Comments

I can't imagine a better environment for writing than Limnisa!

Day and night the rhythm of the sea helped lull me into my most imaginative state, washing out the static of my mind.

The Limnisa grounds have plenty of unique, private nooks for writing, so I always had a change of scenery at hand.

Mariel and Philip were very welcoming and hospitable, and provided the option of a light structure to the day that worked well for everyone, but we were always free to do whatever we liked, including wandering the hills, swimming, or napping.

The excursions around rugged and authentic Methana were a lot of fun, the meals healthy and absolutely delicious, and the company of the whole group of writers there was really special.

I left feeling both rested and productive. Writing this note really makes me miss this special place - I hope to return!   
Susan Stuart - New York

We have all been on the 'traditional, standard' types of holidays; family, group or just with a partner or friend.

However, if you have always yearned for something different, a sojourn on an idyllic isle, something with that, je ne sais quoi, then you will find it by going to Limnisa on the island of Methana.

There you will enjoy warm sunshine and an even warmer welcome from Mariel and Philip, and perhaps just as important for a writer, pick up some invaluable tips to assist you in your writing.

To sum up; Limnisa is not just a holiday, it is a unique experience.

Alan Blunden. Bishops Stortford, U.K.

Your comments make a lot of sense, Philip. I've had some feedback over recent years, but yours was by far the most knowledgeable. Where did you learn this?Instinct, a mentor, experience?"   Aongus Murtagh - Berlin.  

The beautiful surroundings and wonderful company lent itself to a stimulating and creative environment.  

Buttressed by land, Limnisa’s beach and awe-inspiring view created a pull within me to write.  A pull that was met graciously by Phillip and Marieal, and only deepened during my visit. 

I am extremely grateful for my time at Limnisa, writing is my passion and this experience helped solidify it.  

Katie Murphy - Boston, Massachusetts

I had a wonderful time at the Summer writing retreat. The views are spectacular from the Terrace. We enjoyed biking, swimming, snorkling and the ruins. The writing exercises were helpful, the groups were encouraging and the views were inspirational. 

I took my husband and there was plenty for him to enjoy.  The lunches on the terrace were delicious and all of the fresh fruit was an added plus.

We would definitely recommend this retreat to singles as well as for a partner who doesn't write but would enjoy a quiet, relaxing vacation.

Annabelle Baptista - Germany.

"The workshops were excellent! Well paced and brought focus to what I feared would be an overwhelming topic. Duration of the workshops was perfect and content extremely useful, insightful and expanding.

The emotional progress, perspective and practical advice was brilliant.

It was such a wonderful retreat; bringing me gifts and expansion that I could never had anticipated.

Thank you!"       

Noami Nonu-Carling  - Chelmsford, U.K.

"Thank heavens places like this exist! Every moment has been wonderful - tranquil, restorative, creative. Long may your oasis thrive".   Caroline Brothers - Paris

Limnisa was fantastic! Fabulous conversations, very helpful writing advice, superb food, and great sights. Philip and Mariel are incredibly generous and welcoming-- I'll be back as soon as I can!              Katy Scrogin - Austin, Texas

Last spring, I was notified that my short story, "Edward's Heart," tied for first place in the 2010 Blue Thumbnail International Short Story contest.  My prize was a place at the Limnisa Writers Retreat. As I prepared for the trip, I frequently imagined what the experience might be like.  And then, in September, 2010, I arrived at the Limnisa villa on a magical and remote coast of Methana, a peninsula of the Peloponnese.

It was immediately evident that even the imagination of a creative writer cannot do justice to the loveliness and enchanting qualities of this paradisical place. First of all, the location brought vividly to mind the English movie, "Enchanted April." Our hosts, Mariel Hacking and Phillip Wooderson, set a marvelous tone of comaraderie, respect and celebration of all things creative.  We dined on light, fresh foods and devoted the quiet morning hours to writing.  From the upper balconies, it was possible to see deep into the clear waters of Limnisa Bay, where, often in the afternoons, we swam, sometimes in the presence of dolphins. And, through the night, the Aegean, washing up and back along the rocky coast, provided a lullaby inviting us all into enhanced creativity and productivity.

My own output thrilled and satisfied me, since I wrote rough drafts of five new stories.  And, from what the other writers told me, their experience was both wonderfully fruitful and deeply restorative. read more

A.T. Lynne - Sausalito, California

"My stay here has been an absolute joy. It has given me the chance to really 'see' myself as a writer. To play around with words and ideas and I now have more confidence to 'carry on writing'."             Lena Walton - Tadworth, U.K.

Limnisa is a perfect hideaway for writers to find the headspace required for writing away from the distractions, worries and chores of everyday life.  Mariel and Philip have created a calm and inspiring sanctuary by sharing their piece of paradise with like-minded people. They are supportive, respectful and welcoming and create an atmosphere that is both productive and enjoyable. I shared a week with interesting and creative people that allowed me to learn from more experienced writers while being motivated to keep writing.  I also enjoyed the delicious healthy food and the varied topics of mealtime conversations.
The writers retreat offers a structured environment to assist in developing a writing routine, with enough flexibility to manage your own time, work every hour if it suits, or enjoy some relaxation. Mentoring sessions with Philip are available to spur on the good work, and well worth the optional investment.
Most of all Limnisa offers a beautiful location to enjoy some quiet time, reflect, clear the mind, take in the view, swim in the sea and be inspired by the beauty and serenity around you. A perfect spot for writing - hope to be back soon!

Nicola Wilson, Australia.

PICTURES 2011