7- Days Creative Winter Retreat, Florence, January 2025

Renaissance Reboot: A Journey of Art, Wellness, and Renewal in Florence

Dates: Sunday, 26th of January - Sunday, 2nd of February 2025

Location: Florence, Italy, Center, and Chianti region 

2025 will be your best year yet! Let your creativity flow and discover new facets of yourself by immersing in this unique retreat in Florence, the world capital of art and holistic living. Whether you are already creative or not, dive into your talent and indulge in art, wellness, and a rich cultural experience. Begin your year with an inspiring retreat designed for those seeking beauty, purpose, and a deeper connection with their higher self. Florence’s timeless charm fuels a journey of self-discovery, setting the stage for a fulfilling, elevated year ahead. Are you with us when we create a brand-new, exciting roadmap for the future? 

Why a winter retreat is great in Florence 

While Florence has become a popular destination for international tourism, there are still two months of low season: November and mid-January to mid-February. During these quieter times, the local language fills the streets, traffic subsides, and the city follows a more natural rhythm. This tranquil season is ideal for exploring Florence's art and culture, allowing visitors to study artworks without the usual distractions. The historic, friendly atmosphere also makes it a wonderful time for meditation and yoga, offering a serene and authentic experience of the city.

Description

This retreat offers a uniquely intimate and small-scale experience, allowing Florence to reveal its rich, immersive beauty in an exclusive way. Each morning begins with yoga and meditation in a historic palace surrounding. You'll explore exquisite art like Florence's Renaissance masterpieces with insider access, enjoying iconic galleries and curated exhibitions away from the crowds.

Afternoons bring private art sessions in authentic studios with local masters, crafting your own piece. Luxurious spa treatments in the Chianti hills and evenings of gourmet dining with artists, combined with serene walks, complete this rare opportunity for creative transformation and personal growth—all wrapped in the luxurious essence of Florence.

The program

Day 1: Arrival -26^th, Sunday

• Afternoon:  Arrive at our artist retreat, an inspiring deluxe home in a historic palace located in Florence's Santa Croce neighbourhood. The setting is perfect for fostering creativity and reflection.
• Evening: Enjoy welcome drinks and an introduction to the program, followed by dinner at home to set a creative and inspiring atmosphere.
• Night: Cosy up with the group around the dining table, or take the opportunity for relaxation and private conversations in one of the three living rooms. A delicious cold meal will await any late arrivals.

Day 2: Immersive in Creativity -27^th, Monday

• Morning: Enjoy a healthy breakfast or an Italian breakfast on the go, f.ex. at Ditta Artigianale, followed by a refreshing yoga session.
• Midday: Savor gelato and visit the tranquil Bardini Gardens (weather permitting), enjoying the panoramic view of historic Florence. Return home for a mind-mapping session, exploring creative ideas without limits and quick aquarelles.
• Afternoon: Visit the Galleria Uffizi to immerse yourself in the groundbreaking art of the Renaissance. Continue with sketching or writing inspired by the visit.
• Evening: End the day with a social dinner, connecting with local artists or designers.

Day 3: Break Routine- 28^th, Tuesday

• Morning: Begin with a calming sound meditation to centre your mind, followed by a nourishing breakfast. Then, visit the Accademia Gallery and study iconic artworks, including Michelangelo's David.
• Midday: Enjoy lunch with a spectacular view of Florence
• Afternoon: Visit a destination villa with historic surroundings that lend themselves to artistic studies, all with the dreamlike impression of Florence on the horizon.
• Evening: Return to the historic centre for a sunset stroll to Piazza Michelangelo. Conclude the day with a wine tasting and vegetarian bites "alla casa," sharing impressions by the fireplace as the day cools down.

