Writing Retreat in Volterra, Italy

Volterra is a 12th c. medieval walled city with its walls completely intact. The town sits high above one of the rolling Tuscan hills, also described by locals as the Italian Highlands. On a clear day, one can see the Tyrennhian Sea and the infamous islands--Corsica and Capraia.

Besides the plethora of ruins encompassing Volterra (the Roman Theatre, the newly discovered amphitheater, Porta dell’Arco and Porta Diana), this town attracts different types of artists. Volterra is well-known for its alabaster carvers, but what makes this area exceptional for writers is its scenery from any viewpoint and, of course, the thermal energy coursing underground. For a writer, it is quite the quintessential creative space, with inspiration lurking behind every corner under the Tuscan sun.

The hotel we are staying at was once a cloistered convent dating back to 1480. This is one of the most unique buildings within the city walls. It’s the only hotel in the city center with an outdoor pool. Our rooms overlook this quiet pool/courtyard area which offers a colorful view of the roof terrace, the pool glistening in the sun and the multi-colored rays of the stained-glass window from the adjacent church. This hotel is ideally situated where we are within a world of our own inside the hotel walls, but as soon as you step outside its doors, you take a step back into time onto the antiquated streets not far from the Piazza del Priori.
Stroll down the historic center, enjoy the timeless atmosphere surrounding this unique town and discover your muse all around.