Frequently Asked
Questions

  • Reading Retreats
    Step away from the everyday and into something far better — days spent reading in the sunshine, evenings around a table with people who love books as much as you do, and the rare chance to sit with the authors who wrote them. Whether you come as a devoted reader or a writer hungry for inspiration, leave your to-do list at home — this one's just for you. Simply show up, soak it in, and let the stories do their work.

    Writing Retreats
    Led by published authors and industry professionals, our writing retreats give serious writers the structure, feedback, and focused time their work demands. Whether you're building your first manuscript or refining a book that's almost ready, you work alongside people who understand the craft — and the industry behind it. Expect guided sessions, honest critique, and conversations that go well beyond the page.

    Creative Retreats
    Creativity takes many forms — and so do our retreats. From songwriting and voice to personal development and storytelling, each retreat brings together people who want to explore a different side of their creativity — guided by experts who are passionate about what they do. The format stays true to everything Naxos Creative stands for: expert guidance, generous company, and the kind of unhurried space that lets real creative work happen.

    The Atmosphere
    All of our retreats share the same spirit: warm, inclusive, and genuinely unpretentious. We take the creative work seriously. We just don't take ourselves too seriously. Think long dinners, honest conversations, and a room where everyone already belongs.

  • Not in the slightest. Naxos Creative exists precisely for people who worry they might not be the right sort of reader, writer, or creative — and we'd like to put that worry to rest straight away.

    What if I want to join a Writing Retreat?
    Our Writing Retreats (How to Be a Happy and Successful Writer) welcome every stage of the journey — from the tentative beginner with an idea they've never said out loud, to the experienced writer who simply needs space to breathe and begin again. No publication credits, no formal training, and no requirement that you've swotted up on the literary canon or prefer your Brontës to your Binchy.

    What about the Creative Retreats?
    These are open to anyone who feels the pull of making something — whether that's a long-held curiosity you've never quite acted on, or a creative practice you're ready to reignite. No portfolio, no artistic pedigree, and no pressure to produce anything at all.

    And the Reading Retreats?
    There's just one rule: love books. Not the classics necessarily. Not the prize-winners or the ones you feel you ought to have read. Just books that move you — and a quiet wish to talk about them with people who feel the same way.

    Whoever you are and wherever you're starting from, there's a seat at the table for you.

  • More than okay — it's our speciality. The vast majority of our guests arrive on their own and leave with people they genuinely want to stay in touch with. No awkward icebreakers, no forced fun. Just the kind of easy, unhurried connection that happens when the right people share good food and an honest conversation.

    Our communal dinners are where it all begins. We design them to make everyone feel at home from the very first evening — warm, inclusive, and absolutely non-cliquey. There's always a seat with your name on it.

    You’ll never feel on the outside on a Naxos Creative retreat. Promise.

  • While every retreat is unique, the rhythm is usually:

    • Mornings: Dedicated workshops (for writers) or author sessions (for readers).

    • Afternoons: The sacred Free Time. Swim, nap, explore, or keep working/reading.

    • Evenings: Drinks, dinner, and conversation. Relaxed, convivial, and always accompanied by excellent local wines.

  • Yes! We want you to experience the beauty of your surroundings.

    • Excursions: We organise trips to local highlights—from ancient temples on Naxos to hidden mountain monasteries in Domnista.

    • Yoga: Many retreats include optional morning yoga sessions to stretch out the reading muscles.

    • The Golden Rule: Everything is optional. If you want to join every activity, wonderful. If you prefer to stay by the pool with your book, we applaud your dedication. It’s your time.

  • Not at all. We'll share a little about our guest author before you arrive — a short intro, a few words on their work — so you have some context if you'd like it. But turning up with a half-read copy or no prior reading at all is absolutely fine. The conversations that unfold at the table are always richer for having a mix of voices: the devoted fan, the curious newcomer, and everyone in between.

    You don't need the right credentials to belong here. You simply need to show up.

  • Whatever your heart desires. This is a strictly judgement-free zone. Whether you want to dive into a literary classic, binge a spicy romance, or re-read an old favourite for the tenth time, we support you. Read the books that make you happy.

  • Absolutely. Whether you are gluten-free, vegan, or have specific allergies, our local chefs are wizards at creating delicious alternatives. Just let us know when you book.

  • That’s absolutely fine! While we include wine with dinner, there’s no pressure to drink. We always have delicious alcohol-free alternatives available. Just let us know your preference, and we’ll make sure your glass is always full of something you love.

  • The Packing Essentials

    For Naxos (Beach): Swimwear, sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, light layers for the evening breeze, walking shoes, and flip-flops.

    For Domnísta (Mountains): Walking shoes (if you fancy a hike), sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, swimwear (for the pool), and a light layer or cardigan for the evenings.

    For Yoga: Just bring something comfy to move in — a t-shirt and shorts or leggings are perfect. No fancy gear required.

    The Practical Stuff: Mosquito repellent (always handy in Greece), a travel adapter, some cash for local spots, and a reusable water bottle.

    For the Mind: A notebook, a Kindle and/or more books than you think you'll need, and a healthy appetite.

