SHOULD I COME?
|
LOCATION
|
YOGA&MEDITATION
|
PROGRAM
|
STAY
|
FOOD
|
GETTING THERE
|
BOOKING
|
HIGHLIGHTS
|
* Daily yoga and meditation classes with an experienced teacher
* Staying in secluded house tucked away in the Sicilian countryside * Only 15 minutes away from Syracuse with its archaeological sites and architectural wonders * Daytrip to Catania to explore the rich history, savor local delicacies in its famous street markets, and marvel at the sight of Mount Etna towering over the city * A daytrip to Ragusa, a gorgeous baroque town famous for its architecture, steep hills and narrow winding streets. |
* Hiking through Pantelica, a Greek necropolis from the 8th century BC nestled in a dramatic landscape of towering limestone cliffs
* Several gorgeous beaches within 15 minutes of driving to explore and enjoy the sun and the Ionian Sea * Accommodation in a cozy countryside house featuring a swimming pool and a lush garden and surrounded with nature * Savoring the famous homemade Sicilian delicacies done the vegetarian/pescatarian way * Exploring the spectacular Sicilian cultural and natural landscapes |
YOU WILL LOVE THIS RETREAT IF...
|
... you know that you don't have to venture far to find unique landscapes and rich history
... you want to explore both the countryside and the urban centers of probably the most iconic island in Europe ... you are curious about yoga and meditation and want to develop your own practice ... Visiting ancient towns, hiking, having easy beach days, and discovering rich food and wine culture of the region comes close to your idea of a perfect holiday ... you’re craving some nature connection ... just saying the words cannoli, gelato, pasta, arancini sends shivers down your spine ... you'd love to stay in a comfortable but simple countryside house with a swimming pool and lush garden ... you love the thought of climbing the tallest volcano of Europe ... you are looking forward to having some peaceful me-time, to wind down and reconnect with yourself and nature |
|
LOCATION
|
Sicily, a sun-kissed Mediterranean island, invites travelers to immerse themselves in its captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine. From the majestic ruins of ancient Greek temples to the charming Baroque towns, and from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Etna to the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, Sicily offers a diverse and unforgettable experience.
During our week-long retreat on the eastern coast, we'll delve into the rich tapestry of ancient civilizations, artistic brilliance, and natural beauties. We'll explore Syracuse, a city steeped in history, once a powerful Greek polis. In Ragusa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, we'll marvel at the grandeur of Baroque architecture. And in Catania, a dynamic city dominated by Mount Etna, we'll witness the fusion of ancient Roman ruins, vibrant markets, and Baroque splendor. This region's rich cultural heritage is a result of centuries of influence from Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans, shaping its art, architecture, cuisine, and traditions. |
|
|
|
YOGA & MEDITATION
|
We will practice yoga two times a day. Depending on the weather conditions, we will practice either inside a Moroccan tent designated for yoga classes, or on one of the porches of the villa overlooking the surrounding mountains.
The overall theme of the retreat is rising and falling. Rising and falling is a fundamental rhythm of life, a constant dance between expansion and contraction. In our yoga retreat, we will explore this rhythm through mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation. Marija teaches Hatha yoga, focusing on mindful movement, body awareness, and proper alignment rather than on achieving specific postures. The primary aim of these classes is to better understand your body and the underlying principles of yoga and meditation practice. Apart from asana (posture), we practice pranayama (breathing) and meditation. The classes are organized as workshops, during which we will explore the different physical, mental and spiritual aspects of the practice. To read more about Marija and her teaching style, click here. The retreat is suitable for all levels. Beginners will have the chance to get a taste of yoga and build a strong foundation for their yogic journey. More experienced yogis will deepen their understanding and get some inspiration to further develop their practice. |
|
PROGRAM
|
We usually start our mornings with an invigorating yoga class, which is 90 minutes long. After the class, we will enjoy a well-deserved fresh, delicious brunch. After yoga and food, we set out for one of our daily outings through the eastern part of Sicily.
