The trip of a lifetime – or two!

We must be doing something right! From the beginning of this season’s unique ‘convivial creativity’ courses, we have been overwhelmed by the warmest of responses of our guests. For example, here’s what Norma Ott and Barbara Trant, who came on Linda Daniels’ knitting week, had to say: “There are not words to evoke the sense of peace and calm that Watermill provides. It was the trip of a lifetime From the moment we were picked up in Pisa (and even before, when Bill provided us with pickup arrangements), every detail is taken care of.

“The home is elegant and comforting. The river provides a backdrop, the church bells resonate; nightly aperitivi [on the vine veranda or in the olive press] is an experience. Meals were fresh and inspiring We had a wonderful time knitting, and touring. Strangers became friends and the Watermill was a perfect backdrop to a once in a lifetime respite … Except I think I would love to go back because I do miss the amazing food, the genteel hosts and the amazing venue. Maybe twice in a lifetime experience …”

“A dreamlike, magical place…” said Watermill guest Karen Moore. Top left: morning light outlines the historic mill buildings; top right: the renovated olive press, a new area for creative conversations; bottom left: roses from the garden grace the communal dining table; bottom right: the magical bamboo forest, Zen-like calm.

Convivial communication: knitting guests applaud one another at the end of Linda Daniel’s week.

Carol and Gregg Evans came on Randy Hale’s painting course. Carol commented: “All around fabulous. The area is incredibly beautiful, the accommodation is wonderful and the three gourmet meals a day were delicious. Randy Hale was an excellent tutor and just a fun person to be around. Lois and Bill and Lydia treated us as if we were guests in their home. We are going back in 2026.”

And we had this lovely message from Kathy Hall, who also came to paint for a week with Randy: “I had the most amazing time at the art retreat last week. From the moment we arrived, we felt so welcomed by everyone. The Watermill was both beautiful and relaxing—a truly inspiring place to create art.”

“I loved not having to worry about meals; everything was thoughtfully prepared and absolutely delicious. The grounds were so stunning that I found myself wandering through them again and again, soaking it all in.”

“Being in such a historic place, right next to the River Rosaro, was a real treat. The gentle sound of the river added a peaceful rhythm to each day.”

“Randy was a wonderful instructor—so clear and encouraging as he guided us through each step of the painting process. I learned so much in such a breathtaking setting.”

Grazie mille, Kathy! It was a pleasure to have you with us.

Convivial critique and congratulations; Guest Janet Jasper and Lois Breckon at the farewell show on a painting week

See for yourself!

We would, of course, love you to join us for one of our ‘convivial creativity” weeks, in painting, writing, knitting and Italian language. But our 2025 courses are currently full. (There will, undoubtedly, the cancellations and if you see a course or a tutor you particularly like (click here for details of the 2025 courses) please let us know, via the Watermill’s Contact Form and we will put you on a waiting list.)

To be sure of a joyful week convivial creativity, however, your best bet is to get your booking in one of our 2026 courses, which are already filling fast! And there is a bonus: if you book any 2026 course before 1 September 2025, you can enjoy next year’s course at this year’s pruce. But don’t delay: already nearly 100 people have booked for next year! Details of our 2026 courses are to be found here. Come and join us to find out what the fuss is all about and enjoy the holiday of a lifetime (or two!).