Italy 2025

Tuscan Beginnings: Sept 27-Oct 2, 2025

Roman Finale: Oct 2-Oct 6, 2025

Grand Italian Adventure Sept 27-Oct 6, 2025

WE HAD A CANCELLATION due to medical reasons!

We have 1 FLYING SOLO space open for the trip. Choose the entire trip or just one portion. Deposit must be received to hold your space! Please reach out with questions!

SOLD OUT!

Tuscan Beginnings: Sept 27-Oct 2, 2025

Welcome to Tuscan Beginnings, where your journey into the heart of Italy starts amidst the rolling hills and sun-drenched landscapes of Tuscany. Over six days and five nights, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Florence and its surrounding countryside, a region that has been a beacon of art and culture since the Renaissance. This enchanting setting serves as the perfect backdrop for our luxury yoga adventure retreat, where you can wander through cobblestone streets that whisper secrets of brilliant artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, savor exquisite local wines and cuisine, and practice yoga in an environment that inspires peace and rejuvenation. From the tranquil beauty of Tuscan vineyards to the vibrant cultural pulse of Florence, this experience offers a harmonious blend of relaxation, exploration, and inspiration. Let the essence of Tuscany captivate your senses and set the stage for an unforgettable retreat.

Accommodations Tuscan Beginnings

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the Chianti region is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and exceptional wines. Famous for its rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, Chianti offers a serene escape where traditional winemaking meets rustic charm. This region is celebrated for its Chianti Classico, a robust red wine with a rich heritage that dates back to the 13th century. With its charming villages, historic castles, and scenic beauty, Chianti provides an idyllic setting for relaxation, exploration, and savoring the true essence of Tuscan life. Chianti is one of the best places to stay in Tuscany for wine country lovers and artists for its beautiful landscapes and local products. In the heart of the Chianti Classico region, among the vineyards, cypress trees and olive groves is the farmhouse Bed and Breakfast Ancora del Chianti B&B, featuring comfortable rooms, tasteful breakfasts, a light filled studio in a blissful setting, free WIFI and communal kitchen for guests free of charge. The property is also surrounded by a large garden with beautiful plants and flowers.

Meals Tuscan Beginnings

Twice daily meals will be included in your cost. A delightful à la carte breakfast is served on the shaded outdoor terrace or in the breakfast room from 8.30am to 10.00am. It offers sweet and savory delights including yogurt, cereal, muesli and an assortment of hot drinks (coffee, tea, herbal teas) and fruit juices together with cold cuts, cheese, fresh fruit or vegetables.

Lunches are not included in your cost. Lunch can range from 4-18 Euros depending upon restaurant/market location. On site kitchen is available for light meal prepping. Lunch will be included on Cooking Class Day!

Indulge in a culinary journey like no other as our private chef crafts exquisite meals on property after your daily adventures. Each evening, return to the comfort of your retreat to savor a delicious array of dishes, meticulously prepared to highlight the freshest local ingredients and traditional flavors.

Please note that the following is a sample menu. The final menu will be tailored to accommodate any dietary restrictions participants might have.

Day 1:

Insalata mista: Mixed salad
Torta salata verdure: Savory vegetable tart
Involtini pollo: Chicken roulades
Frittata: Italian omelette
Piselli: Peas
Panna ananas: Pineapple cream

Day 2:

Insalata radicchio: Radicchio salad
Millefoglio di patate: Potato millefoglie
Pasta alla Norma: Pasta with eggplant, tomato, and ricotta salata
Fagiolini verdi: Green beans
Zuppa inglese: English trifle

Day 3:

Insalata verde: Green salad
Pappa al pomodoro: Tomato and bread soup
Tacchino ripieno: Stuffed turkey
Zucchina ripiena: Stuffed zucchini
Spinaci: Spinach
Panna cotta: Silky Italian Dessert usually served with fresh fruit or caramel.

Day 4:

Insalata mista: Mixed salad
Stracchino e sals: Stracchino cheese with sauce
Risotto al Chianti: Chianti risotto
Fagioli uccelletto: Beans in tomato sauce
Torta della nonna: Grandma’s cake

Day 5:

Valeriana e cetrioli: Lamb’s lettuce and cucumbers
Caprese: Caprese salad
Arista con mele: Roast pork with apples
Hamburger veget: Vegetarian hamburger
Patate prezzemolate: Parsley potatoes
Tiramisu: Tiramisu

Day 6:

Insalata caprino e valeriana: Salad with goat cheese and lamb’s lettuce
Cannelloni: Cannelloni
Misto verdure arrosto: Mixed roasted vegetables
Torta cioccolato: Chocolate cake

Our on-site chef will use oil, wine, and a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruits produced or harvested from our property gardens, ensuring that each meal is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of the local bounty. Each dish is crafted to complement your enriching experiences and offer a taste of true luxury.

