About The Retreat

Location

Retreat 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.

Detox By The Sea

Welcome to Danena Home, a heaven of peace and rejuvenation nestled within a beautifully restored house that gazes out over the sparkling waters of Ortigia, Sicily. This stunning home, with its elegant architecture and timeless charm, offers the perfect setting for a transformative retreat. Set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean, Danena Home provides an intimate and welcoming sanctuary, where every corner is designed to inspire serenity and reflection.

Each day begins with the soothing sounds of the sea as you flow through revitalizing yoga and meditation sessions in this exquisite space. Afterward, gather in the light-filled dining area to enjoy a nourishing brunch made with the freshest local ingredients. In the afternoons, you can retreat to the comfort of the house’s peaceful nooks or bask in the warmth of its sun-kissed terraces, before indulging in bespoke wellness treatments designed to purify, heal and restore.

At Danena Home, the beauty of the house, with its harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern comforts, serves as the perfect complement to your journey of balance, healing, and self-discovery. Here, surrounded by nature’s splendor and the soulful spirit of Sicily, you will find a true home for your well-being.

Daily Schedule

09:00 Herbal tea

09:30 – 11 :Morning yoga class – Hatha flow

Begin your day with a 1.5-hour yoga and meditation session, designed to harmonize and heal body and mind

11:30 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 – 17:00 Free time and Ayurvedic, Detoxifying Treatments

The afternoons are for treatments or free time.

17:30 Optional gentle Yoga or Meditation

On two afternoons, you will be offered the option to join a gentle yoga class or guided meditation, allowing you to deepen your relaxation and mindfulness practice.
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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 and Meditation practices
• 2 evening Yoga or Meditation classes
• Daily vegetarian brunch
• Ayurvedic and Wellness Treatments ( at additional costs)
• 6 or 7 nights accommodation in a beautiful historic residence by the sea in Ortigia, Sicily
• Plenty of free time to explore the area

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.