8 Day Yoga & Pilates Wellness Escape in the Tuscan Countryside, Italy

The retreat unfolds at a gentle pace, with movement and rest in equal measure. Most days include two sessions—one in the morning to wake up the body and one in the late afternoon or evening to wind down. The styles vary, from energizing vinyasa flows to mat Pilates classes that incorporate elements of dance and functional movement, and evenings are given over to yin, restorative, and yoga nidra practices. There's plenty of free time to swim, read, or explore the local area.

What makes this retreat particularly special is the setting and the instructor. Villa Tramonte is an elegant, fully restored 18th-century estate, and it's rare to find a retreat where you're staying in such a historic property. The yoga shala and deck open onto the countryside, and the pool is a magnet in the warm afternoons. The lead teacher is Ms. Dasha, a Pilates instructor from Russia whose background in ballet gives her teaching a distinctive grace and attention to alignment. She incorporates elements of dance and functional movement into her classes, making them accessible for all levels.

The itinerary includes a day trip to Cinque Terre, a string of colorful villages on the Ligurian coast. It's a chance to see one of Italy's most beautiful coastlines and a lovely contrast to the quiet of the villa. There's also the option to book a massage or simply wander into Lucca for a day—the historic town is only a short train ride away. The group size is intimate, between 12 and 20 people, so you'll get to know your fellow guests and the friendly staff who make the villa feel like home.

What's included

- 7 nights accommodation in a shared or private room - 3 daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) plus snacks - Water, tea, and coffee available throughout the day - Daily yoga and Pilates classes (up to 12 sessions) - Transportation during the retreat - Excursions & activities (including Cinque Terre day trip) - Parking - Wifi connection

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights costs - Visa fee - Travel insurance - Additional treatments (e.g., massage) - Additional activities not included in the itinerary - Single room supplement (available for extra fee)