The rustic and tranquil Cattebio villa is situated in the hilly Maremma landscape of Tuscany just above the Tyrrhenian Sea. August is the  perfect time of the year to relax poolside while viewing the rolling  countryside and to do yoga al fresco on its wood deck. Outings to the  enchanting medieval and renaissance towns of Sorano and Pitigliano are a  short drive away, as are the thermal baths of Saturnia and the beaches  of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

If you choose to relax around Catebbio, you can get lost in the serenity of the beautiful grounds. There is a pool with a stunning view of the valley, as well as a small outdoor amphitheater for evening lectures, kirtan or stargazing. Cooking classes can be booked onsite, and wine and  cheese tasting can be organized at the vineyards and local producers. Several different thermal spas are within a 15 minute drive from Catebbio, from casual and free to luxurious resort-like spas. Exploring the surrounding areas includes an excursion to one of the nearby medieval and renaissance towns all within a 30 minutes drive.

Sorano  has recently been rewarded as one of the best small towns in Italy. Sorano was founded on a sedimentary volcanic hill made of Tufa rocks,  which give the white wine produced in the surrounding area a unique and  special flavor. The hike from Sasso Leopoldini to the renaissance  fortress built in 1552 is a great way to feel the history of this Tuscan region. Follow the nature paths of the Archeological Park, and find  your way to the tomb of Scylla, the marine demon with a female body. If archeology is not your passion but modern art is, don’t miss the Art Park of Seggiano, with it’s labyrinths, gardens and sculptures it is  sure to impress.

Pitignano is a quaint old town full of history, culture and surprises. It is also known as little Jerusalem for the historical presence of a Jewish community that has always been well  integrated into the social context and has a beautiful 16th century synagogue. Worth visiting in Pitignano are many Etruscan ruins, the aqueduct of the Orcini Palace and the Cathedral of St Peter and Paul. Along with some white wine and tozzetto, Pitignano will make your visit  unforgettable.

This week will be both a yoga retreat and a bit of a travel adventure. Two daily yoga sessions including meditation, yoga nidra, and Ayurvedic self-care practices will be the focal point of each day. As will two delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals that are served at breakfast and dinner. Italian fare is plentiful and snacks in between these two meals should be enough to keep bellies content. There  will be time for plenty of laughter, casual hanging out and group  sharing, as well as, the time for self-reflection and silence. Registration  also includes two excursions, one to the Tyrrhenian Sea and the other  to the popular thermal baths at Saturnia. Other outings and indulgences  not included in this package can be elected should you chose and as time permits.

 The retreat begins with a lunch (1: pm) on the 18th and ends with breakfast (9: am) on the 25th. 

WEATHER: It will be warm and dry. Dress lightly, linen is delightful under these conditions. And, the Italians do love to dress for all occasions. We will be pretty casual but dinner could be the time to fashion out...