A setting that encourages unrushed days and the simple pleasure of reading in a place that feels removed from everyday expectations.
Join us July 9–13, 2026 in the heart of Tuscany, Italy for a 5-day, 4-night women’s-only Reading Retreat, set among rolling vineyards, cypress-lined hills, and centuries of Italian history.
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We’ll spend five days tucked away in a beautifully restored medieval Tuscan castle, complete with peaceful gardens, stone terraces, and quiet corners that invite long reading sessions and slow afternoons. This retreat is designed for women who crave a gentler pace, a bit of solitude, and the kind of travel experience that feels immersive, intentional, and quietly magical.
What to Expect
At our medieval Tuscan castle, you’ll be cared for with:
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Comfortable accommodations in the countryside with a large property to wander and a pool to lounge by.
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Chef-prepared breakfasts and dinners, plus all on-property drinks included
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Airport transfers to and from Florence International Airport (FLR), formerly known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport
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A welcoming retreat host to take care of all the details
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Optional daily activities such as wine tasting, touring ancient towns, visiting thermal hot springs, and maybe even a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful Tuscany!
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Uninterrupted reading time and cozy spaces to relax
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A book exchange PLUS a local bookstore visit to spark your reading list
Our flexible itinerary is designed to balance relaxation and adventure. You choose how much (or how little) you want to do.
We'll be staying in a 13th-century castle!
Is This Retreat for You?
This retreat is thoughtfully designed for women who want to slow down and unwind in the serene beauty of the Tuscan countryside. It’s the perfect opportunity to dive into your TBR pile, discover new favorite reads, and savor quiet moments surrounded by inspiring landscapes.
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Whether you’re traveling solo, coming with friends, or attending with a book club, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free experience with every detail thoughtfully planned. From cozy accommodations to curated activities, this retreat offers space to read, relax, and recharge at your own pace while sharing the experience with a supportive community of fellow book-loving women.
Yard gated by stones with fairly lights lighting a table for dinner
A wider shot of the castle property showcasing a bridge and the fenced in yard
An image of wine barrels in the basement wine cellar of the castle
Yard gated by stones with fairly lights lighting a table for dinner
View property images here!
Location & Accommodation
Our castle is near Siena, Italy, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exceptional preservation of its medieval Gothic character, urban structure, and significant works of art, making it a masterpiece of medieval city planning. Our accommodations is a masterfully preserved 13th-century castle surrounded by rolling vineyards and an outdoor pool.
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To preserve the historical integrity and natural atmosphere of the estate, the castle rooms are not equipped with air conditioning. Instead, the original three-foot-thick medieval walls provide natural insulation, keeping the interiors cool even during the peak of summer. For the personal preference of guests, high-quality fans are provided in every room, and all windows are fitted with professional insect screens.
What's Included
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Professional retreat host & on-site support
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5 days, 4 nights accommodation at the castle
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4 continental breakfasts and chef-prepared dinners
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Some lunches provided on day excursions, but not all
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All on-property beverages
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Round-trip airport transportation (FLR airport)
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Welcome bag and book exchange
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4 included optional group activities such as wine tasting, village tours and a visit to local hot springs
What's Not Included
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Flights to and from Florence, Italy
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Travel insurance (highly recommended)
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Off-site meals and drinks not otherwise specified
If you'd like to extend your stay pre- or post-Reading Retreat, we can provide recommendations or help you to do so. Email us at reservations@slowtravelco.com. We’re happy to arrange them for you!
Sample Itinerary
(subject to change)
Day 1
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Arrival and group transfer from FLR Airport (meet at 2-2:30 pm for transfer)
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Castle check-in & welcome gift
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Property tour and introductions with a group book exchange
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 2
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Continental breakfast
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Relaxation and reading time
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Group tour of Siena
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Lunch on your own
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Private book store visit
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 3
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Continental breakfast
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Optional thermal hot springs tour with lunch
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Afternoon reading and relaxation
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at your leisure
Day 4
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Optional morning hot air balloon ride (may be an additional cost)
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Continental breakfast
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Medival town tours with lunch
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Reading and relaxation time
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at your leisure
Day 5
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Continental breakfast
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Departure transfer to the airport at 10:00 am (arrival at the FLR airport around 11:30 am)
Pricing & Booking
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$2,750 per person, double occupancy
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$900 upgrade, single occupancy
We pair you with a compatible roommate or you can room with a friend. Solo travelers are welcome to upgrade for privacy.
