October 25-November 1, 2027
Val D’Orcia Region of Southern Italy
La Dolce Vita- An Italian Immersion of Food, Fun and Adventure!
So perfect in 2026 that we are doing it again in 2027! Get 2026 pricing for a limited time! Send us a note at info@forthesoulretreat.com
We’re putting together another small, boutique retreat for 10-12 women in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions!
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Val d’Orcia enchants visitors with its rolling hills, orderly vineyards, medieval hill towns, and the classic cypress-lined roads that capture the essence of the Italian countryside.
We are immersing ourselves in the Tuscan culinary experience, including nearby winery visits, olive oil tastings and a truffle hunt with lunch. The area’s thermal baths add a wellness dimension rooted in ancient Roman tradition and a morning at the beautiful Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore where we will see the cloisters with their frescoes, the ornate church interior, and the monk’s shop is a peaceful experience.
While this retreat is experience focused, it is also designed to allow you to connect with yourself with intentional “downtimes”. This isn't a trip where we rush from one place to another and tick off a list of landmarks. It’s soulful. Slower. Giving us time to breathe and reflect.
We hope you leave this retreat not only with an unforgettable experience, but also with a renewed sense of purpose, peace and clarity in your life. Of course it’s the company of interesting, curious women in their “third act” give our retreats their unique magic. The conversations shared around the table- exchanging stories, wisdom and challenges-often spark friendships that continue long after the retreat ends.
Highlights of the Week Include:
7 nights and 8 days at adjoining historic family villas, complete with 11 private bedrooms, 3 with ensuite baths and the rest sharing large bathrooms with only one other woman. (Two shared rooms with a dedicated bath may be available for a reduced fee. Please ask). Located in front of a medieval castle, in the small town of San Giovanni d’Asso, the villas have elegant gathering spaces, large communal dining tables on the terrace or indoors, two pools, large gardens and sweeping views of the Tuscan hills. Daily housekeeping is included.
Daily breakfast and delicious meals created by a private chef at our villa, or authentic local restaurants for lunch and dinner. Regional wines from Brunello and neighboring areas are included.
Private rooftop dinner in Florence the evening before our villa departure.
A fabulous local guide, Antonella, and day in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sienna. Antonella was with us for all of our tours, and got RAVE reviews from all of our women- smart, sassy and FUN!
A morning with our guide and lunch in the ideal Renaissance city of Pienza, offering elegant piazzas, panoramic terraces, and artisanal cheese shops specializing in Pecorino di Pienza. AND a visit to a private archeological site currently being excavated that is not open to the public!
A guided tour of the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, featuring its winery, pharmacy, library, and a moving Gregorian chant service.
Truffle hunting with Nico and his dog, followed by a fabulous lunch in the village of Montisi with a world class chef and sommelier! We are in prime truffle territory, in the season for white truffles.
A hands on cooking class with our villa chef, incorporating white truffles found in a nearby private preserve. We will make fresh pico pasta and gelato, with the chef adding an antipasto that also incorporates truffles.
Wine tasting at a famous winery in the medieval village of Montepulciano with our sommelier guide and her colleagues, followed by dinner where the focus is on fun community dining and the famous Florentine Steak!
Daily opportunity for riposo and reflection.
A full day to enjoy the meditative space of a beautiful garden in our village, designed by American landscaper Shepherd Craig. This garden was a 2026 highlight for all of us!
A fabulous Italian “wing-woman” and friend, Alessia, and certified yoga instructor is with us the entire week to translate when needed, share her knowledge of Italy, and lead yoga and meditation 3- 4 times during the week.
Private, licensed transportation each day to our destination.
Additional details: We ask that all participants arrive in Florence, Italy the day before the retreat starts, and plan for a departure from Florence after November 1 since most international flights depart by noon, and we will not arrive back in time for those. We will be having dinner together as a group on Sunday, October 24th and also on our return to Florence at the end of the week on Monday November 1 . The November 1 dinner in Florence is NOT included in the retreat fee.
An optional extension in Florence may be available if several women are interested. In 2026, we had some wonderful guides and visited the Uffizi and Accademia (the David), local artisan shops, a sunset tour and private wine tasting in a cellar and enjoyed several restaurants. Everyone in 2025 and 2026 loved our pre and post retreat hotels! ( not included in retreat fee).
Interested? Send an email to info@forthesoulretreat.com for more details.
This retreat is likely to sell out quickly from retreat alumni. If you are interested, please reach out immediately to secure one of spots or join the waitlist!.
Our 2027 retreat in the Cotswolds sold out before being “marketed”! Don’t wait!