Yoga and Mindfulness Escape in the Romagna Apennines

The retreat is co-hosted by Gabriela and Marlène, two yoga teachers who met through their shared training in the Indian tradition. Gabriela is an RYT200 teacher who studied under Swami Santhiprasad, and her Vinyasa style is described as a dance that celebrates life. Marlène holds an RYT500 and trained in India with Swami Krishna Sikhwal and Swami Santhi Prasad; her classes move between philosophical discussion and guided meditation. Together they cover a lot of ground: Vinyasa, Hatha, Pranayama, mantra, meditation, and silence.

The daily flow is steady and simple. At 07:30, Gabriela leads a morning yoga session. Breakfast follows at 09:30, and then the day opens up. Guests can join an excursion, have a cooking class, or take time for themselves. At 17:00, Marlène teaches a second class, and dinner is at 19:30. The evening ends with mantras and a conscious circle at 21:30. There is a cooking class with Valentina, who prepares the vegetarian meals, and a hike with a trusted guide through the Apennine hills.

What makes this retreat feel different from a generic yoga holiday is the setting and the philosophy. Porcaticcio is a working holiday home, the residence of sculptor Cornelis Riken and Gabriela, and guests get the whole property to themselves. The two buildings, La Casa-torre and La Casetta, are surrounded by forest, with a pool, a library, and a yoga shala. The area is known for cycling, hiking, horse riding, and swimming, so there is plenty to do beyond the mat.

The retreat is designed for beginners and intermediate practitioners. The teaching is traditional, with an emphasis on the philosophical roots of yoga as much as the physical practice. The small group size—between four and six guests—means that the teachers can adapt to individual needs. It is a quiet, contemplative week rather than an intense physical one, and most people leave feeling steadier and more clear-headed than when they arrived.

What's included

- 4 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Daily meditation classes - Daily yoga classes - Daily pranayama classes - Transportation during the retreat - Cooking class - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Parking - Wifi connection

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional treatments