"Regina and I have one simple goal: create the space for you to return to yourself a bit, to finally actually totally relax, to have fun, to not be 'needed', to just be. Let US handle the 'to do' list of international travel. We've got every freaking detail taken care of, all you have to do; is get yourself to Italy. I'll be there waiting for you to join me! An entire week of fun, culture, divine food, space to breathe and above all; quiet. I'll see you in Italy."
Located just outside the picturesque Renaissance Tuscan town of Lucca (an hour's drive from Florence), we will have the exclusive use of a 17th century estate. The estate is comprised of a main villa, a rennovated farmhouse called the 'dependance' as well as several impeccably decorated private houses. Set amid olive groves near the River Serchio, we'll be surrounded by an abundance of green space perfect for wandering and gathering.
We will stay in a 17th century villa, once owned by an Italian media baron, now owned by a British family as their holiday home. The villa is large and spacious: its comfortable and well-designed rooms lend a dreamy home away from home feel. It also has its own library full of books in English, a ballroom as well as its own private chapel. The property also has a separate yoga studio where our yoga practice will take place.
The villa's fabulous kitchens are 'designer' and make the perfect place to gather for our cooking class.
The estate has six properties, several pools, a garden and a 'studio' where we'll have morning yoga and evening dance parties.
Each of the properties rooms is plush and cozy, all with views of the surrounding countryside and estate grounds.
The villa's french doors open up to a sprawling lawn that leads to a beautiful pool.
Using the villa as a base during the week, we'll take day trips to nearby Lucca, Greve in Chianti and Le Cinque Terre. We'll enjoy a wine tasting at a top winery, lunch at world-famous butcher Dario Cecchini's Officina della Bistecca, a cooking class at the villa, a floral workshop by Kalin and mostly, a fan-tabulous, flair-tastic time.
We'll have a guided tour of the remarkable town of Lucca, famous for the 16th century well-preserved wall surrounding it.
Spend the day enjoying the 'five lands' or as they're better known: Le Cinque Terre. These stunning villages, perched on steep craggy cliffs, are some of the most picturesque, panoramic views in all of Italy.
We'll also visit Panzano to see the world's most famous butcher, Dario Cecchini.
We'll experience the best Chianti has to offer at a top, award-winning winery where we'll have a tour and tasting. Afterwards we'll head to lunch at eighth-generation family butcher and Chef Table's Dario Cecchini's Antica Macelleria - Officina della Bistecca.
Dario is quite a character and offers a fun, fascinating, not to mention unforgettable experience. Don't worry if you're a vegetarian, a vegetarian menu is available.
Cooking classes will be held at the villa in the gorgeous designer kitchen by a local English-speaking chef well-versed in teaching Italian recipes to those who want to take them home and integrate them into their weekly repertoire.
And, if you have attended one of Kalin's workshops before, you know what you're in for. If you haven't, get ready for some fun and laughs. It's about so much more than just flower power.
THIS RETREAT IS FULLY BOOKED - MORE AVAILAIBILITY FOR APRIL 14-19, 2024
Roundtrip group airport transfer to and from Florence
Five nights' accommodation on 17th century estate
All meals except for lunch on Day 1 & 2 (wine with dinner)
Cooking class
Floral Workshop
Wine tasting in Chianti
Day trip to Chianti
Lunch at Dario's
Day trip to Cinque Terre with guide and transportation
Two yoga classes
Guided tour of Lucca