Tuscany Walking Retreat & Pilgrimage

Join us on a once in a lifetime adventure walking the Via Francigena route in beautiful Tuscany. This unique retreat will foster a sanctuary of both inner and outer peace as we embark on this historic pilgrimage route.

Join us on this transformative journey and discover ancient trails and breathtaking landscapes as you immerse yourself in the spiritual richness that defines the Via Francigena.

The Via Francigena is often called the Italian Camino for its similarity to the classic Spanish pilgrimage. This ancient pilgrimage route connects Canterbury in England to Rome in Italy, passing through France and Switzerland. We will be walking the picturesque Tuscan leg of the route, which starts in Lucca and ends in Siena. This magical route covers around 110km and is regarded as not only one of the most beautiful routes . Along the way we will get to indulge in the delicious local cuisines of the area and stay in delightful and authentic Tuscan homes, guest houses and villas.

This intimate and exclusive 8 day retreat is a unique opportunity to take time out to discover a renewed sense of self, as well as fostering space for community, connection and friendship with fellow pilgrims

WHAT TO EXPECT

A Spiritual Exploration

• Traverse ancient trails, become one with the beauty of nature and embark on a journey of self-discovery along the Via Francigena, a path trodden by seekers for centuries. Each step you take offers an opportunity for mindfulness and presence while each day invites a profound exploration of both the external landscape and your inner self.

Connection, Community & Friendship

• Opportunities for shared and communal experiences will be gently woven into rhythm of each day to build connections with fellow pilgrims and enrich your experience. Share stories, reflections, and laughter and discover a real sense of community, friendship and camaraderie with your fellow travellers.

Unique Facilitated Programme

• Your retreat facilitators Karen McElroy and Todd Wheatland, will guide you with a specially curated programme of personal practices that will ensure your journey is deep, inspiring and transformative.
• With a shared passion for the art of pilgrimage, travel and culture as well as nature connection, soul work and wellbeing practices, your guides will offer a wonderful programme designed for both fun and adventure as well as lasting change and transformation.
• All pilgrimages are an individual journey – where we explore inner strength and resilience along with discovering personal insights and a deeper soul connection.
• Activities and processes will be provided on the first day of the retreat before we start the walk to fully prepare ourselves on all levels for the special journey that awaits us.
• Along the way you will participate in morning yoga, mindfulness practices, nature connection and soul reflection processes to enrich your Via Francigena experience.

As we journey on outer physical paths, we will find our way into the deeper inner landscapes of heart and soul.

RETREAT INCLUSIONS & LOGISTICS

• Fitness & Walking Experience – the daily walks on our route will cover a range of terrain and will require a moderate level of fitness. Please ensure you have a personal level of fitness, experience and capacity to engage in walking between 15-22km per day (approx 3-5 hours with regular breaks as required) for 7 days.
• Preparation and Integration – A pre-retreat preparation zoom call as well as a post retreat integration zoom call are included to give you valuable information, support and guidance to make this a memorable and transformative experience.
• Accommodation (7 nights) will be provided in a carefully selected range of comfortable hand-picked boutique dwellings that offer both rustic and modern Tuscan charm for an authentic pilgrimage experience, as well as allowing a calm space for introspection.
• Meals

–  Breakfast a nourishing, delicious and hearty breakfast is included each day.

– Dinner  dinners will be included in your retreat package, which will include a mixture of personalised and specialised gourmet catering as well as traditional Tuscan cuisine at various restaurants.

– Lunch   A delicious and wholesome lunch will be provided on day 2 at the beginning of the journey. During other days when we are hiking we invite each participant to discover the local cuisine at villages on the path and thus purchase their own lunches.

• Massage / Spa Experience –  A special  spa experience is also included at the midway point of the pilgrimage journey with options for massage.
• Luggage Transfers – enjoy each day’s walk with just your day backpack as your luggage will be transported to the next accommodation venue if desired.
• Pickup/Drop off at Lucca & Siena train stations are included.

Enjoy the Benefits of an Exclusive Small Group Retreat

This personalised guided walking retreat will have a maximum of 8 participants to ensure meaningful group connections as well as plenty of opportunities for personal space, solitude and reflection. You will enjoy your own unique journey whilst having the benefit of a safe, comfortable and well organised small group programme.

Room Options & Prices

Twin share or double occupancy with limited single occupancy (2 spots only available) – Prices are in AUD

Our all inclusive package of facilitated activities & guidance, 7 nights accommodation, meal package, complimentary pickups and transfers (Lucca/Siena), optional daily luggage service, and special spa experience:

Twin Share  – $3,950 pp (for couples or share room with one other)

Single Occupancy – $4,950 pp (private room – 2 spots only)

• A $500 deposit is required to secure your spot
• Payment Plans available on request
• Please Book Early as limited spots available.

For More Information or to Register Your Interest

please visit The Authentic Life

Or contact Karen on 0411 889533 or email info@karenmcelroy.com.au