Ready to Write Among Legends? Our idea for Europe Writing Retreats with Fr Roderick Vonhögen
We've got an epic idea, and want to know what you think! Want to pack your pen and your passport for a pilgrimage for storytellers across the breathtaking cities & bookstores of Europe? We thought so.
So we’ve got an idea… It’s early stages, so tell me what you think:
Imagine writing your novel in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. Or in a quiet Roman piazza where sunlight spills across cobblestones. Or beneath the bells of a medieval abbey in the Netherlands. You’re sipping from a special mug of warm coffee, and across from you, another author is lost in writing her manuscript.
This isn’t a dream. It’s a writing adventure.
Each LegendFiction Retreat gathers a small band of authors (around ten or less) who crave magic, camaraderie, and progress. For five to seven days, you’ll write, wander, and wonder through some of Europe’s most storied cities.
Your Guide
Your guide is
, a seasoned traveler and storyteller who knows the heart of Europe better than any guidebook. He’s spent years exploring ancient streets on his own, hidden chapels, and old-world bookstores, always finding the quiet corners that inspire his creativity.
He’s the kind of quirky, cheery companion who knows where to find the best meals on a budget, the bookstore hidden behind a church, the view no tourist ever sees. He travels every few months on his own, and now, he’s inviting a handful of authors to join him.
The retreat experience
Days begin with a shared breakfast, followed by long, generous blocks of focused writing time in unforgettable places: castle ruins overlooking the countryside, a garden tucked behind a cathedral, a park alive with epic history.
Afternoons bring exploration and laughter.
Evenings end in family-run restaurants where the food is fresh, local, and laced with memorable stories.
You’re in control
You’ll travel as independently as you wish. Book your own flights, lodging, and insurance. Father Roderick will provide:
A daily itinerary with mapped meeting points via Google Maps
Recommendations for affordable stays — from convents and retreat houses to cozy Airbnbs
Guidance and companionship through each day’s journey
Writing Prompts and tips to stay focused and get the best from your stories
You’re free to follow the group or venture off between gatherings. Some travelers may stay at convents or retreat centers he recommends for quiet and affordability. Others may prefer private Airbnbs or hotels. You decide.
At the end of the retreat, all participants will be invited to submit a story or chapter inspired by the journey. These works will be collected into a special LegendFiction Anthology, a record of your shared adventure.
Your investment
Our planned cost to join the retreat is $3530 $999 USD. This covers his time, expertise, and access to the curated experience.
Travel, lodging, and meals are yours to customize.
The Creative Purpose
During the retreat, each author will work on their story, novel, or essay inspired by the journey.
Afterward, all participants will be invited to contribute a short piece to a shared LegendFiction Anthology — a literary keepsake of the adventure you lived and wrote together.
Plus, these areas often have book festivals, conventions and historical fairs that Father Roderick already goes to! Each retreat will incorporate a special event like this as a highlight.
Once 10 writers are confirmed, the first retreat will be set — likely in Edinburgh, Rome, or the Netherlands. Future retreats may expand across Europe: France, Austria, Ireland, and beyond.
Write your legend where legends lived.
What do you think?
Do you like the idea? Comment your ideas!