Writing retreat with Anna Burtt and Kate Beales
Stretch your productivity in the beautiful and relaxing setting of Casa Luna.
Anna Burtt
Anna has worked in publishing for over a decade. Her roles have spanned from marketing to commissioning books at independent publishers Myriad Editions and RedDoor Press. She produces The Coast is Queer Literary Festival in Brighton and has reviewed hundreds of query letters for Jericho Writers as well as reading and reporting for literary scouts. She is a passionate advocate for demystifying the publishing industry and is committed to helping writers make the best decisions for their work. She is currently Retreat Coordinator for Kevin Anderson Associates.
Kate Beales
Kate Beales is a writer, theatre-maker and facilitator with a deep passion for travel and community arts. Over three decades she has created theatre and storytelling projects across the UK and internationally, working with veterans, refugees and artists of all ages. She serves as a Senior Artist and Freelance Associate with the National Theatre Learning Department, teaches storytelling and performance, and leads retreats for creators. Her debut novel Broken Horses was published by Linen Press in September 2025.
The retreat includes
- A pre-retreat Zoom call with the group
- Two hours of workshops per day with Anna or Kate
- Three evening feedback sessions
- Accommodation for five nights in a comfortable private room (2 people per bathroom, no ensuite available)
- Plenty of beautiful spaces to write, inside and outside
- Writing desk in every room
- Daily yoga/movement/breathwork (mats included)
- Access to (unheated) pool
- Three nutritious meals a day
- Soft drinks, tea and coffee
- Local wine available to purchase
- A special final evening meal
- Airport transfers for specified flights
- The chance to walk or cycle around the beautiful Italian countryside for inspiration (wellies provided)
- Washing and drying facilities (if you prefer to travel light and do laundry to save on luggage costs)
Testimonials from November 2025’s retreat
Casa Luna 2025 completely shifted my view of writing — from a solitary act to a shared creative journey. Connecting with other writers changed everything!
The perfect balance of writing, workshops, and relaxation in a magical Italian setting. I wrote for hours every day and left inspired — and with new friends for life.
This week gave me clarity and confidence. I now know the project I want to pursue — thanks to the encouragement of Anna, Kate, and the amazing group.
Casa Luna reignited my passion and gave me a clear plan for both my books. I left with purpose, motivation, and belief in my writing again.
The magic of Casa Luna wasn’t just the place — it was the people. I learned so much from the incredible writers around me and left truly inspired.
Learning the business side of writing was eye-opening! The support from Anna, Kate, and fellow creatives gave me confidence to keep going with my head held high.
This retreat exceeded every expectation — expert workshops, focused writing time, and lifelong friends. I left encouraged, informed, and inspired.
Casa Luna gave me focus, freedom, and community. Between stunning views, delicious food, and meaningful connections, I left with a whole new perspective.
Five days at Casa Luna gave me confidence, clarity, and a new writing family. I arrived with a memoir and left ready to pitch a novel!
I felt safe, supported, and creatively free. Sharing my work aloud boosted my confidence and reminded me that writing thrives in community.
Here’s what your day will look like
| 9:00 – 10:00 | Breakfast |
| 10:30 – 12:30 | Workshop |
| 1:00 – 2:00 | Lunch |
| 2:00 – 4:00 | Writing time |
| 2:30 – 3:30 | Anna and Kate’s Office Hours (2 x 30-min slots for sign up) |
| 4:00 – 5:00 | Yoga/movement/breathwork |
| 5:00 – 7:30 | Free/writing time |
| 7:30 – 8:30 | Dinner (made by local Italian chef) |
| 8:30 – 9:30 | Feedback Session |
Every activity is of course optional. If you prefer to focus on your own writing instead of attending an activity, we ask that you work away from the workshop space, to lessen distractions.
Bursary
We have created one completely free bursary place for a writer on a low or no income which will also cover your flights. To apply, please fill out this form by January 30th.
We also have one place available for £500 for a low-income writer. Email to enquire!
Flight transfers
Flight transfers are available for specified flights:
- London Gatwick to Milan Malpensa, EasyJet Flight Number EZY8307 departing at 12.15
- Milan Malpensa to London Gatwick, EasyJet Flight Number EJU8306 departing at 11.30
More information & booking
If you have any questions, or would like to book please email Anna.
