Ancient Roots, Modern Peace—Unplug in Puglia, 6-day Italy Yoga Retreat

74015 Martina Franca, Province of Taranto, Italy

Ja
Julie and Karen Retreats
  • Email address verified
15 reviews
Nov 1 - 6, 2026
Group size: 1 - 20
Ancient Roots, Modern Peace—Unplug in Puglia, 6-day Italy Yoga Retreat
74015 Martina Franca, Province of Taranto, Italy

Julie and Karen Retreats
  • Email address verified
15 reviews

Nov 1 - 6, 2026
Group size: 1 - 20

About this trip

Soothe your soul and revitalize your spirit, in the serene beauty of Puglia, Italy.

(see here for alternative dates in October, 2026)

 

Join us for yoga, meditation, laughter and connection, in this charming region of Italy, away from the tourist crowds. Immerse in Yin Yoga and Yoga Nidra Meditation under the expert guidance of two internationally acclaimed and seasoned retreat leaders, Karen Pagano and Julie Murphy (Yogaressa).


Our retreat is a harmonious blend of yoga, nature’s beauty and nurturing wellness, against a backdrop of forests and olive trees.  A sacred space for self-discovery, cultivating a profound sense of inner peace, emerging with renewed clarity and purpose.

"On-the-mat" Yoga Alliance CE hours are available where applicable.

Highlights

 ● On the grounds of a monastery dating back to 1689, the perfect place for modern spiritual retreat


Delicious, diverse cuisine based on a nourishing pH Alkaline food philosophy, inspired by traditional Italian dishes


● An area of natural beauty, where the trees whisper secrets and the air is a tonic for the soul


● Enchanting UNESCO World Heritage region, the landscape dotted with whimsical 'trulli,' the ancient cone-topped stone dwellings


Deepen your yoga practice in a serene setting (plus “on-the-mat” Yoga Alliance CE hours included)

Accommodation

Your retreat destination isn't a hotel ... it's a unique, specialist destination, designed with yoga and retreats in mind. A haven of happiness, the whitewashed dwellings are bright and cheerful against the endlessly blue sky. 


Peaceful, unspoiled, unique … our private location is on 14 acres in the quiet countryside with gently undulating hills and magnificent forests. 


Stay in a quaint, cone-topped "trullo", or in the charming renovated 1689 "masseria" (house). All rooms have private en-suite bathrooms, and are comfortably furnished to blend in with the surroundings.

Activities / General Schedule

 If you’ve been with us on retreat before, you’ll know we blend yoga and excursions with the opportunity to truly retreat, whether in peaceful solitude or in the community of likeminded souls. Puglia adds the beauty of charming small towns, unique in character, steeped in history.


What delights will you choose on your retreat?
– walk a meditational path in the private forest
– take a dip in our private swimming pool

–  unwind and meditate in one of the many peaceful areas on property

– enjoy an Ayurvedic massage
– relax in a hammock with your favorite book


Find the calm of tranquil nights under a star-filled sky.

It’s all on offer here, in peaceful Puglia. 

Delicious Meals!

Our daily brunches and dinners are home-made, healthy, pH Alkaline meals, deliciously prepared with local products and organic ingredients - a culinary treat! Simply delizioso!


For those who like a little something in the early morning, there will also be a selection of light breakfast snacks and good Italian coffee.

Important info - please READ ✅

Transfers To/From Our Retreat Center ✈️ 🚙

Check in time is 3pm on Sunday, Nov 1, 2026

Check out time is 10am on Friday, Nov 6, 2026


SHARED RIDE from/to airport

The cost of transfers is not included. We’ll provide information for an optional shared ride from either Bari airport (BRI) or Brindisi airport (BDS), and the cost will depend on how many people are on the shared ride. 


PASSPORT / VISAS  

  • Ensure your passport has at least 2 unused visa pages and minimum 6 months validity before expiry date
  • Please contact your embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding your visa requirements

TRAVEL INSURANCE

All payments are non-refundable. We strongly advise comprehensive travel insurance to include trip cancellation and interruption, baggage, accident, emergency assistance and medical assistance. 

Cancellation Policy

All payments are non-refundable

Should you cancel your trip: unfortunately we cannot offer refunds, due to the commitments we have made to reserve our unique venue —hence our advice that you please purchase comprehensive travel insurance.


Having secured this exclusive location, we can now focus on creating an unforgettable experience together!


TERMS AND CONDITIONS 

When you complete your registration and make your first payment, you will be asked to agree to our Terms and Conditions. 