* Exploring Syracuse (15 minutes away) - Explore the ancient Greek ruins of the Neapolis Archaeological Park, wander the charming streets of Ortigia, and savor fresh seafood by the Ionian Sea. * Daytrip to Catania (45 minutes away)- Wander through the vibrant fish market, explore the Roman amphitheater, and admire the Baroque architecture of Piazza Duomo. And when your legs get tired, treat your self to a cannoli and an espresso in one of the sun-drenched squares. * Daytrip to Ragusa (1 hour away) - Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of Ragusa Ibla, marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from the Belvedere * Hiking through Pantalica Necropolis (30 minutes away) - Discover thousands of rock-cut tombs, dating back to the Bronze Age scattered in a landscape of stunning natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and breathtaking views. * Beach day(s) - Relax on the pristine beaches of Fontane Bianche or the charming seaside village of Ognina, both located near Syracuse. With only a 15-minute drive between you and the Ionian Sea, every day can be a beach day. We finish the daily activities with another hour-long yoga class, followed by a mouth-watering dinner. It is also possible to organize an additional two-night group trip to Sicily's most iconic town Taormina and do a half a day hike on Mount Etna. If you are interested, please get in touch to request more info. 
|
3TENTATIVE DAILY SCHEDULE
8.00 - 9.30 am - Morning yoga 9.30 am - Breakfast 10.30 am - Hiking/Sight seeing or free time 6.30 - 7.30 pm - Afternoon yoga 7.30 pm - Dinner All activities and classes are optional, and everybody is welcome to skip any of them any time they feel like it. 
|
STAY
|
We will spend the week of our retreat in the peaceful Sicilian countryside, in a house with a beautiful lush garden, a swimming pool, and surrounded by greenery. The village is only 20min car ride and half an hour away from the historical center of Syracuse, and less than half an hour away from several beautiful beaches. Catania and Ragusa are around an hour away. Pantalica Natural Reserve is also 20 minutes away. With so many places of cultural importance and natural beauty within an hour away from us, this is a great location to explore the eastern side of Sicily.
The house doesn't have any immediate neighbors and offers full privacy. It features seven en-suite rooms, some private and some shared, cozy indoor and outdoor common spaces, large kitchen and dinning room, an outdoor swimming pool, and a beautiful garden, where we will do our yoga classes. The accommodation is quite simple, but still comfortable. The property is only 45min away from Catania airport. |
|
|
|
|
FOOD
|
Sicilian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of tastes, where rustic simplicity meets bold flavors. From hearty pasta dishes laced with rich tomato sauce and fragrant herbs to sweet pastries dusted with powdered sugar, each bite is a journey through the island's sun-drenched landscapes.
We’ll have two freshly prepared meals per day. All the food is prepared on the spot and mainly made of fresh local ingredients to support our practice and other activities during the retreat. The food served at the retreat will be vegetarian, but we can also cater to vegan and gluten free diet. Depending on the group preference, we can also have a special seafood night. If you have some specific dietary requirements, please make sure to discuss this with us before booking. |
|
GETTING THERE
The closest airport is Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport, is 45 minutes (57km) away from our accommodation. Another option would be to fly into Palermo, which is around 3 hours away.
We can organize individual or group transfer for you from these airports, or we can help you figure out the public transportation to the retreat.
If you need any help with the organization of your trip to Spain, feel free to get in touch with us - [email protected]
We can organize individual or group transfer for you from these airports, or we can help you figure out the public transportation to the retreat.
If you need any help with the organization of your trip to Spain, feel free to get in touch with us - [email protected]
BOOKING
|
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
* all yoga and meditation classes * 7 nights accommodation * two meals per day |
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
* any additional food or drinks * personal expenses * daytrips and entry tickets * additional two days in Taormina |
7 nights half-board
(per person)
|
Triple room
(three single beds) 800 EUR |
Double room *must be booked by two guests travelling together*
(one double bed) 900 EUR |
Twin room
(two single beds) 950 EUR |
Single room
(one double bed) 1300 EUR |
For more information and for special deals, contact us at [email protected]
