Sorrento, Italy at a private villa with views of the Mediterranean Sea
Adventure to Sorrento, Italy next spring, May 17th - 22nd and take your yoga practice out into the world for a nourishing, enlivening, and joy-filled 5 nights/6 days in Italy relaxing poolside at our private villa overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Soak up plenty of practice, sunshine, sea, adventure, incredible Italian flavors, culture, and create space to slow down and worry about nothing more than enjoying your days. We’ll get out for a day on a boat for exploration, swimming, snorkeling, and lunch on the boat, as well as free time to explore the island on our own.
We’ll get creative with a little art and a cooking lesson on a farm, lemon picking and tasting on an orchard, and a stand up paddling adventure tour to Bagni Regina Giovanna. We’ll relax and ground at our private villa that features a pool, hot tub, common spaces and gardens, patios, an outdoor kitchen and outdoor dining + indoor dining areas, and plenty of space to unwind and be.
The retreat will also include daily breakfast or brunch, dinner daily, a retreat gift, and a welcome drink upon arrival. Shared lodging is available and limited private lodging will be available. Enjoy an intimate group of 8-9 total making it more easeful to move about to adventures and experiences, and a couple meals out at great local favorites and restaurants. We enjoy most meals in at our house, but will also get out for a cooking lesson and dinner experience, and head out one evening to a great local restaurant for a dinner and night out.
Take time to explore and deepen your yoga and meditation practices, connect with an incredible community, explore and adventure in a stunning area and country, and immerse in Italy’s “la dolce vita.”
Group Size:
Intimate group of 8-10 in the villa depending upon how rooms fill giving us ample space on the private property to enjoy
Retreat Deposit:
Non-refundable deposit of $500
Retreat Tuition and Lodging Options:
*Taxes and processing fees are included, early-bird specials available~
*Early Bird: Save $200 when you register by July 31st, 2025, save $100 when you register by August 31st, 2025
1) Shared 2 Twin Bed Rm (2 spots open, 2 Ppl per room): $3799 per student
2) Shared Dble Bed Rm (4-6 spots open) (Shared Bed — Best for couples, friends, or family - ppl who already know each other): $3599 per student
3) Private Double Bed Room (1-2 spots open): $4099
Retreat Inclusions:
-Shared or Private Lodging at beautiful and spacious private property and villa that features a pool, hot tub/spa, olive trees on site, patios, common areas, garden areas, outdoor kitchen, outdoor + indoor dining areas, incredible sea views, and more.
-Daily Healthy Breakfast/Brunch at villa
-Daily Dinner in at villa, and we will also get out for a dinner or two together at great local favorites and restaurants
-Ample Yoga Practice and workshopping (mostly in the mornings)
-Guided + Silent Insight and Mindful Meditation
-Yoga Nidra Relaxation
-Journaling Sessions
-Exclusive Boat Tour and Adventure (including swimming, snorkeling, drinks, and a stop to explore an island with a few hours of free time to explore on our own and get lunch)
-Stand Up Paddling Tour and adventure to Bagni Regina Giovanna for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation
-Pizza Cooking Lessons on a Local Farm with Limoncello, Wine, and Good Company
-Lemon Picking and Tasting in a lovely Orchard
-Beach Time and Exploration
-Art/Painting Workshop
-Organic Holy Cacao from Kaua’i, Hawaii
-Retreat Gift
-Welcome Drink
-Pre and post retreat support
-Taxes and processing fees are included
-Tips
Not Included:
-Travel Insurance
-Lunches
-Airfare
-Transfers to and from villa
-Alcohol with exception of wine at the cooking lessons at the farm
-Extra adventures or experiences
Sorrento, Italy:
Retreat to Sorrento!
Sorrento is possibly the most quintessential Italian holiday destination you'll ever find.
Bright yellow lemons everywhere, colorful buildings, incredible views and wonderful food are all on offer wherever you look, plus it's ideally situated between Naples and the Amalfi Coast further south.
Sorrento offers something for everyone. It has culture, history, nature, and relaxation. The ancient city has beautiful historic streets, impressive architecture (from the Middle Ages), and many shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
One of the city’s main features is that it is located on the beautiful Amalfi Coast. When you think of Italy, this is what you think of. The Amalfi Coast is famous for its seaside towns, cliffs, and crystal-clear and turquoise waters.
