Holiday Facilitators: Amanda Smyth
skill, experience, warmth
Biography
Amanda Smyth is Irish-Trinidadian. Born in Ireland, she is the author of Black Rock, A Kind of Eden and Fortune. Black Rock won the Prix du Premier Roman prize, was shortlisted for the McKitterick Prize and was selected as an Oprah Winfrey Summer Read. Fortune was published in 2021by Peepal Tree Press and short listed for the Walter Scott prize 2022. Amanda teaches creative writing at Arvon, Skyros in Greece, and at Coventry University. She lives in Leamington Spa with her family.
What people say about Amanda and her courses:
One of the best courses I have ever done.
Amanda is a fantastic teacher. I’ve learned so much and feel ready to continue my writing.
Fantastically useful and thrilling course. Totally inspiring and couldn’t be beat.
AMAZING. Amanda was the best teacher I could’ve hoped for, was very helpful and gave good feedback. I felt much more confident in my abilities by the end of the week.
Very structured and inclusive course and teaching.
My son took Amanda’s course. He produced excellent writing under her supervision. He left with an increased confidence, pride in his writing and tools to take with him.
Where does Amanda Smyth facilitate?
Sat 9 Aug - Fri 22 Aug 2025 (13 nights)
At a glance
Atsitsa Bay is a holistic holiday centre set in a stunning, natural location, right on the bay and surrounded by pine forest. With a wide range of courses and activities and an outstanding team of facilitators, it's the perfect place to be inspired and try something new. Malcolm Stern is directing this holiday.
About
Skyros attracts mostly solo travellers from all over the world. Although all ages are represented approximately 70% are between 35-65. A huge majority - over 80 percent - report that the Skyros holiday experience had a lasting positive effect on their lives. Nearly a third of guests come back again and again - even after they have said that Skyros was the 'holiday of a lifetime'.
Accommodation
Most people choose to live simply and comfortably in twin-shared rustic huts in the gardens. Or stay in Atsitsa's main house, subject to availability. See more about accommodation in Atsitsa here >>
Inspiring Courses
Courses and activities are introduced to you at the beginning of each week. Choose your favourites from a wide range including yoga, writing, art, kayaking, windsurfing, personal development, singing, comedy and more.
Food & Drink
All meals are included and served as a buffet. Special diets are always catered for. Teas and coffees are available throughout the day. Other drinks and snacks can be purchased at Atsitsa's bar.
Guide Itinerary
07.15: Morning drop-in classes
08.30: Breakfast
09.00: Demos (news of the day)
10.30: Oekos (home groups)
11.15: Mid-morning courses
13.30: Lunch
15.00: Siesta/beach time
17.00: Afternoon courses
19.00: Sunset classes
20.00: Dinner & evening activities
Average Temperature
July and August are the hottest months in Skyros with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees Celcius. Light showers are possible but rare.
Location
Summary
What's included?
- More than three courses per day over four to five days each week
- An unrivalled and vibrant community atmosphere
- Fun evening activities and events
- Three delicious Mediterranean meals each day
- Twin shared rustic accommodation in Atsitsa's gardens
What's On
Travel
To travel to Skyros island you need to fly to Athens as there are no direct flights to this beautiful, unspoilt island.
Fly to Athens on the day before your holiday begins, ie Friday. Join our overland transfer to Skyros island including a night with us in Central Athens.
Return on the last day of the holiday, ie Friday. If you book our overland transfer, you can book a flight home from Athens after 8pm.
