If you’re looking for a unique pottery course in Crete, far from mass tourism, you’ll find it in the quiet mountain village of Stavrochori above Makrigialos. In the ceramic studio of Doris Schnell, creativity and calm come together — a place where holiday impressions turn into meaningful, handmade memories.

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A Life’s Dream Shaped in Clay and Light

Sometimes a life-changing story begins with a single phone call.
For Doris Schnell, it started more than twenty years ago, when she stepped in last minute to lead a watercolor painting week in Koutsouras. She didn’t know that this trip would become the foundation for her future on Crete.

When her plane took off after the final course, tears rolled down her cheeks.
“It was like falling in love,” she says today. “I knew something on this island had touched my soul.”

Today, Doris lives and works in Stavrochori near Makrigialos. She has opened her own ceramic studio — Dora Keramik — a place where nature, creativity and slow living blend in a very special way.

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From Graphic Design to Ceramics – A Love Fired Into Life

Art and design have always been part of Doris’ world. In Germany and Austria she worked as a graphic designer, offered creative workshops and taught painting, drawing, modelling and mosaics.

The turning point came during the Covid lockdown.
“Suddenly, I had time — and clay captured me completely.”

She bought a potter’s wheel, set up a workshop and immersed herself in the material from the ground up.

For Doris, working with clay is no longer just craft — it is meditation, expression and connection:
“Clay is a living natural material. It demands time, focus and quiet — and gives that back to you.”

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A Studio With Sea View and Soul

Her modern studio opened in summer 2025. Large glass doors fill the room with Cretan light, and the terrace offers wide views over olive groves all the way to the sea.

“Many visitors stop on the terrace and say: wow — what a view!” Doris laughs.

Inside, her ceramics often appear next to watercolor paintings or mixed-media works — a deliberate dialogue between her artistic expressions.

What visitors can expect?
Time, quietness, and the rare feeling of creating something with their own hands.

“Many arrive without expectations and leave with a smile. Some even say it was the highlight of their holiday.”

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Pottery on Crete – The New Yoga

A pottery session with Doris is more than a holiday activity.
It is focus, calmness and simple joy — a form of slow creativity.

“In a world full of stress and screen time, people rediscover what it means to create something real with their hands.”

Her workshops are intentionally small — maximum four people — ideal for beginners, couples or families. Whether imprinting plants into clay slabs or working on the wheel, the sense of surprise at one’s own abilities is part of every session.

Sometimes, touching moments unfold — like the guest whose mother had been a ceramist. Sitting at the wheel for the first time, she felt an emotional, unexpected connection.

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Slow Tourism With Heart

The studio is surrounded by nature — with no background music, no distractions.
Just birdsong, the hum of bees and, occasionally, the distant call of the local vendors.

“We’re already exposed to enough noise,” Doris says. “Here, silence is part of the experience.”

Her approach resonates with a growing trend: slow tourism, mindful travel, hands-on creativity.
Guests staying in the holiday homes in and near Makrigialos area often visit Doris to enjoy a few hours of calm and inspiration.

Related article: Avoid overtourism — discover the authentic Crete

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A Network of Creative Women

Doris is an active member of the Cretan ceramic community KERAMON — a network of artists, potters and designers.
Her story is emblematic of many women who build their own creative or entrepreneurial projects on Crete, driven by courage and passion.

“Many women dream of reinventing their lives,” she says.
“My advice: don’t abandon the dream. It may take time, but it’s worth it.”

Around her, several creative women are doing exactly that — shaping independent paths on the island.
We will highlight some of these inspiring stories soon here on KretaKompass.

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Crete as a Way of Life

Doris’ advice for those considering a life on Crete:

“Start by renting long-term before buying — and learn Greek. It opens doors and hearts.”

She enjoys the simplicity of village life — nature, community and a slower rhythm that has become rare elsewhere.

She is especially fond of pitharia, the large traditional clay vessels once used for storing olive oil and wine.
They are not motifs she recreates in her work — but they embody the authenticity of the region: symbols of tradition, craftsmanship and the deep roots of the island.

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Recommended Reading for Working in Greece

For readers who — like Doris once did — seriously consider working or starting a business in Greece, the following book offers valuable guidance:

“Beruflich in Griechenland – Trainingsprogramm für Manager, Fach- und Führungskräfte”
by Melanie Maurus, Daniela Weis & Alexander Thomas
with Ulrike de Ponte

The book provides insights into Greek work culture, communication, administrative procedures and essential cultural aspects. It is especially useful for those planning long-term professional steps or self-employment in Greece.

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“Crete Gives Me Space”

When asked what Crete means to her, Doris answers immediately:

“Crete gives me space to express myself artistically — and a healthy environment for body and soul.”

And that is exactly what you feel when you step into her studio:
the light, the quiet, and the sense that someone truly found their place.

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Information & Contact

Dora Keramik – Ceramic Art Studio by Doris Schnell
📍 Stavrochori near Makrigialos, Southeast Crete
🌐 www.dora-keramik.eu

📅 Workshops for individuals, couples & families
🎨 Languages: German, English & Greek

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FAQ – Pottery & Creative Workshops in Crete with Doris Schnell

How much does a pottery course in Crete cost?

Prices depend on whether you book an individual session, a couple’s workshop or a small group. Doris works exclusively with a maximum of four participants. Current prices are listed on her website.

How long does a workshop last?

Introductory workshops usually last between 2–3 hours. Wheel-throwing sessions or multi-day courses are also possible.

Are beginners welcome?

Absolutely. Many guests have never touched clay before and are surprised by what they can achieve in just one session.

Is the studio easy to reach?

Yes. It is located in the quiet mountain village of Stavrochori above Makrigialos. Parking is easy and the roads are well-maintained.

Are there workshops for families or couples?

Yes. Doris offers special formats for families, couples and even honeymooners.

Can I take my piece home immediately?

Clay must dry and be fired. Many workshops include glazing and firing by Doris after the session. Finished pieces can be shipped or collected on a later visit.

Does Doris speak English?

Yes — workshops can be held in English or German. Doris also speaks Greek, which helps guests who want a deeper cultural connection.

Is the workshop suitable for relaxation and mindfulness?

Yes. The studio is intentionally quiet and free from digital noise — ideal for slow tourism and mindful creativity.

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