the italian reading retreat with Jess
the italian reading retreat with Jess
1st - 5th may 2026 - 5 days
starting from €2220
deposit from €330
payment plans available
you are invited to join jess for a five-day literary retreat nestled in the rolling green hills of umbria. this intimate escape is designed to slow your pace and nourish your inner life through shared reading, thoughtful discussion, and quiet moments of reflection.
this retreat is a gentle invitation to slow down and enjoy life’s simplest joys, quiet mornings with coffee and a novel, afternoons stretched out under olive trees, and evenings filled with laughter, good food, and easy conversation. whether you’re halfway through your ‘to be read’ pile or revisiting an old favourite, there’s space here to read at your own pace and simply be.
this isn’t about schedules or productivity. it’s about presence, slowing down, breathing deeply, and rediscovering what fills your cup. you’ll return home feeling refreshed, inspired, and reminded of the quiet joy that comes from getting lost in a good book.
itinerary
day one
SETTLE into your room at the beautiful country house, surrounded by olive groves and ancient stone walls
MEET jess and your fellow retreat guests
GATHER to get to know everyone’s reading taste & share your favorites
DINE al fresco with a slow, local welcome dinner under the umbrian stars
BOOK CLUB to get to know everyone’s reading tastes - share your curent reads and favourites
day two
YOGA and meditation
BRUNCH with produce fresh from the garden
GATHER to discuss the first book club pick
FREE TIME to relax, read or explore surrounding area
DINNER shared family-style
MOVIE NIGHT unwind with a film under the stars
day three
BRUNCH start the day by nourishing your body
EXPLORE the nearby village of Perugia
WALKING TOUR to see the historic sights
WINE TASTING at a local vineyard
FREE TIME to write, read and relax in a local cafe
DINNER with newfound friends
day four
YOGA and meditation
BREAKFAST start the day by nourishing your body
TRADITIONAL cooking class, learning how to make pasta
CREATE freely in the afternoon creative session, time to work independently
FREE TIME to relax, read, swim in the pool or explore the surrounding areas
DINNER and book club chat
day five
MORNING walk
CLOSING session
BREAKFAST one last time
FAREWELLS as our journey ends
invitation from jess
Ever since I started my book club a few years ago I’ve wanted to host a reading retreat, where we might meet from all over the world and gather to discuss books and make new and lasting friendships. And now the day is finally here!
I invite you all to come with me to beautiful Italy, where you’ll be able to meet like-minded bibliophiles and share a few days together. We’ll discuss a curated reading list, explore the surrounding area, and enjoy the peace and quiet of beautiful Umbria. I’m so looking forward to reading alongside some of you.
Jess x
exclusions
Flights to and from Italy
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Add on activities
inclusions
4 nights accommodation
Transfer from Perugia airport (also close to Florence and Rome Airport, please make your way to Perugia)
Brunch and dinner every day prepared by in-house chefs and made with organic ingredients from the farm that can tailor to any dietary requirement
Cooking class
Day trip to Perugia
Wine tasting
Book club sessions
Curated reading list
Movie nights
Goodie bag including bookclub book
All ground transportation
about jess
This is your host, Jess, a book creator and critic who makes YouTube videos and has been posting online for around 15 years! She writes extensively about books everywhere she can, and runs an online book club.
accommodation
we’ll be staying in a restored 17th-century italian villa nestled in the rolling hills of perugia. surrounded by olive groves and perched at the foot of mount serano, the villa is steeped in history and charm. each room is thoughtfully decorated with antique furniture and traditional artwork, offering a cosy and elegant place to rest. the grounds include a peaceful garden, a sun-drenched swimming pool lined with flowering oleanders, and quiet corners perfect for journaling or a morning coffee. the villa’s central location allows for easy access to the cultural gems of the region, from perugia to assisi, while still feeling worlds away from the rush of everyday life.
location
perched on a hillside overlooking the olive groves of the umbrian valley, trevi is a charming medieval town known for its rich history, stunning views, and world-class olive oil. with its narrow cobbled streets, ancient churches, and renaissance architecture, trevi offers a peaceful escape into authentic italian life. it's a hidden gem in umbria, perfect for travelers seeking culture, nature, and traditional cuisine in one picturesque setting.
FAQs
How can I join?
Please secure your place by paying a deposit. Confirmation will take place via email. There is a limited number of places available on this retreat, so act fast.
How do I get there?
One group transfer from Perugia airport on day one at 2pm. Closest major airports are Florence and Rome.
What is the rooming configuration?
The trip is priced on a twin share and private basis share so you will have a bestie or besties for the entire journey. If you would like a private room please email operations@aweventurer.com .
How can I pay?
Click pay now and follow the booking process.
What should I pack?
Day pack for carrying essentials.
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
Sun protection - a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen.
Insect repellent and hand sanitiser.
Light layers for the daytime
Warmer layers for night time.
Swimmers.
Electrical adaptor.
Water bottle.