Sorrento Retreat

A Mythic Journey to Self

9.15.25-9.21.25

About This Trip

Join us for a rejuvenating retreat along the stunning Amalfi coastline, where we'll enjoy leisurely walks through olive and lemon groves, visit charming towns like Sorrento, Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, and swim in the turquoise sea. Explore the ancient streets of Pompeii while engaging in daily qigong and sound therapy sessions amidst nature. Savor a culinary journey with exquisite organic meals made from fresh, local ingredients. Experience guided nature walks and cultural excursions that immerse you in the rich heritage of the Amalfi Coast. With exclusive access to a private beach, unwind and reflect under the Mediterranean sun. In this idyllic sanctuary, rediscover inner harmony and rejuvenate your spirit amidst the enchanting scenery of Sorrento. This retreat promises relaxation, personal growth, and exploration from our 50-acre, seaside organic farm base.

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Where You’ll Stay

Regina Giovanna is an 4-star hotel on an expansive 50-acre organic farm featuring natural soaps and products made exclusively for guests. It is located on Italy’s picturesque Sorrento peninsula, which is situated just 1.5 hours away from the vibrant city of Naples. The farm showcases contemporary art and is nestled just above a private beach and is surrounded by lemon and olive groves. Its spacious and elegantly designed rooms, each with ensuite bathrooms, feature timeless Italian decor that creates an ambiance both calming and luxurious for guests.

Additionally, there is a private beach equipped with comfortable sun loungers, umbrellas, and stand-up paddle-boards (SUPs) for your enjoyment. This beautiful and pristine private beach is just short paddle-board ride away from the peninsula’s, Bagni di Regina Giovanna, where the famous queen once bathed in crystalline waters. This natural attraction is complemented by the hotel’s lounge area, with its ocean blue finishes, where guests can enjoy snacks, meals and drinks – all day long. Peaceful and quiet, this small inlet is fully equipped with deck chairs, towels and beach umbrellas which will all be included in our stay.

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Your Guides

Hi, I’m Mara and I grew up in a suburb of Atlanta with a Neapolitan mother and an Africa-American father. I have lived and traveled all throughout Italy, but I feel most connected to my Neapolitan roots.

I am a trauma informed, holistic practitioner with over 12 years of experience. I also worked in the travel industry for several years - first as a tour operator at a Swiss travel company and later for Delta Vacations. I eventually became a flight attendant for Delta Airlines which later led me to pursue a full-time position as a holistic practitioner. I currently work at treatment centers in the Atlanta area with a focus on mental health and addiction. Having suffered from anxiety disorder myself, I blend my knowledge of holistic practices such as - Sound Therapy, Qigong, Andean Medicine, and Internal Family Systems with my love for travel and wellness.

From start to finish I will guide you through the region’s fascinating history and culture. You will experience the magic through the eyes of a local, but with the curiosity and wonder of someone visiting for the first time.

Find her on Instagram (@MaraRosaria)

A native of Sorrento and Rome, Amelia Pane Schaffner is a certified yoga instructor, lifelong student of ancient history and mythology. Drawing inspiration from both Western and Eastern classics, Amelia blends storytelling, meditation, and embodied practices to create enriching experiences. After a dynamic 20-year career spanning strategy consulting, innovation, start-up growth, and academia, Amelia embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery—slow traveling across Europe for a year, earning her yoga certification in Costa Rica, and deepening her meditation practice. An avid poetry lover and creative writer, Amelia also brings her love for photography and traditional Italian cooking into her teachings, weaving together culture, history, and creative expression. Guided by curiosity and a soulful connection to her Italian roots, she invites others to slow down, listen deeply, and rediscover life’s simple pleasures.

Find her on Instagram (@z.tasty.life) and through her blog (ZTastyLife)

Your Meals

At Regina Giovanna, they like to take things slowly. And not just because they are totally immersed in nature, but because they believe food is another element that needs time. Time to grow, time to cook, and yes, time to eat. It’s an ancient way of life that they still regard as sacred in their restaurant, where each ingredient is unique in its simplicity.