PLEASE familiarize yourself with this before you register! Click HERE for the info.


ACTIVITIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

We live in an unpredictable world, and many things are out of our control. If an activity or excursion is canceled, we will use our discretion and our best efforts to substitute it with an alternative option where possible. As experienced retreat leaders, we accommodate the tempo that suits our group, adjusting and making changes as needed. 

About Your Retreat Hosts

You'll be enjoying this yoga retreat under the expert guidance of two internationally acclaimed and seasoned retreat leaders, Karen Pagano and Julie Murphy (Yogaressa).


Known as the pioneer of Yin Yoga in South Florida, Karen Pagano's instruction focuses on energy patterns; releasing and opening to one’s True Essential Spirit.  Karen’s light-hearted delivery is grounded by multiple teaching certifications she has earned in over 30 years of practice. 


Julie Murphy discovered yoga in her home country, South Africa, during her demanding business career. She is recognized globally for her meditation teachings, and she is the leading Yoga Nidra Meditation teacher on Insight Timer. Julie's wish is to contribute to a kinder world, through the balance and the peace that meditation can bring. Website and meditations at yogaressa.com


Since 2015, Julie and Karen have co-created dozens of yoga and wellness retreats in fabulous destinations around the world. With multiple teaching certifications from India and the USA, their combined teachings are heartfelt and inspirational


 CLICK HERE for testimonials


What’s included

  • Accommodation
    5 nights
  • Beverages
    Water and coffee is available at no charge
  • Meals
    Brunch and dinner daily: home-made, healthy, pH Alkaline meals, deliciously prepared with local products and organic ingredients - a culinary treat!
  • Daily Yoga & Meditation
    Our yoga and meditation workshops will ease your body and put a smile on your face
  • Yoga Alliance CE Hours
    A portion of the yoga/meditation workshops include some Yoga Alliance CE hours
  • Yoga Shala
    Use of yoga studio and all props
  • Local Excursion
    Local excursion to one of the many quaint towns in this charming region of Italy
  • Hiking
    Hiking in the wild protected Natural Reserve of Pianelle Forest
  • On-site Amenities
    Large, private swimming pool, spacious gardens, a library to enjoy a good book
  • Meditative Walks
    Explore nature in the vast grounds of our retreat space
  • Internet
    (but we hope you’ll unplug as much as possible!)

What’s not included

  • Transport
    Air fare, airport transfers or other modes of transport are not included (you will be given details of how to join an optional shared-cost group airport transfer)
  • Wine
    Alcohol is not included but it is available
  • Travel Insurance
    We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance
  • Massages
    Massage services are available, at your expense
  • Gratuities
    Gratuities are shared by staff, housekeeping or the employees who help to make your stay memorable.

Available Packages

Cozy Trullo Single Room (per person)
Deposit:$2,285
Available until March 31, 2026Only 1 left

Charming, cozy, traditional Apulian dwelling with cone-shaped roof and private en-suite bathroom.


** Note ** If Single Rooms are no longer available, please contact us to discuss other possible options.


All payments are non-refundable

$3,515
Deposit:$2,285
Trullo Single Room (per person)
Deposit:$2,450
Available until March 31, 20264 left

Charming, inviting traditional Apulian dwelling with cone-shaped roof and private en-suite bathroom


** Note ** If Single Rooms are no longer available, please contact us to discuss other possible options.


All payments are non-refundable

$3,765
Deposit:$2,450
Shared Double Room (per Room)
Deposit:$4,265
Available until March 31, 2026Only 2 left

Book 1 Room and register 2 people (you and your roommate).


{Or select the “Shared Double (per Person)" option if you and your roommate would prefer to pay individually}


All payments are non-refundable

$6,560
Deposit:$4,265
Shared Double (per person)
Deposit:$2,130
Available until March 31, 2026Pre-registration

If you're bringing your own roommate and you’d like to pay individually, click “Join Waitlist"  

so that we can make this shared room option available for you.


Please only select this option if you and your roommate are both ready to register. Provide the name of your roommate when making your reservation. 


(If you're ready to pay for you and your roommate, simply select "Shared Double Room (per Room)" to register 2 people under one reservation)


All payments are non-refundable

$3,280
Deposit:$2,130


Your Organizer


Ja
Julie and Karen Retreats
15 reviews
Julie Murphy Yogaressa: originally from South Africa. Decades ago, yoga and meditation helped to bring balance and reduce stress in my former life as a busy exec. And here I am now; grateful to be creating content for the world’s most loved meditation app, Insight Timer (search “Yogaressa”). Yoga Nidra meditation is my calling. My dear friend (and Yin Yoga goddess) Karen Pagano, and I, are excited to have created dozens of enriching and joyful yoga retreats in soul-filled destinations around the world. Join us on the next one!