Sorrento offers an authentic Italian experience, with beautiful scenery, delicious food, a vibrant community, beach clubs, and a good, safe, and friendly atmosphere. Sorrento, overlooking the bay of Naples in Southern Italy, is a beloved destination due to it's location near the Amalfi coast and it's characteristic small shops (famous for woodwork, linens and leather). It can be reached easily from Naples and Pompeii on the circumvesuviana train line. Sorrento has 7 different fractions, Casarlano, Cesarano, Marano, Priora, Santa Lucia, Sorrento capo and Sorrento Marina Grande and has a total population of around 17,000, this population are known as Sorrentini.
From the Sorrento peninsula you have views of the Bay of Naples as well as the Isle of Capri. The Amalfi drive connects Sorrento to the Amalfi coast (Positano, Amalfi, Priaino, Maiori, Minori and Vetri sul Mare) on a narrow road that threads along the high cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The history of Sorrento is a long tale that dates back some 2,600 years. What we see now is a city of orange and lemon trees which boasts the most spectacular views of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples, but much has happened here for us to arrive at this point.
It’s known as the land of mermaids, mysteries, myths and legends where Ulysses was tormented by the Sirens sweetly singing. The Greeks founded Sorrento in the 6th century BC and called it Surreo which means to “flow together” and it may refer to the flow of the two ancient rivers.
The Greeks laid the foundations of the city before the Romans built over it and called it Surrentum. It was occasionally known as Sirrentum which means "Land of Sirens". The word Surriento is still used in Neapolitan dialect. The layout of the historic centre of Sorrento has not changed much since Roman times and it was united with the Kingdom of Italy in the year 1861.
According to Greek historian Diodorus Siculus, Sorrento was founded by Liparus, son of Ausonus, who was king of the Ausoni and son of Ulysses and Circe. The ancient city was probably connected to the Ausoni tribe, one of the most ancient ethnic groups in the area. In the pre-roman age Sorrento was influenced by the Greek civilisation, this can be seen in it's plants and the presence of Athenaion, a great sanctuary, also according to legend founded by Ulysses and originally devoted to the cult of the Sirens, hence the name Sorrento.
MIDDLE AGES AND MODERN ERA
Sorrento became an archbishoperic around 420AD. After the fall of the Western Roman empire, it was ruled by the Ostrogoths and the returned to the Eastern empire. The Lombards, who conquered much of southern Italy in the second half of the 6th century, besieged it in vain.
In the following centuries the distant Empire of Byzantium faded, initially part of the substantially independent Duchy of Naples, then in the 9th century Sorrento became an autonomous duchy. Sorrento fought against neighbouring Amalfi, the Saracens and nearby Lombardic duchies such as that of Benevento, whose forces besieged it in 839, although Sorrento was able to resist with Neapolitan help. The duchy was ruled by figures elected by the people, which received honorary titles from the Byzantine Emperor.
In 1035 the city was acquired by Guaimar IV of Salerno, who gave it to his brother Guy. After a brief return under the Duchy of Naples, it returned to the Lombard hands with the Gisulf II of Salerno, when the latter was defeated by Robert Guiscard, Sorrento entered the Norman sphere of influence, any residual independence was ended in 1137 when it was conquered by Roger II of sicily and annexed to the Kingdom of Sicily.
On 13 June 1558 it was sacked by elements of the Ottoman navy under the command of Dragut, as part of the struggle between the Turks and Spain, which controlled the southern part of Italy at that time. 2,000 captives were reportedly taken. This struggle was waged throughout the Mediterranean and lasted many decades. The attack led to the construction of a new line of walls. The most striking event was the revolt against Spanish domination in 1648. In 1656 a plague struck the city, however Sorrento remained one of the most important centres of southern Campania.
In vain Sorrento entered into the Neapolitan Republic in 1799.In the 19th century the economy of the city improved markedly thanks to agriculture, tourism and trade.
In 1861 Sorrento was officially annexed to the new Kingdom of Italy. In the following years it confirmed and increased its status of one of the most renowned tourist destinations of Italy, a trend which continued into the 20th century and is still very strong to this day.
