Our Italian retreat is held at the delightful Cascina Papaveri, "Poppy Farmhouse", which is set amid seven acres of organic vineyards, kitchen gardens and impressive vistas in the Piedmont region of Italy.
"Cascina" means farmhouse in Italian and this one has been lovingly restored by owners John and Robyn Sims to include a fully equipped Pilates studio, complete with 12-meter indoor pool, and an impressive professional teaching kitchen.
In addition to daily Pilates mat classes and equipment sessions, guests have plenty of free time to explore the local area or simply relax on property. Late afternoon and evening are spent learning to cook Piemontese specialties with chef Gino Minacapilli using produce grown on the property to make the best of local dishes. Chef Gino is also an accomplished pastry chef so, needless to say, heavenly desserts are also created, as well as fresh breads daily.
The Retreat includes two excursions, both on market days, to the medieval towns of Asti and Alba. The Saturday trip to Alba is a fabulous opportunity to buy Italian fashions at very reasonable prices.
Cascina Papaveri is a short walk from the village of Costigliole d'Asti whose castle is home to the International Culinary Institute for Foreigners, one of the most renowned cooking schools in Italy. If you're a Food Network fan, Ann Burrell - Mario Batali's sous chef on Iron Chef and host of Secrets of a Restaurant Chef - is a graduate of the ICIF.
With everything from meals, Pilates, accommodations, cooking classes and excursions included, this retreat is the perfect getaway and turnkey vacation.