Tuscan Beginnings Itinerary

Our itinerary is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you the freedom to tailor your experience to suit your preferences and pace. Embrace the spontaneity of the moment and adjust your plans as you wish. All experiences, classes, and outings are optional, so you can choose to participate in what interests you most, ensuring a truly personalized and enjoyable retreat

Day 1:

Arrival in Florence: Upon arrival, enjoy convenient transportation to the venue (included in the cost).
Check-In: Settle into your room and take some time to relax.
Explore the Grounds: Wander the beautiful property, take in the scenery, explore the beautiful gardens and get acquainted with your surroundings.
Relaxation: Take a nap or unwind as you wish.
Dinner Alfresco 8pm: Enjoy your first meal outdoors under the Tuscan sky, savoring the fresh local cuisine.

Day 2:

Morning Yoga 8am: Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session to help you recover from your journey.
Breakfast: Delight in a delicious breakfast to fuel your day.
Trip to Florence 10:30am: Embark on journey to see the iconic Duomo and Ponte Vecchio enjoy some sightseeing and shopping in the historic city.
Return to Venue 5:30pm: Come back to the venue and unwind.
Free Time: Enjoy some personal time to relax or explore the property at your leisure.
Dinner 8pm: Indulge in a delightful dinner prepared for you.

Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Florence, enjoying its landmarks and vibrant atmosphere, before returning to unwind with a delectable dinner.

Day 3:

Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
Free Morning: Spend the morning relaxing on the property—take a walk, read a book, or simply enjoy the tranquility.
Cooking Class 11am: Travel to a nearby cooking school (15-20 minutes drive) where you’ll learn to make authentic Italian pizza and fresh pasta from scratch. All ingredients are fresh, many harvested directly from the property gardens. The experience includes the cooking class, lunch, and wine.
Return to Venue: Digest all the yummy food from our lunch cooking session and relax.
Evening Yoga: Rejuvenate with an evening yoga session.
Dinner 8pm: Conclude the day with delightfully prepared dinner in the gardens

Day 4:

Optional morning Meditation 6:30am
Breakfast 7am: Enjoy a morning meal at the venue.
7:45 am: Depart for the train station.
8:45 am: Board the fast train to Venice.
11:30 am: Arrive in Venice.
- Visit the Church of the Scalzi and admire its stunning architecture.
- Walk across the Scalzi Bridge for picturesque views.
- Treat yourself to a sweet delight at Dal Mas, one of Venice’s finest pastry shops (Not included approx. € 3-6)
- Gondola Ride: Experience the charm of Venice from the water with a relaxing gondola ride. (Not included approx. €40-60 depending upon length of trip)
Shopping and Exploration: Spend time exploring Venice’s unique shops and enchanting streets.
4:00 pm: Return to the train station.
4:30 pm: Board the train back to Florence.
7:30 pm: Arrive in Florence and return to the venue.
9:00 pm: Savor a delectable dinner back at the venue

Day 5:

8:30 am: Enjoy a hearty breakfast to start your day.
Free Time: Relax and unwind with some free time until 10 AM.
10:00 am: Depart for a leisurely drive through the stunning Italian countryside, stopping at a few charming Renaissance towns along the way to explore medieval architecture, churches and bridges.
3:00 pm: Return to the venue.
3:30 pm: Take part in a 2-hour guided acrylic painting art class, where you’ll capture the beauty of the Italian countryside on canvas.
6:00 pm: Rejuvenate with an evening yoga session.
8:00 pm: Savor a delicious dinner.
Evening: Spend time packing up for your departure the next morning.

This day is a perfect blend of scenic exploration, creative expression, and relaxation.

Day 6:

Breakfast: Start the day with a final breakfast at the venue.
Load Up for Travel: Prepare for departure to Florence.
- For those leaving: Participants only attending the Florence portion will be dropped off at the airport for their flights.
- For those continuing: Head to the Florence train station to catch the fast train to Rome.
11:30 am: Board the fast train to Rome.

This day concludes the Tuscan Beginnings Retreat. If you are continuing on…This day marks the transition to the second part of your Italian Adventure, seamlessly blending travel and the discovery of Rome.

Roman Finale: October 2 – October 6, 2025

Welcome to Roman Finale! Over five unforgettable days and four nights, you’ll explore the eternal city of Rome, where ancient history and vibrant modern life seamlessly merge. From the awe-inspiring Colosseum to the Vatican, and the charming streets of Trastevere, every step through Rome immerses you in the rich tapestry of its millennia-old culture.