In 1544 the poet, Torquato Tasso, was born in Sorrento and the main square in the centre of town, Piazza Tasso, was named after him.
The famous song, "Torna a Surriento", or (Come Back To Sorrento), was written here in 1902 by Ernesto De Curtis. His brother, Giambattista De Curtis, wrote the words. The Hotel Tramontano, on the cliff overlooking Marina Piccola, has a plaque on the wall where the song was allegedly written. It’s said that the enchanting views of Sorrento inspired him to write the song.
INSIDER TIP: Sorrento is also an excellent base for exploring lemon groves, Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius so think about taking a few days on your own after the retreat to further explore this exquisite area and corner of the world.
Lodging:
Villa Giulia in Sorrento, Italy
The Home: Villa Giulia – A Mediterranean Boutique Villa with Panoramic Views
Tucked away in the scenic Via Deserto area, Villa Giulia is a Mediterranean-style retreat that combines the rustic charm of the Sorrentine countryside with modern elegance. Spread across three separate apartments within lush gardens, Villa Giulia offers stunning views of the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the rolling hills of the Amalfi Coast. Each apartment features private entrances and beautifully furnished terraces, ensuring both privacy and shared spaces for an unforgettable stay. Complete with an infinity pool, jacuzzi, and tailor-made services, Villa Giulia is the ultimate escape for families and groups of friends looking to relax in Italian luxury.
Property Layout and Features
Villa Giulia consists of three separate units, each featuring tastefully decorated interiors and private outdoor spaces, making it ideal for groups seeking a blend of seclusion and shared enjoyment.
First Apartment (Left Wing)
Living Room and Kitchen: Enter into a vibrant living room with a comfortable sofa and open-space kitchen, offering direct access to a patio with a traditional pizza oven.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms: This apartment includes a double bedroom with sea views and a bathroom with a walk-in shower, another double bedrooms with ensuite bathroom, and a spacious twin bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.
Rooftop Terrace: Accessible via an outdoor staircase, the rooftop terrace is furnished for relaxation with panoramic views of Capri and the Gulf of Naples – an idyllic spot for sunsets.
Second Apartment (Central Unit)
Living Area and Kitchen: This unit features a spacious living area with a sofa , a well-equipped kitchen, and access to a panoramic terrace with designer lounge furniture for unwinding.
Bedroom: A double bedroom, accessible via a wooden staircase, includes an en-suite bathroom for added comfort and privacy.
Third Apartment (Garden Level)
Living Room and Kitchen: This unit’s living area features comfortable seating and a kitchen, opening onto a patio surrounded by olive trees and garden views.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms: To the left, a vaulted hallway leads to a king-size bedroom with patio access, a pergola with a traditional wooden dining table, and a bathroom with a walk-in shower. To the right, a double bedroom offers a blend of rustic and modern furnishings, access to the patio, and a private bathroom.
Outdoor Spaces
The outdoor areas of Villa Giulia are designed to embrace the Mediterranean landscape, providing ample spaces for sunbathing, dining, and relaxation.
Pool and Jacuzzi: The pool and jacuzzi area is furnished with sun loungers and provides a serene setting for unwinding, with sweeping views of the coastline.
Mediterranean Gardens and Terraces: Stroll through gardens filled with olive and lemon trees, and find secluded spots with panoramic views of the sea and hillside.
Pergola and Outdoor Dining Area: A shaded pergola with an open kitchen and a traditional wooden table offers an inviting space for al fresco meals, ideal for gatherings with loved ones.
Pool Heating: Available upon request, pool heating is offered from April 1st - June 15th and September 15th - October 30th, with the temperature set at around 27°C.
Retreat Teacher and Guide:
Mary Susan Stults Sassone
Mary is an international yoga, meditation, sup, and sup yoga teacher, educator/trainer, and forever student.
Mary Susan lives on the garden island of Kaua’i in Hawaii with her husband Brandon and their three crazy and cute black cats Tux, Sir Wobbles, and Starscream the little kitty.
She teaches yoga and meditation full-time and is a passionate student of life, nature lover, traveler, and adventurer. She teaches a dynamic and foundational alignment-based flow and practice that is sustainable, strong yet compassionate, and mindful for all students, practitioners, and teachers. Her classes interweave and offer a happy marriage and blend of Iyengar Yoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. She also teaches vinyasa, yin, restorative yoga, yoga Nidra, insight and mindful meditation, sup yoga, and sup.
