Fall Retreat in Puglia with Joan Hyman
Boutique yoga, Italian living, and the luxury of slowing down
in one of the most beautiful corners of Southern Italy.
Limited to 18 participants
A week to practice, explore, and slow down
Join Joan Hyman and Soul Spark Retreats for an unforgettable week in the heart of Southern Italy. Set among ancient olive groves, rolling countryside, and charming whitewashed villages, this boutique retreat brings together exceptional yoga teaching, authentic Italian culture, thoughtfully curated experiences, beautiful accommodation, and the simple luxury of slowing down.
Our home for the week is La Rosa dei 4 Venti — one of Italy’s most beloved retreat properties. Surrounded by nature and timeless beauty, we’ll gather for daily yoga and meditation, enjoy exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, explore the treasures of Puglia, and reconnect with what truly matters.
Limited to just 18 participants, this retreat offers an intimate and personal experience where genuine connection, individual attention, and a real sense of community can naturally unfold.
This is not about doing more. It is about being more — and giving yourself the space to feel it.
One of Italy’s most enchanting regions
Nestled in the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is a region that rewards those who slow down. Known for its whitewashed villages, endless olive groves, crystal-clear coastline, and extraordinary food culture, it offers a quieter, more relaxed side of Italy — away from the better-known tourist trails. October is one of the most beautiful times to visit. The summer crowds have faded, the temperatures stay pleasantly warm, and the region settles into a more relaxed rhythm. Mornings begin with the aroma of fresh espresso, afternoons invite exploration or rest beneath the olive trees, and evenings are spent sharing long meals under golden Mediterranean skies.
Impressions
La Rosa dei 4 Venti
More than a retreat center, La Rosa dei 4 Venti is a destination in its own right. Set on fourteen acres of private countryside, this beautifully restored 17th-century Masseria combines authentic Italian charm with understated elegance and modern comfort.
Surrounded by olive groves, gardens, and peaceful walking paths, the property is the perfect setting to slow down, reconnect, and simply enjoy being present. Practice in the beautiful dedicated yoga shala, relax by the pool, enjoy long outdoor meals, and discover countless quiet corners made for rest and reflection.
THE PROPERTY FEATURES
— Boutique accommodation
— A dedicated stone yoga shala
— Swimming pool
— Expansive gardens and olive groves
— Outdoor dining areas
— Mediterranean cuisine prepared with local ingredients
— Quiet spaces for relaxation and reflectio
Food & Nutrition
Food is at the heart of life in Puglia, and at the heart of this retreat. Meals are crafted with care from fresh, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients — vibrant Mediterranean cooking that nourishes both body and soul. Enjoy a rich brunch and dinner daily, with tea and filtered water available throughout the day. Meals are shared together at a long table — unhurried, generous, and one of the things participants remember most. We’re happy to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions; just let us know ahead of the retreat.
Exceptional teaching, for every level
At the heart of this retreat is the opportunity to study with internationally respected yoga teacher Joan Hyman. Known for her intelligent sequencing, compassionate teaching style, and deep understanding of yoga philosophy, Joan creates practices that are both transformative and accessible.
Each day opens with an energizing morning Vinyasa flow to awaken the body, and closes with a gentle evening practice — restorative yoga, pranayama, and meditation — to unwind and integrate. Across the week we’ll explore dynamic movement, breathwork, restorative practice, and mindful self-inquiry. Whether you are an experienced practitioner or a dedicated student looking to deepen your understanding, the retreat offers space for both growth and restoration. All levels are warmly welcome.
Included Experiences
Discovering Puglia together
Part of what makes this retreat special is the chance to explore Puglia authentically, its coastal towns, its food, and its quiet inland beauty. Three curated excursions are included.
Experiences - 01
Guided Forest Hike
One afternoon is set aside for a guided walk from La Rosa, following old hunters’ paths through protected woodland to a quiet, fairy-tale clearing with a view toward the Ionian, a perfect place to pause in the silence.
Experiences - 02
3 Villages Full Day Trip
A full day takes us along the coast to Locorotondo, Polignano a Mare, where you can swim at the rocky beach beneath its famous postcard view, and Monopoli, a beautiful port town with a seaside path winding around the old centre.
Experiences - 03
Half Day Tour
A half day pairs the White City of Ostuni with time at the sandy Rosa Marina beach to relay and take a swim.
WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?
