Finding Memoir in Your Life Story
Retreat to the Tuscan Countryside with Marion Roach Smith
In this immersive retreat, acclaimed memoir instructor Marion Roach Smith will guide you in uncovering the stories only you can tell—stories drawn from your life, crafted into compelling memoir. You’ll learn to identify rich, resonant topics from your own experiences, select one to focus on, and shape it using a simple, dramatic three-act structure that brings clarity, focus, and emotional power to your writing.
Join us in Tuscany, where inspiration lives in every conversation, view, and quiet moment.
This is Marion's 2nd retreat with us!
April 26 - May 2, 2026 |
Tuscany, Italy
Marion Roach Smith
Marion Roach Smith is the author of four books, each featuring aspects of memoir. Her most recent book is The Memoir Project: A Thoroughly Non-Standardized Text for Writing & Life. A former staff member of The New York Times, she has written for The New York Times Magazine, Prevention, The Daily News, Vogue, Newsday, Good Housekeeping, Martha Stewart Living, Discover and The Los Angeles Times. She was formerly a commentator on NPR’s All Things Considered, and she hosted a talk show on Martha Stewart Living Radio, Sirius/XM 110.
A long-time memoir instructor, both in person and online, Marion has taught thousands of people to write what they know. Her students have gone on to publish books, opinion pieces and personal essays on various platforms. Marion’s signature blend of clarity, structure, and inspiration will empower participants to write the stories only they can tell. Learn more about Marion here.
"Memoir writing is the single greatest portal to self-discovery." -Marion Roach Smith
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Find the thread. Shape the story.
Memoir is not autobiography. It doesn’t attempt to cover your whole life, but instead zooms in on one meaningful aspect. Once you understand this distinction, you’ll discover an abundance of memoir-worthy material within your own life story—enough for essays, blog posts, op-eds, and even full-length books.
Whether you have no idea yet what to write, a mere wisp of an idea or if you are well into a book draft, this retreat will heighten your work by getting you to the task of writing
what you know and giving you the insights you need into the discipline, technique and structure of memoir writing.
Write with purpose. Surrounded by beauty.
Before the retreat, we’ll start with a 90-minute online class to introduce the core tools of memoir and help you define “what your story is about.” You’ll also receive The Memoir Project (2nd edition), your guide throughout the retreat.
In the Tuscan countryside, we’ll dive into the art of memoir through daily workshops, writing sessions, and meaningful conversations. You’ll:
– Explore different forms of memoir
– Write with structure and discipline
– Build a daily writing practice
– Shape your story into a narrative that resonates
Whether you’re beginning or revising, this retreat offers the focus, support, and inspiration to bring your memoir to life—surrounded by beauty and a community of fellow writers.
"Marion teaches the essential elements of memoir: how to clearly tell one story at a time to answer the most important question, “What is this story about?’ Once you know this, you can write anything with the material from your own experience."
– Deb Smith, Ph.D.
Nestled in Tuscany’s Chianti region, Fattoria Del Colle sets the stage for our unforgettable retreats in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Home to Donatella Cinelli Colombini’s trailblazing, all-female-owned winery, this estate—with a winemaking legacy dating back to the 16th century—combines history, passion, and tradition in every corner.
Our retreats invite you to connect with the land and yourself. Stroll through sun-drenched vineyards, savor award-winning wines paired with exquisite meals at the renowned Osteria di Donatella, and immerse yourself in the beauty of a 16th-century villa and charming chapel. Enjoy breathtaking views of rolling vineyards and the medieval village of Trequanda—an unforgettable backdrop for every moment of your retreat.
Included in your Bella Vita retreat:
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Group transfer to and from the Rome airport
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6 nights lodging at Fattoria del Colle
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Daily breakfast, lunch, dinner
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Daily classes with your retreat leader
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Wine tasting, winery tour & and ancient chapel,
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Pici pasta making class
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Excursion to Pienza - UNESCO heritage village
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Restorative yoga & guided hikes
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State of the art classroom studio
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Daily concierge and office staff
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On-site laundry-available at your own cost
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Massage-available at your own cost
**Airfare not included
Come enjoy 6 nights in wild Tuscany!
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Private Accommodations
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(Completely Private Apartment w/ Private Bedroom and Bathroom)
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Shared Accommodations
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(Shared Lodging in an Apartment w/ Private Bedroom)
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Please note:
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There are only 4 Completely Private Apartments available!
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Airfare is not included.
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Since our retreats explore local food traditions, much of what we are discovering, learning and eating will be very challenging for vegans. Unfortunately we cannot provide substitutes.
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Please inquire with us directly at info@vitabellaretreats.com for plus-one special pricing
