The Rocaberti Writers Retreat
MAKING THE IMPOSSIBLE HAPPEN
Have you dreamed of writing a screenplay and seeing it come to life on the silver screen?
Or written a TV show or play that you long to see produced?
Or maybe you’ve published a book and are wondering about how to turn it into a film script?
Seems impossible, right?
Well, the answer, is, NO! Nothing is impossible, and on these one-of-a-kind writers’ retreats, held in beautiful medieval castles across Europe, we’ll show you just how your words, your vision—let’s face it, your baby—can make it all the way to the big screen!
Learn from top industry mentors!
You’ll meet daily with the mentor of your choice - who include Academy (R) award-winning writers, directors and major movie producers - in small groups of just 4 writers, to workshop your project. This is your chance to receive their undivided attention and ask questions about anything related to your writing—from the arc of your story to gaining traction in your writing career to crafting the perfect pitch for an agent or producer.
They’ll also be available to you for impromptu conversations throughout the retreat, sharing the lessons and tips they’ve learned—and the joys of the creative process—with you every step of the way.
So come along and enjoy the most exclusive (and fun!) literary vacation of the year. In a castle.
In beautiful medieval castles across France, Italy and Spain
When you go on a retreat to focus on your writing, you want a place which both inspires you and strengthens your commitment to your craft. (And if it happens to make you feel like royalty, while doing so? All the better!)
Which is why we chose spectacular medieval castles in France, Italy and Spain, each with their own stories to tell…
French Castle
Marouatte Castle, The Dordogne
14th century Marouatte Castle, in the heart of Southwestern France, is owned by music industry legend Miles Copeland, former manager of Sting and The Police.
Replete with battlements, moat, and guard towers, Marouatte is set in 270 acres of woodlands and fields in one of the most beautiful and unspoiled regions of France. Richly decorated in antiques, art, tapestries and of course suits of armor, the castle interior is a feast for the eyes.
Italian Castle
Aragonese Castle, Ischia
Set on an rock off the coast of the island of Ischia (where The Talented Mr Ripley was shot) the Aragonese Castle is housed in a 16th-century former monastery, atop lush vegetation, private walkways and spectacular views across the Bay of Naples to neighbouring Capri.
Twenty-five centuries of history, from churches, convents, prisons and lush gardens lie suspended between the sky and the sea in an atmosphere of timeless beauty.
Spanish Castle
Sant Mori Castle, Figueres
This impressive 15th century castle-mansion, also known as the Rocaberti Castle, has belonged to the same family for the past 600 years.
Surrounded by rolling hills and the snow-topped Pyrenees in the distance, Sant Mori has borne witness to several historical moments, the most important being the stay of Queen Juana Enriquez and her son Fernando, who sponsored the voyage made by Christopher Columbus to discover the Americas.
It nestles in the sleepy village of Sant Mori, just twenty minutes from Figueres, the home of world-renowned Spanish artist, Salvador Dalí.
Testimonials
Attendees have called our retreats, “A magical, miraculous event”, “The experience of a lifetime”, “The best decision I’ve ever made” and “Life-changing.”
Here’s what a few of them had to say!
Ramfis Myrthil
Award-winning New York-based filmmaker & Rocaberti mentor
Pamela Wallace
Academy Award-winning writer (WITNESS) & Rocaberti mentor
Caitlin Kilgore
Rocaberti mentee
Aaron Mostow
Rocaberti mentee
Evelyn Petros
Rocaberti mentee
Sam Smith
Rocaberti mentee
Monique Rosario
Rocaberti mentee
Candi Green Blust
Rocaberti mentee
Jen Grisanti - July 2017
Writing Instructor for NBC's Writers On The Verge & Rocaberti mentor
About
Write. Engage. Experience.
Sound enticing? We’re inviting writers of fiction, non-fiction, and for the screen to apply for what promises to be a memorable (and productive!) experience. Enrollment is limited to just 16 writers to ensure small class size and maximum access to our mentors.
Picture yourself staying at a 14th century castle (how’s that for inspiration?). Participating in stimulating workshops. Enjoying a glass of wine with a bona fide Hollywood producer or Oscar-winning screenwriter. Sharing your work with others for constructive feedback. Just taking the time to breathe—and to write, away from the demands of your daily routine. Imagine the conversations that might unfold daily around the breakfast table or on a walk round the castle grounds.
Whether you’ve written a book, are working on a screenplay—or are just thinking about it!—wherever you are in the process, we’re here to help you move forward and show you that dreams can become reality!
This retreat is for you if…
- You’re working on a feature film, TV pilot or book, or have an idea for one.
- You have a book and want to turn it into a screenplay or vice-versa—or sell it directly to Hollywood.
- You’re unsure how to get your screenplay in front of agents and producers.
- You’re serious about completing your project and making your dream come true!
The Retreat includes...
Upcoming retreats
Early March 2025
4 spots left
Mid-March 2025
5 spots left
April 2025
Sold out
Mid-May 2025
8 spots left
Late May 2025
8 spots left
Early June 2025
Sold out
Mid-September 2025
13 spots left
Spanish Castle
September 19th-24th, 2025
Late September 2025
11 spots left
Spanish Castle
September 26th-October 1st, 2025
Partners
PAGE Awards
MWP