Bella Vita
Italian Health and Wellness Retreat
November 2 - November 6, 2025
in tuscany, Italy
Come Join Me This Fall On a Tuscan Farm…
Why go to a health & wellness retreat in Italy?
This retreat is thoughtfully designed and led by practicing naturopathic medical doctor, Casey Carr. Not only does she bring her lens of health expertise to your time together, but she also brings years of experience both guiding and farming in Italy. Her deep love for the Italian culture, people and food has only deepened her appreciation of naturopathic medicine and how she practices, as she finds Italy to be a very naturopathically-minded country. Dr. Casey will aim to show you how various aspects of the Italian culture lead to a longer, healthier lifespan than Americans through hands on activities, lectures and day trips.
For health-conscious humans who have been looking for an experiential, immersive and off-the-beaten path trip - look no further. You won’t find another itinerary or experience like this.
What is a typical day like?
You will wake up tucked away in the Tuscan hillsides at the beautiful agriturismo, Spannocchia. Following optional morning activities of guided yoga or self-guided walking or running on the extensive 1200 acre property (also a nature preserve), Dr. Casey will give a talk on a specific topic related to health, wellness and medicine. Topics include data comparing food quality and practices across cultures to a deep dive on how to choose most nutritious products in our US food system. Lectures are informative and interactive, and aim to enhance your understanding of foundational practices that can make a big impact on your own health. Following a lunch prepared with products from the organic gardens and groves of Spannocchia, we will do an activity on the farm that ties together the morning lecture of food, medicine, culture and health.
about the property
Spannocchia is an agriturismo 25 km outside of the Tuscan town of Siena. Agriturismo is colloquially called “farm hotel,” which really just means you stay onsite where your food is coming from. Situated on 1200 acres, it is also designated as a nature preserve to protect the extensive oak forest (many places to hike and explore). With over 800 olive trees, multiple vineyards, terraced gardens and heritage breed animals on property, the dining experience at Spannocchia is hyper-local, fresh and flavorful. You will have an opportunity to experience all of these facets of the farm through afternoon activities.
Spannocchia is celebrating its 800th anniversary this year, and takes great pride in being such a historic property that utilizes many of the original structures. Renovations make Spannocchia a very comfortable stay, and also adds to its charm and authenticity. While not a five-star European accommodation, we find the location, experience and mission of Spannocchia to be world-class and one-of-a-kind.
“I loved Spannocchia! My accommodations exceeded my expectations, but that’s mostly because I have previous experience staying in renovated old European farm homes. The staff was very accommodating and the food was out of this world incredible!”
What is included
Transport to and from Florence to Spannocchia (2 hour transfer)
Four nights, five days of lodging and meals at Spannocchia
Three lectures from Dr. Casey on health, wellness and medicine + her expertise and attention for the entire trip on various topics of the group’s interest
Salami tour + tasting on the farm
Day trip to Montalcino, including olive oil mill tour and tasting, lunch with wine pairing and tasting
Garden tour and full course cooking class
What is not included
Flights to and from Europe
Transport leading up to following pick-up at Florence Train Station
Expenses for shopping in Montalcino
Any additional food items you would like to take home
Travel insurance
pricing
Single occupancy: $2450 USD
Double occupancy: $2150 USD per person
*not including 3% fee if paid via PayPal. No additional fee for Zelle or check.
“The retreat was a fantastic opportunity to unplug and get back to the basics. I enjoyed learning more about the farm to fork concept. Staff were extremely friendly and welcoming to the property. The cooking class was one of my top experiences at the retreat. If the opportunity presents itself, the trip is well worth your time for a lifetime of memories.”
Reviews
“I was blessed to be able to join Dr. Casey at her first Bella Vita retreat at Spannocchia in October 2024. The grounds were beautiful! We had the opportunity to learn about the history of the property as well as tours of the gardens, the animals and learn about wild plants for medicine and food. The staff was so friendly and made me feel like family. Dr. Casey had prepared lectures for us, but a better word would be discussions-as we had quite a bit of back-and-forth every time we met for them. She was wonderful in answering all of our questions, making sure that we felt heard and that we understood clearly what she was teaching us. The only downside to the getaway was that it had to end. I am hoping that the Bella Vita retreat becomes an annual retreat, as I would love to sign up and go again.”
“Dr. Casey creates an inclusive environment for individuals of all backgrounds. Her exquisite organization and communication skills make her a natural born group leader. Dr. Casey's excitement for the Italian culture, food, herbs, and nature is absolutely infectious. I have walked away from the Bella Vita retreat refreshed, thankful and rejuvenated. Consider the Bella Vita experience if you want to escape a fast paced lifestyle and take a break in the beautiful countryside of Tuscany, Italy.”
“Bella Vita, these words accurately describe the time spent with Dr.Carr at Spanocchia. She is a wonderful hostess and made me feel very welcome from the moment I arrived. Although the accommadations are not luxurious they were very comfortable. We ate wonderfully delcious, multicourse meals that were prepared from ingredients raised on the farm.(even the delicious wine!) Dr.Carr presented informative lectures and welcomed questions. She took time to thoroughly answer any inquiries and invited conversation. The tours of the farm were lovely! Dr.Carr facilitated warm conversation amongst the guests. Although we began as strangers, four days later we departed as friends. This trip was amazing! I would highly recommend it.”
Want more detailed info? Ready to Reserve your spot? email:
drcaseycarr@gmail.com
Want to see a video from the 2024 retreat? Take a picture of the Instagram QR code!
