The retreat is a 20-acre property including a restored tower built in 1225 and a teaching annex. We are surrounded by agricultural fields and steep wooded hills, and enjoy panoramic views towards the Apennine Mountains.
A renovated barn comprising two rooms plus bathroom
Teaching Studio with capacity for 20+ people depending on preferred configuration – set up for the requirements of modern teaching in a tranquil ancient setting of wood burning stoves and an 800-year-old stone floor
Kitchen / Dining Area – glass surrounded and opening on to the garden
The property has extensive outdoor spaces that lend themselves to creative use with long tables set in greenhouses, a pergola in the vegetable field, and solo work spaces set along tree-lined terraces dropping away to a cool river.
Bed and breakfast at a 4 star Medician Villa is provided by our partners on the estate
100 meters from door to door
A beautiful terrace, huge swimming pool and lots of space to walk
Breakfasts are served at the hotel and are hearty.
Lunches can be provided by the retreat – sample menus on requst
Dinner Options
At Mela Rosa Retreat
At the hotel
Local Restaurants
Self-catered experiences such as pasta making
By arrangement with our local partners:
Go truffle hunting with a local organic winemaker and his family of lovely dogs
Explore local market days
Hike up to Monte Giove (approx. 4 hours and steep!) See where the Etruscans had a temple to observe lightning stoms and priests interpreted the moods of the gods
Visit the local organic farmers market run by a young group of activist farmers and food producers which also has beer, music and entertainment into the evening (Thursdays, seasonal)
Aperitivo on the bridge of the local town, usually with a DJ - (Thursdays, seasonal)
Yoga and other wellness activities are available from teachers in the area
We are 45 minutes northeast of Florence by road
Flying - Florence or Pisa airports
Rail - Trains from Florence station
Road - SatNav details available on request