Italy Wellness Cultural Retreat
16th Century Monastery
October 1-9 2027
Puglia, Italy Retreat
October 1, 2027
A Wellness Cultural Experience
All inclusive 9 day retreat in a 16th Century Monastery!
Please find detailed info below, including pricing !
Join Karen Russell for a once in a life time experience! Imagine spending eight unforgettable nights in the heart of Puglia, Italy, surrounded by centuries of history, beautiful architecture, sun-drenched gardens and the timeless charm of southern Italian life.
Our home will be Monastero dell'Incoronata, a magnificent 16th-century monastic complex in Nardò, originally founded in 1599 and thoughtfully restored into a unique destination for experiential hospitality and slow tourism. More than simply a place to stay, the monastery is a sanctuary where history and modern life meet—a place created around the beauty of shared experiences, meaningful traditions, creativity and connection.
Discover the atmosphere of its historic cloisters, peaceful courtyard, ancient refectory and beautifully restored monastic spaces. Wander through gardens filled with olive trees, citrus and other plants that reflect the natural beauty of the region. Here, the rhythm of life invites you to slow down, savor the moment and experience a more authentic side of Italy. Please know that there is limited space as there are only 12 unique rooms.
This special family owned property embraces the idea that meaningful experiences can be found in everyday activities: preparing food together, learning traditional crafts, enjoying nature and gathering around a shared table. Its gardens and historic surroundings reflect the region's deep connection to the land and its traditions. During our retreat, we'll enjoy the monastery as our home base for morning mindful movement and meditation, farm-to-table shared meals, spend time relaxing on the property and take a refreshing swim in the pool between our retreat activities and cultural experiences.
YOUR RETREAT EXPERIENCE
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Your eight-night, nine-day retreat includes:
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Accommodations: Authentic high-concept design sanctuary rooms maintaining the monastic roots with modern leisure.
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Meals: 3 meals a day featuring fresh, locally inspired, farm-to-table cuisine that celebrates the flavors and · and traditions of Puglia. Including a non alcoholic beverage per meal.
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Daily mindful movement and meditation: Karen will guide you through daily (usually in the morning) a gentle flow and restorative classes offering breath work and meditation, creating a peaceful start to each day.
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An authentic Italian cooking class: Embrace the true culture of Italy where you'll experience the traditions and flavors of regional Italian cuisine taught by, local chefs, and the Tommasino family themselves.
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Two Included Excursions: Discover historic Nardò,a historic town in the heart of Salento known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, elegant piazzas, historic churches and inviting cafés. Then Experience the natural beauty of Porto Selvaggio, a protected coastal park known for its pine forests, walking trails, rugged shoreline and beautiful blue-green waters.
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Airport to and from Monastero dell'Incoronata: Up to $100 per guest toward eligible round-trip airport transportation between Brindisi Airport (BDS) and the monastery. We will try to coordinate arrival times for a shared van or if you have to fly in at a completely different time, no worries we can give you recommendation of a transfer company to get to the Monastery.
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Free Time to explore Puglia, relax by the pool, visit charming towns, discover beautiful beaches or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Your Retreat Doesn't Include:
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Airfare (round trip): From Los Angeles you can fly into Brindisi Airport (BDS), which is about 50 minutes from the Monastery.
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Extra Puglia Excursions and onsite special offerings: Puglia is celebrated for its food and agricultural traditions. You may choose to enjoy a local olive-oil tasting, sample regional wines such as Negroamaro and Primitivo, browse artisan shops or discover traditional restaurants and local specialties. The Monastero also offers wine-tasting, and other arts and crafts experiences too. These additional outings are optional and are not included in the retreat price unless specifically stated. Transportation, entrance fees, tastings and other expenses for optional activities are the responsibility of each guest.
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Whether you choose adventure, culture, beach time or a leisurely afternoon in a traditional Italian town, your free time allows you to make this journey your own.
Pricing:
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All Inclusive Shared Accommodations: You will enjoy the most authentic 16th century monastery stay that has kept the monastic roots with the added modern leisure, with all the inclusive offerings mentioned above. Each room has a private modern bath without sacrificing the historic structure. This is $3599.00 per person.
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All Inclusive Private Accommodations: You will enjoy the most authentic 16th century monastery stay that has kept the monastic roots with the added modern leisure, with all the inclusive offerings mentioned above. Each room has a private modern bath without sacrificing the historic structure. This is $3999.00 per person.
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Deposit: Due to limited space, there is a $500 dollar non-refundable deposit.























