La Dolce Vita Tuscany Food & Wine Retreat with Marta Malaman & Amy Walker, LCSW

Overview

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Italian countryside on our La Dolce Vita Tuscany Food & Wine Retreat. This 6-day, 5-night retreat offers a luxurious blend of food, wine, culture and intentional time to focus on selfcare. Set in a private villa in the heart of Tuscany, you will nurture your body and soul through daily wellness workshops, indulge in gourmet Italian cuisine prepared by a private chef, and explore the region’s rich cultural heritage with local, English-speaking guides. This trip will be led by esteemed Psychologist and Coach Marta Malaman, alongside Walker Wellness Retreats Founder and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Amy Walker, 

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival, Welcome Dinner & Wellness Workshop

• Arrive at Florence Airport, where you'll be greeted and transported to your luxurious Tuscan villa.
• Settle in, meet fellow retreat participants, and unwind in the tranquil surroundings.
• Enjoy an authentic welcome dinner crafted by our private chef, followed by an evening wellness workshop to ease you into the retreat.

Days 2-5: Daily Activities and Excursions

Morning Wellness Workshops

• Begin each day with wellness workshops led by Marta and Amy, focusing on aligning mind, body, and spirit.

Gourmet Meals

• Savor gourmet meals made by your private chef, featuring the finest local ingredients and classic Italian recipes, as well as dine out at local, authentic Italian restaurants.

Daily Excursions

• Village & City Tours: Explore Tuscany’s charming villages with guided tours, learning about the local culture and history.
• Wine Tasting: Visit a prestigious local vineyard for a private wine tasting, sampling Tuscany’s renowned wines.
• Cooking Class: Participate in a hands-on cooking class where you’ll master traditional Italian dishes with an expert chef.

Day 6: Farewell Breakfast and Departure

• Wrap up your retreat with a final wellness workshop and Closing Circle, offering a moment of reflection and gratitude.
• Share a farewell breakfast with newfound friends, savoring the last moments of this unforgettable experience.
• Depart for Florence Airport, taking with you the relaxation, inspiration, and joy of your time in Tuscany.

Additional Information

• Optional Participation: Customize your retreat experience by choosing the activities and excursions that resonate most with your personal preferences.

Join us for a transformative week of relaxation, exploration, and culinary delight in Tuscany. This retreat is more than just a getaway; it’s a soulful journey through Italy, designed to help you reconnect with yourself and your surroundings in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Amy Walker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in International Social Work from the University of Utah. With over 10 years of experience as a mental health therapist, Amy specializes in grief and loss counseling, couples counseling, motivational interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and group therapy. In 2016, Amy founded Walker Wellness Retreats, combining her passion for global travel and helping others. Over the past 8 years, she has expanded the business to include more than 15 domestic and 10 international retreats annually. Amy will be one of your cohosts on this incredible retreat to Tuscany, where she has successfully led six prior retreats.

Marta Malaman is a Psychologist, Coach, and Digital Nomad with a Master's Degree in Wellbeing Psychology from the Catholic University of Milan and a Master in Evolutionary Coaching from ICTF. She offers therapy and coaching sessions both online and in person, with a focus on empowering individuals by enhancing their personal strengths, self-esteem, and self-efficacy. Marta guides her clients in discovering their mission and uncovering core values, helping them to build a life aligned with these principles. Her method combines third-wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (ACT), Coaching, and Rogerian Person-Centered Therapy. She also incorporates meditations, visualizations, and practical exercises to foster maximum growth. Additionally, Marta hosts visualization workshops both online and in person, offering transformative experiences for those seeking clarity and personal development.

Tenuta Castelnuovo Tancredi
Localita' Castelnuovo Tancredi, 93
53022 Buonconvento SI
Italy

https://castelnuovotancredi.it/accomodation/castello/

The Castle offers 8 double bedrooms for a maximum of 16 guests. There is a two-story cozy house next to the villa, called the Canonica, with another 3 double rooms each with an ensuite bathroom, creating a 22 guest capacity, available exclusively for weddings.

A magnificent suite at the top of the tower of the villa boasts a 360° view of the surrounding valley.