    And if you're joining us for a reading retreat, pack a book you'd love to pass on — we kick off every reading retreat with a white elephant book swap!

    Tech: All venues have WiFi — though you may find you reach for your book first.

  • What's Included in Your Retreat Fee?

    Here's the honest, full picture — no small print, no surprises.

    Your Sanctuary
    Six nights in a space you'll never want to leave. Settle in.

    Before You Arrive
    We hold a pre-retreat online meeting for all guests — a chance to meet faces, ask last-minute questions, and arrive feeling like you already belong.

    The Food
    Every meal, every day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Good food fuels good conversation, and we take both seriously.

    The Wine
    Included with every group dinner. We believe stories flow better with a glass in hand.

    Soft Drinks
    Also included at every group dinner, because great company shouldn't come with a tab.

    A Little Taste of Greece
    We send you home with a goody bag full of local delights — something to remind you of the people, the place, and the stories shared.

    The Wisdom
    All workshops, masterclasses, author talks, and any one-to-one sessions listed on your itinerary.

    The Adventure
    Every scheduled group excursion and guided trip. We take you to the good places.

    Your Transfers
    We handle the journey so you can simply arrive.

    • Naxos retreats — we collect you from Naxos Airport or Port and bring you straight to your accomodation.

    • Domnista retreats — we meet you at Athens Airport and take you up to the mountain lodge.

    The Community
    Access to a private WhatsApp group where the friendships you make carry on long after the retreat ends.

    • Getting Here
      Your flights — whether international or domestic — and any ferry tickets are yours to sort. We'll have everything ready and waiting once you arrive on the island.

      Travel Visas
      If your nationality requires a visa to enter Greece, please arrange this well before you travel. Do check the entry requirements for your passport — we'd hate for any paperwork to stand between you and your sunlounger.

      Extra Drinks
      The retreat is designed to feel generous, but if you fancy a gin and tonic by the pool or a particular cocktail outside of mealtimes, that one goes on your tab.

      Travel Insurance
      This is a requirement of booking with us — not small print, just good sense. Comprehensive travel insurance must be in place before you travel. It covers you for the unexpected, and it means everyone can relax properly once they're here.

      Personal Spending
      Don’t forget to bring a card or cash for souvenirs, extra snacks, or that second gelato whilst you're shopping.

    • For Naxos: Fly to Naxos (JNX) (usually via Athens), Santorini or Mykonos – or take a ferry from Athens, Mykonos, or Santorini. We’ll greet you at the airport or port upon arrival.

    • For Domnista: Fly to Athens (ATH). We provide a private, luxury group transfer directly from the airport to the mountains (approx. 4.5 hours scenic drive).

  • Flights aren't included, but we don't leave you to figure it out alone.

    Once you book your place, we'll send you a handy guide to getting to Naxos — the nearest airports, ferry options, and a few tips from guests who've made the journey from all over. Getting here is the start of the adventure, and we want it to feel straightforward.


  • Getting Here

    Greece is easier to reach than you might think, and we love helping you work it out. Flights, ferries, connections — we know the routes can feel a little like a puzzle the first time, so just ask and we'll help you map the best way to reach us.

    And if you're tempted to make a longer trip of it — a few days in Athens beforehand, a little island hopping after — we'd love to help you plan that, too. Think of it as the full chapter, not just the retreat. Drop us a line and we'll share our honest recommendations.

  • Yes, you can. We've partnered with Klarna so you can spread the cost of your retreat into flexible instalments — at no extra charge.

    Just select Klarna at checkout and you're all set.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We understand that life doesn't always keep to a schedule. If your plans change, please let us know in writing as soon as possible — the sooner you get in touch, the more we can do to help.

    Deposits & Booking

    You can secure your place with a deposit of 25% of the course fee per person. Your balance falls due eight weeks before your start date. If you need to cancel within seven days of your initial booking, we'll refund your deposit in full.

    Cancellation Fees

    If you cancel after that seven-day window, the following charges apply:

    ·       More than 8 weeks before departure — deposit forfeited

    ·       4–8 weeks before departure — 40% of the total fee retained

    ·       2–4 weeks before departure — 60% of the total fee retained

    ·       1–2 weeks before departure — 75% of the total fee retained

    ·       Less than 1 week, or after arrival — 100% of the total fee retained

    In many cases, travel insurance covers cancellation fees — so we strongly recommend taking out a comprehensive policy when you book.

    Transferring Your Place

    If your dates no longer work, you may transfer your booking to another course, subject to availability. Just drop us a message and we'll do our best to find a solution.

    Flights

    We can help point you in the right direction for flights, but please book through an ATOL-bonded provider. Naxos Creative cannot accept responsibility for flight delays, cancellations, or lost baggage, and we're unable to refund costs arising from these.

    Circumstances Outside Our Control

    Occasionally, situations beyond our control — including weather, low bookings, staff changes, or events such as civil unrest or natural disasters — may mean we need to adjust or cancel a course. We reserve the right to make changes to our programme, facilitators, or schedule in these circumstances. Full details are set out in our Terms & Conditions.

Arrive curious. Leave inspired.