INWARD JOURNEY: SICILY RETREAT
MAY 15-22, 2027 • LA MASSERIA DANENA • NOTO, SICILY
<< FIRST 10 SIGN-UPS, SAVE $250 >>
THE INVITATION
We naturally seek new horizons – a change of scenery, a break from routine, a journey outward into the world. This 8-day immersion is your invitation to embark on an inward journey. Nestled in the sun-drenched Sicilian countryside, we will dive into deep practice to explore the rich landscape of the self: body, heart, mind and spirit.
THE PRACTICE
This intentionally designed program follows a clear arc, where each day’s focus flows into the next. The sessions are created to be both experiential and educational to support your inward journey. Twice-daily practices include:
• Vinyasa Yoga & Kundalini Kriya to awaken and shift energy in the body.
• Breathwork & Meditation to calm the nervous system and clear the mind.
• Dharma Talks & Engaging Group Discussion to ground the teachings in practical wisdom.
TIME FOR REST
There will be plenty of free time to lounge by the freshwater infinity pool, unwind with a massage, bike around the surrounding countryside, stroll through the olive groves, or visit the stunning nearby beaches and villages.
CURATED EXPERIENCES
Your registration includes a special group cooking class, a private boat trip around a stunning nature reserve, and a visit to the historic city of Siracusa and island of Ortigia.
THE GIFT OF COMMUNITY
If my past retreats are any indication, you will be surrounded by warm, like-minded human beings and leave with lasting friendships. Expect lots of laughter and meaningful conversations.
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION
The first 10 guests to sign-up will save $250 with code INWARD
THE PROPERTY
Located in the heart of southeastern Sicily, La Masseria at Danena is a lovingly restored 19th-century property tucked into olive and almond groves. Situated near Mediterranean beaches and iconic historic towns like Noto and Siracusa, this private estate serves as our exclusive sanctuary for the week.
• The peaceful patios and sunny roof terrace provide quiet spaces to take in the countryside views.
• The freshwater infinity pool offers a serene place to take a dip or lounge in the sun.
• Elegant guest rooms feature premium Egyptian cotton linens and organic toiletries.
• Yoga sessions are held in the spacious barn studio or on the outdoor wooden platform overlooking the orangery.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
• 7-nights accommodation at La Masseria
• Twice daily sessions - including yoga, meditation, breathwork and dharma talks
• Homemade vegetarian meals - fruit/tea/coffee, hearty brunch and dinner served daily
• Onsite group cooking class highlighting Sicilian cuisine
• Private boat trip from Vendicari Nature Reserve to Portopalo
• Visit to the historic city of Siracusa and island of Ortigia
• Airport transfers from/to Catania International Airport
NOT INCLUDED
• Airfare and travel insurance
• Car rental, for those who want the freedom to explore
• Spa treatments on property
• Personal purchases and gratuities
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION
The first 10 guests to sign-up will save $250 with code INWARD
ACCOMMODATIONS
La Masseria features 15 guest rooms: charming standard and spacious superior rooms (many with separate living area & kitchenette), plus a deluxe open-space standalone villa. Every room preserves its rustic, authentic character while offering modern comforts to support rest.
All rates are per person. A $500 non-refundable/non-transferable deposit reserves your spot.
Apartment 1: Standard room
• Double occupancy, private bathroom: $2850
• Single occupancy, shared bathroom: $3550
Apartment 2: Standard room with shared living area & kitchenette, 2x bathrooms
• Double occupancy, shared bathroom: $2900
• Single occupancy, shared bathroom: $3600
Apartment 3: Superior room
• Double occupancy, private bathroom: $3150
Apartment 4 & 5: Standard room with shared living area & kitchenette
• Double occupancy, private bathroom: $2950
• Single occupancy, private bathroom: $3650
Apartment 6 & 6.1: Superior room with mezzanine bedroom, private living area & kitchenette
• Double occupancy, private bathroom (1X king bed for couple): $3250
Apartment 7: Deluxe open plan villa with private living area & kitchenette (1300 sqft)
• Double occupancy, private bathroom (2X king beds): $3950
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION
The first 10 guests to sign-up will save $250 with code INWARD
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
-
Deposits & Payments
Initial Deposit: The $500 deposit required to secure your spot is strictly non-refundable and non-transferable.
