Frequently Asked Questions
(and the less frequently asked, but ‘we know you want to’ questions)
We recommend the following British Airways flights. Transport to and from the airport in Italy will be arranged in line with these flights only.
Outward flight on Sunday
BA0616 – 16:05 London Heathrow – Perugia
Return flight on Saturday.
BA0617 – 11:40 Perugia – London Heathrow
We have arranged for airport transport in Italy in line with the recommended BA London-Perugia flight. You are welcome to take alternative flights, but we will not provide transport from these flights.
Yes, you are welcome to extend your stay either at Casa Rosa, or elsewhere and arrange your own transport to and from the venue.
To fully enjoy our retreat, we recommend a moderate level of fitness. Ideally, you should be comfortable participating in a one-hour Pilates class and able to navigate sloping and uneven terrain without assistance.
We understand that everyone’s abilities differ, and we’ve designed our programme with flexibility in mind. The longer walks and waterfall swim are optional activities, so please don’t worry if you feel these might be too challenging.
To ensure we can cater to your individual needs and provide the best possible experience, we’ll send you a comprehensive health questionnaire before your arrival. This allows us to understand your capabilities and make any necessary adjustments to your programme.
Our aim is to create an inclusive and enjoyable environment for all our guests, regardless of fitness level. If you have any concerns about the physical aspects of the retreat, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to help and can discuss how best to tailor the activities to suit you.
Yes, many people choose to come on our retreats as a perfect option for solo travellers. You will be able to meet new friends, enjoy communal meals and activities, but there is also plenty of time and space to enjoy your own company.
Whilst our retreats tend to have a higher ratio of women, we actively encourage men to join and welcome participants of all genders.
Don’t worry, we totally get this one. To be honest, we wouldn’t call ourselves group people, this is why we are so flexible with our timetable. We understand that people have vastly different needs in terms of time spent in a group, on their own or with a partner and you’ll find there is ample space and opportunity to accommodate whatever you want to do at any given time. What tends to happen is that the group gathers its own pace. There are many situations when you can make friends, share stories, and for many this is a big part of the retreat. There is also lots of time for peace and quiet and doing you own thing.
Temperatures in June and September are very pleasant, mostly in the range of 20-25 degrees Celsius, warm enough to swim and to exercise outside. If it is very warm, we will alter the timetable and make sure Pilates classes and walks are taken in the cooler mornings and late afternoon/evening. It can also occasionally rain, so we have undercover options for activities.
You may cancel the Services within 14 days of booking, by notice in writing to us, by email or by telephone, subject to the consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 detailed below.
If you cancel the Services after 14 days, then you must pay the following cancellation fees:
- If you cancel the Services on or less than 10 weeks prior to the start date of the Retreat, the full fee will be charged.
- If you cancel the Services more than 10 weeks before the start date of the Retreat; no fee will be charged but your deposit will be retained.
If you are a ‘consumer’ as defined in the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, you may cancel this agreement within 14 days of the date of this agreement by emailing us at realretreats@gmail.com. To meet the cancellation deadline, it is sufficient for you to send your communication concerning your exercise of the right to cancel before the cancellation period has expired. If you cancel this agreement, we will reimburse to you all payments received from you within 14 days after the date on which we were informed about your decision to cancel this contract. If however you enter into the contract less than 14 days prior to the start date of the Retreat, you agree that we may commence provision of the Services and that if you cancel the contract within 14 days of the date of this agreement, you shall pay us an amount that is in proportion to what has been performed until you have communicated to us your cancellation of this agreement, in comparison with the full coverage of the agreement}
We may postpone or cancel the Services upon notice to you of at least [72] hours, in which case, we will (at our choice) either refund you the amounts paid by you up such point or re-schedule the Retreat to the earliest mutually convenient time.
No, everything is optional. Think of the timetable like a pick and mix, take what you fancy, leave what you don’t.
No, we hope you’ll be starting to get the impression that there is something for everyone and plenty of opportunity for reflection and quiet time. All activities are an offering rather than an obligation. Take what you need, leave what you don’t. This is your retreat.
Yes, yes yes! This is the best thing about our retreats. On certain retreats, we have a secret weapon in the form of Ian who likes nothing better than to take partners of either gender – no stereotyping here walking, tree climbing, off for a swim in the waterfall, or even into the woods to help him create new paths or build bridges over the stream. If that all sounds a bit overly physical then there is the pool, there are hammocks.
