Example itinerary of what to expect at The Joyful Escape
We’ve thoughtfully designed each day to include ample time for reading, massages, poolside relaxation, additional walks, and rest between scheduled activities. See our example itinerary below to see the a guide of what to expect each day.
Not sure what you need to bring? Don’t worry we have created a packing guide detailing all the essentials.
Day 1 - Arrival & welcome
- Transfer via private taxi from Perugia Airport to Casa Rosa
- Settle into your comfortable apartment
Evening
- Welcome dinner and introductions to your hosts and instructors
Day 2 - Introductions & beginnings
Morning
- Pilates introduction, followed by a sumptuous buffet breakfast followed by a leisurely welcome walk to explore Casa Rosa and its picturesque surroundings
- Relaxed lunch
Afternoon/Evening
- Afternoon mindfulness session
- Evening Pilates class before dinner
Day 3 - Waterfall adventures & pool pilates
Morning
Early morning walk to the waterfall with an invigorating swim before breakfast
- Pilates in the pool, followed by a late lunch
Afternoon/Evening
- Afternoon two-hour meditation workshop
- Evening Pilates session before dinner
Day 4 - Assisi excursion
Morning
Early taxi to the Hermitage of St Francis. Descend into Assisi for breakfast
- Optional guided tour or free time to explore Assisi’s charming streets and historical sites
- Lunch at a select local restaurant
Afternoon/Evening
- Return to Casa Rosa
Evening Pilates class before dinner
Day 5 - Hill walking & wrap up
Morning
Morning Pilates before breakfast
Mid-morning coaching workshop
- Lunch at Casa Rosa
Afternoon/Evening
- Afternoon three-hour circular walk in the surrounding hills
Evening Pilates before dinner
Day 6 - Farewell day
Morning
Return to the waterfall for a short Pilates class before a late breakfast
Mid-morning walk, weather permitting
- Lunch at Casa Rosa
Afternoon/Evening
- Afternoon wrap-up session, integrating archetypes into a final Pilates and meditation session
Answering your 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
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.
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.