When did you come on a retreat at the Writers’ Cabin?
I came to the Writers’ Cabin in August 2026. It was during the hottest driest summer on record, but I found some merciful green in the Welsh landscape.
How did your time at the Writers’ Cabin influence your writing or thinking?
I visited this special place to read through and think about the manuscript of my latest novel which, now that I have a publishing deal, will need to move into its next phase of life. Soon enough, I’ll be working with an editor, a publicist, designers, and so on. I really needed quiet time, and space, to focus on the text. The air and the light seemed crystal clear—which is how I felt about reading and revising.
What role does place play in your writing?
Place is at the heart of my work. It’s almost an obsession. A long time ago, when I was studying English Language and Literature, I came upon the ancient idea of the spirit of place. The idea intrigued me then, and now. I’ve never thought of place as mere ‘backdrop’ or ‘setting’. Place informs politics, story, religion, culture… Some people go so far as to say that geography is destiny. Place is fundamental to the migrant experience. I return again and again to themes of migration—and notions of place—in my writing and teaching.
What surprised you most about going on a solo writing retreat?
The greatest surprise for me was how instantly I could switch. From noisy London to quiet Welsh hills. From scattered to focused. From the to-do lists to this novel: its world, its characters, its concerns, its years of creative development. In the short time I stayed at the Writers’ Cabin, I experienced the pleasure of true concentration.
What particular details or features here best supported your creative practice?
I loved the feeling of cosiness, the sense of being ensconced. I appreciated the creative touches—so many thoughtful, practical and tasteful details. The quietness. The fresh air. The calming vistas. Oh, and the lovely bathroom and sauna.
What advice would you give to someone considering a self-led writing retreat?
Don’t be too abstemious with time. If you can do a week, or longer, go for it. Tell people you’re going on a retreat, which is like going off-grid for a while. The more you can be a hermit, the better. Bring what you need (reference material, notebooks, essential tech, favourite treats), but don’t overdo the baggage. Travel light and let go.
What writing project are you working on now?
I’ve just written a short non-fiction piece for Compost art magazine, and I’m contributing to a book about brand language. Next, I’ll be deep in with the editor and publishing team for my new novel. Another book idea must surely be brewing…? I just don’t know it yet!
Italian Australian author Elise Valmorbida has published journalism, poetry, short stories, non-fiction and fiction. Her acclaimed fourth novel The Madonna of the Mountains was translated into several languages and won Australia’s biggest literary award. Elise has written three works of non-fiction—including The Happy Writing Book, a positive guide to creative writing and wellbeing, inspired by her 20+ years of experience as writer-teacher. Elise is also an award-winning indie film producer and script consultant. Her much-anticipated new novel will be published in 2027-2028. You can follow Elise on Instagram @elisevalmorbida and find out more on her website.