In this part of the retreat, walking will be our primary mode of transportation, offering a more intimate way to connect with the city’s history and beauty. Be prepared to walk 5-8 miles each day, at a leisurely pace, as we traverse Rome’s hills and wander through its iconic landmarks and hidden gems. While we’ll be trading in our yoga mats for city streets—due to limited hotel space—we’ll make up for it by striking our best yoga poses in front of historical sites. Just imagine the Colosseum as your backdrop for a downward dog! This physical activity will be equally invigorating as we explore local attractions and embrace the lively atmosphere of Rome.

As you stroll through Rome’s historic streets, savor local cuisine, and discover breathtaking art, you’ll feel the essence of Italy’s capital. This Roman Finale offers the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, ensuring your journey ends on a high note, inspired and rejuvenated by the timeless charm of the Eternal City.

Meals Roman Finale

For the Roman Finale portion of the retreat, only breakfast is included. Lunches and dinners will be enjoyed at a variety of local restaurants as we explore the city. One of the highlights from past retreats has been the joy of sharing meals—allowing everyone to indulge in a wide range of Italian flavors, from creamy pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas and savory antipasti. This way, you’ll get a true taste of everything Italy has to offer! (The average cost of lunch is €7-18 and a dinner average of €10-25.) On past retreat many participants found that a light snack or sharing of an appetizer was plenty rather than a full traditional lunch.

Namaste Studio will take care of the bill, covering food, drinks, and tips. At the end of the retreat, the total cost will be divided evenly among all participants, converted to U.S. dollars, and texted to you within a week of returning home. Your portion can be paid via Venmo or cash. If you prefer to enjoy your own meal selections and not share, you’ll be responsible for covering your own food, drinks, and tips at the restaurants.

Accommodations Roman Finale

Relais Monti is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Rome’s vibrant Monti district. This stylish accommodation offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and classic Roman charm, with beautifully designed rooms and a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a morning coffee with a view. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain, all within walking distance. At Relais Monti, you’ll experience the warmth of Roman hospitality in a setting that feels both intimate and luxurious.

Itinerary Roman Finale

Day 1: Welcome to Rome

2:00 pm: Arrive in Rome and take the tram to the city center.
Walk to Hotel: From the tram stop, it’s a short 10-minute walk to Relais Monti (please note luggage will be carried/rolled).
Check-In: Settle into your rooms and unwind.
5:00 pm: Meet for a leisurely walk to the Trevi Fountain (15 min walk) and Spanish Steps (10 min). Perfect for evening photos! Don’t forget to toss a coin into the fountain for luck!
8:00 pm: Dine at a local restaurant for a delicious evening meal in the Spanish Steps area before strolling back to the hotel.

Total Walking Distance: Approximately 3 miles

Day 2: Ancient Rome and Central Attractions

Breakfast
Morning at the Colosseum: Start your day early with a 15-minute walk to the Colosseum. (Entry fees are included.) Explore the amphitheater and dive into its history.
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: A 5-minute walk from the Colosseum leads to these ancient treasures. Walk around the ruins and enjoy the views from Palatine Hill. (Entry fees are included.)
Lunch: Return to the Monti district (a 10-minute walk) for lunch at Trattoria Monti or La Carbonara for some classic Roman cuisine.
Afternoon Capitoline Museums: A 15-minute walk to Capitoline Hill where you’ll visit the museums housing remarkable Roman artifacts. (Entry fees are included.)
Piazza Venezia and Vittoriano Monument: Just steps away from the museum, head to the Vittoriano Monument for great city views.
Dinner: Walk back to the Monti district (10 minutes) and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Antica Osteria.

Total Walking Distance: Approximately 5 miles

Day 3: Vatican City and Historic Rome

Breakfast
Morning Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: A 25-minute tram ride brings you to Vatican City. Spend your morning exploring the Vatican Museums and the stunning Sistine Chapel. (Entry fees are included.)
Lunch: After the Vatican, stop for lunch at Ristorante dei Musei or La Zanzara.
Castel Sant’Angelo: A short 10-minute walk from Vatican City leads to Castel Sant’Angelo for beautiful views of the Tiber River. (Entry fees are included.)
Piazza Navona: A 20-minute walk takes you to Piazza Navona for some coffee or gelato while admiring its stunning fountains.
Dinner in Trastevere: Cross the Tiber to Trastevere (15-minute walk). Dine at Osteria Da Fortunata or Trattoria Da Enzo for an authentic Roman meal.
After-Dinner Stroll: Explore Trastevere’s lively streets and alleys before heading back to your hotel.

