La Dolce Presenza: An Exhale in Tuscany
A Little Bit About Us
This retreat is more than a destination — it’s a reflection of who we are and why we do this work.
In this video, we share what excites us most about coming together in Italy, how Pilates, Sound Healing and Meditative Guidance weave into the experience.
This retreat was born from the heart, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
Italy’s Retreat at Podere Macchione
A 4-Day Intimate Immersion in Sound Healing, Guided Meditations, Pilates & Deep Renewal
Limited to 6–12 guests • Private luxury villa • Tuscany (south of Siena)
Nestled in the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany, near Siena, within the walls of a beautifully restored farmhouse, lies an invitation to pause, to breathe, and to return to yourself.
This exclusive women’s retreat is a carefully curated sanctuary, designed to harmonize vitality with deep tranquility. Each day unfolds as a gentle rhythm of nurturing practices: awakening the body with mindful mat pilates, journeying inward with immersive meditation and Sound Baths—including a magical session in the pool—and releasing the day with restorative myofascial rolling.
Beyond the mind and body connections, a private chef will craft exquisite, nourishing meals, and we will partake in a joyful pasta-making class. Between guided sessions, time becomes yours—to wander the villa’s ancient grounds, to reflect by the pool with journal in hand, or to simply be, lulled by the Italian sun.
This is more than a getaway; it is a reconnection. A rare opportunity to unwind, to restore, and to connect with a profound sense of inner ease amidst the timeless beauty of Italy.
The Experience Includes:
· 3 Nights in a Luxuriously Restored Italian Farmhouse
· Daily Mat Pilates & Movement
· Daily Guided Meditation & Sound Baths (including a unique pool session)
· Evening Myofascial Release & Stretching
· Meals by a Private Chef
· A Hands-On Pasta and Pizza Making Class
· Ample Time for Reflection, Journaling, & Exploring the Villa Grounds
· A Supportive, Intimate Community of Women
The Macchione Property
This is an intimate experience designed for those who want real reset—physically, emotionally, and energetically.
Tucked into the rolling hills just south of Siena, Villa Macchione is a beautifully restored 8-bedrooms, 8.5-bathrooms estate that feels both grounded and luxurious. Once an old farmhouse, it has been fully renovated into a bright, calming retreat home—designed for comfort, connection, and deep rest.
Inside, you’ll find airy open-plan living spaces, multiple areas to gather, and eight “sanctuary-style” bedrooms—each with its own private en-suite bathroom—making it ideal for an intimate retreat experience where privacy matters.
The Home
The villa blends authentic Tuscan character with modern ease: original brickwork, travertine stone, and exposed wooden beams create a peaceful atmosphere from the moment you walk in.
At the heart of the ground floor is a welcoming farmhouse kitchen, equipped to a very high standard with:
a stainless-steel cooking island
induction stove
double oven
American-style fridge freezer
dishwasher
separate glass-washer
The kitchen opens directly into two indoor dining areas:
one seating up to 10
another seating 14–16
There are also two relaxed seating areas for conversation, journaling, and integration.
Bedroom layout:
One guest bedroom with en-suite is located right next to the main living area
Three additional ground-floor guest bedrooms (each with en-suite) are accessed via their own external entrances along the side and back of the home
Upstairs, you’ll find a large sitting room with a wood-burning stove, plus four more guest bedrooms and four en-suite bathrooms
Location & Getting Around
This is a peaceful countryside setting—quiet, spacious, and deeply restorative—yet still close to charming towns and iconic destinations.
7-minute drive to the local town
About 30 minutes to the center of Siena
Famous hilltop towns, including Montalcino, Montepulciano, Pienza, and San Gimignano are all under an hour away
The villa sits on a large farm estate with scenic country roads (“Strada Bianca”). The final approach to the house is along a privately owned track, adding to the sense of privacy and seclusion.
Transportation
Round-trip transportation between Florence Airport and the property will be provided for all retreat guests.
Please note that taxis and ride-share services (such as Uber) are not available in the immediate area. If you would like to arrange a private driver for time in the nearby town or for additional excursions during the retreat, this can be organized for an additional fee, depending on location, anywhere from $160-$600. To request local transportation or to have a driver arranged, please email us at judiandashley@soulambitions.biz, and we will be happy to coordinate this for you.
Reconnect with your body and mind as you escape the noise of everyday life.
Day One
Arrival
Check-In4:00pm
Special Welcome Dinner
6:00pm
Stretch the body with Michelle8:00pm
Before Bed Sound Meditation
8:30pm
Free Time / Bed Time9:00pm
Day Two
Set Intentions & Reflect
Breakfast7:00 – 9:00am
Pilates with Michelle11:00am
Lunch 12:30pm
Creative Workshop2:00pm
Pasta Making Class/Dinner5:00pm
Sound Bath Guided Meidtaion
8:00pm - 9:30
Free Time/Bed Time10:00pm
Day Three
A Day To Explore
Breakfast7:00 – 9:00am
Float Pool Sound Meditation9:30am - 11:00am
Lunch 12:30pm
Stretch with Michelle2:00pm - 3:00 pm
Free Time3:30pm
Pizza Making/Dinner
5:00pm
Free Time8:00pm
Free Time/Bed
10:00pm
Day Four
Look Forward & Wrap Up
Special Goodbye Breakfast7:00 – 9:00am
Last Words/See you soon
9:00am - 10:00am
Please note: This is a sample schedule to give you a feel for the retreat rhythm. A detailed itinerary will be shared with all guests prior to arrival.