In spring 2025, Jane and Victoria went on a road trip round the Halkidiki Peninsula on a quest for the perfect venue for their writing retreats. Why Halkidiki? Well, for its crystal clear waters, lush landscape of olive groves and vineyards, its rich history, pretty villages and delicious local food – and its proximity to Thessaloniki airport which is served by almost daily flights from Berlin and London.

It’s fair to say it was love at first sight when we pulled into Anna Karra Studios in the village of Vourvourou. Set among a huge garden, each of the ten studios comes with a balcony or terrace with sea view. A fine yellow sand beach and turquoise waters are metres away and the grounds are full of olive trees and shady writing spots. There’s also a wonderful onsite cafe and bar and multiple workshop spaces – and a choice of tavernas and a grocery store are just up the road.

Vourvourou itself is one of the prettiest spots on Sithonia – the peninsula’s middle finger, named after King Sithon, son of Poseidon. Facing out towards the mysterious Mount Athos, Vourvourou is lapped by Aegean Sea. Wander the coastline and find your own private cove – the spectacular, wild Karydi beach is a short stroll around the headland. Alternatively, the Insta-famous island of Diaporos is just off shore and you can hire a boat or kayak to explore it. 

In October we ran our first two retreats in Halkidiki. Anna Karra Studios is a family-run business and Anna and her son Georgios – a music-loving Berlin regular – offered our writers the warmest of Greek welcomes.  They and their team of Elena, Vikki and Dionysus, are the perfect hosts, serving up a daily delicious breakfast, providing local insight and advice, and ensuring everything runs smoothly on site.