Final Balance: Remaining balance payments are due no later than February 15, 2027.
Cancellation Timeline
Cancellations before February 15, 2027: You will receive a refund of any payments made, minus the $500 non-refundable deposit.
Cancellations after February 15, 2027: All payments become entirely non-refundable and non-transferable.
The Waitlist Exception: If you must cancel after February 15 and your spot can be filled and fully paid for by another guest, you will receive a refund of your payments, minus the $500 deposit, once the new guest's registration is finalized.
Travel Insurance: Due to the strict commitments to our venue in Sicily, exceptions cannot be made to this policy for any reason, including illness, injury, or family emergencies. Travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect your investment against unforeseen circumstances. -
Yes! Please email yvonne@yvonnekingsley.com to discuss custom monthly payment plan options that work best for your budget.
-
The Location
Danena is nestled on the southeastern tip of Sicily, a one-hour drive from Catania International Airport (CTA).Flight Recommendations
All flights from the United States to Sicily require at least one layover. We recommend flying into Rome (FCO) for your first leg. For those traveling from the Bay Area, United Airlines offers convenient, non-stop direct flights from SFO to Rome. From Rome, the short flight to Catania (CTA) takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with nearly hourly options available on ITA Airways or Ryanair.Complimentary Airport Transfers
Your registration includes round-trip group airport transfers between Catania Airport (CTA) and Danena on our retreat start and end dates.Arrival (May 15): The group shuttle is scheduled to pick up at Catania Airport around 2:00 PM. Please ensure your flight lands with plenty of time to collect your baggage beforehand. Check-in at La Masseria opens at 3:00 PM.
Departure (May 22): Check-out from our rooms is at 10:00 AM. The departure shuttle will leave the property to drop guests off at Catania Airport around 11:30 AM.
Please note: Exact group pickup and drop-off windows will be finalized and shared closer to our retreat date.
Independent Travel & Car Rentals
If you choose to arrive in Sicily early, extend your stay, or travel outside of our group shuttle windows, you will be responsible for arranging your own transportation. If you prefer total autonomy to explore the stunning nearby beaches, historic towns, and local culture during your daily free time, we highly recommend reserving a rental car at the airport for the week. -
Saturday, May 15 (Arrival): Check-in at La Masseria begins at 3:00 PM. Our complimentary group airport shuttle will pick up at Catania Airport (CTA) around 2:00 PM.
Saturday, May 22 (Departure): Check-out from our rooms is at 10:00 AM. The group shuttle will depart the property to drop guests off at Catania Airport around 11:30 AM.
-
While each day follows a thoughtful arc, our general daily rhythm is designed to balance full practice, nourishing meals, and spacious rest:
Early Morning: Light bites (fresh fruit, coffee, and tea) available before practice.
Morning Session: Deep-dive practice, weaving together dharma lectures, vinyasa yoga, breathwork and meditation.
Late Morning: A hearty, farm-to-table brunch.
Afternoon: Free time to relax by the pool, explore nearby beaches and historic towns, or participate in our curated group excursions (Syracuse/Ortigia visit, boat tour, cooking class).
Late Afternoon: Workshop-style sessions to integrate, reflect and unwind.
Evening: A delicious group dinner around the table, followed by restful, unstructured evenings.
Note: A detailed day-by-day schedule will be provided prior to our arrival in Sicily.
-
Beyond our group cooking class, boat trip, and town visit to Ortigia, you will have free time during the week to visit nearby beaches or historic towns.
If you would like total independence to roam, we recommend reserving a rental car at the airport for the week. Alternatively, local taxis can be easily arranged through the retreat center.
-
Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, including the guest rooms and communal spaces.