LISBON BOOK WRITING RETREAT

Write Your Inspirational Book in Portugal: Birth a Book's Writing Retreat in Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal | April 7th-13th, 2024

Discover How to Write & Publish Your Book.

Unlock Your Potential to Become a Published Author!

Dive into a world where your creativity, professional growth, and cultural exploration merge in a magical city!

Embark on a transformative retreat in Lisbon, where your expertise, stories, and ideas evolve into a book that can change lives, including your own.

If you are a writer, teacher, mission-based thought-leader, health and wellness practitioner or champion, you could use your book's message to pave your own way while inspiring others to find theirs.

Writing your book can be the best way to make an bigger impact. During the retreat we will help you clarify your book's purpose and strengthen your voice so that you leave ready to take on the role of published author.

Get expert guidance from our team, acclaimed in The Write Life's list of "Incredible Writing Retreats" for six consecutive years!

what Nicki has to say:

"I am so much further ahead

on my book than I thought possible"

"The retreat is perfect for the writer that needs a comfortable, supportive environment to move his or her book forward. The focus on self-nurturing provided the perfect backdrop for digging in and writing. Targeted instruction is both global and tailored to participants. I highly recommend this retreat!"

Nicki Clausen-Grace,

Teacher and Children's Book Author

what Linda has to say:

"I got out of my head...and got instant feedback

that was real, grounded and helpful."

"This retreat was a remarkable and transformative experience. If you have ever dreamed of writing a book, Dorothy guides you through from thought to actionable authorship."

Linda Frisone Gamber,

Marketing Executive

Is this retreat for you?

Are You a Health and Wellness Visionary? Amplify your impact through the written word. This retreat is your space to fuel exceptional self-expression through self-nurturing.
Do You Champion Self-Care? Discover how nurturing yourself unlocks profound insights and empowers your storytelling in the health and wellness realm.
Are You an Innovator in Holistic Practices? Share your unique perspectives and experiences in a book that inspires and enlightens, crafted in an environment that understands your vision.
Are You a Memoirist with a Mission? Your personal stories and life lessons have the power to change the world. Turn your journey into a universal message of resilience and hope.

Birth a Book Coaches with Retreat Participants

Register!

Write Your Book in an Exciting, Vibrant City.

Imagine yourself in the sun-kissed city of Lisbon, Portugal, a cultural haven known for its soulful Fado music, enticing cuisine, and the historical neighborhood of Campo de Ourique, home to the mesmerizing Casa de Fernando Pessoam, a museum of his poetry. Here, artists and writers find their muse, and we believe, so will you.

Delight in our neighbourhood, Campo de Ourique, with its blissful flat terrain, a perfect setting for leisurely strolls through its parks or an exhilarating ride on the famous Tram 28 that rambles around for an amazing Lisbon tour. Perhaps you'll find yourself at the renowned food market, a culinary haven where an incredible delectable farm fresh lunch awaits to satiate your midday cravings.

Write Your Book in a Boutique Hotel.

We will be based at the boutique gem, Hotel da Estrela, a gorgeously renovated private school reimagined as a fun yet comfortable sanctuary for our guests. Known for its incredible restaurant, Book (could the name be more perfect!) serving fresh, locally sourced food, you'll start each creative day with an inspiring breakfast.

The retreat far exceeded my expectations. I found a whole group of people who now feel like family. The gentle yoga helped me reconnect to my body in a good way. I was able to focus and reconnect to my humor. I got so much accomplished on my book!"

Catherine Piper

"I hoped to get direction for my book, and I got that! I hoped to get publishing direction, and I got that! I was able to feel free to share my book concept, and now I am able to own the fact that I have a voice and I can use it!"

Heather Adamson

Write Your Book with Inspirational, Experienced Coaches.

Dorothy Holtermann is on a mission to help people make their book writing dreams come true. As a nutrition expert, her impact and income greatly benefited when she became the published author of Love Food that Loves you Back. Inspired by her success, but sad by how long it took her to publish, she developed the Birth a Book System to make it easier for others. She has helped hundreds write their books and will coach your book out of you!

"Dorothy is an amazingly compassionate cheerleader who instills the confidence needed to birth our books! I went from overwhelmed to empowered and soon will be a published author!"

Beth Bolwerk, Copy Editor

Clementina Esposito is Birth a Book's-in-house writing professor. Her holistic editing and coaching skills have made her a sought-after content collaborator on best-selling books.

She is a marvel at helping everyday writers like you create extraordinary written content that changes the minds and hearts of readers.

