Ignite the Spark with
Sarah Penner
May 31 - June 6, 2026
Chamonix, France
Fiction writers of all genres are welcome for this week-long retreat in the high alpine village of Chamonix, France.
Each morning, our group of 8 writers will meet for three hours of writing, workshop, and discussion. We’ll cover both the craft and the business of being a writer.
Our goal for the week is to unlock your story’s spark. With views of Mont Blanc from our chalet, we’ll cozy up with our pens and notebooks to explore your story from fresh angles. We’ll deepen characterization, create immersive settings, and strategize backstory in a way that captures your reader. By the end of the week, you’ll have written or revised several key scenes or chapters within your story.
In the afternoons, you’re free to write, rest, or walk to the nearby village of Chamonix for a café au lait or a glass of wine along the world-famous La Rivière Arve.
Each participant will also have a 1-hour private session with Sarah.
About Sarah
Sarah Penner is the New York Times and internationally bestselling author of three novels. Her books have been translated into more than forty languages and her debut, The Lost Apothecary, has sold over one million copies worldwide. A graduate of the University of Kansas, Sarah spent thirteen years in corporate finance and now writes full-time. A natural born mentor, Sarah regularly speaks to readers and emerging authors across the globe.
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.
In your spare time, you can take a quick walk into the village, enjoy a dip in the jacuzzi, relax in the sauna, or reflect on your writing with the view of the Mont Blanc at your doorstep.
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.
Ignite the Spark with Sarah Penner includes:
- 15 hours of writing workshop
- 1-hour private critique session
- 6 nights in an ensuite private room
- freshly prepared authentic French meals
- scheduled local transport
- concierge services
- alcohol is not included
$4000 to bring a guest
“What a lovely experience from start to finish. Everything was so well done for us with such consideration for each of us.”
– Mercilee Jenkins