Reviews

SB
What a fabulous way to discover a new region of Italy!! I have been on many yoga retreats with Julie and Karen and not only have I never been disappointed, they seem to find a way to exceed my expectations, every single time. Their attention to detail, whether it relates to location, accommodations, cultural trips and activities, local food and delicacies, is remarkable, impeccable. And we have not even talked about yoga yet. Each yoga session is calming yet totally energizing, and there's always something new to learn, feel or grasp. Julie and Karen create a safe and peaceful haven, where everyone can just be, and feel, and connect.. They create such an inspiring, welcoming space to practice in. All in all, you will discover a way of traveling that will appeal to all your senses and you will create amazing friendships and long lasting connections. I have been on yoga retreats with Julie and Karen since 2018 and I can't wait for the next one.
By Sylvie B for ITALY: Unplug in Puglia! 5-night Yoga Retreat, Itria Valley, Puglia on Oct 31, 2024
My experience at the retreat was amazing. Julie and Karen each bring something different to the experience of yoga in ways that truly complement one another. They both share a love of yoga and bring a variety of styles, which allows for the experience to be enjoyed at any level. They are a joy to be around with their bright outlook, beautiful hearts, joyous smiles, and sense of humor. I look forward to the next retreat with them. 💓 Our villa was simply gorgeous, set in the hills of Gubbio, offering a peaceful and calming experience. We were well cared for; the food was delicious, and the staff was friendly, personable, and pleasant.
By Stacey Rae G for 💚🤍❤️La Bella Vita: Life is Good! 7-night Italy Yoga Retreat, Umbria on Sep 27, 2024
Aaahh, Stacey Rae, thank you for your kind review! It was a delight to share this little slice of Italy with you and to immerse in yoga in yet another beautiful part of the world. We're both so thrilled that you enjoyed the yoga retreat so much. And we're excited about meeting you again, on our next yoga adventure, in Croatia! Thank you for your sunny smiles, and your joy for life.
By Julie and Karen Retreats on Oct 04, 2024
Ja
JP
I had a great time. The yoga instruction was perfect, the other yogis are wonderful! Beautiful retreat center. Good healthy food. I received!!
By Judy P for 💚🤍❤️La Bella Vita: Life is Good! 7-night Italy Yoga Retreat, Umbria on Sep 25, 2024
Thank you, Judy, we loved having you with us on retreat in Umbria! So pleased you had such a wonderful time, and we look forward to making more yoga travel memories together! With love, Julie and Karen
By Julie and Karen Retreats on Sep 26, 2024
Ja
This was my first trip to Italy. I never would have known enough to find this slice of heaven. This was my second yoga retreat with Karen and Julie. I do know enough to follow them. We were marvelously cared for here: classic food, fun side trips, massage and pool. I like the yoga best--this is what makes the retreat truly healing. Karen and Julie attract a fun group of participants so I leave with new friends. In true Tao form, I arrive needing to retreat and leave ready to meet, and maybe shift, my world.
By Kim C for 💚🤍❤️La Bella Vita: Life is Good! 7-night Italy Yoga Retreat, Umbria on Sep 22, 2024
Such beautiful feedback, Kim. Thank you. This is what makes our retreats special; for Karen and I, and for our participants: a connection with others, and the chance to let the yoga “do the work” of healing, restoring, shifting. Thank you for joining us in Umbria and we look forward to seeing you on another retreat soon! With love, Julie and Karen.
By Julie and Karen Retreats on Sep 26, 2024
Ja
This yoga retreat leaded by two very experienced and FUN teachers was just the right balance of yoga, healthy food and cultural experiences. The retreat space was clean, warm and filled with light!! Can’t wait to attend another retreat with Julie and Karen.
By Christine M for ITALY: Unplug in Puglia! 5-night Yoga Retreat, Itria Valley, Puglia on Sep 15, 2024
We love having you on our retreats, Christine - so many incredible memories and adventures we’ve shared together! Thank you for joining us in this unique part of Italy. It’s a joy for us to share yoga with you, wherever we are in the world. With love, Julie and Karen.
By Julie and Karen Retreats on Sep 26, 2024
Ja
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