Mary Susan has been practicing yoga for over 34 years now, and has been teaching yoga and meditation for over 15 years. She is an experienced teacher’s teacher and an educator and space holder for all students and levels. She encourages all to come as they are and create space to explore, and to return home in our practice to our own body, breath, mind, spirit, and heart. At the end of the day yoga is life, and it’s how we are living and being. Through heart awakened avenues and practices like yoga, meditation, and pranayama, it is possible to cultivate greater ease, compassion, loving kindness, mindfulness, resilience, and awareness in life and alongside community. Mary Susan is passionate about sharing these practices and the fullness of life together, and can’t wait to share an incredible time and experience together on and off the yoga mat and out in nature.
Questions:
Email us anytime at floatandflowllc@gmail.com
Yoga
We will be practicing a strong, dynamic, sustainable for all, and compassionate yoga practice and flow marrying together the traditions of Iyengar and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. We will also weave in workshopping, gentle and restorative yoga, yin, and Yoga Nidra relaxation.
We will slowly and mindfully weave our way through alignment-based practices each day taking time to workshop asanas and come-see-come-look moments giving students the opportunity to demo postures as we practice.
Expect longer holds occasionally, flowing, break-downs of alignment and postures, and a focus on the breath. Classes are wonderful and appropriate for all levels from beginners to advanced practitioners and teachers. We ask students to be curious and expect to take a deep and joyful dive into the practice.
Skill Level - appropriate for beginner, intermediate, advanced
Meditation
We will enjoy guided meditation and will explore the style of Insight/Vipassana and mindful meditation.
Within this style we will explore a variety of methods including breath meditation, and heart meditations including a compassion meditation and a metta or living kindness meditation. We will talk about the basics of meditation, finding a comfortable seat, and the roots of mindfulness.
We will take time to explore seat options, mudras, our breath, and begin cultivating a greater sense of connection and intimacy with our own breath and mind and we practice befriending the breath and befriending the mind on and off the yoga mat.
At the end of the day, yoga is life, it’s how we are living and how we are meeting ourselves on and off the yoga mat, and we can’t wait to share an incredible time together living well, immersed in practice, nature, and community.
Travel:
Travel support and suggestions are available to all attending.
*Suggested Airport to Fly Into - Napoli Capodichino Airport
The nearest airport to Sorrento is Napoli Capodichino Airport just outside of Naples (NAP). Visitors have various options for getting to Sorrento from NAP: Taxi or Private Car: the fare for a taxi from the airport to Sorrento is about €120-130, plus an additional charge for luggage. Buses are also available. It is roughly 1-2 hours from the airport to Sorrento depending upon your mode of transport.
If you are flying to Italy from the U.S., it is likely that you will stopover at Malpensa Airport in Milan or Fiumicino Airport in Rome, and then make a connecting flight to Naples. Taking the ferry to Sorrento from Naples is an excellent option if you'd like to avoid traffic and enjoy beautiful views of the coast along the Sorrentine Peninsula.
Check-in and Check-out:
We will begin the retreat with check-in at 4:00pm the first day and we will check-out the last day by 10:00am. If we are able to add a late checkout we will. This will depend upon incoming groups and reservations after our retreat and housekeeping.
To Bring:
A suggested packing list will be sent to all attending and each student is to bring your sense of adventure, a yoga mat, and 2 yoga blocks.
—All deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. This is because we begin paying for each retreat space, activities, and lodging when you register to secure your space and experience, and we would lose funds if we were to issue refunds of deposits when we have a cancellation.
—No credit, refund, or transfer is available if attendee cancels less than 90 days in advance, or if they do not show up, or leaves early for any reason.
—Remaining tuition payments are due 60 - 90 days before retreat start date depending on the retreat~
—an additional 8% taxes/fees is included within the retreat tuition and pricing~
—Retreat leaders reserve the right to ask a student to leave the retreat early if said student is causing issues and/or disturbing the peace for others and for the retreat container. our retreats offer a safe space for all and will be respected as so. No refund will be issued in this case.
*We look forward to sharing a retreat, yoga holiday, teacher training, immersion, or adventure together soon~
