A week-long reading retreat for The Island by Victoria Hislop
Join book lovers on the beautiful island of Crete for a reading retreat and book club adventure to Spinalonga for The Island.
A unique trip for book lovers to come together with like-minded people and enjoy the beautiful island of Crete. We will again be staying at the beautiful Elounda Palm Hotel. Located in the small town of Elounda, where the main beach is a stretch of golden sands, laden with sun loungers, parasols and great views of Spinalonga Island. The hotel was loved by everyone on our 2025 trip, so we will be returning there in 2026.
Dates
3rd September 2026
We will all be staying together in the Elounda Palm Hotel, well situated for our trip to Spinalonga.
This trip is a chance to relax with like-minded people, while enjoying a book by the pool or down on the beach. The hotel itself has a beautiful swimming pool, as well as massage rooms, Hamam baths and offers a variety of spa options (also a gym for those feeling energetic).
During the week we will of course be taking a boat trip to Spinalonga island, to soak up the atmosphere of the island before we all get together for our book club discussion.
On our first evening at the hotel we will all get together and enjoy a meal, as we get to know one another. In the middle of the week we will visit Spinlonga together before having our book club meal to discuss the book. The rest of the time will be yours to enjoy with others or on your own.
Like my book club, this trip will be very laid back, giving everyone the freedom to experience the week the way they want. The beauty of these trips is that they are very relaxed, with like-minded people. On a Books in Places trip, you are only on your own if you want to be. There is plenty of time to be on your own if you wish, but the option to be with others is always there. You never have to eat alone unless that is your choice.
There are loads of things to do while in Elounda for those who want to do more than read. Locally there are sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving options, as well as Kayaking and SUP. Away from the water, there's horse riding, hiking, cycling and lots of sightseeing options including , with plenty of options available, including Agios Nikolaos, Knossos Palace, Ancient Lato, the Byzantine Church Panagia Kera and Plaka.
Accommodation
Nestled on the shore of Mirabello Gulf in Crete, Elounda Palm Hotel & Suites is a family-run hotel ideal for those seeking tranquillity. It offers a variety of rooms, including infinity suites with private pools and classic garden view rooms. The hotel boasts an outdoor infinity pool, a secluded location, personalised hospitality, lush palm gardens, panoramic sea views, farm-to-table cuisine, signature cocktails and in-house experiences. Just 1 km from Elounda village centre, this luxurious hotel offers a unique and unforgettable experience in Crete.
THE details
This year's trip is organised with Friendship Travel, experts with over 20 years of experience in arranging all the details for you, including flights and transfers. Just click the button below for booking information.