Our Classic Retreat: Craft & Community
Learn and connect in the hills of the Ribatejo region.
We will gather for four peaceful days in Minde at Retiro do Bosque's country house, a four-story quinta bordered by the unique landscape of the Polje, a type of floodplain. Writers will have opportunities to hone their craft through in-depth workshops and an optional feedback session. Daily somatics guidance means you'll stay connected with your body and mind.
Registration will open August 1, 2026.
The Basics
Location
Retiro do Bosque Country House, Minde, Portugal
Dates
April 8 - 12, 2027
Capacity
9 writers
What To Expect
Writers will have four full days to write, reflect, and recharge while being in community with a supportive cohort. Expect healthy, flavorful meals and plenty of opportunities to feed both the body and the mind. Guaranteed daytime quiet hour blocks ensure you'll get the most out of the retreat.
Educational Component
- One 2-hour craft workshop led by writer Lucianna Chixaro Ramos
- One self-paced revision course
- Optional group feedback session
- One 90-minute somatic workshop and daily video exercises led by writer and activist Maureen P. Medina
- One prep session before our group reading
Connection & Fun
- Daily structured sharing activities
- Healthy, shared meals including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
- One communal cooking session
- Optional hike led by an experienced local nature guide
- A closing Sarau-style group reading and party
Enrich your experience with optional retreat exclusives.
Literary Agent Access
Get a 30-minute coaching session with a literary agent. Available in English and Portuguese.
Guided Hike
Explore the the landscape through hikes curated by a professional local nature guide.
"Office Hours" Consult
Drop into our "office hours" to receive exclusive editorial feedback on your work. Available in English and Portuguese.
Feedback Circle
Receive feedback on your work in a supportive session guided by an experienced facilitator.
Our Venue: Retiro do Bosque
Comfortable and modern, Retiro do Bosque is within walking distance to everything you might need during your retreat.
About the House
Ensuite rooms, each with its own writing desk, provide you with privacy and space to focus. Outside your window, the Mira Polje floodplain ebbs and flows with the seasons.
Single Rooms
Five single ensuite rooms are available.
Double Rooms
Two double ensuite rooms are available. We will match you with a participant or you can book with a friend.
About Minde, Portugal
Minde is located 1 hour and 20 minutes/115 km away from Lisbon and 2 hours/200 km away from Porto. This charming village has plenty of local amenities, including supermarkets, excellent restaurants, pharmacies, and gas stations.
How to Get There
You will receive the exact address when you complete the registration process. There will also be a WhatsApp group created for participants who would like to arrange carpools.
Transportation Options from Porto
Public buses. Take the Rede Expressos bus from Porto Campanhã to Fátima. From there,
take a taxi or carpool to Minde.
By car. Follow the AI towards Lisbon until you reach exit 5. Take exit 5, then follow the
N360 to Minde.
Transportation Options from Lisbon
Public buses. Take the Rede Expressos bus from Lisbon Sete Rios to Fátima. From there, take a taxi or carpool to Minde.
By car. Follow the AI towards Santarém until you reach exit A23. Take exit A23, then follow the road to exit Alcanena/Minde. Turn onto the N360 and follow the road to Minde.
Pricing & Extras
A non-refundable deposit of 50% of your total payment is required to secure your spot.
Investment
Single Ensuite
€600
Double Ensuite
€540
PWW Members - Single Ensuite*
€560
PWW Members - Double Ensuite*
€500
*PWW members are writers who have attended five or more Porto Writers Workshop Sessions.Optional Exclusives
Literary Agent Coaching
€85
Office Hours Coaching
€45
Travel Insurance Coordination
€25
Feedback Group
€10
Guided Hike
€15
Transfer to and from Fatima Station
€20
Small cohorts mean limited spaces.
(And our last retreat sold out.)
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