Location

1st - 6th June 2026 Writing Retreat Domnista Greece Gillian McAllister and Holly Seddon

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 seaside 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 favourite 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 cooked by our local chefs Departure Morning
• Breakfast from 7:00 am
• Smooth transfers to the airport

BOOK NOW

Reserve your place from just £150

Solo Occupancy £1500 Shared Occupancy £2500 (£1250 each)

Gillian McAllister is a bestselling British author known for her gripping psychological and legal thrillers. Born in 1985 and raised in Tamworth, she studied English at the University of Birmingham before qualifying and working as a solicitor. Her debut novel, Everything But The Truth, was published in 2017 and became an instant bestseller.

Since then, Gillian has written several acclaimed novels, including Wrong Place Wrong Time, which was selected for Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club and became a New York Times bestseller. Her work is published in over 40 languages and often explores moral dilemmas, family secrets, and the consequences of split-second decisions.

She lives in Birmingham with her husband, son, and their dog, and co-hosts the Honest Authors podcast.

Holly Seddon is a British author known for her emotionally charged and suspenseful psychological thrillers. She began her career as a journalist, writing for newspapers, magazines, and websites, before turning to fiction. Her debut novel, Try Not to Breathe, was published in 2016 and became an international bestseller.

She has since written several other novels, including Don’t Close Your Eyes, Love Will Tear Us Apart, The Hit List, The Woman on the Bridge, and The Short Straw. Her work is known for exploring complex relationships, personal trauma, and the darker corners of everyday life.

Holly lives in Kent with her husband and four children. She is also the co-host of the Honest Authors podcast, where she discusses the realities of being a working writer alongside fellow novelist Gillian McAllister.

FAQs

Accommodation
Food and drinks
Full Itinerary
Transfers
Flights/Ferries
Travel Insurance
Drinks outside of the itinerary
We will pick you up from Athens Airport and take you to Domnista in a mini bus via a wonderful seaside lunch. We are here to help! Please contact us if you need any help with travel arrangements.
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.
Domnista is a peaceful mountain village in the region of Evritania, Central Greece, nestled in the southern foothills of the Pindos range at an altitude of 1,000 meters.