Explore Our Upcoming Retreats
Off the Beaten Path in Italy: Finding Molise
Explore authentic Italy in Molise, far from the usual tourist paths. Italians joke that “Molise non esiste” (Molise doesn't exist), but those of us who visit discover something entirely different: a place rich in history, natural beauty, and traditions, where life moves at a gentler pace and the crowds of Italy's better-known destinations feel far away.
Our home for six nights is Essentia Dimora Rurale, a beautifully restored, family-run agriturismo nestled in the rolling countryside near the historic town of Larino. Surrounded by olive groves, gardens, and open farmland, Essentia offers a peaceful retreat where the landscape, food, and warm hospitality are all part of the experience.
With just eight individually designed rooms, Essentia feels intimate and welcoming. Each room has its own character, inspired by the agricultural and culinary traditions of Molise, from its olive oil and ancient grains to its regional wines and specialties. Thoughtful details, comfortable accommodations, and private outdoor spaces make it easy to settle in and feel at home.
The property is also a working farm, producing its own olive oil, tomatoes, grains, pasta, and other local ingredients. Food is central to life at Essentia, and much of what appears on the table comes directly from the surrounding land. Breakfasts feature fresh, homemade offerings, while evenings bring us together over beautifully prepared regional dishes and local wines. These are the kinds of dinners where conversation continues long after the plates have been cleared.
And there is plenty of time simply to enjoy being here. Spend an afternoon beside the swimming pool overlooking the countryside, find a quiet spot to read, wander through the grounds, or enjoy a glass of wine as the sun sets over the hills.
Our thoughtfully planned itinerary offers a balance of discovery and relaxation, with the freedom to move at your own pace. Each morning begins with breakfast and a suggested plan for the day. You might join us to explore a medieval village, discover local artisans, visit the Adriatic coast, or experience the region's culinary traditions. Or you may choose to stay at Essentia and enjoy an unhurried day in the countryside.
Most evenings, we return to Essentia for dinner and wine, sharing stories from the day and lingering around the table, the Italian way.
Finding Molise is as much about enjoying where we stay as it is about discovering where we go.
Boundaries & Connection Workshop in Molise with Toni Mandelbaum, PhD., LCSW
Learn to create boundaries that honor both yourself and those you love through guided reflection and mindful practice with Toni Mandelbaum, PhD., LCSW. Understand your attachment style and how it shapes your relationships and boundaries, while building practical tools such as resource tapping, affect regulation, and guided exercises for clear, compassionate connection.
All of this unfolds in the beautiful Molise region of Italy, where the days move at a slower pace. Mornings begin with breakfast at Essentia Agriturismo, a peaceful, family-run property surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, followed by time to explore nearby villages, join curated excursions, or simply relax at Essentia.
There is space throughout the week to unwind, reflect, and settle into a natural rhythm of being.
Molise, ITALY
Finding Molise: The Italy You Didn’t Know You Were Looking For
Join us for a mindful travel journey through one of Italy’s most overlooked and enchanting regions. Tucked between mountains and sea, Molise is Italy’s quiet secret, A place untouched by mass tourism, where time slows and authenticity shines.
Each day brings gentle reflection and soulful exploration, as we visit hilltop villages, stroll cobblestone streets, and connect with local traditions. This is an invitation to experience real Italian life—off the map, off the clock, and full of heart.
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Experience Essentia
Discover Essentia Dimora Rurale, an Italian farmhouse reborn in the heart of Molise's countryside. More than just a tranquil retreat, it's a working farm surrounded by flourishing vegetable gardens and fruitful orchards, providing the freshest ingredients for our delectable local artisan meals. Lush florals surround a sparkling pool and comfortable lounges invite you to find your favorite spot to relax or connect with the outdoors. Enjoy al fresco meals under the open sky, making every moment a magical celebration.
With sweeping views of a vast, luminous valley, this haven is a mere 15-minute journey from the Adriatic Sea, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and coastal allure.
Embark on a journey where the essence of rural living seamlessly intertwines with modern comforts, creating an unparalleled experience that awaits you at Essentia Dimora Rurale.
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Accommodations for 6 nights
Breakfast daily at Essentia
5 dinners prepared and served at Essentia including local wines and liqueur pairings
RT transportation to and from Rome
Transportation to all local excursions
Welcome gifts
For possible Day trips please see Customized Trips and Excursions tab
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Airfare
Accommodations and transportation before and after Essentia
Lunches
Meals off site
Laundry services
Incidentals, souvenirs, etc.
Tips for staff, drivers and tour guides
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Prices starting from from $2,500 per person depending on room choice and whether it is private or shared.
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We STRONGLY recommend arriving in Rome a day before the start of the program and departing a day after the program ends. This will allow for the unfortunate event of airline delays, traffic delays and/or cancellations.
Accommodations in Rome are not included in the price.
For optimal care, we recommend speaking with the CERCARE Team before booking! We will give you the best advice for your decision making!
Full payment for the retreat must be received month before departure.
No refunds will be given for cancellations within 60 days of the retreat dates.
Essentia Dimora Rurale Photo Gallery
Molise, ITALY
Refresh & Restore through Mindful Travel: Authentic Molise
Join us for a multi-sensory, off-the-beaten-path travel retreat for women, in the heart of the beautiful Molise region of Italy. Reconnect with yourself and rediscover your true essence, away from all the routines and responsibilities of everyday life. Through intentional and mindful travel you will gain new perspectives through lots of laughter, delicious food, and connecting with others. Once you book with us, we take it from there. We’ve got you!
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Experience Essentia
Discover Essentia Dimora Rurale, an Italian farmhouse reborn in the heart of Molise's countryside. More than just a tranquil retreat, it's a working farm surrounded by flourishing vegetable gardens and fruitful orchards, providing the freshest ingredients for our delectable local artisan meals. Lush florals surround a sparkling pool and comfortable lounges invite you to find your favorite spot to relax or connect with the outdoors. Enjoy al fresco meals under the open sky, making every moment a magical celebration.
With sweeping views of a vast, luminous valley, this haven is a mere 15-minute journey from the Adriatic Sea, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and coastal allure.
Embark on a journey where the essence of rural living seamlessly intertwines with modern comforts, creating an unparalleled experience that awaits you at Essentia Dimora Rurale.
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Accommodations for 6 nights
Breakfast daily at Essentia
5 dinners prepared and served at Essentia including local wines and liqueur pairings
Transportation to Essentia from Rome on July 7th and back to Rome on July 13th
All meditation and yoga sessions
Welcome gifts
Day trips include:
Termoli Beach Day: Tour & Cala Sveva Beach Club
Tours of High Molise: Tour of Marinelli Bell Factory in Agnone; Tour of the Sepino Ruins; Truffle Hunting; Tour of Civitacampomarano
Activities may include:
Hiking
E-biking/bicycle rentals
Beach Day
Daily Swimming Pool Access
Cooking Demonstration
Wine tastings
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Airfare
Accommodations and transportation before and after Essentia
Meals off site
Laundry services
Incidentals, souvenirs, etc.
Tips for staff and tour guides
-
Prices range from $2,100-$2,800 depending on room choice and if it is shared or private.
-
We STRONGLY recommend arriving in Rome on July 6th and departing July 14th. This will allow for the unfortunate event of airline delays, traffic delays and/or cancellations.
For optimal care, we recommend speaking with the CERCARE Team before booking! We will give you the best advice for your decision making!
Full payment for the retreat must be received by June 15, 2024.
No refunds will be given for cancellations within 60 days of the retreat dates.
Essentia Dimora Rurale Gallery