What truly sets our retreat apart is the magical blend of location, atmosphere, and experiences we offer. At the heart of it all are Casa Rosa’s wonderful owners, Ella and Alessandro, whose warmth and hospitality create an instantly welcoming environment. Their genuine care for guests sets the tone for the entire retreat, and it’s remarkable how quickly everyone – staff and guests alike – falls under the enchanting spell of Casa Rosa.
Our programme offers a perfect balance of activities that nourish both body and soul. You’ll find plenty of quiet, contemplative moments for self-reflection – a luxury often hard to come by in our busy day-to-day lives. These peaceful interludes are complemented by opportunities to let loose, laugh, dance, and reconnect with your carefree spirit.
It’s not uncommon for our guests to remark, “I feel like a child again!” This sentiment captures the essence of what makes our retreat so special. Here, you’re invited to shed the weight of adult responsibilities and rediscover the joy of living in the moment.
No, our experienced instructors can cater for all abilities, and we will ask you to complete a detailed questionnaire prior to the retreat to give us all the information we need about your abilities and health status.
Casa Rosa is a charming, rustic, Agri turismo with apartments situated either in the original farmhouse or additional small buildings on the site. The buildings surround a garden filled with lavender and roses, and look out over a beautiful, wooded valley. The best view is from the pool, perched on a terrace a little way above the accommodation buildings.
There are five shared twin rooms, 2 single rooms in shared apartments and 1 single occupancy apartments. There are shared bathrooms in all but the single occupancy apartment.
Please see a more detailed description of each apartment with prices [here]
We typically have between 10 and 13 guests on the retreat
Yes, the Wi-Fi is particularly good at Casa Rosa
Ah, the classic misconception about retreats! Many folks reckon they’re solely for those embarking on a spiritual odyssey. Whilst there is plenty of opportunity for quiet and self-reflection, we’ve got a smorgasbord of activities for anyone looking to unwind, grow a bit, or simply escape the daily grind.
You can also expect bucketloads of laughter, the occasional impromptu dance-off (no skills required, just enthusiasm), and often, the most fabulous conversations that stretch into the evening.
So, whether you’re a spiritual seeker or just fancy a break from your usual routine, come join us! We promise you’ll leave feeling refreshed, possibly a tad wiser, and with a few new friends to boot.
The retreat is for 6-nights, 5-full days
Included in the retreat package are your pre-arranged taxi transfers in Italy (to/from Perugia airport and to/from Assisi mid-week), accommodation, food, wine with meals, 30-minute massage, all classes, and activities.
Not included are your flights, transfers in the UK, additional wine, massages, or taxis and your meal in Assisi.
All meals are included apart from the restaurant meal in Assisi should you choose to join us.
We take immense pride in our culinary offerings at Casa Rosa. Our talented on-site chef prepares all meals following a carefully crafted set menu, highlighting the finest local ingredients and traditional Italian flavours.
Whilst we regret that we cannot cater to a wide range of individual preferences, we are delighted to accommodate vegetarian and dairy-free diets. Please inform us of these requirements when booking.
Regarding gluten intolerances, we kindly ask for your understanding. Italian regulations concerning gluten-free food preparation are quite stringent, requiring separate facilities for cooking. If you have a gluten intolerance or coeliac disease, we kindly request that you notify us prior to confirming your booking. This will allow us to discuss suitable arrangements and ensure we can meet your dietary needs safely and in compliance with local regulations.
Err no! Again, this is Italy! Giovanna, our on-site chef creates the most delicious, varied meals. She sources all ingredients locally and tells a story of the provenance of each meal. The fact that the food is quite healthy is a bonus.
You will never be hungry, but here’s the real treat – for five whole days, you won’t have to lift a finger in the kitchen. No meal planning, no chopping, no washing up. Just imagine!
Yes, and cake and creamy puddings, it’s a holiday not a boot camp. I am always amused when people sidle up to me and whisper, “Erm… will there be wine?” To which I heartily respond, “Of course! This is Italy, after all!” Drinking alcohol, or not, is always acceptable on our retreats.
Yes, we’ve thoughtfully designed each day to include ample time for reading, massages, poolside relaxation, additional walks, and rest between scheduled activities.
Yes, Giulia, our incredible holistic therapist will be resident throughout the whole retreat. A 30-minute treatment is included in the price of your retreat, and you are welcome to book further treatments with Giulia during your stay.
