Winter Publishing Residency Offers a Clear Path from Manuscript to Publication

For many emerging writers, the hardest part of the publishing journey begins after the manuscript is written. The story is on the page, the book cover is imagined, and the dream of seeing it on a shelf at a local bookstore feels close — but the next steps are unclear. The Winter Publishing Residency in Calitzdorp is built precisely for this moment: for writers who are ready to move from draft to publication and need structured, practical guidance to do so.

From 26–28 August, Calitzdorp Country House will host the residency under the guidance of educator, TV presenter and Mikateko Media founder Ingrid Jones. Jones has been integral in taking two recent books — The Lockdown Book Recipe and Our Stories Hold Our Cure — from early idea to publication. Her approach is steady and coaching-based, suited to writers who respond better to guided support than instruction. The residency is designed for people who have already written their book or shaped a substantial manuscript and are now ready to take the next step with intention, time and effort.

Winter in Calitzdorp

Winter has arrived differently in Calitzdorp this year. Early rains have pushed a soft green across the valley, and small bursts of colour have appeared between the vineyards. The quiet of the season gives the residency its rhythm: slow mornings, reflective sessions, and a landscape that encourages focus. It is a small retreat that fits naturally into the pace of the town.

Over three days, participants refine their book idea, learn how publishers make decisions, and identify which publishing houses are best suited to their genre and voice. Jones describes it simply: “All of us have a story in us. Some of us have made the effort to write this down. The Winter Publishing Residency is aimed at getting these people – these stories and their owners – to the appropriate publisher and market.”

De Krans visit and local experiences

A visit to De Krans forms part of the experience. Winter vineyard work is usually subdued, but this year the early rains have brought more colour to the fields — greener rows, small flowering patches, and a sense that the valley is holding more life than expected. Travellers and writers get a look at how the farm moves through the season and taste local wines that anchor the region’s identity.

For Nell Rodgers, co-owner of Calitzdorp Country House, the residency is part of a broader effort to shape thoughtful winter experiences. “Calitzdorp is lovely, and the quiet of winter makes us more reflective about things,” she says. “Being part of the Winter Publishing Residency means we can give people a place to turn their reflections into books for all to enjoy.”

Across the town, guesthouses, wine farms and community members have been building gentle winter offerings — tastings, walks, small workshops — that make use of the season rather than working against it. The residency sits comfortably among these efforts, offering writers a chance to arrive, slow down, and leave with a clearer sense of their own work.

Cost and registration

Cost: R8 000 per person (single), including full course material, four-star accommodation, and all meals.

Sharing option: R6 000 per person.

More details: Contact Phumlani Malinga at 076 221 2984.

Registration: Calitzdorp Country House or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Website: www.cchouse.co.za