Natasha Stewart
Tuscan farmhouse, shared table, stillness
A restored 13th-century farmhouse, 17 acres of working countryside and views toward Monteriggioni’s medieval walls set the scene at Ebbio, where Natasha Stewart and her team host retreats focused on community and deep healing. The property sits on an extinct volcano, with old Italian country ways reflected in its organic cultivation of olives, fruit, vegetables and herbs. Meals are prepared by an in-house chef using fresh, locally foraged ingredients, and served family-style; the kitchen’s guiding idea is that food is medicine. Vegetarian meals are part of the offer, with vegan and gluten-free options also listed. Meditation is among the practice topics, and a yoga studio is on site, though the exact program depends on the retreat. Ebbio suits travelers drawn to a rural setting, shared meals and time away from everyday routines. It is a paid retreat venue, so check the specific program for dates, schedule and rates.
Highlights
- A restored 13th-century farmhouse on an extinct volcano
- 17 acres devoted to old-style Tuscan country living
- Organic olives, produce and herbs grown on the property
- Family-style vegetarian meals made with locally foraged ingredients
Good for
Setting
Ebbio occupies 17 acres of rustic Tuscan countryside on an extinct volcano, with views toward Monteriggioni’s medieval walled town. Olive trees, fruit, vegetables and herbs are cultivated on the property, giving the setting a distinctly rural, lived-in feel.
A typical day
Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm it with the center. Meditation is listed as a practice topic, but there is no single schedule to assume across programs.
Accommodation
The retreat is based in a restored 13th-century farmhouse. Towels and housekeeping are listed among the amenities, but room types and sleeping arrangements depend on the retreat; confirm the details with the host before booking.
What to bring
Bring comfortable clothes for meditation and layers for changing conditions. The annual average temperature is 14.6°C; summers are warm and generally dry, while May, March and September tend to be wetter, so a light rain layer is useful outside midsummer.
How to get there
From Pisa or Florence, take the train to Castellina in Chianti–Monteriggioni, then arrange the listed 10-minute transfer to Ebbio. The address is Strada del Gallinaio, 9, 53035 Monteriggioni SI; free parking is available.
Nearest airport: Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) (50 km)
Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), is approximately 50 km away. From the airport, take the tram to Santa Maria Novella and continue by train via Empoli, then arrange the short transfer from Castellina in Chianti–Monteriggioni station; taxis from Florence are another listed option.
Nearest city: Firenze (FI)
Public transport: From Florence, take the tram to Santa Maria Novella station, then a train via Empoli to Castellina in Chianti–Monteriggioni; the train journey from Florence takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Retreats are paid, but rates are not listed here. Check the specific program for its price and inclusions.
Climate
Climate Zone: Temperate
Best Months: Jun, Jul, Jan
Avoid: May, Mar, Sep
The area has an annual average temperature of 14.6°C, with the warmest months in June, July and August and the coolest in December, January and February. March, May and September are among the wetter months, while June, July and January are typically drier.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What does a typical day at Ebbio look like?
The rhythm varies by retreat. Ask the host for the schedule of the specific program you are considering.
Can beginners join a meditation retreat here?
Meditation is among the practice topics, but experience requirements depend on the retreat. Check with the host before booking.
Are meals suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets?
Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are listed. Meals are prepared by an in-house chef and served family-style; confirm your needs with the host.
How do I travel from the train station to Ebbio?
The listed station is Castellina in Chianti–Monteriggioni, about a 10-minute drive away. Transport to Ebbio is listed at €20 per person.
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