This retreat is perfect for dedicated yoga practitioners, yoga teachers, and anyone seeking
balance, inspiration, and connection. It’s equally suited to those who simply love beautiful places,
exceptional food, and authentic cultural experiences. All levels are warmly welcome
The rhythm of a day
Each day has a gentle, consistent shape — with plenty of space to rest, explore, or simply be.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 08:00 | Energizing Morning Vinyasa Flow A dynamic, energizing practice to open the day. |
| 09:30 – 11:30 | Brunch A long, leisurely brunch — the heart of the morning. |
| Midday | Free Time or Excursion Relax by the pool, book a massage, explore the property, or join a curated excursion, depending on the day |
| 17:00 | Evening Practice Restorative yoga, pranayama, and meditation to unwind and integrate. |
| 18:30 | Dinner Gather for delicious meals, meaningful conversation, and warm Italian hospitality |
Departure: October 29 (check-out by 11 AM)
What’s Included
- 6 nights accommodation with private bathroom
- Daily energizing morning Vinyasa flow with Joan Hyman
- Daily evening practice — restorative yoga, pranayama & meditation
- Three curated excursions throughout Puglia
- Rich brunch & dinner daily — Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients
- Tea & filtered drinking water all day
- Yoga mats and props
- Use of all retreat center facilities, including the pool and gardens
- Daily room cleaning
- Accommodation tax
- Wi-Fi
Not included
- Travel to Puglia, Italy (nearest airports: Bari & Brindisi)
- Transfers (we can help arrange taxis)
- Massages and spa treatments (available onsite)
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Pricing
Early Bird Offer
Be one of the first 6 participants and enjoy an extra €150 discount with code JOANITALY.
To secure your place, a non-refundable deposit of EUR 500 is required at the time of booking.
Booking and Payment Policy
- €500 non-refundable deposit to secure your spot
- Balance due by July 15, 2027
- After July 15, 2027, full payment is required at booking
- If you are looking to be paired with someone, email tinakschmelzer@gmail.com
- You must accept the booking conditions at the moment of registration.
Cancellation Policy
- The deposit is non-refundable
- 50% refund of the total price for cancellations before July 15, 2027
- No refunds after July 15, 2027
- Option to transfer your booking to another participant
- Full refund if the retreat is cancelled by the organizers
- ‘Travel insurance is strongly recommended
Payment plans and financial assistance are available where possible — please reach out to Joan or Tina to discuss.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS SAY
Paula K
My husband and I have been on two retreats with Joan — in Austria and Sardinia. Joan has created a beautiful international yoga community, and her retreats always attract the most kind and beautiful people. The perfect balance of yoga, activities, and your own time. The food and the retreat centres are always excellent. A yoga retreat with Joan is most definitely a treat your future self will thank you for.
Susanne D
Two weeks of amazing yoga, inspiring discussions, and time with a like-minded international community. We started each day with Joan, who has always been a special teacher for me — being in her classes feels deeply familiar, yet there is always something
new to learn. I am deeply touched by how, in just two weeks, strangers become friends and form a real bond.”
Lilly C
An exceptional trip. I knew the yoga would be first-class, because Joan is a thoughtful, intelligent teacher — I always appreciate her sequencing and instruction. The retreat centre was beautiful, my room was comfortable, and I really appreciated the food and the
kindness of the staff.
Moon Z
Joan Hyman and Tina Schmelzer are amazing. The yoga was incomparable, and Tinaran everything with precision, patience and warmth.
FAQ
How do I book, and what's included in the price?
You can book directly through our website via WeTravel. The retreat fee includes accommodation, daily brunch and dinner, all yoga and meditation sessions with Joan Hyman, the three curated excursions, and use of all retreat center facilities. Flights are not included.
Is this retreat suitable for all levels?
Yes. All levels are warmly welcome. Joan’s teaching is intelligent and compassionate, with modifications offered so everyone can practice comfortably — whether you’re a dedicated practitioner or still building your foundation.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely — many participants join alone. Our retreats are designed to foster genuine community and
connection, and the intimate group of 18 makes it easy for solo travelers to feel at home.
What about dietary needs?
Meals are plant-forward Mediterranean cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. We’re happy to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions — just let us know in your registration or by email
ahead of the retreat.
Which airport should I fly into?
The nearest airports are Bari and Brindisi, both well-connected from major European hubs. Let us know in your registration if you’d like help arranging a transfer — we’re happy to connect you with other participants for a shared, more sustainable journey.
Can I arrive early or stay on afterwards?
Yes, and Puglia rewards extra time. We’re glad to share recommendations for exploring the region before or after the retreat.
JOIN US IN PUGLIA
Imagine beginning your mornings with yoga in a beautiful stone shala, spending your afternoons
exploring charming Italian villages or resting by the pool, and ending your days gathered around a
long table with new friends, sharing wonderful food and meaningful conversation. This is that week.
Six nights. Eighteen guests. One beautiful corner of Italy.
October 23–29, 2027.
