Creative & Wellbeing Retreat

Creative & Wellbeing retreat

Creative retreats, yoga retreats, photography retreats and artisan workshops in the Italian mountains.

Nestled in the tiny hamlet of Berzi in the Ligurian Alps, The Artisan Retreat offers a magical creative, photography and holistic holiday experience in the heart of the Italian countryside. Led by Susanna Wallis, an experienced illustrator, textile artist and felt maker, and supported by an expert team of local partners, this is a place where art, photography, wellbeing, nature and authentic Ligurian culture come together in one truly unique retreat.

Surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and unspoilt mountain landscapes, Berzi is the perfect setting to paint, draw, photograph, create and restore. Stunning scenery, fresh mountain air and inspiring views provide the backdrop for every day spent here.

Art, Craft & Photography

A magical place to paint, draw, photograph and create

Immerse yourself in a wide range of art, craft and photography disciplines, guided by our creative experts. From textile arts to painting, drawing and photography, all materials and equipment are provided on site. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced maker or photographer, our programmes are welcoming, relaxed and designed to bring out your creativity in the most inspiring of surroundings.

Wellbeing & Holistic therapies

Restore body and mind in the Ligurian Alps

Our expert team offers a full range of wellbeing experiences to complement your creative programme, including yoga, Qi Gong, massage and other holistic therapies. Whether you are looking for a dedicated yoga retreat in the Italian mountains or simply want to add a restorative session to your creative stay, we tailor the experience entirely to you.

Local experiences & Activities

Discover the best of Liguria

The Artisan Retreat is more than a workshop holiday. We offer a rich programme of local experiences that connect you with the very best of life in Liguria, including:

Seasonal foraging walks and local cuisine classes
Rock pool swimming
Visits to local artisan and produce markets
Farm visits and guided country walks
Local festivals and cultural events
Superb Mediterranean beaches and Riviera resorts a short drive away

Your retreat, your way
Bespoke creative and holistic holidays in Italy

We offer three ways to experience a retreat

Individual bookings

Join one of our scheduled single-theme retreat weeks and connect with like-minded guests in the inspiring surroundings of the Ligurian Alps. Many date options are available throughout the year.

Bespoke group retreats

Planning a creative, photography or wellness escape for friends, family or colleagues? We design fully tailored programmes for groups, combining art, craft, photography, yoga, holistic therapies and authentic Ligurian experiences. Many date options are available and all programmes are custom-made to suit your group and your budget.

Educator hosting

Are you a yoga teacher, artist, photographer or creative facilitator looking for the perfect retreat location in Italy? We handle all logistics so you can focus entirely on your participants. Get in touch to discuss the possibilities and conditions for hosting your retreat at Berzi of Bajardo.

The Creative & Wellbeing retreat is well suited for

Artist and creative retreats in Italy
Yoga and holistic retreats in the Italian mountains
Nature retreats with activities in Liguria
Artisan workshop holidays in Europe
Wellbeing and mindfulness retreats in Italy
Bespoke group retreats in the Ligurian Alps
Facilitator-led retreat programmes

Your host

Susanna Wallis

The Artisan Retreat is hosted by Susanna Wallis, an illustrator, textile artist and maker with extensive craft skills and a deep passion for creativity and place. Susanna's warm and approachable teaching style makes every guest feel welcome, whatever their level of experience.