Sicily, Italy
Escape to the Sicilian countryside for sun-soaked days, vineyard views, and a villa that pairs old-world elegance with modern comfort—perfect for reading, resting, and long, laughter-filled lunches by the pool.
Indulge in literary bliss at our exclusive reading retreat, where leisure meets literature, and like-minded women come together for a celebration of words.
Join us solo, or better yet, come with your best friend, sister or another incredible woman in your life for a weekend retreat that blends relaxation, literature, and laughter.
Location
Casale Santa Ida, San Michele di Ganzaria, Sicily
Hit pause at this remarkable Sicilian estate, set deep in the countryside and surrounded by rolling vineyards, olive groves and sun-warmed stone. At its heart lies a beautiful central courtyard that sets the tone for slow mornings, long lunches and candlelit evenings. This is Sicily at its most peaceful and private—an invitation to properly switch off and settle into a gentler rhythm.
The estate is designed for rest and restoration. A standout private spa offers the ultimate escape, with a jacuzzi, Turkish bath and sauna, all overlooking the pool through panoramic windows. Stone steps lead down to the swimming pool, framed by loungers for lazy afternoons, while a tucked-away whirlpool and rooftop terrace provide perfect spots for golden-hour aperitifs or quiet moments of reflection.
Indoor and outdoor living flow effortlessly here. Elegant interiors in the main house are rich with traditional Sicilian character—think lofty ceilings, antique details and inviting communal spaces—while additional accommodation across the courtyard offers a more contemporary feel for those who prefer a modern aesthetic. Outside, a generous covered dining terrace and outdoor kitchen make Mediterranean feasts feel inevitable, with scattered patios and seating areas offering endless places to read, relax and take in the sweeping countryside views.
Itinerary
Book Discussion
An evening filled with delicious food whilst we chat about the book of the trip and what we’re currently reading
Day Trip to Caltagirone
Visit Caltagirone, a town in Sicily renowned for its ceramics.
Goodie Bag
Leave with a brand new tote bag filled with a few goodies inside
Hot Tub
Wind down with a book in a hot tub surrounded by nature.
Meet & Greet
It all begins with an introduction over cocktails. Meet the other ladies and get ready for a gorgeous few days.
Reading Time
Your evenings may be full, but your days are free with time to focus on you (and your TBR pile).
Spa Facilities
Head to the spa to unwind and relax.
Welcome Dinner
Come together over an incredible home-cooked meal to chat and take part in our coveted book swap
Wine Tasting
Enjoy a local wine tasting where you will be guided through a selection of local wines.
Pasta Making
Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class, learning to craft fresh pasta before sitting down to enjoy your creation with the group.
Rooms
Traditional Rooms
5 authentic Italian rooms, all with ensuite, to enjoy on your own or with one other person. Please note, the double beds cannot be reconfigured and shared occupancy means sharing a bed.
Modern Rooms
3 modern style rooms, all with ensuite, to enjoy on your own or with one other person. Please note, the double beds cannot be reconfigured and shared occupancy means sharing a bed.
Studio Rooms
3 modern style studio rooms, all with their own sitting area, kitchenette and private bathroom with shower. To enjoy on your own or with one other person. Please note, the double beds cannot be reconfigured and shared occupancy means sharing a bed.
Payment Options
We offer two ways to secure your place on this Reading Retreat — choose the option that works best for you.
Pay in full (save 5%)
If you’re able to pay upfront, you’ll receive 5% off the room price as a little thank-you for paying in full at the time of booking.
Deposit + payment plan
Prefer to spread the cost? You can secure your spot with a non-refundable deposit, then pay the remaining balance via a payment plan. The full balance must be paid no later than 60 days before the retreat start date.
Full details on deposits, payment plans, cancellations and refunds can be found in our Booking Terms & Conditions.
Traditional Room - Solo Occupancy
£2000
Traditional Room - Shared Occupancy
£2600 (£1300pp)
Modern Room - Solo Occupancy
£2000
Modern Room - Shared Occupancy
£2600 (£1300pp)
Modern Studio Room - Solo Occupancy
£2200
Modern Studio Room - Shared Occupancy
£2800 (£1400pp)
Details
Accommodation, food and drink (inc alcohol), airport transfers & full itinerary
Flights, travel insurance, food & drink outside of the accommodation
There is a complimentary transfer available from Catania Airport (CTA) Further details will be provided in your trip pack closer to the time. If you need any assistance on travel arrangements please get in touch, we are a licensed travel agent to accommodate all of your needs.
Secure your spot with a non-refundable deposit, then pay the remaining balance via a payment plan. The full balance is due 60 days before the retreat start date. Prefer to pay upfront? You’ll save 5% when you pay in full at the time of booking.
Casale Santa Ida, San Michele di Ganzaria, Sicily The house is located 1 hour from Catania Airport, surrounded by vast palm-strewn grounds and ancient vineyards, with distant views of Mount Etna.
Oh-so-Moorish is a spacious countryside villa with plenty of character and charm. As with many traditional estates in this part of the world, accessibility can be limited. Guests should be aware that the property spans multiple levels and may include steps both indoors and outdoors, particularly when moving between the terraces, pool, and garden areas. At present, there are no confirmed step-free entrances, lift access, or adapted bathrooms. For this reason, we do not recommend the property for guests with significant mobility requirements. If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know before booking so we can liaise with the host and confirm whether this retreat will be comfortable for you.
Once your place is secured, you’ll receive a welcome pack with everything you need to know — including your final payment link, full itinerary, and local recommendations. Around 60 days before the trip, you’ll be added to a dedicated WhatsApp group where all further trip communication will take place and you can start connecting with fellow guests.
Gallery
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What our guests are saying about their stay
Pure magic! From the moment we arrived at the most breathtaking villa nestled in the rolling Tuscan hills, Meagan made sure every detail felt like it had been curated straight out of an Italian dream.
I attended the February Caribbean reading retreat and wish I could rate it higher than 5 stars! This was the best vacation I could have imagined. Not only was the resort amazing, the conversation and the ladies could not have been better.
I had such a lovely time on my retreat to Sicily. Megan is an amazing host who really looked after all of the group and made the trip feel like a fab holiday with friends. I went alone and everyone was lovely - I will happily book again next year. Book! You won't regret it.
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