Château de Détilly Writers Retreat 
Loire Valley, France

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The writers' retreats at Château de Détilly are open to all writers, be it beginners who are setting out on their first novels or professionals, published or not. You will be free to work on your creative writing projects away from interruptions whether it be in the chapel, the rose garden, the park, orangerie, by the pool or in your room. At the end of the afternoon, we will come together for a critiquing workshop and discussion where we can relax over a drink and share our passion for writing.

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The days begin with a hearty breakfast on the terrace or in the breakfast room designed by celebrated Parisian interior designer, Alain Demachy. Lunch is at 13h and dinner at 20h. We do standard tasty meals accompanied by excellent wine, but please note that we do not prepare vegan dishes. Please note that meals only apply to two-day and five-day retreats.

Beginner writers can sign up for the three extra workshops aimed at helping them with their creative writing technique. Please note that each of these 90 minute workshops costs an extra 80€ and is available for all retreats, including the B&B retreats. Writers who would like to have classes must send at least two sample pages of their work in advance.

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Writing retreats aren't all work and no play. You will have time during the day to use all of the château's facilities which include the parks, gardens and terraces. Take some time to wander around the alleys or relax in the rose garden, one of the largest in this district, where thousands of roses bloom from spring right through until the end of summer. If you prefer more energetic activities, you are welcome to use the 12.5 meter swimming pool, tennis and bocce courts, or if you would like to  read, chat, play table tennis or use the exercise bikes, the orangerie is probably the place for you.
Refreshments will be made available in the orangerie.

The three nearest villages are walking distance. We will be able to visit the market at Chinon and, if you want, the royal fortress where Joan of Arc arrived on 6 March 1429 for an audience with King Charles VII, and where Henry II, Eleanor d'Aquitaine and Richard the Lion Heart once lived.
 
If you like wine, you might be interested to know that we are located in one of France's important wine growing districts, the perfect place for wine tasting.