What is The Literary Escape Reading Retreat?
A curated reading retreat for women who love to travel and read — and who believe the two belong together. Think beautiful locations, great food, like-minded company, and genuine freedom to read as much (or as little) as you like.

Who is this retreat for?
Women who want a mix of quiet reading time, meaningful connection, and immersive experiences. Whether you're an introvert who recharges with a novel or a social butterfly with a library card, you'll feel at home. The only requirement is that you love books — or at least love the idea of them.

Do I have to be part of a book club?
Not at all. If you enjoy reading, you're in the right place. Bonus points if you talk about fictional characters as though they're personal friends.

Where do the retreats take place?
Each retreat is held in a carefully chosen location — a private villa in coastal Spain, a classic Hamptons home, a literary long weekend in New York City. We pick places that enhance the reading experience and feel like a genuine escape. See our upcoming retreats for current destinations.

What’s included in the retreat?
Accommodation, most meals, curated experiences (wine tastings, guided walks, book discussions), and plenty of unhurried downtime to read, rest, and roam. Full details of what's included — and what isn't — are listed on each individual retreat page.

Do I have to participate in all the activities?
Absolutely not. This is your escape. You're welcome to join in or quietly disappear with your book — no explanation needed. We design the retreat to work beautifully whether you're at every gathering or only some of them.

What kind of food is served at the retreat?
Delicious, seasonal, locally inspired meals—because a good story deserves good food to go with it. Whether it's a chef-prepared dinner at the villa or sipping rosé by the pool in Palm Springs, food is a central part of how we experience each destination.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes. Vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, allergies — just let us know when you register, and we'll make sure you're taken care of. Everyone deserves to eat well without spending the weekend worrying about what's on the plate.

Will alcohol be served at the retreat?
Yes, we’ll be offering wine during our group dinners—and chances are, there may be a cocktail or two enjoyed around the pool. That said, drinking is entirely optional. Whether you prefer a glass of wine, a mocktail, or sparkling water with a twist, you’ll be in good company. Other than the wine served at dinner, alcohol will not be provided by us, but you are welcome to bring your own to the retreat. If you do choose to partake, we simply ask that you do so mindfully and responsibly.

Do I need to read a specific book before I come?
Only if you want to. Each retreat features one chosen book that we'll send you well in advance — diving in is wonderful, but passing it to a friend is equally fine. Zero pressure. This is your escape, not a book report.

What kinds of books do we read?
We gravitate toward immersive fiction — stories with compelling characters, lush settings, and themes that linger long after the last page. Books that make you want to talk, laugh, cry, and say 'just one more chapter.' We often choose books that connect to the retreat destination, so the stories and the place deepen each other.

How do I get to the retreat?
You're responsible for getting yourself there, but we'll give you everything you need: airport recommendations, travel tips, and coordination with other guests arriving at similar times if you'd like company on the journey. Each retreat page has detailed location information.

Can I come alone?
Absolutely, many guests do. It's a welcoming space whether you come solo or bring a friend.

What should I pack?
Comfortable clothes, a swimsuit if there's a pool, your current read, and whatever helps you actually relax. We'll send a full packing guide and any retreat-specific suggestions before you arrive.

What does it cost?
Prices vary by location and length of stay. All costs and what’s included will be clearly listed before you book.

Do you offer payment plans?
All retreats require a 50% deposit at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due approximately 90 days before the retreat start date. The specific deadline is shown on each retreat page.

We don't offer bespoke instalment plans beyond this structure, but the split-payment approach means you're never paying the full amount upfront. If you have specific questions about timing, just reach out.

What’s your cancellation policy?
We understand that life is unpredictable and we try to be as fair as possible. Here is how it works: 

If the retreat is still pending confirmation: you may cancel at any time for a full refund.

If the retreat is confirmed, 61 or more days before check-in: we will attempt to resell your spot within our community. If successful, you receive a refund minus a $199 processing fee. If not resold, payments are non-refundable.

If the retreat is confirmed and within 60 days of check-in: no refunds, transfers, or resales are available — including for illness, travel issues, or personal emergencies. This is why we require travel insurance for all guests.

 Full terms are outlined on each retreat page before you book. Please read them carefully.

 Travel insurance: required for all international retreats and strongly recommended for domestic ones. Please wait until the retreat is confirmed before purchasing.

Is there an opportunity to meet fellow guests before the retreat?
Yes! About a month before the retreat, we’ll invite you to a private WhatsApp group so you can start getting to know the other fabulous book lovers joining the escape. Expect a mix of excited chatter, packing tips, and maybe a few memes.

What is the age range of guests?
Most guests fall somewhere between 30 and 60, but anyone 21 and up is welcome. It’s less about age and more about attitude—curious, kind, and ready for genuine connection.

Are there any ice breakers?
Yes, but nothing cheesy. On the first night, we’ll kick things off with a blind book swap over drinks and a gorgeously styled charcuterie board. It’s low-key, literary, and the perfect way to start the weekend.

Do you host retreats for private groups?
Absolutely! Whether it’s a birthday, book club getaway, or just an excuse to gather your favorite people, we’d love to create a custom Literary Escape for your group.