Day 4: Rest and Reflection, 29^th, Wednesday

• Morning: Transfer to the Chianti region to visit a Benedictine monastery for art appreciation and meditation. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the woods (weather permitting) to a nearby restaurant for lunch, offering spectacular views of the rolling hills.
• Afternoon: Unwind at a renowned Day Spa immersed in the magnificent Tuscan landscape, featuring multiple pools and holistic treatments. Healthy snacks will be served at the Spa restaurant before returning home.
• Evening: Stay at home journaling or join a city walk with artistic and musical interludes, embracing the Florentine Dolce Vita.

Day 5: Collaborative Creativity, 30^th, Thursday

• Morning to Afternoon: Work on individual creative projects in either painting or sculpting. Spend the day in a Florentine studio, receiving personalized instruction from local teachers to deepen your craft and explore your own artistic expression.
• Evening: Head out for a memorable dinner in town, enjoying artist talks and conversations in a vibrant, creative atmosphere to conclude the day.

Day 6: Energize and Create, Part 1, 31^st, Friday

• Morning: Start with a revitalizing yoga session at a local studio, followed by a visit to Palazzo Pitti, where the convergence of finance, banking, and art sparked lasting innovations.
• Afternoon: Reflect on your experiences and unite creative ideas in a final session, crafting a unique, one-of-a-kind product to be received after the workshop concludes.
• Evening: Wine or olive oil tasting at home, accompanied by delicious bites.

Day 7: Energize and Create, Part 2, 1^st of February

•          Morning: After Power Yoga, finish the artworks you began the day before. This time is dedicated to putting the final touches on your creations, guided by local experts.
•           Afternoon: Visit local artists’ studios or explore a renowned Florentine artisan workshop like Ginori porcelain. Get inspired by the craftsmanship and learn about the tradition and passion behind their works, connecting further with the art and culture of Florence.
• Evening: Walking Dinner: Enjoy a curated walking dinner through Florence, with each course at different renowned restaurants. Savour local cuisine while strolling through the city’s historic streets, concluding with a celebratory toast.

Day 8: Departure Day, 2^nd of February

• Morning: Enjoy an excellent breakfast, both healthy and beautifully presented, as a final moment of networking with fellow participants.
• After Breakfast: Depart from Florence or, if time allows, store your luggage and take the opportunity to explore Florence individually, following your curiosity and discovering hidden gems in the city at your own pace.

Your Accommodation

Welcome to the Santa Croce apartment and penthouse—a luxurious and inspiring retreat in the heart of Florence. Nestled within a historic palazzo, this elegant residence offers multiple living areas and luxurious rooms, complete with beautiful terraces and large, light-filled spaces for group activities. The apartment’s inspiring views and refined atmosphere make it an ideal artist’s residence. Centrally located near historic sights and the vibrant Piazza Santa Croce, you can enjoy a morning coffee amidst the local charm. With a modern kitchen, plenty of daylight, and spacious rooms, this residence ensures both togetherness and personal privacy for a perfect stay. Request more information like pictures and complete description by writing to info@noemidiamonds.com. 

What's included: 

• Airport Transfer Florence Airport "Amerigo Vespucci"
• Welcome Drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
• All days breakfast
• Pre-stocked fridge
• 3 meals (3x lunch, 3x dinner) of high quality, 2 at the accommodation and one out in town
• Access to spa and swimming pools at the Chianti Wellness Hotel (1 day)
• Yoga lessons
• VIP transport
• A day at a Florentine artist studio 
• Art coaching during the itinerary
• Guided tours/ entrance of major sights
• Water on excursions
• Professional photoshoot
• Artist's material 
• Assistance with product creation

What's not included: 

• Flights
• Travel insurance
• Visa expenses 
• Medical aid 
• Alcoholic drinks, except on the welcome day
• Individual Spa treatments
• Meals on excursions or in town 
• Snacks and refreshments outside regular meals 

Practical information: 

• Sunny and dry (with possibility of rainy days)
• Temperature highs: 13 degrees Celsius
• Temperature lows: 3 degrees Celsius
• Airports options: Florence, Pisa, Bologna
• Schengen Visa for countries outside the Schengen/EU area

We can cater to many diets, please feel free to communicate your wishes.