Their olive oil is made on site, fruit and vegetables (especially lemons) are picked and plucked every day, their bread is cooked in a brick oven, the pasta is homemade, fish and meat are locally sourced, and wines and spirits are carefully paired with each dish according to local traditions. These are all small, passionate rituals that make these meals truly special.

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More about this trip.

Nestled along the stunning cliffs of Sorrento, this retreat offers a transformative journey that intertwines the mythic themes of the Odyssey with internal healing practices like Qigong, and Sound Healing. Participants will delve into the rich narratives of Odysseus’s adventures and the siren’s songs, exploring themes of resilience, courage, and self-discovery that resonate with their own life journeys. Just as Odysseus faced trials and tribulations on his quest home, attendees will reflect on their personal challenges, recognizing the parallels in their own mythic journeys. Through guided meditations, energizing Qigong sessions, story telling, journaling and resonant sound healing, participants will uncover hidden strengths and foster a deeper connection to their life’s purpose. Set in a serene environment with nourishing cuisine, this retreat provides a sanctuary for renewal and self-exploration, inviting attendees to embrace both ancient wisdom and modern healing techniques as they navigate their own epic tales.

Daily Practice

Qigong + Yoga: A Morning Ritual of Balance

Each morning, we will begin with an optional Qigong & Vinyasa Yoga Flow, a gentle yet energizing practice designed to cultivate balance in body, mind, and spirit. Through mindful movement and breath, these sessions invite you to stretch, strengthen, and soften—awakening with intention and ease.

Both Qigong and Yoga harness breath, movement, and intention to restore balance and vitality. Qigong’s flowing sequences cultivate a deep sense of relaxation, guiding energy (Qi) through the body to release tension and promote overall well-being. Its meditative breathwork calms the nervous system, slowing the heart rate and quieting the mind. Yoga complements this practice by building strength, flexibility, and fluidity, using breath-linked movement to awaken and align the body. Vinyasa sequences gently open the muscles and joints while centering the mind, creating a seamless bridge between stillness and motion.

Together, these two traditions work in synergy—Qigong’s effortless flow harmonizing with Yoga’s grounding strength—offering a morning practice that nourishes the body, clears the mind, and sets the tone for the day ahead. Surrounded by the sea’s vast horizon and the scent of lemon groves, you’ll attune to the natural rhythms around and within you, finding balance between fluid motion and deep stillness. Suitable for all levels, this practice is an invitation to release tension, reconnect with yourself, and cultivate a sense of awareness and vitality.

Sound Therapy

Sound therapy makes space for the body, mind and spirit to connect. It promotes rest and relaxation allowing the nervous system to experience a deep reset. Sound therapy has been known to help with anxiety, depression, addictions, sleep disorders, physical pain, improving focus, trauma healing and spiritual wellbeing.

Each evening session, you will be guided by the sounds of crystal bowls and chimes for deep relaxation and rest. You will also be led to explore the deeper parts of yourself through the healing tones of the gong which helps to move energetic blockages and heavy emotions that we tend to hold on to in our physical and energetic bodies.

Excursions

Sorrento

Sorrento, a picturesque coastal town in southern Italy, is not only known for its breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast but also for its connection to ancient mythology, particularly Homer's "Odyssey." According to legend, Sorrento is where Odysseus encountered the Sirens, enchanting creatures whose beautiful singing lured sailors to their doom. The town's dramatic cliffs and shimmering waters serve as a fitting backdrop for this timeless tale, echoing the themes of temptation and adventure found in the epic. Sorrento's rich history, charming streets, and vibrant culture make it a captivating destination, while its ties to the "Odyssey" add a layer of mythological intrigue, inviting visitors to explore both its natural beauty and the stories that have shaped its identity over the centuries.
Sorrento is just a short distance away (a 10 minute ride) from The Relais. They will provide a shuttle to and from town at no extra charge to you.
Pompeii

