About The Retreat
Location
Spend Christmas on the Island of Ortigia at a stunning historic retreat sanctuary of peace and renewal, perched above the sea.
This enchanting destination is a healing oasis for wellness, offering transformative yoga and healing programs. Overlooking the crystal-clear waters and infused with the island’s timeless energy, our Ortigia retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in restoration and healing, and the profound beauty of nature.
The small Baroque island of Ortigia and the historic centre of Syracuse, is widely considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Sicily. Inhabited for over 3,000 years and renowned for its Greek heritage, it is a UNESCO landmark for its “remarkable testimony of the Mediterranean cultures over the centuries” and makes for a perfect weekend escape in any season.
Dotted with impressive church facades, outdoor restaurants, elegant piazzas and surrounded by a crystalline sea, Ortigia is more manicured than Catania, less overrun that Taormina and as delicious as Palermo.
Christmas By The Sea
With its timeless architecture and breathtaking Mediterranean views, this retreat offers a perfect blend of elegance and tranquility, designed to inspire transformation and healing.
Begin each day with the soothing rhythm of the sea as you flow through revitalizing yoga and meditation, followed by a nourishing brunch crafted from the finest local ingredients. In the afternoons, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Ortigia, swim in crystal – clear waters, before indulging in bespoke wellness treatments that rejuvenate body and soul.
This intimate and boutique retreat offers the perfect escape to nurture your body, mind, and spirit during the festive season.
Each morning awaken with a 1.5-hour yoga class as the sound of the waves soothes your practice. Afterward, savor a delicious and healthy brunch, crafted with fresh, local ingredients, to nourish and energize you for the day.
In the afternoons, take time for yourself with personalized treatments (available at an additional cost), explore the beauty of Ortigia, or simply relax by the sea or in your room.
Celebrate the spirit of Christmas with a special dinner on Christmas Eve and a festive Christmas lunch on December 25, enjoyed in a warm and peaceful setting, surrounded by the beauty of the Mediterranean.
This enchanting retreat offers you the chance to embrace the holiday season with mindfulness, joy, and tranquility. Escape to Ortigia for a serene and unforgettable Christmas by the sea.
Daily Schedule
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
: Herbal Tea
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
: Morning Yoga Class Begin your day with a 1.5-hour yoga session, designed to harmonize body and mind, as you practice with the sound of the waves in the background.
11 AM –
Nourishing Brunch Following yoga, indulge in a wholesome and healthy brunch, prepared with fresh, local ingredients to revitalize and energize you for the day ahead.
12:00 PM – 5 PM
: Free Time & Treatments The afternoons are yours to unwind as you choose. Treat yourself to a relaxing therapy (available at an additional cost), explore the charming streets of Ortigia, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the retreat house by the sea.
5.30 PM
: Optional Gentle Yoga or Meditation (on select days) Some afternoons will offer the option to join a gentle yoga class or guided meditation, allowing you to deepen your relaxation and mindfulness practice.
Special Festive Events
Christmas Eve (December 24)
: Special Dinner Gather for a festive, beautifully arranged Christmas Eve dinner, celebrating the holiday with a nourishing meal in a cozy, magical setting.
Christmas Day (December 25)
: Christmas Lunch A delightful Christmas lunch will be served, filled with festive joy, fresh seasonal ingredients, and a warm atmosphere. Followed by Christmas movies and walks around the historical Ortigi.
Healthy Food
Our food it’s all local, organic and delicious. Enjoy farm-to-table gourmet dinners and energising healthy brunches made by our chefs.
Yoga Teacher
KAREN MARTIN
Karen is a certified yoga instructor with a passion for sharing the transformative power of yoga and meditation. She began her journey in 2019 while living in New York, where she completed her first yoga certification and quickly realized her calling to teach. Since then, she has taught in New York, Mexico City, and now, Rome.
With a background in Vinyasa yoga and a long-standing meditation practice,
Karen brings a holistic approach to her teaching. Before transitioning to yoga full-time, she worked in the fast-paced world of finance, including roles on Wall Street. Her experience in this high-stress environment inspired her to explore mindfulness and self-connection, leading her to discover that true happiness and balance come from within.
Karen’s teaching style is rooted in creating a supportive, inclusive environment where students of all levels can cultivate a deeper connection to their body and breath. Her classes emphasize mindfulness, gentle progression, and using breath work to navigate both physical and mental challenges. She is committed to helping her students develop not only physical strength and flexibility but also a sense of inner peace and self-awareness.
Known for her positive energy and compassionate guidance, Karen has worked with diverse groups of students across different cultures and experience levels. Her ongoing studies and dedication to personal growth enable her to inspire others to explore how yoga and meditation can foster love, compassion, and a more fulfilling life.
In every class, Karen offers a safe, nurturing space for students to explore their practice, encouraging them to connect inwardly and stay present, with an open heart and mind.
Accommodation
We have 3 very elegant double bedrooms, one of them is a sea view apartment.
Retreat Price
€1500 shared room
€2000 private
Included
- Daily morning yoga class
- Daily brunch
- Optional gentle Yoga or Meditation (Tuesday and Thursday)
- Christmas Eve special dinner
- Christmas Day (December 25): Christmas Lunch
- New Year’s Eve (31st) Special Dinner
How To Get Here
Catania is the nearest airport, we can arrange airport transfers.
Book Your Place
Please complete the form below if you have a question and to book your place. Get £20 off your first booking with Trips With A Soul.