She is also the founder of The Clementina Collective, where no one writes alone and everyone values the power of a well-told story.

"Clementina is a brilliant and compassionate cheerleader who instills the confidence needed to write a book I'll be proud to publish soon."

Sandy Mucci, Community Advocate

Jessy Holtermann, founder of Jessy Holtermann Studios, actor, acting teacher and award-winning filmmaker from LA will offer workshops and coaching.

She will show you how "if you believe it, they believe it" and will help you discover how to powerfully introduce yourself as an author and perform a book reading like a pro!

"Jessy's powerful (and hilarious!) workshops inspired me to 'own' becoming an author and learn how to introduce myself and perform a book reading."

Colleen Foley, Restaurant owner

Previous Birth a Book Retreats:

Dorothy welcoming retreat guests with snacks & local tourist information

Clementina teaching class on the retreat lawn

Jessy leading a performance coaching session at the retreat yoga center

Register Now to Secure Your Spot!

What Will the Day to Day Actually Look Like?

Day 1: Embark on a Journey of Writing and Inspiration in a Picturesque Retreat Setting

Arrive and check into Hotel da Estrella: Your transformational writing experience begins at the Hotel da Estrella, nestled in the coolest Lisbon neighborhood. You can rest a bit or start your exploration! You will be welcomed by staff to help you settle in for a week that will change your life. Take a moment to gaze at the tiles on the buildings, outdoor cafes, notice the smiles of the Portuguese and begin to embrace that you have made it and open your mind and heart to your adventure!.

Evening 1: Our first event will be a welcome party! We will all go into the process of becoming lifelong friends. We will share an overview of the week, give you an opportunity to relax, introduce yourself and enjoy lots of tasty healthy food, sip on a glass of local wine and/or mocktails. Indulge in a feast of flavors, savoring each bite as you engage in meaningful conversations and connect with fellow writers. This first communal experience will begin to establish the sense of community and inspiration that will permeate the retreat.

Days 2 & 6: Refining Your Book Writing Craft, Develop a Publishing Strategy and Embodying Your Message

Morning: Start your day with a nourishing breakfast at Book, our hotel restaurant filled with books, featuring an outdoor terrace, savoring a variety of delicious and tasty options that provide the fuel you need for a productive day.

Workshop: Join Dorothy in an invigorating morning class where she guides you in refining your book "conversation." Explore techniques to deepen the connection with your readers, amplify your storytelling abilities, and map out your path to publication.

Late Morning: Immerse yourself in the transformative gift of yoga. Through mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation, tap into your inner creativity, release tension, and embody your book's message.

Afternoon: Indulge in a delicious group lunch at the nearby food market, or picnic on our lawn, with members of the group as you choose. We will have lists of perfect places to explore and make sure you have a perfect adventure with plenty of time to get back for your magical next class at the Hotel. Enjoy the flavors of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that nourish both your body and imagination.

Early Afternoon: Join Clementina in a captivating writing class that focuses on refining your story and mastering the art of book-writing. Discover the magic of mind-mapping and creating outstanding outlines!

Crafting well-structured narratives, creating compelling stories, and finding your voice that will engage readers from beginning to end.

Late Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the writing process, finding a cozy nook to let your creativity flow. Apply the insights gained from the day's classes to your own writing, infusing your work with newfound depth and clarity. Or take this time to explore neighbourhood adventures!

Early Evening: Experience the joy of performance as you join Jessy in an engaging class. Unleash your inner performer, learn how to captivate audiences with your book readings, and gain confidence in sharing your writing aloud. Embrace the freedom to express yourself and discover the power of connecting with your readers through live performances.

Dinner: Gather for a delightful included traditional Portugese dinner on night 2, relishing the culinary creations of this seaside capital. Nights 3, 4, & 5 you will be set free to choose from a wide variety of cafe/restaurant options and we will help you select a perfect one for you! Night 6 we will enjoy a special group celebratory success dinner. Engage in lively conversations with fellow participants, sharing ideas, experiences, and inspiration.

As the days progress, the retreat schedule will continue to provide you with surprise enriching workshops, personalized guidance, and incredible local adventures that we will do together!! And, of course, the space to dive deep into your writing journey.

Each day is thoughtfully designed to help you refine your book, strengthen your storytelling abilities, and develop a clear publishing strategy. You'll leave the retreat with newfound confidence, a deeper understanding of the writing process, and a roadmap for bringing your book to life.

