Slow Living Yoga & Creativity Retreat in the Sicilian Countryside

The week unfolds at Zagara, a private villa in the Sicilian countryside outside Scicli. Each day follows a gentle rhythm: quiet time with tea and fruit, a yoga and meditation session led by Henika, a Mediterranean brunch, then either an excursion or a workshop. Afternoons might involve painting with natural dyes under Chiara’s guidance, a cooking class where you make pasta and other Sicilian dishes with chef Emilia, or simply lounging by the pool. Evenings bring sunset viewing and a three-course dinner.

The yoga is Hatha-based, taught by Catherine, who trained in Rishikesh and has a background in art therapy. She blends movement with creative expression, so sessions often incorporate elements of drawing or reflection. You don’t need to be flexible or experienced—the retreat is open to beginners through advanced practitioners, and the focus is on listening to your body.

The creative workshops are run by Kiran, a designer from the UK with Indian roots, and cover painting, natural dyeing, and other hands-on projects. There’s a group excursion to Scicli, a Baroque town, and a trip to a wild swimming spot. A local guide leads a nature hike. The food is a highlight: Emilia, an Italian chef, cooks daily using local produce, with lots of Sicilian specialties, and she can adapt to vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets.

The villa itself is spacious, with a private pool, a garden, and plenty of corners for quiet time. The shared room is an option many solo travellers choose, and the hosts note it often becomes part of the experience. By the end, most guests say they feel lighter, more grounded, and more connected to themselves.

What's included

- 5 nights luxury accommodation in a shared or private room - Daily yoga, meditation, movement, and breathwork classes - Creative workshops: painting with natural dyes, art sessions - Sicilian cooking class with a local Italian chef - Group excursion to Scicli (a Baroque town) - Guided nature hike and wild swimming trip - Mediterranean brunch and three-course dinner daily - Refreshments (water, tea, coffee) throughout the day - Welcome drink - Wi-Fi - Parking - Pre and post retreat support

What's not included

- Flights - Airport transfers (available for €117 return per person) - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Additional activities not in the itinerary - Massage treatments - Alcoholic beverages