A country-style kitchen with all modern comforts, a dining room, 2 large living rooms with original painted beams from the late 1500's, 2 smaller rooms with frescoed ceilings, and a selection of intimate seating areas in the garden complete this wonderful residence.

8/11 ROOMS

7/10 BATHROOMS

SWIMMING POOOL

WiFi

GYM SPA

AIR CONDITIONING

Luxury living in the true Tuscany in a privately owned and managed historical property near Siena, in the renowned Orcia Valley. The Estate of Castelnuovo Tancredi encompasses over 600 hectares of the surrounding hillside of Montalcino in the region of Siena, dominating over the UNESCO recognized site.

The Venturini Del Greco family has been the proud owners of this Estate since 1897, and their object has been to maintain the tradition of this land throughout 5 generations. Since over 20 years, the estate has been respecting the Organic method of farming with extensive grain and cereal production in addition to the extra-virgin olive oil, DOP, and the 4 hectares of vineyard that produce their renowned wines.

Money:

• Take out Euros from an ATM. Conversion rates are about equal to the dollar.
• Be mindful that some ATMs charge a crazy conversion rate like 11-15%. Do not use these ATMs. Avoid taking money out of EuroNet ATMs as they charge a lot of conversion fees.
• Use the XE currency conversion app to show you the conversion rate when you buy something. 
• Don't pay in USD. They probably won't take it, and if they do, you won't get a good conversion.
• Always do the local currency, Euro, if a merchant asks if you want to process your card in USD or Euro.
• Cash is widely used, especially for small things like drinks. Keep small bills and coins for the bathroom.
• If you leave a tip anywhere, just round up. No need to tip out standard 20%.
• Make sure you use up all your coins before leaving Europe as you cannot exchange them back.

Financial Safety:

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public.
• Split up your cash, cards, and important documents into different places (e.g., some in a wallet, some in a money belt, and some in your luggage).
• Keep your wallet or purse close to your body and never leave it unattended.
• Use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas and avoid those with suspicious-looking devices attached to them.
• Check your credit card and bank statements regularly for any unauthorized charges or transactions.
• Use credit cards for larger purchases as they offer better protection than debit cards.
• Use a travel credit card that offers benefits such as no foreign transaction fees and travel insurance.
• Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans to prevent them from flagging your purchases as suspicious and freezing your account.
• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi to avoid identity theft and fraud. Use a virtual private network (VPN) and avoid accessing sensitive information (e.g., bank accounts) on public Wi-Fi networks.

Personal Safety:

• Be aware of surroundings and stay alert.
• Avoid carrying valuables or expensive jewelry.
• Use a money belt or cross-body purse to keep important items secure.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unlit areas.
• Keep wallet in a front pocket or money belt.
• Use a cross-body purse with a secure zipper or buckle.
• Be wary of strangers who approach.
• Stay alert in crowded places, such as train stations and tourist attractions.
• Register with embassy or consulate in case of emergency.
• Always keep emergency contact information with you.
• Learn basic phrases in local language, including how to ask for help.

Transportation:

• Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding.
• Use trusted ride-sharing apps or licensed taxis when taking a taxi.
• Official transportation services should be used at airports and train stations.

Important Documentation:

• Travel insurance details (including emergency contact information)
• Passport
• Copy of passport (both in physical and digital form)
• COVID-19 vaccination records
• Trip itinerary (including accommodation and transportation details)

Helpful Tip: Make two copies of your passport, travel insurance papers, and other important travel documents. Diversify your copies by storing them electronically on your computer/smartphone and separating them in your money belt, carry-on bag, and checked luggage. Keep your vaccination records with your passport.
Money:

• Debit card (with a four-digit PIN)
• Credit card
• Petty cash (in euros, ~100)
• Cross-body bag or travel purse (to avoid theft when out walking around)

Helpful Tip: You can withdraw euros from ATMs, and it's usually the most convenient way to get local currency. However, it's always a good idea to bring some petty cash just in case of an emergency. Be mindful of the denomination you carry as some shops and vendors may not accept large bills.
Clothing:

• Comfortable walking shoes (closed toe preferred)
• Slip-on shoes (such as sandals or flip-flops)
• Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella
• Scarf (for covering shoulders when entering religious sites or dressing up an outfit)
• Warm sweater or jacket (depending on the season)
• Swimwear (if traveling in the summer or visiting a beach destination)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Undergarments and socks
• Casual clothing (shorts, skirts, dresses, t-shirts, etc.)
• Athletic wear (yoga pants, sports bras, etc.)
• Laundry bag

Helpful Tip: Pack for the season and be mindful of local customs and dress codes. Plan to do laundry or purchase clothes locally if you run out of outfits.
Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Shampoo and conditioner (travel-sized)
• Body wash or soap (travel-sized)
• Deodorant
• Razor and shaving cream
• Personal medications (in their original containers)
• Pain reliever (such as aspirin or ibuprofen)
• Anti-diarrhea medicine (such as Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
• Motion sickness medicine (if prone to motion sickness)
• Sunblock (SPF 30 or higher)
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
• Towel (microfiber or quick-dry)
• Hand sanitizer
• Earplugs

Electronics:

• Smartphone and/or camera
• Charger and adapter (for European outlets)
• Portable charger (if planning to use devices extensively throughout the day)
• Headphones
• Waterproof phone case
• Power strip (if traveling with multiple devices)
• VPN software (if needed for internet security and accessing geo-restricted content)

Additional Personal Items:

• Refillable water bottle
• Day pack or backpack (for carrying essentials during the day)
• Beach bag or tote (if visiting a beach destination)
• Dry bag (for storing wet clothes or electronics)
• Beach blanket (if visiting a beach destination)
• Book or e-reader
• Journal or notepad

Always keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of pickpockets and scams. Leave valuable items at home if possible or store them in a secure location such as a hotel safe. And don't forget to leave room in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts! 

In the event of trip cancellation before the 90-day deadline, 25% of the deposited amount is non-refundable as well as any airfare, train tickets or ferry tickets purchased as part of your trip package due to the strict cancellation policy by foreign carriers ( If applicable).

Trip cancellations requested after the final payment deadlines listed above are non-refundable, and guests are encouraged to file a claim with their travel insurance for reimbursement. 

In the unlikely event Walker Wellness Retreats cancels the retreat, guests will be provided a full 100% refund of their booking. 

Lastly, we partner with several third-party booking platforms with separate deposit and cancellation policies. Please refer to their specific cancellation policies if booking through a third-party partner.

Questions about refunds or cancellations? Click here to view our payment and cancellation policy.

The deadline to book an international retreat is 30 days before the retreat begins; however, some exceptions can be made based on availability. Email us at contact@walkerwellnessretreats.com to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.

Welcome to Italy!

You will be greeted at the airport by your local driver holding a Walker Wellness Retreats sign. You will be taken in private transportation to your Tuscan villa where you will spend the next five nights.

5:00 PM: Welcome orientation.

6:00 PM: Wellness Workshop with Marta & Amy: Setting Your Intentions & Get-to-Know-You Exercise

Join Marta Malaman and Amy Walker for an immersive wellness workshop designed to help you set clear intentions and connect with like-minded individuals. This session will start with a guided intention-setting practice, allowing you to focus on personal growth, clarity, and wellbeing. Following this, Marta and Amy will facilitate a fun and engaging "get-to-know-you" exercise, fostering a sense of community and openness. Whether you're beginning a wellness journey or deepening your practice, this workshop offers the perfect blend of reflection and connection.

7:00 PM: Dinner by private chef at your villa.

Overnight stay at the villa.

7:00 AM: Morning Meditation with Marta at the Villa
Join Marta Malaman for a serene morning meditation session at the villa, designed to center your mind and energize your spirit for the day ahead. Set against the peaceful backdrop of nature, this guided meditation will help you reconnect with yourself, reduce stress, and cultivate mindfulness. Marta will lead you through calming breathing exercises and visualizations, allowing you to start your day with clarity and inner peace. This session is perfect for all levels, whether you're new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice.

8:00 AM: Breakfast at the villa.  