Total Walking Distance: Approximately 6.5 miles

Day 4: Relaxation and Hidden Gems

Breakfast
Morning at Villa Borghese: A 20-minute walk to Villa Borghese to enjoy the famous picturesque gardens. Option to visit Galleria Borghese to see works by Caravaggio and Raphael. (Entry fee NOT included, approx €15)
Piazza del Popolo: Walk from Villa Borghese to Piazza del Popolo (a 15-minute walk) to explore the twin churches and take a leisurely stroll down Via del Corso.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at La Buvette or Caffe Canova in Piazza del Popolo.
Pantheon and Campo de’ Fiori: A 20-minute walk brings you to the Pantheon, followed by a stroll to Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Farnese.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner near the Tiber River at Da Francesco or Roscioli, offering delicious Roman dishes.
Evening: End your night with a peaceful stroll along the Tiber River.

Total Walking Distance: Approximately 6.7 miles

Day 5: Departure Day

*Dependent upon airline departures times. Enjoy a leisure time near the hotel.
Snag a pastry before a short 10-minute walk to the tram station to connect to the airport for your departure.

Cost: Both portions of the retreat are limited to 7 participants.

Tuscan Beginnings ONLY -Sept 27-Oct 2, 2025

SOLD OUT

(please note that your flight will need to leave the US on Sept 26 to ensure arrival on Sept 27th)

Flying Solo – Private room accommodations, all activities, meals, and transfers listed in the itinerary $2500

Bring a Buddy-Private room accommodations, all activities, meals and transfers listed in the itinerary for 2 people. $3500 ($1750ea.) SOLD OUT

Roman Finale ONLY- Oct 2-Oct 6, 2025

SOLD OUT

(please note that your flight will need to leave the US on Oct 1 to ensure arrival on Oct 2nd)

Flying Solo– Private room accommodations, all activities, meals and transfers listed in the itinerary $2500

~~Bring a Buddy-Private room accommodations, all activities, meals, and transfers listed in the itinerary for 2 people. $3500 ($1750ea.)~~ SOLD OUT

Grand Italian Adventure- Tuscan Beginnings & Roman Finale Sept 27-Oct 2

SOLD OUT

(please note that your flight will need to leave the US on Sept 26 to ensure arrival on Sept 27th)

Flying Solo-Private room accommodations all activities, meals and transfers listed on both itineraries $3850

~~Bring a Buddy-Private room accommodations all activities, meals, and transfers listed on both itineraries for 2 people $5850 ($2925 ea.)~~ SOLD OUT

To reserve your space a non refundable deposit is required

~~$750 Non-refundable deposit is required f~~~~or Flying Solo~~ SOLD OUT

~~$1000 Non-refundable deposit required for Bringing a Buddy~~ ~~($500/pp)~~ SOLD OUT

In order to keep transaction costs and fees down, we are taking deposits and payment via Venmo.
~~Please send your deposit to @Jessica-Burns-Moore If asked for the last 4 phone digits to confirm please enter 4633.~~
In the “what’s this for?” area please state:
- “Tuscan Beginnings, Roman Finale, or Italian Adventure” (This let’s us know which portion of the trip you will attend)
- Flying Solo or Bring a Buddy
- Your name and Email address for confirmation.
- Ex: Tuscan Beginnings/Flying Solo/Jane Doe/ Jane125@gmail.com
You will receive a confirmation email within 48 hours of your deposit being received. This email will contain a retreat waiver that is required.
Deposits will be deducted from your balance. Payment plans will begin January 2025. The remaining balance will be split into 7 equal payments. Payment dates are Jan 15, Feb 15, Mar 15, April 15th, May 15, June 15, and July 15. All requests for payment will be made via Venmo. Reservations must be paid in full by Aug 1, 2025. (If you would like to begin paying sooner please let us know)
If you would like an alternate way to pay please reach out, transaction fees may apply.
If you need alternate payment arrangements please reach out to us.

What’s not included:

Travel Insurance: Recommended but not included or required.
Airline Tickets: Tuscan Beginnings Only fly in and out of Florence (FLR). Roman Finale Only fly in and out of Rome (FCO) If you’re joining us for the Grand Italian Adventure, you’ll fly into Florence (FLR) and out of Rome (FCO). I will advise on the best times to book for optimal prices and help coordinate group flights and arrival times to optimize your schedule.
Personal Spending Money: For shopping and any travel treasures you wish to bring home.
Excursion “Extras”: While we have included as many entry fees as possible, we left out a few that are a more personal choice. Activities like Gondola rides, Stair/ Elevator to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica, and Galleria Borghese entrance fees are not included. These must be booked in advance to align with our schedule. You will receive an email with detailed pricing and sign-up options, and all bookings will be handled for you, with payment required prior to the trip.
Certain Meals: Please check the itineraries above to see what is not included.
Drinks: Namaste Studio will cover the cost while traveling and split the bill evenly among participants, convert to US dollars and send a Venmo request within a week of returning home.
Passport costs: If you don’t have a valid passport…fill out the online form HERE and follow instructions to print. Schedule your passport appointment HERE. Be sure to bring all your paperwork and documents with you to your appointment.