here’s what’s included in your package:
Accommodation
Comfortable, well-selected accommodation is included for the duration of your stay. Expect clean, secure, and conveniently located lodging designed to give you the best rest between activities.
Food & Drinks
Enjoy delicious meals and refreshing drinks throughout your trip. All included meals will be clearly outlined in your itinerary so you always know what to expect—no surprise costs.
Full Itinerary
A complete, carefully planned itinerary is provided, covering all scheduled activities, experiences, and key highlights. You’ll know exactly where you’re going and what you’ll be doing each day.
Transfers
All essential transfers are included, ensuring smooth transportation between airports, accommodation, and activity locations. Travel stress-free from start to finish.
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What’s Not Included? – Please Note
To keep everything transparent, the following items are not included in your package:
Flights
International are not included unless otherwise stated. Guests are responsible for booking their own travel to and from Athens
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended for your own peace of mind. This should cover medical expenses, trip cancellations, delays, and personal belongings.
Drinks Outside the Itinerary
Any drinks not specifically listed in the official itinerary—such as additional bar orders, nightlife drinks, or personal purchases—are not included and will be at your own expense.
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You’ll arrive at Athens Airport, where you’ll be picked up and transferred by bus to Domnista. Along the way, we’ll stop for a relaxing meal by the sea before continuing the journey. Domnista is located approximately four hours from Athens, nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Evrytania, known for their stunning natural beauty.
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Just £150 deposit per person secures your spot. The remaining balance can be paid in instalments, with the full amount due no later than 30 days before departure.
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Domnista is located approximately four hours from Athens, nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Evrytania, known for their stunning natural beauty.
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All guests will be accommodated at the same chalet-style mountain hotel, surrounded by stunning scenery, with access to a pool and on-site bar. This is also where all retreat sessions will take place. Once your place is confirmed, full hotel details will be shared.
There are only 3 single rooms available, priced at £1,700 per person.
For those who are happy to share, twin rooms are available at £2,500 total (£1,250 per person).
Spaces are very limited, and all room allocations are subject to availability.
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Yes, we are happy to discuss this with you.
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You’re more than welcome to arrive in Domnista before or after the retreat dates if you’d like to extend your stay. Please note that any additional accommodation outside the retreat dates will be at your own cost. You will also need to make your way there.
We can recommend other areas to explore nearby
Extra nights at the hotel may be available depending on availability. If this is something you’re interested in, just let us know your plans in advance and we’ll happily do our best to help you secure:
Discounted room rates, where possible
