Fondazione Manudonna
Community, Healing, Nature, Lake Trasimeno
Step into a space where community and healing converge at Fondazione Manudonna, set near the tranquil shores of Lake Trasimeno in Italy. What began as a gathering for women to heal and dream in 2010 has blossomed into a foundation dedicated to honoring all forms of life. The Passalmonte retreat house, a generous gift to the foundation, embodies this vision through shared vegetarian meals, daily meditation, and the nurturing of an olive grove. While the initial spark was women's empowerment, men are now warmly welcomed, fostering a balanced and inclusive environment. It's a place where connection flourishes, whether through communal activities or quiet contemplation amidst nature, all rooted in love, nature, and presence.
Highlights
- Dedicated women-only garden space for eating, resting, and meditation
- Community-focused with shared vegetarian meals and daily meditation
- Nurturing an olive grove as part of the retreat experience
- Welcomes both women and men, fostering a balanced environment
- Free pickup service from Passignano train station
Good for
Setting
The center is a cozy rural home situated near the serene Lake Trasimeno, offering a peaceful escape. Guests can enjoy the olive grove for quiet contemplation or reading, and there are both indoor and outdoor communal areas designed for connection. A women-only garden space provides an additional area for eating, resting, and meditation.
The practice
While the specific tradition is not stated, Fondazione Manudonna emphasizes daily meditation as a core practice. Guests can expect a supportive environment for quiet contemplation and self-reflection, integrated into a community setting. The focus is on presence and connection, making it suitable for those seeking a gentle introduction or a deeper dive into meditative practices.
A typical day
A typical day at Fondazione Manudonna revolves around shared vegetarian meals and daily meditation. Guests are encouraged to participate in communal activities, care for the olive trees, and engage in quiet contemplation. The rhythm of the day is designed to foster connection and presence within the natural surroundings.
Accommodation
The Passalmonte retreat house provides a mixed-gender living arrangement with a separate women-only sleeping area. This area features four rooms: two private rooms, one twin room, and one shared room accommodating four guests. Each guest is provided with a personal workspace and stable Wi-Fi.
What to bring
Given the rural setting near Lake Trasimeno, comfortable clothing suitable for both indoor meditation and outdoor activities in an olive grove would be beneficial. Consider layers for varying temperatures and comfortable walking shoes.
How to get there
Fondazione Manudonna is accessible via several routes. From Perugia Airport, you can opt for a private transfer directly to the center, or take a shuttle bus to Perugia train station, followed by a regional train to Passignano sul Trasimeno. The center provides a free pickup service from Passignano train station, which is just 2 km away.
Public transport: Public transport options include shuttle buses from Perugia Airport to Perugia train station and regional trains to Passignano sul Trasimeno.
Retreats at Fondazione Manudonna start from EUR949. This is a paid center, and specific pricing may vary by program.
Frequently asked questions
Are men welcome at Fondazione Manudonna?
Yes, while the foundation began with a focus on women's empowerment, men are warmly welcomed to support a more balanced and inclusive environment.
What kind of food is served at the retreat?
The retreat offers vegetarian meals, featuring local and traditional Italian cuisine. There is also a shared kitchen for guests who wish to prepare their own meals, with women-only access to this facility.
What are the sleeping arrangements like?
The retreat house has a separate women-only sleeping area with four rooms: two private, one twin, and one shared room for four people. The house itself is a cozy rural home with mixed-gender accommodation.
How can I get to the retreat from Perugia Airport?
You have a few options: a private transfer (30-35 mins, €55-65), or a budget-friendly route involving a shuttle bus to Perugia train station, then a regional train to Passignano sul Trasimeno, where the center offers free pickup.
What is the cost of a retreat at Fondazione Manudonna?
Pricing for retreats at Fondazione Manudonna starts from EUR949. Specific costs may vary depending on the program and accommodation choice.
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