Many people visit Italy every year. More than half of them sign up for tours, they'll forget, eat at a tourist trap restaurant, and stay in hotels that aren't welcoming.
There's a way to travel around Italy where you actually feel like you are a part of an Italian family.
In September 2024, we will do just that.
Our second Tuscany Travel Retreat named Wine & Relax Retreat will take place on September 7-14, 2024.
Our Wine & Relax retreat provides beautiful and luxurious accommodation for our guests. Our retreat is held at a close family friend's villa called Villa Antica Sosta, owned by Maria & Vincenzo who have been friends and neighbors with Katie's in-laws for over 15 years. Located on a hill above Castelfiorentino, south of Florence, the villa is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning Tuscan scenery.
The Villa offers the perfect setting for your group getaway. Boasting 5 bedrooms, 3 shared bathrooms, a spacious dining and family room with a fireplace and TV, our villa is the ideal place to relax and enjoy quality time with friends and family. The kitchen is fully-equipped and perfect for cooking as a group, including a cooking class. You'll also have full access to the kitchen for coffee, tea, and other beverages, plus merendine (snacks) will be available at any time.
Our secluded pool is surrounded by a lush garden full of vibrant flowers, olive trees, smells of lavender and rosemary, providing ultimate privacy and relaxation. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available for sunbathing, and an outside dining table allows you to enjoy your meals while admiring the gorgeous views of the Tuscan hills.
With plenty of free time, you can take a stroll through the Renai neighborhood, taking photos of the stunning scenery, and experience the serenity of the Tuscan hills. We’re also just a two-minute walk away from a small café which serves up coffee, cocktails & light snacks. Maria, Vincenzo, and Fernanda prepare and cook our personal pizzas by utilizing the custom pizza oven onsite. Maria & Fernanda teach you how to make Pici pasta from scratch, crostini toscani, and Arista, a simple & delicious pork dish.
This is for you if you are...
looking for more than a vacation but a priceless Italian experience in Italy?
It's called slow travel, you will be traveling with ease & a peace of mind.
an open-minded person?
Italy has its own culture, don't expect the same things as home.
a physically active person?
We walk a lot.
a person who wants to immerse themselves in culture, language, and history?
By the end, you might be able to understand some Italian.
someone who likes to take their time when they travel?
We typically do one activity a day, you will not be rushing around Tuscany.
someone who wants to feel like being part of a Tuscan family?
My husband and MIL will be joining us.
New Dates Fall 2025:
Any questions, contact Katie.
