Where is Carunchio?

Abruzzo is an authentic part of Italy situated 3 hours due east of Rome on the Adriatic coast. It offers miles of seaside and pristine beaches, medieval villages perched on hilltops and in valleys.

The town of Carunchio, is considered an ancient borgo perched on the top of a hill in southern Abruzzo. It is considered among the "100 Most Beautiful Villages in Italy" because of the beauty of its spectacular location and its architectural quaintness. 

Where will we be staying?

We will be staying in a restored Palazzo built in 1730. The Palazzo Tour d’Eau was known as the “Sentinella” or watchguard of the valley and sits on the highest spot of the small town of Carunchio. The views from the property are breathtaking, overlooking the hills and surrounding mountains. The sunsets and star-filled midnight sky will leave a romantic Italian imprint on your heart forever.

What will our week entail?

Imagine awakening from a restful sleep to wander outside to stretch your body in a mindful movement class. After filling your lungs with fresh air, enjoy an Italian breakfast and then embark on the day…

What type of excursions will we be going on?

The Abruzzo region has so much natural beauty to offer from the Adriatic coastline to the Apennines mountain range.

We will explore the region through:

  • Visiting an organic olive oil press.

  • Dining on a Trabocco ‘a traditional fishing house’ (this is a rare opportunity).

  • Spending a day sailing on the Adriatic Sea, Island Hopping, Italian style!

  • Traveling to Agnone, in the region of Molise, where we will watch the production of authentic Italian cheese at a family owned cheese factory.  

  • Visiting a historic artisan bell foundry which still makes church bells manually for the Vatican (There are only TWO bell foundries in the world).

  • Window shop in the beautiful coastal town of Vasto for shoes, clothing and pottery; as well as learn the history of the town.

  • Leisurely exploring the village of Carunchio and plenty of time to relax!

  • Cooking, Eating, Dining and Dancing with our in-house chef, Dino, in a world-famous cooking school!

 

Retreat Highlights Include:

  • Daily Movement Classes (optional)

  • Cooking classes with local chefs to explore old world Abruzzo cuisine

  • An olive grove excursion

  • A visit to an artisan bell foundry (where the bells of the Vatican are made)

  • Adriatic Sea boat excursion to rustic islands

  • Taste your way through a family owned cheese factory

  • Explore the coastal town of Vasto

  • Inspirational Workshops

  • Sacred self-care rituals

  • Optional time to explore Roma

         …and much more

What type of cooking classes will we have?

Our interactive cooking classes include traditional Abruzzo cuisine, all made with local and seasonal ingredients. We promise that you will feel nourished all week!!

What type of yoga/movement classes will we explore?

Every class is designed to meet ALL levels of experience. You are welcome to participate in any and all that you are called to! We incorporate different styles of yoga, along with mindful moments of meditation and explore breathwork.

What if I travel alone?

More power to you, girlfriend! This week is designed for you to refresh and recharge your body and mind. We welcome and encourage you to join us!

How do I get to Abruzzo?

The retreat package includes transfers to and from FCO airport in Rome, Italy. A shuttle will meet the group by 1pm on Sunday, July 28th and depart for Carunchio (3 hour drive). The group will be returned back to FCO by midday on Saturday, August 3rd.

What are options for accommodations in Rome?

We would happily assist you in setting up your accommodations pre/post the retreat week. We can also arrange tours of Rome, as well. This will incur an additional fee, an Rome accommodations are not included in the retreat package.

What does the retreat package include?

Everything listed above including transfers to/from FCO airport in Rome, accommodations at the Palazzo, meals, excursions, cooking classes and movement classes.

Please note that price is based on double occupancy. Single occupancy is available for an additional 350 euros.

July 28th-August 3rd, 2019


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Meet Your Guides for the Week

Christa Russo is an Inspirational Speaker,  Lifestyle & Spirituality Coach, International Retreat Leader, Hatha Yoga trained Instructor,  International Wellness Specialist and Founder of barefoot yogi, a personal growth platform that is dedicated to inspiring and empowering people all over the world to grow and live life as their authentic and highest selves. An entrepreneur, traveler and avid dreamer,  Christa dedicates her life to raising the collective vibration and empowering others to RISE UP into their highest selves. 

Kate Strakosch is a nourishment coach, yoga teacher and retreat leader who believes in the inner and outer connection of wellness and radiance. She is the owner and founder of Sunshine Kate’s wellness center, with two locations in Wanamassa and Middletown, NJ. 
 Her passion of health and travel has blossomed into leading domestic and international retreats dedicated to self care and adventure. Kate connects nourishment through weaving together nutrition, movement, self-care and creativity.


 

We have traveled on retreats to Abruzzo in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

2019 marks our 5th Retreat returning back to this special land in Italia.