We will also discover the enchanting ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Roman life. Once a thriving city, Pompeii was preserved under layers of volcanic ash following the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. As you wander its cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter remarkably well-preserved structures, including grand villas, bustling marketplaces, and intricately adorned frescoes that tell stories of a vibrant culture. The haunting remnants of this lost city invite visitors to reflect on the past while exploring its rich history. Whether you love learning about ancient history or a just casual traveler, Pompeii promises an unforgettable journey through time, where every corner reveals a piece of its storied legacy.
We will visit this amazing archeological site by train where we will meet with a local guide in order to take in the full magic of this enchanting destination.
The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, a stunning stretch of coastline in Italy's Campania region, is renowned for its jaw dropping landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. This UNESCO World Heritage site features dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi itself. Visitors are captivated by the colorful houses that cling to the hillsides, the fragrant lemon groves, and the serene beaches. The region is also famous for its delicious cuisine, particularly fresh seafood and local specialties like limoncello, and mozzarella di bufula. With its wealth of natural beauty, cultural sights, and gastronomic specialties, the Amalfi Coast is a perfect destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
During our stay, we will take a tour along the Amalfi coastline where we will swim in the beautiful waters of il Fiordo di Furore while also having time to visit Positano and Amalfi, and Ravello for lunch and gelato.
Capri

Just across the bay from Sorrento lies the island of Capri. It captivates with its dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and azure waters. The island's rugged coastline features stunning rock formations, including the famous Faraglioni, three towering sea stacks that rise majestically from the ocean. The surrounding sea is a vibrant palette of blues, ranging from deep navy to shimmering turquoise, inviting visitors to explore its depths. The coastline is dotted with hidden coves and pristine beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The enchanting Blue Grotto, a marine cave accessible by boat, mesmerizes with its luminous blue waters, created by sunlight filtering through an underwater opening. The island's unique flora, including fragrant lemon groves and colorful bougainvillea, adds to its charm. Whether you are lounging by the sea or exploring the island's historic sites, Capri and its surrounding waters offer a breathtaking escape into nature's beauty.

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What’s Included

Six-night stay at Relais Regina Giovanna
Breakfast and Dinner at the hotel and all Lunches on Site (a packed lunch will be provided for excursions)

Use of the Hotel’s Private Beach and Paddle Boards
Daily Practice - Morning Qigong
Three Evening Sound Baths
Sightseeing - Excursions to Pompeii, Positano, Amalfi, Ravello and Sorrento
Entrance Fee and Local Guide in Pompeii
A Farm Tour and Wine Tasting in the Garden of Relais Regina Giovanna
Private Boat Excursion to Capri
A Neapolitan Pizza and Tiramisu Cooking Class on the Farm
Limoncello Tasting in Sorrento
Language and Culture - Mara will share her knowledge of Italian Language, Local Culture and History
What’s Not Included

Flights to and from Italy
Transfers to and from Sorrento (Mara can assist you with the details.)
Travel Insurance
Massages/Individual Energetic Healing Sessions/Spa Treatments
Naples Post-Tour Trip (Details coming soon.)

Pricing + and Cancellation Policy

Please read carefully.

In order to reserve a room, an initial non-refundable deposit of $500 is required. There are three additional non-refundable payments due before the travel date.

It's important to note that once the deposits are made, they are non-refundable. Regardless of the circumstances, refunds or credits will not be provided for guests who fail to attend, arrive late, or leave early. Exceptions cannot be made for any reason, including weather, injury/illness, or personal emergencies. Considering the unforeseen events that can disrupt travel plans, it is recommended to purchase travel insurance to protect against any unexpected situations.

In the event of a governmental travel ban, the deposit will be moved to the following year and the same pricing conditions will be applied.

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Naples - Post Tour

After our relaxing stay in Sorrento, you can continue your journey to Naples, one of Europe’s oldest cities, founded by the Greeks in 470 BC. With my personal connection to the city, having family there and having lived there myself, I’ll guide you through its hidden gems. One of those places is the neighborhood where my mother grew up, Rione Sanità. Once unsafe for tourists due to crime, it has transformed into a vibrant hub of art and culture, showcasing captivating street art from local artists, including the likes of Banksy. We’ll explore bustling markets, visit historic sites like the catacombs, and discover the UNESCO-listed historic center. Our adventures will include a day trip to Mount Vesuvius, strolls in Vomero for stunning views, and, of course, savoring Naples’ renowned street food and famous pizza. Join me for an authentic experience of this enchanting city.

More details coming soon.