9:00 AM: Wellness Workshop with Amy at the Villa: Stress Reduction Tools and Techniques for a Healthy Mind, Body, and Soul

Join Amy at the beautiful villa for a rejuvenating wellness workshop focused on stress reduction and holistic well-being. In this serene setting, you’ll learn practical tools and techniques to manage stress, boost mental clarity, and nurture your body and soul. Through guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and gentle movement practices, you’ll reconnect with yourself, restore balance, and cultivate inner peace.

Whether you’re looking to unwind or develop lasting habits for well-being, this workshop offers a nurturing space to recharge and leave feeling revitalized. All levels are welcome!

12:00 PM: Group cooking class at the villa. You will learn the art of making pasta with a local.

2:30 PM: Meet out front of the villa for a group trip to Montalcino and Pienza.

Montalcino is a classic fairytale hilltop town, set within a full circle of fortified walls and watched over by a mighty castle of medieval perfection. Montalcino, west of Pienza, is a beautiful village immersed in the breathtaking Val d'Orcia Natural Park, renowned all over the world for the production of its precious Brunello red wine.

The town has scarcely changed in appearance since the 16th century. Once you get up to the town, a magnificent spectacle unfolds for your eyes: rolling sunny hills dotted with yellow and red flowers, ancient oak trees, picturesque olive groves, scenic country roads winding through perfect vineyards and isolated cypress trees atop hills.

Pienza is a tiny village in southern Tuscany in the beautiful valley called Val d'Orcia. The village is located about 20 kilometers east of Montalcino and a few kilometers to the west of Montepulciano amidst gentle undulating hills and wonderful natural landscapes. Pienza enjoys a strategic position standing high atop a hill, dominating all the Orcia Valley with extraordinary views.

This charming village is widely known as the "ideal city of the Renaissance", the creation of the great humanist Enea Silvio Piccolomini who later became Pope Pius II. Piccolomini had the money and influence to transform his birthplace village, the humble Corsignano, into what he considered the Utopian city should be, exemplifying the principles and philosophy of classical times and of the great Italian Renaissance. Thus, Pienza became the realization of a dream!

7:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to the villa.

Overnight stay at the villa.

7:00 AM: Wellness Workshop: Habits of Happy People
Led by Amy Walker, this workshop is designed to help you discover the habits that contribute to a happier, healthier life. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, Amy will guide you in understanding how simple, intentional changes can lead to a more positive mindset and overall well-being. Learn actionable strategies to develop new, sustainable habits that support emotional health and resilience. Whether you're looking to improve your daily routine or make lasting lifestyle changes, this workshop will provide you with the tools to create a healthier, happier you.

8:00 AM: Breakfast at the villa. 

9:30 AM: Group pick-up from the villa.

11:15 AM: Discover Siena on a two-hour tour with a professional guide. We'll walk through the historic city center and see the city's most important masterpieces of art and architecture. We'll also discover the rivalrous history of the 17 city districts ("contrade"), which still compete today (granted with much less violence than in the 13th century!)., taste the sweet local delicacies, and indulge in the spectacular Piazza del Campo.

Lunch on your own in Siena before heading to San Gimignano.

4:00 PM: Free time to explore San Gimignano. The historic city center has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its unique architecture and exceptional 14th- and 15th-century frescoes. Discover the extraordinary art and history of the area. Take a stroll along the medieval walls encircling the city, or delight in the breathtaking panorama of the Tuscan hillside. Stop by the many artisan and gourmet shops, too - and don't forget to taste the best gelato in the area!

7:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to the villa.

Overnight stay at the villa. 

7:00 AM: Wellness Workshop with Marta: Align with Your Values
Join Marta Malaman for a deep dive into discovering and aligning with your core values. In this workshop, you'll explore what truly drives and motivates you, gaining clarity on the values that matter most. Marta will guide you through reflective exercises to help you identify these values and understand how they can serve as a foundation for a more meaningful, purpose-driven life. Learn how to make decisions and set goals that are aligned with your values, empowering you to create a life that reflects your true self.

8:00 AM: Breakfast at the villa. 

9:00 AM: Group Pick-up for our group city tour of Florence.

