Creative Escape in Greece

As winter settles in, it’s the perfect time to plan something inspiring to look forward to. Our Greek retreat is happening again on the beautiful island of Andros, and bookings are now open! If you’ve seen me share about this retreat before, you know it’s a special experience. One that blends creativity and nature in an unforgettable setting. With its panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, this hidden gem is the ideal setting for an immersive experience in natural dyeing and painting.

The Magic of Andros

Perched on the rugged western coast of Andros, Mèlisses is a secluded B&B, a sanctuary for nature, creativity, and renewal. Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Aegean, this tranquil retreat is enveloped by wild flora, fruit trees, and meandering thyme-scented paths that lead to the sea. Crafted from local stone, the property’s harmonious design seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor spaces. Whitewashed walls, stone floors, outdoor kitchens, and private pools create an atmosphere of understated elegance. Sunrises and sunsets here are breath taking, stopping you in your tracks & casting a golden glow over the endless horizon. A true haven of beauty and stillness, Mèlisses invites you to slow down, soak in nature, and embrace creativity.

Rediscover Your Creativity at Mèlisses

Natural Dyeing Workshops:

Together, we’ll soak in the beauty of spring on this magical Cycladic island; its wild landscapes, fragrant flora, and endless blues. This is your time to step away from the hustle & bustle of day to day life, and reconnect with yourself and your creativity. You’ll discover a secret world of natural colour, learning to extract hues from plants and experience the alchemy of dyeing. Through hands-on techniques, we’ll transform gathered materials into a palette of rich, earthy tones. You’ll dye textiles to cherish, make inks and paints from plants and experience natural plant colour in the most idyllic of settings.

Painting Workshops:

Drawing inspiration from the breathtaking landscapes of Andros, participants will engage in outdoor painting sessions, capturing the island’s natural beauty on canvas. Blakely Little will delve into all the elements required by a work of art. From setting a scene, using tools properly to the fundamentals of composition and colour palette, you’ll immerse yourself in the creative process.

“You’ll walk away from this retreat feeling enriched and inspired by the stunning beauty of Andros. There’s something wholesome and cyclical with every element of this retreat – from sourcing ingredients from the land, preparing meals in the kitchen with what we have foraged, using the scraps for natural dying, all along painting what we see as we go. Then, of course, you will be able take a set of bespoke artworks and naturally dyed items home.”

Your Hosts On The Retreat

I will be teaching you all about natural colour, plant dyes & dyeing fibre.

Blakely Little – is an artist, illustrator and full-time creative from Charleston, South Carolina. You can connect Blakely’s artwork with her very personal expression of joy and beauty. She will be guiding us through various techniques and activities to spark inspiration as well as teaching new approaches to painting and drawing to help us better articulate ourselves through art.

Allegra Pomilio – Mèlisses’ founder and art director is one of the most gracious women I have met & an absolute joy to be around. Her knowledge of hospitality and gastronomy, combined with her photography and visual art skills, strikes the perfect balance on Andros. Allegra opened Mèlisses at 24, creating a space for like-minded people to slow down, and seek visual inspiration. Her second home has become a cherished and sought-after creative retreat for travellers, creatives, epicures, and many more worldwide. Every year, with her team, she hosts curated gatherings focused on discovering the island’s wonders.

Join Us for For A Greek Adventure!

Mèlisses has a way of slowing time, wrapping you in its beauty, and reminding you of life’s simple pleasures. If you’ve been longing for inspiration, adventure, and a chance to truly unwind, this is your invitation.

Spaces are limited, and bookings are now open! Join us for a week of creativity, adventure, and relaxation in one of the most breathtaking locations in Greece.

Register For This Unique Creative Escape In Greece!

If youre ready for a creative escape in Greece, the retreat will take place from May 5th-9th, 2025. Bookings can be made directly through Mèlisses.

If you have questions please feel free to get in touch with me directly.

I’d love for you to join us & make this retreat one to remember!

Images: Thomas Gravinis