Vivere Bene: An Italian Masterclass in Joy and Vitality
Retreat to Italy October 17-24, 2026
Join Alex van Frank, world-renowned yoga therapist, movement specialist, and longtime resident of Italy, for an intimate mind–body retreat in the heart of Umbria. Having lived and worked in Italy for a decade, Alex brings a deeply embodied understanding of Italian culture, rhythm, and the art of vivere bene—living well with presence, pleasure, and vitality.
This 2026 retreat is thoughtfully designed for those ready to move beyond burnout and reconnect with creativity, ease, and joy within a nurturing, high-vibration community. Italy itself becomes the master teacher—its pace, beauty, and sensuality shaping each day as much as the formal practices.
Community & The Umbrian Way of Life
Rooted in Alex’s long relationship with Italy and our hosts, the retreat emphasizes authentic connection and the pleasures of daily living:
- Chef-Led Italian Dining: Family-style meals prepared by a private chef using seasonal, organic ingredients sourced from the estate’s groves. Perhaps even a cooking lesson?
- Village Excursions: Inspiring outings to medieval hill towns such as Gubbio and Perugia, rich in history, artistry, and quiet beauty. Finding unique treasures that are locally handmade.
- A Sanctuary of Serenity: A meticulously restored country castle estate features a saltwater infinity pool, meditation gardens, private chapel, and moments of curiosity and play woven throughout each day.
This is an invitation to slow down, soften, and remember what truly nourishes you.
This retreat with Alex offers space to relax deeply, create freely, and return home restored—body, mind, and spirit—carrying with you the wisdom of a land that has inspired generations to live creatively and well.
An Italian Journey to Inner Peace
Holistic Yoga with Alex
Grounded in Alex’s therapeutic expertise and enriched by select guest experiences, the retreat explores the powerful meeting point of somatic healing, creative expression, and Italian-inspired living.
Far beyond standard yoga classes, Alex draws on integrative yoga therapy, adaptive movement, fascia work, and Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy to support the release of physical tension and stored trauma. Her approach invites the body to become a witness, gently transforming patterns of pain and over-effort into confidence, clarity, and embodied joy—shaped by years of living within the Italian way of life.
Art & Self-Discovery
Acclaimed portrait artist and polymath Patricia van Vloten joins the retreat as a guest teacher, offering select workshops that blend painting, journaling, and the art of seeing. Open to all levels, these sessions invite curiosity and self-expression, helping participants capture the essence of both the Umbrian landscape and their inner world.
Daily Retreat Journey
European style breakfast, Morning Yoga and Meditation Sessions, Fresh lunch, afternoon to explore, swim, relax, hike or spa. Mid to late afternoons will be reserved for artistic expression (writing, drawing, painting). Long leisurely dinners all together. Time will be reserved to explore nearby medieval town of Gubbio and perhaps some exploration of chocolates in the city Perugia.
Retreat Inclusions
- 7 Nights 8 Days Accommodation with daily cleaning
- Daily Yoga/movement and Meditation Classes
- Daily art/creativity project
- All Michelin Quality Meals made on the premises (most dietary restrictions can be accommodated)
- Jacuzzi & Salt water swimming pool with fabulous sunset views
- Steam Room in Moroccan style Hammam & wellness area
- Hiking on property that includes nearby waterfalls
- Yoga Mats & Props provided
- WIFI if you truly need to stay connected
- Visit to Gubbio and Perugia
Exclusions & Extras
- airfare to Italy
- in county transfer (other than 1 group FCO transfer to and from property)
- Any wine, alcohol, or specialty drinks
- Winery visit (50 euro extra)
- Any additional excursions
- Spa services
- Gratuities