Our guide will show us a mosaic workshop that dates back to 1400, a jewelry maker who can show you the tricks to manipulating silver and gold, and a paper mill that still maintains the practice of marbleizing and xylography of handmade paper. Lastly, we'll see the leatherworkers transform premium Italian leather into belts, shoes, and purses of unparalleled quality.  

As we walk from one artisan workshop to the next, our guide will also show us the city's art and architecture, from Renaissance palaces to Medieval towers built by warring families. While most of the sites can be best viewed from the outside, the splendor of Chiesa Santa Croce deserves a visit inside (tickets and skip-the-line access included).

Lunch on your own. There are many options to choose from.

2:00 PM:  Immerse yourself in the masterpieces of the Western world at the Accademia, home to some of the most notable works of the Renaissance and the symbol of Florence's cultural zenith.

The museum's main hall centers around Michelangelo's David, who stands under the skylight of the tribune designed just for him. Yet David is just one of many breathtaking works to witness in the museum: there are also excellent examples from Botticelli, Perugino, Giambologna, Filippino Lippi, and many other Renaissance masters. After the Accademia, take a walking tour to see the rest of Florence's beauty. 

Afterward, we'll enjoy some free time to shop before heading back to the hotel.

7:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to the villa.

Overnight stay at the villa. 

7:00 AM: Wellness Workshop with Marta: Find Your Purpose
In this inspiring workshop, Marta Malaman will help you uncover your true calling and guide you in aligning it with your everyday life. Through thoughtful exercises and guided reflection, you’ll explore your passions, talents, and aspirations, gaining clarity on what your deeper mission is. Marta will provide practical tools and insights on how to integrate your purpose into your daily routine, empowering you to live a more fulfilled and intentional life. Whether you’re searching for direction or looking to deepen your sense of meaning, this workshop will help you connect with your purpose and bring it to life.

8:00 AM: Breakfast at the villa.   

9:00 AM: Pick up from the villa by our private guide.

10:30 AM: Visit the historic winery in the Chianti Classico region, in the heart of the Gallo Nero wine designation. Relax outside on the terrace, overlooking the countryside surrounded by vineyards, while you savor the perfect pairing!

12:30 PM: We'll enjoy a typical Tuscan Lunch after a spectacular drive through the famous rolling hills of Chianti. Afterward, we'll sightsee local villages, castles, and ancient abbeys until your driver stops at a local restaurant to get a genuine, homemade taste of Tuscany.

2:30 PM: Visit to a second Chianti winery. While our morning was spent enjoying an international brand winery, by contrast, the afternoon will be spent at a family-run cellar, where you will have a chance to meet the producers one-on-one for a personalized experience, giving you an opportunity to really get a complete picture of the different winemaking methods.

6:00 PM: Wellness Workshop with Marta: Visualize Your Goals In this transformative workshop, Marta Malaman will guide you through the powerful practice of goal visualization. You'll gain deeper insights and clarity on what truly matters to you and learn how to create a vision for your future that aligns with your core values. Through guided visualizations and practical exercises, Marta will help you identify potential challenges and provide strategies to overcome them, empowering you to take actionable steps toward your goals. This workshop is perfect for anyone looking to get closer to their dreams while building resilience and focus along the way.

7:00 PM: Dinner at the villa.

Overnight stay at the villa. 

7:00 AM:  Wellness Workshop with Amy: Goal Setting & Closing Circle
Join Amy Walker for an empowering workshop focused on setting meaningful goals to support your personal growth and well-being. Through guided discussions and practical exercises, Amy will help you identify clear, actionable goals aligned with your values and aspirations. You'll learn effective strategies for breaking down large goals into manageable steps, overcoming obstacles, and staying motivated on your journey.

At the end of the retreat, Amy will also lead a Closing Circle, where participants come together to reflect on their experiences, celebrate progress, and share insights. This heartfelt closing will provide a space for gratitude and connection, ensuring you leave the retreat feeling inspired and supported as you take your next steps forward.

8:00 AM: Breakfast at your villa.  Your retreat officially ends after breakfast on this day.

9:00 AM: Transfer to Firenze Aeroporto for departure home. You are free to depart any time this day after 11:00 AM and we will provide airport transportation to you. 

Thank you so much for joining us in Tuscany! Until next time!