Yoga and Olive Harvest Retreat

This late autumn retreat marks Yogapulia’s first of the season, arriving at one of the most meaningful times of year in the region. During this week, guests will witness the olive harvest and the first pressing of the new season’s olive oil — a truly special moment in Italy, where “the new oil” is celebrated with great pride. Many dishes at this time are shaped by the deep, rich flavour of freshly pressed oils, and Puglia is known throughout Italy for its outstanding olives and olive oil. If you have never tasted extra virgin olive oil straight from the press, this is your chance.

Alongside the harvest experience, there will be cookery classes at the Shala featuring the new oil, plus time to explore the role olive oil plays at the heart of Puglian cuisine. Guests will also enjoy local excursions to sample other regional specialities. Morning Mysore practice will be part of the daily rhythm, along with the soft late autumn sunshine of Southern Italy. The pool will be open, and the sea is within easy reach from beautiful beaches just a short drive away. This retreat is suitable for all levels, including beginners, and the free afternoons make it especially welcoming for anyone new to the practice. It is also a wonderful opportunity to come with a friend or loved one for a retreat with something a little different.

More About Tom

Tom is both a teacher and a student at Astanga Yoga London, one of the few centres in the UK fully dedicated to Mysore style self practice. He has worked there with his teacher Hamish Hendry for more than ten years.

He was also a regular student of the late Sharath Jois in Mysore and is authorised to teach the primary and intermediate series.

Before discovering this life-changing discipline, Tom worked as a chef, often long hours on his feet. That background shapes the way he teaches today, with an emphasis on a yoga practice that is safe, nurturing, and sustainable, no matter what daily life brings.

What's included?

• 6 nights accommodation
• 5 morning yoga sessions
• 2 afternoon workshops
• 1 cookery class focusing on local Puglian cuisine
• 2 delicious plant based meals daily, including breakfast/brunch and evening dinner
• Light snacks and refreshments, including a selection of teas, coffee, water and fruit
• Wi fi internet connection

What's not included?

• Flights and transport (Yogapulia can organise local taxis and airport transfers)
• Travel and medical insurance
• Optional extras (can be booked on the retreat)
• Massages by experienced local therapists

Accommodation and Facilities

The retreat center sits within 2.5 acres of grounds in a valley surrounded by olive and almond groves.

Accommodation includes six twin rooms and one double room, all with private ensuite bathrooms. Each room has been renovated to a high standard using locally sourced materials, creating a luxurious yet simple and understated atmosphere. A spacious outdoor courtyard serves as the main communal dining area, while several terraces provide places to relax in either sun or shade.

At the heart of the property, the swimming pool acts as a lively meeting point, with blue water set against green olive trees and red earth.

Food is central to both yoga practice and daily life here. The approach is varied, unprocessed, and nourishing, supporting energy and wellbeing. Meals are predominantly plant based, with some vegetarian options. Produce grown and sourced at YogApulia is local, seasonal, and organic wherever possible.

Refreshments are available throughout the day and include tea, coffee, water, and fruit.

Brindisi International Airport is approximately 40 minutes away by car, while Bari is about 55 minutes further north. Hiring a car in Puglia is relatively inexpensive and offers a great way to explore the surrounding countryside, historic towns, and beaches. Both airports offer a wide choice of car hire companies, including Avis and Hertz, and it is recommended to book in advance. Alternatively, a taxi can be arranged to collect you on arrival.