Day 7: Embrace Your Journey and Prepare for the Next Chapter of Your Life as a Published Author

With hearts full of inspiration, newfound knowledge, and a clear path forward, bid farewell to Lisbon. Leave with a deep sense of accomplishment and the tools needed to bring your book to completion.

Continue your writing journey with confidence, knowing that you have the skills, clarity, and community connections to guide you. We look forward to hearing about your future successes as you shine your light through your written words.

But remember, this isn’t your typical writing retreat. You will be writing your book!

Discover Your Inner Voice: This retreat goes beyond mere writing; it's an opportunity to delve deep into your inner self, unlocking the stories and wisdom that lie within.
Nourishment for Your Creative Soul: We're dedicated to providing the nourishment your creativity needs to flourish, ensuring you leave feeling refreshed and inspired.
Jumpstart Your Writing Journey: Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to refine your work, we're here to jumpstart your path to writing and publishing a book that will transform your life, career, and income.
Open to All Levels: Whether you're confused, clueless, or somewhere in between about book writing, our retreat welcomes you. We cater to all levels of experience and clarity.
Leave with Clarity and Confidence: No matter your starting point, you will leave this retreat with a clear vision and the confidence to take the next steps toward becoming a published author.

Retreat Participants in Yoga Class

Retreat Participant "Mind Mapping"

what Mary has to say:

"The humor, the fun, the tears, [and] the camaraderie have been one of the best experiences of my entire life."

"I’ve been to The Birth a Book Retreat twice now and I cannot say enough or recommend it more highly. The team of Dorothy, Jessy and Clementina is amazing!"

Dr. Mary Hart

what Michael has to say:

"I’m really blown away and can’t wait to show the world my book!"

"Over the course of just a few days, working alongside all of my inspiring writer friends [and] these three amazing coaches, I found out…how to present my work, how to analyze my work, how to balance structure with creativity, and I was absolutely blown away"

Michael Neece, Author of In Kind : Consciously Craft a Life & Career

Lisbon, Portugal | April 7th-13th, 2024

Lisbon Book Writing Retreat Includes :

7 Days / 6 Nights Accommodations
6 Nourishing Banquet Breakfasts
2 Group Lunches
3 Group Dinners exploring the best of Portugal's cuisine!
15 Book Writing Workshops designed to get your book focused and written faster

5 Yoga Classes
1 one-on-one Coaching Session with Dorothy
5 Performance Coaching Classes with Jessy
Daily writing classes with Clementina. You'll also get an opportunity to have her edit your writing!
Plenty of time to write and explore

Enjoy your own private room and bathroom at Hotel da Estrella.

Yes, I'm Ready to Sign Up!

$2,495

(Small private room, last minute deal!)

FAQs

Do I need to be a professional writer to attend ?

In our experience, most people underestimate their writing skills. You are likely a fantastic writer! Good writing is usually a byproduct of setting clear objectives and goals and that is what we are expert at helping people achieve at our retreat. On top of goal setting, you will also have an opportunity to have your writing critiqued and edited.

Will I fit in?

This is our seventh year running book writing retreats and the magic of how lovely people get along is inspiring. We are a welcoming group and odds are you will leave with life-long friends. We are committed to building a community as the basis of publishing success. If you are kind and want to be of service to the world, you will fit in!

How do I get there?

You will purchase your own airline ticket and fly into Lisbon, Portugal. We are happy to assist with any questions you may have about travel.

How much progress should I expect to make?

No one writes a book in 7 days. Our objective is to have you map out your book and teach you a system to optimize publishing success.

What kind of food will be served?

Dorothy wrote the book Love Food that Loves You Back. We will serve a delicious healthy menu. We can accommodate gluten-free and avoid dairy. We will also accommodate your food allergies and intolerances.

Do I have to be experienced in yoga?

Our yoga teachers are highly skilled. They manage the class so that people of all skill levels are satisfied and embraced. The goal of adding yoga is to help you relax, open up your creative spirit so you confidently move your book project forward.

Registration Requirements

This book writing retreat is open to writers of all levels, from beginner to professional. It is perfect for nonfiction writers, however, fiction writers have come and made enormous inroads. How do you know if you’re 'a writer'? Because you write and can tell stories. However, I only want you to come if you yearn to make a loving, creative commitment to yourself.

Cancellation Policy

Need to cancel after paying in full? If you cannot come in person for any reason, you'll be given a credit for Birth a Book services minus a cancelation fee of 25% of total cost. You can apply that credit to the next retreat or event, private coaching, editing, or our membership service for up to one year!

Want to chat it out? Contact the Birth a Book Team