20th - 25th April 2026 Poretsou Monastery, Greece
Poretsou Monastery, Kalavrita
Tucked into the quiet embrace of Mount Erymanthos, at 794 meters above sea level, the Holy Monastery of Poretsou rests where clouds drift low and time moves slowly. Near the villages of Agrabela and Platanitsa, on the borderlands of Achaia and Ilia, this sacred place offers a rare stillness—an ideal haven for writers seeking depth, clarity, and solitude.
With roots in the 10th or 11th century, the monastery has endured fire, exile, and war—yet its soul remains intact. Rebuilt in stone and spirit during the early 1600s, it has sheltered revolutionaries and preserved ancient texts, including a precious 13th-century Tetraevangel.
Fully restored and reopened in 2023 after decades of silence, the monastery now welcomes a new kind of pilgrim: the writer, the seeker, the soul in search of quiet. Here, words come gently, shaped by silence, surrounded by centuries of devotion and the endless hush of the mountains.
Stay Where Stillness Lives
At the heart of your retreat, the monastery offers a sanctuary of simple, soul-nourishing hospitality. Most rooms are shared—single, double, or quadruple—comfortably basic but always clean and quiet, each with a private bathroom. Wake up to gentle mountain breezes or peaceful views of the monastery’s courtyard, setting the perfect tone for your day of writing and reflection.
Your mornings begin with a wholesome vegetarian breakfast, lovingly prepared and shared in the communal dining room—a space where calm conversation and gentle rhythms ease you into the day.
For moments of gathering and creative flow, a spacious event hall welcomes workshops, readings, and shared inspiration. As a no-meat venue, the monastery honours simplicity and intention in all things, creating a nourishing environment for your body and mind.
The monastery’s timeless quiet invites you to slow down, listen deeply, and find the stillness where your best writing unfolds.
Location
What’s included in your Itinerary
Literary Highlights
White Elephant Book Swap
Bring a book, take a new one home. Author Events
• Live talk and Q&A with our guest authors
• Book signing & dinner • Writing workshops Quiet Time for Reading, Writing & Reflection
Hidden corners, sunlit spots, and total tranquility.
Experience & Excursions
Welcome Reception
Drinks, introductions on arrival. Optional Excursions
• Visit to Olympia, the ancient, sacred place • Visit to Kalavryta, a mountain town steeped in history and resilience
• Walk up Mount Erymanthos • Trip to a local taverna for dinner.
Evenings & Farewell
Evening Aperitifs & Mingling
Relax and connect with fellow guests. Group Dinners
Shared meals in our communal dining room or local taverna Departure Morning
• Breakfast from 7:00 am
• Smooth transfers to the airport
Reserve your place from just £150
Solo Occupancy £1300 Shared Occupancy from £700
FAQs
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Accommodation
Food and drinks
Full Itinerary
Transfers
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Flights/Ferries
Travel Insurance
Drinks outside of the itinerary
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Arrive in Athens airport and we will pick you up taking you directly to the property
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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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The monastery is peacefully nestled at the foot of Mount Erymanthos, near the villages of Agrabela and Platanitsa in the scenic Achaia region of Greece.
