the la dolce vita literary retreat in italy
the la dolce vita literary retreat in italy
$0.00
22 - 25th March 2026
Starting from £1,490 , Deposit from £300, Payment plans available
surrounded by rolling hills, olive groves, and timeless charm, this retreat is a celebration of literature, beauty, and la dolce vita. step into the world of rejuvenation and literature as we gather to read, reflect, and relax.
whether you’re a passionate reader, a hopeless romantic, or simply in need of a magical few days filled with inspiration, you’ll enjoy cooking classes, countryside walks, book discussions, delicious Italian meals, and meaningful moments with kindred spirits, all in an unforgettable setting.
A timeless retreat – a historic umbrian villa
rooted in the soft, rolling hills of umbria, this noble residence has remained in the same family since the 14th century, its story unfolding over generations. first constructed as a country estate, it was gracefully expanded in the 16th century and embellished with frescoes that still decorate several rooms, delicate scenes of the surrounding countryside captured in rich, enduring detail.
now a classic 19th-century italian villa, the house offers a rare blend of heritage and charm. seven generously sized rooms are adorned with antique furnishings and original artworks, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and deeply personal. nearby, a smaller restored guesthouse features two cozy rooms, a fireplace, and a private garden, perfect for a more intimate stay.
the villa is encircled by a lovingly maintained garden, where towering trees offer shelter from the umbrian sun. a large swimming pool, bordered by flowering oleanders, provides a peaceful space to relax while taking in uninterrupted views of the valley beyond, a landscape that seems untouched by time.
this is a place where life slows down. ideal for weddings, gatherings, or meaningful celebrations throughout the year, the setting combines the warmth of a family home with the quiet grandeur of the past. meals can be prepared upon request using traditional umbrian ingredients—think hand-pressed olive oil, truffles, lentils, cured meats, and rustic cheeses, served in a setting as beautiful as the cuisine itself.
whether you're dining al fresco beneath the stars, resting in the shade of ancient trees, or waking to birdsong and valley views, the experience here is one of authenticity, comfort, and quiet splendor, an invitation to live well, simply, and beautifully.
why not combine this trip with verona?
combine this tour with our 4-day literary romance retreat in verona for an ultimate 8-day experience in italy
19th - 22th March, 2026 - you are invited to join us on our romantic classics book club retreat, a captivating 4-day escape in the timeless city of verona, italy, the setting of some of the world’s most enduring love stories.
immerse yourself in the literary and cultural legacy of verona, a city that has inspired poets, playwrights, and dreamers for centuries. this one-off dream trip is perfect for anyone who's ever swooned over shakespeare or longed to wander cobbled streets steeped in passion and history.
whether you're a devoted literature lover, a romantic at heart, or simply seeking a few magical days of inspiration, think painting classes, walking tours, heartfelt book discussions, and soaking up the italian dolce vita with like-minded souls.
itinerary
day one
ARRIVE at your stunning 16th-century Palladian villa in the heart of Valpolicella, Italy
MEET your fellow travellers at our opening circle, a chance to connect and set the tone for the days ahead
CACAO ceremony as the sunsets
DINE together, enjoying a relaxed evening meal and a toast to the start of your literary escape
day two
MORNING PAGES start the day with journalling, scrapbooking or sketching
BOOK CLUB to engage in meaningful discussion over our chosen book
BRUNCH to fuel for the day
ENJOY your afternoon at leisure to read, reflect, walk or talk to fellow guests
COOKING class learn to make a traditional italian dish, and enjoy your meal
FREE TIME at leisure, take a dip in the pool or pick up your book
DINNER
day three
MORNING PAGES start the day with journalling, scrapbooking or sketching
BOOK CLUB to engage in meaningful discussion over our chosen book
BRUNCH to fuel for the day
ENJOY your afternoon at leisure to read, reflect, walk or talk to fellow guests
MOVIE NIGHT get cosy as we put on an Italian classic
FAREWELL DINNER to reflect and connect before the trip ends
day 4
BREAKFAST
MORNING PAGES start the day with book club, writing, journaling or sketching
DEPART with new friendships, a refreshed spirit, and stories to carry home
exclusions
Flights to and from Verona
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional activities
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
inclusions
Pre-trip consultation with a bibliotherapist, get a tailored book prescription
A copy of the trips chosen book
Morning pages sessions
3 nights accommodation
Brunch & Dinners
Cooking class
Book club sessions
Movie night
Transformative travel guidebook and journaling prompts from Aweventurer
Goody bag
location
We’ll be staying in a stunning 16th-century Palladian villa in the heart of Valpolicella, offering an unforgettable stay in an authentically Italian setting
why a reading retreat?
Come for the books. Stay for the people who love them like you do.
There’s something rare about finding your people. It’s those who speak in dog-eared quotes, who light up at the mention of a beloved author, who know the joy of a day spent in silence together, each lost in a different world.
A reading retreat is about more than finishing the books that have been quietly waiting on your shelf. It’s about rediscovering your creative spark, remembering what moves you, and letting literature do what it’s always done best and remind us we’re not alone.
These retreats are crafted for curious minds and open hearts. Whether you’re a writer, a deep-feeling reader, or simply someone longing to connect over something real, you’ll feel at home here.
What you’ll find:
Like-minded women who value meaningful conversation and time to reflect
A thoughtfully curated reading list by a professional bibliotherapist, designed to match the place and its stories
The luxury of uninterrupted time to read what you’ve been meaning to, with no guilt and no pressure
Workshops, journaling prompts and inspiring rituals to gently awaken your creativity
The joy of talking about books under the stars, over spritzes, in tucked-away cafés and sun-drenched courtyards
You’ll leave with your TBR pile lighter, your heart fuller, and a few new lifelong friends — the kind who understand why a book can change everything.
We’ve hosted journalists, novelists, first-time solo travellers, and women who just needed a beautiful pause. Everyone leaves a little more inspired. A little more themselves.
“A dream week under the Tuscan sun. Hard to out into words what a memorable and incredible experience it was. From the food to the company to the wild swimming and tarot reading, it’s a week I will never forget!”
FAQs
How can I join?
Please secure your place by paying a deposit, the full trip price or opting onto a payment plan. Confirmation will take place via email. There is a maximum number of places available on this trip so act fast.
How do I get there?
You can reach Verona via most major international airports, with Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN) being the closest and most convenient option. Alternatively, you can fly into Milan or Venice and take a train directly to Verona.Please hold off from purchasing transport until the trip is confirmed (when it hits it’s minimum number of participants).
What is the rooming configuration?
The rooms are sharing, so you will have one or more besties for the entirety of the trip to share the experience with. There are twin & triple rooms.
How can I pay?
Either pay in full or pay the deposit now, and book onto a payment plan, using the book now button.
What should I pack?
Day pack for carrying essentials.
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
Layers and cosy warm clothes
Sun protection - a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen.
Electrical adaptor.
Water bottle.