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Secure your spot with a 40% deposit ($1,100).
Full balance due by May 8, 2026.
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Deposits are non-refundable.
Retreat will be confirmed once 80% of spots are filled. If minimum numbers are not met, deposits can be refunded or applied to a future trip.
It's recommended to not book your flight until the retreat has been confirmed.
Getting There
Fly into Florence International Airport (FLR), Florence, Italy. Plan to arrive by 1:20 pm on Thursday, July 9th to join the group shuttle departing at or around 2:30 pm. The manor is approximately a 1-hour drive from the airport.
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If your arrival plans differ, please let us know. You may need to arrange your own transport.
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Lightweight, breathable clothing (linen and cotton will be your best friends)
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A light layer for evenings (castle stone walls can cool things down at night)
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Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for village strolls and uneven paths
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Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
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Swimwear if you’d like to enjoy the pool
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Your favorite books
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A book you’ve loved to exchange during dinner on night one
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Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
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Any personal essentials or medications
Towels, hair dryers, eye masks, and earplugs will be provided. A full packing list will be provided prior to departure.
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And be sure to have extra room in your luggage for your gift bag and other bookish goodies!
What to Bring
Money & Spending
Most places in Italy accept credit cards—Visa and Mastercard are recommended. It’s also a good idea to carry around $50 USD in cash for small purchases or emergencies. You’re welcome to bring Euros if you prefer, but there are ATMs at the airport where you can withdraw local currency once you arrive.
Group travel with Slow Travel Co. is all about ease and connection. Your Retreat Host will handle all logistics and coordination during the trip, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your experience. If you have questions or need help at any time, your host is just a message away!
Traveling as Part of a Group
Meal Plan & Dietary Restrictions
Each day begins with a light continental breakfast, and dinners are prepared by our private chef. Some lunches will be provided on our daytime excursions, but not all. If you have dietary restrictions, follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, or have severe allergies, please notify us at reservations@slowtravelco.com at least 30 days before departure so we can accommodate you.
All rooms are double occupancy with king or two twin beds. Unless you’re traveling with a friend or partner, we’ll pair you with a fellow retreat attendee. Occasionally, rooms with two beds are available, but this can’t be guaranteed. If you prefer privacy, you can upgrade to a single room for an additional fee.
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To ensure a comfortable stay, please be considerate of your roommate regarding cleanliness and noise. Earplugs and eye masks will be provided. Travelers who use a CPAP machine or are aware of snoring may want to consider a single room upgrade.
Shared Rooms & Accommodations
Getting to Know the Group
Before the retreat, we’ll set up a private WhatsApp group so you can connect with your fellow travelers. Feel free to chat, share excitement, or arrange virtual meetups ahead of time!
Your Retreat Host is an experienced traveler and will manage all aspects of the trip — from planning to on-site coordination. She is your primary contact for questions or support before and during the retreat. After booking, expect a friendly welcome email with more details like packing tips and travel info.
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Please note, your Retreat Host is not a medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. If you feel unwell, she can help direct you to local healthcare providers.
Your Group Leader & Support
Safety
While we take every precaution to ensure safe activities and excursions, please remember your own responsibility for personal safety. Avoid going out alone at night and follow all safety recommendations.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for this retreat. If you need recommendations on reliable providers, just reach out. We’re happy to help!
Travel Insurance
Medical & Health Requirements
All travelers must have valid medical insurance
before departure.
Early July in Tuscany brings warm, sun-filled days and balmy evenings. Daytime temperatures typically range from 80–90°F (27–32°C), with evenings cooling slightly into the 60s°F (around 18–20°C). Rain is uncommon this time of year, but summer heat and strong sunshine are the main factors to plan for. We recommend checking the local forecast before packing and coming prepared with breathable clothing, sun protection, and a light layer for cooler nights.
Climate & What to Expect
House Guidelines
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Please be respectful of your roommate and fellow guests.
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No visitors or guests allowed at the manor without prior approval from the Retreat Host and your roommate.
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Help us keep the space safe and welcoming for everyone.
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No smoking.
