A Writing Retreat
with Leslie Zemeckis
September 20 - September 26, 2026
Chamonix, France
Share a chalet with eight other writers for a week of creative splendor in a high alpine village.
The writing journey can be daunting. Where do you start? How do you start? Where are you going? Join me in learning simple steps to get you started and how to make what you write better. We will analyze what makes a story stand out. How to hook your readers so they keep turning the page. Everyone has a unique voice and I will help you find yours. During this retreat we will dive into the most important question for a writer to know; what is your story about? I will help you find all the layers of depth, the details that make writing evocative, and the fun in crafting the story you want to tell. And we will do it in the most enchanting, inspirational setting – the majestic French Alps.
About Leslie
As a best-selling author, award-winning actor, and a critically acclaimed documentarian. LESLIE ZEMECKIS writes one of the few remaining book reviews in the newspaper. Her best-selling books include, Behind the Burly Q, (an Amazon Editor’s Pick), Goddess of Love Incarnate and Feuding Fan Dancers (a SCIBA finalist for best bio). She has interviewed dozens of important figures, including best-selling authors for their writing tips, including John Irving, Lisa Barr, Ilyon Woo and many more. Her mentoring program, Stories Matter, helps new authors find their voice. Over 95% of the writers going through her program become published authors at the end of each session. She is a popular speaker, with over 25,000 views for her TEDx talk. She was honored for her work with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, an award officially recognized by both Houses of Congress and one of our nation’s most prestigious awards.
A week of creative splendor
Inside the villa, you’ll be enveloped in a warm and inviting space. Curl up on a cozy couch near the fireplace, or set up your laptop on the mezzanine desk or one of the several tables in and outside of the chalet.
Delicious French meals, prepared daily, infuse the regional joie de vivre
For Leslie’s retreat, our chef will design a menu that offers cruelty-free meats, vegetarian & pescatarian options (lamb and pork will not be served).
To maximize your writing time, breakfasts and our chef-prepared lunches are grab and go. In the evening, our chef prepares exquisite sit-down dinners.
Experience Chamonix
Activities during your retreat include a train ride to the Mer de Glace and optional walk to the ice cave (steep stairs).
After, we’ll enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant.
Immerse yourself in alpine grandeur
In your spare time, enjoy a dip in the jacuzzi and sauna, hone your writing with breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc, or walk into Chamonix just a few minutes away on foot.
Accommodations
There are 9 ensuite bedrooms, each with its own unique characteristics.
Amenities include toiletries, blow dryer, washer/dryer, scent-free detergent, and plenty of towels.
What's included:
– 6 nights in an ensuite private room
– freshly prepared French meals
– 15 hours of workshop instruction
– one-hour private critique
– scheduled dining out & activities
– local transportation
– on-site concierge services
– Please note that 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.”
– Mercilee Jenkins