Rural Tuscany’s Villa Lena has a programme of retreats that encompass queer culture, perfume making and flower painting. Olivia Palamountain reports
Italian agriturismo hotel Villa Lena is rolling out a series of creative retreats this year, designed to offer guests hands-on, inspirational experiences in the Tuscan countryside.
Aimed at “curious travellers looking to awaken their creative spirit”, guests will be able to immerse themselves in 500 hectares of woodland, vineyards, olive groves and organic vegetable gardens, while learning new skills and ways of thinking.
Thoughtfully curated and designed in collaboration with artists and creatives, highlights of the series include the Queer Inclusive Tuscany retreat, by feminist-minded Italy travel specialists, Stellavision.
With a philosophy centred on making travel “not just comfortable, but celebratory for those who may feel nervous venturing out; specifically women, non-binary and transgender travellers”, like-minded folk will be in safe hands.
The week-long getaway promises Renaissance-inspired culture and cuisine with an LGBTQ+ and inclusivity focus, and will take place from May 20 to 26. It costs US$5,550 for a single occupancy spot and US$4,375 for double occupancy.
Other Villa Lena retreats for 2023 range from Renaissance flower painting and natural perfumery making to wedding photography and yoga, all of which are led by expert creatives.
The retreats start from €1,690 per person for three nights, including full-board dining, all scheduled activities, workshops and materials and access to Villa Lena’s facilities.
Outside of the retreats, guests will find plenty of opportunities to relax from the panoramic hilltop pool and and soak up Tuscan soul with farm-to-table Italian dishes served at Villa Lena’s destination restaurant, Osteria San Michele, and a menu of additional activities that include daily teacher-led yoga, pasta-making workshops and wine tasting.