Yoga & Cultural Discovery Week in Rural Sicily

This retreat has run for five years, hosted by Kim and James, two friends based on opposite coasts of the U.S. who have built a loyal following for their combination of yoga instruction, energy work, and well-organised travel. Kim trained at OM Yoga Center in New York and teaches a mix of alignment-based vinyasa and slower, restorative flows; James brings 20-plus years of experience in meditation, Reiki, and what he calls intuitive development — helping people tune into their own instincts through guided exercises and a group psychic message circle.

The week is built around a theme of intuition. Beyond the yoga and meditation sessions, there's a dedicated workshop for beginners, sceptics, and anyone who already considers themselves sensitive. The guided meditations are designed to help you notice and trust your inner voice rather than override it. Sicily, with its layers of Greek, Arab, and Norman history visible in the architecture and landscape, seems to encourage this kind of inward focus — at least that's what repeat guests say.

The property itself is a masseria (working farm) inside the protected Madonie Park. The original stable is now a yoga room; the farmland still grows wheat, olives, and grapes. Chickens wander around. The pool sits on a terrace with views across the valley. Rooms are spread between the main house and converted outbuildings, all furnished with Sicilian antiques and equipped with air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, and private terraces.

Three full-day excursions are included. Cefalù is a coastal town with a Norman cathedral and a long sandy beach — you'll have time to swim, wander, and eat lunch together. Palermo gets a full day: markets, cannoli stops, and free time to explore on your own. Agrigento's Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO site with some of the best-preserved Greek ruins outside Greece; a local guide walks you through the highlights. An optional add-on day trip to Taormina (the White Lotus town) can be arranged for an extra cost.

All meals except two lunches are provided. The food is vegetarian by default, with eggs and cheese, plus two chicken or sausage options at dinner during the week. Vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs can be accommodated. A Sicilian cooking class is included so you can take a few recipes home.

What's included

- 7 nights accommodation in a shared double or private deluxe room - 4 yoga classes (mix of active vinyasa and gentle/restorative) - 4 guided meditations with James - Intuitive development workshop - Psychic message circle - Group excursion to Cefalù (including group lunch) - Group excursion to Palermo - Group excursion to Agrigento with guided temple tour - Sicilian cooking class - Daily pre-yoga coffee, tea, and snacks - Daily brunch and dinner - Water, tea, and coffee throughout the day - Performance by a local artisan - One group airport transfer from/to Palermo (PMO) - Free Wi-Fi in common areas - Packed lunch on departure day

What's not included

- International flights - Travel insurance - Two lunches in Palermo and Agrigento - Alcohol (wine available for purchase on site) - Optional day trip to Taormina - Additional spa or massage treatments - Private airport transfers outside group times (€200 for 1–2 people) - Personal expenses