Phyllis Biffle Elmore
Writing Retreat
September 28 - October 4, 2025
Arcachon, France
Phyllis’ writing retreat is for writers of all genres who want to dive into a deeper relationship with their writing in a nurturing group dynamic.
Day 1 – 4: We will spend three glorious hours each morning discussing and discovering the following:
- Roadblocks, hindrances and/or the brick wall that prevent you from developing as a writer
- Purpose, voice, and style
- Inward-looking vs action oriented
- Pacing and flow
- Writing as a form of healing
We will also examine why your story is your story, what makes your story your own, and why you are the only one who can write it.
Day 5 – Paths to publication and the many options that are available
About Phyllis
Phyllis Biffle Elmore is an author, genealogist, and grandmother. A talented quilter and storyteller, she has been interviewed and appeared in media outlets including PBS, Midwest Book Review, and British Patchwork and Quilting. She grew up between Detroit and rural Alabama and currently lives in Florida with her husband.
Throughout the day, you can always find a sweet space to write on your own.
Mornings will be spent workshopping in this beautiful villa on the Arcachon Bay.
A traditional French apéro-dînatoire will welcome you and your fellow writers. Delicious French meals will be prepared for you daily to infuse you in the joie de vivre of the region. And for a change a pace, the group will dine out together a few times during the week.
There will be plenty of time to take a dip in the outdoor jacuzzirelax by the water, and explore the village of Arcachon just minutes away on foot.
We’ll also take a private boat tour of Le Bassin d’Arcachon.
Accommodations
Inside the villa, you’ll be enveloped in a warm and inviting space.
There are 9 bedrooms, each with a private full bathroom and its own unique characteristics.
Amenities include toiletries, blow dryer, washer & dryer and detergent.
Phyllis Biffle Elmore
Writing Retreat includes:
- 15 hours of workshop
- 1-hour private critique session
- 6 nights in an ensuite private room
- Freshly prepared French meals
- Scheduled dining out
- Transport to and from the villa
- Local boat tour
- Concierge services
- Alcohol is not included
Phyllis’ retreat is designed for 8 people. Seats will go fast.
“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