John Claude Bemis
Writing Retreat
October 26 - November 1, 2025
Provence, France
SOLD OUT
Fiction writers of all genres are welcome for this week-long retreat in a grande maison in Provence.
Along with seven other writers, you’ll gather each morning for three hours in one of the maison’s magnificent settings to explore techniques to make each scene and every page more captivating to readers. You’ll learn new ways to create an immersive writing voice with point-of-view, how to micro-plot scenes into strong arcs, and how to weave together your characters’ interior lives with their external struggles.
Each participant will have a one-hour private consultation with John.
Meet John Claude
JOHN CLAUDE BEMIS is an award-winning author and instructor who has coached writers from all around the world—many now published in both the adult and children’s book markets.
He’s the author of six novels, one picture book, and a graphic novel series. John’s engaging instructional approach helps writers deepen their knowledge of story-craft and discover new creative approaches to generating ideas and scenes.
Reflect on your writing in every corner of this grande maison.
Mornings will be spent workshopping on this gorgeous terrace overlooking the provençal landscape.
Delicious French meals will be prepared for you daily to infuse you in the joie de vivre of the region.
There will be plenty of quiet time to write and explore the centre-ville of Venasque just a short walk away.
With all the deep thinking we’ll be doing, you’ll have the opportunity to calm the mind and body to allow for creative insights. Yoga sessions and stretches targeted to writers will be led by mindfulness instructor Amy Gorely.
A mindful approach to writing will be woven into the week.
“John Bemis is a gifted writer and teacher. He also mediates so well! Going forward, I will have direction for my story, style, and writing, which will be reflected in my daily habits.”
Accommodations
There are 9 bedrooms, each with a private full bathroom.
The grande maison has a heated swimming pool, 8-person sauna, lounge area, and gorgeous views of the countryside.
Amenities include: toiletries, blow-dyer, washer/dryer and scent-free detergent, printer, and wifi.
“John Claude Bemis opened up different ways of thinking about my current manuscripts and led me on exciting new paths to follow in future ones (already started). When he holds another one anywhere in the world, I will be there.”
John Claude Bemis
Writing Retreat includes:
- 15 hours writing workshop
- 1-hour private critique session
- 6 nights in an ensuite private room
- freshly prepared French meals
- scheduled local transport
- scheduled optional activities
- concierge services
- alcohol is not included
“What a lovely experience from start to finish. Everything was so well done for us with such consideration for each of us.
The view from my room was spectacular!”
– Mercilee Jenkins