Writer's Retreat with Guest Writer Mariel Hacking, July 2026
We’re delighted to announce that published author Mariel Hacking will be our Resident Writer for the July Writers’ Retreat. This retreat offers the option of a one-to-one session with Mariel for extra guidance and feedback. The first session is included in the cost of your stay.
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Dates: Friday 24 July 2026 21:00 - Friday 31 July 202616:00
Location: The Mill, Aveyron, France
Theme / Focus: Writing
Who it’s for: Anyone who has a project to work on and a desire to spend time writing
Group size: 4-8
Your host: Nathalie Edwards, founder of The Mill France
What to expect: A week of creative focus, gentle structure, and time to rest, reflect, and create.
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Mariel is a Dutch-born author based in Greece. She works as a writing coach—both in person and online—offering manuscript reviews, feedback, and professional guidance to aspiring authors. She also runs writing retreats by the sea in Greece and, since 2010, has organised the celebrated annual Limnisa Short Story Competition.
A polyglot, Mariel reads in several languages and writes in two. Her debut novel, Een echte moeder, explores themes of motherhood, identity, and self-discovery. Her next novel, written in English, is scheduled for publication in 2026.
Should you wish for additional sessions, or to discuss if Writing Coaching would benefit you, Mariel can be available for additional slots, bookable and payable during your stay. You can find out more about Mariel here
Wherever you are on your writing journey, time away from your everyday routine, with on-hand guidance, may be just what you need to crack on, cross the finish line, or begin your project. With some time to rest, recharge, reconnect with nature & be inspired, The Mill could be exactly the place you are looking for.
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Accommodation at The Mill choose from one of our 7 private bedrooms
There is an optional read aloud group feed back session. Other than that your time is your own to focus on your own project in a way that best works for you.
Daily breakfast, lunch and 5 of your evening meals ( option to eat out or use the kitchen)
Tea & coffee are available throughout your stay - serve yourself
Use of all communal spaces, including gardens, terraces our salon with projector facilities for film nights, and our quiet wifi free Library, with plenty of books to inspire you during your stay
Optional Group activities - A guided walk to see dinosaur Footprints
There are local buses to if you want to visit Town of Millau - Market day is Friday Mornings
Free Wifi
Free on site parking
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Flights / travel to and from France
Travel insurance (required)
Optional excursions or meals out
Materials beyond the basic supplies provided
Alcohol other than wine with meals
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Our nearest airports are: Rodez 1hr 15, Beziers 1hr 20, Montpellier 1hr 30
For trains & buses and more in-depth travel information, check out our How to get here page
Arrival : 3pm - 6pm
Depart: 10.30 amUnfortunately, due to the historic nature of the property built across four floors, we are unable to accommodate persons with mobility issues.
Check our FAQ’s for all other information contact us.
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It is possible to extend your stay and join our Summer rolling residency programme. Note this is an accommodation-only basis and self-catered (there's a minimum room fee for the changeover day(s) at the weekend, these days are not catered for- but you are welcome to use the kitchen /cook for yourself or eat out locally. If you would like to extend your stay let us know when you book your room below. Find out more about our Summer Residency here
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Secure your space with a deposit of 250€
Pay the remaining balance 60 days prior to your arrival. An automated reminder will be sent to you
Or
Pay in full at the time of booking for a 10% discount on your booking
Get in touch if you require a payment schedule
Check out our Cancellation & Refunds Policy
All payments will be made via our secure payment platform ADD IN LINK HERE ONCE ITS CREATED
The Accommodation
What people say
“Visiting The Mill was an experience of a lifetime. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and get in touch with your creative side… I left The Mill feeling so fresh and revived. The atmosphere and energy is incredible. I definitely plan to do the writers retreat again in the future and cannot recommend it highly enough.”
- EMMA, USA
Further Information
Accommodation - A closer look at the rooms and spaces
Cancellation Policy - Our T’s & C’s
How to Get Here - Travel routes, nearest airports, and local transport
Gallery - See the Mill, studio spaces, and past retreats.
Testimonials - Read feedback from previous guests and residents.
FAQs - Practical answers to common questions