Yoga and Olive Harvest Retreat
Tom Norrington-Davies
31st October -6th November 2026
About the Retreat
This is Yogapulia’s first late autumn retreat, coinciding with a very special time of year for the region. During this week, we will be able to witness the olive harvest and the first pressing of the new season’s olive oil. This is a magical time to be in Italy where the arrival of “the new oil” is elevated into something very special. Many dishes at this time showcase the deep, rich flavour of the new oils. Puglia has a well deserved reputation for its exceptional olives and olive oils. If you’ve never been lucky enough to try extra virgin olive oil straight from the press, here is your chance.
There will also be time for cookery classes showcasing the new oil at the Shala, as well as learning about olive oil’s benefits and its place at the heart of so much that’s great about food in Puglia. We’ll also be venturing out for some local excursions to taste other specialities. There will be morning Mysore practice, of course, and the late autumn sunshine of Southern Italy. The pool will be open and we can even brave the sea (I know I will) from the awesome beaches just a short drive away! This retreat is suitable for practitioners of all levels including beginners. Because the afternoons will be kept free for cookery content and excursions no one will feel on the back foot if they’re new to it all. if you want to bring a friend or loved one for a retreat with a real difference, this might be the perfect opportunity.
More About Tom
Tom is a teacher and a student at Astanga Yoga London, one of only a few centres in the UK completely dedicated to Mysore style self practice. Tom has been working there with his teacher Hamish Hendry for well over a decade.
Tom was also a regular student of the late Sharath Jois in Mysore and is authorised to teach the primary and intermediate series.
When he discovered this life changing discipline Tom was a chef, working long, irregular hours on his feet. He brings this experience to his teaching style. He can ensure that your yoga practice is safe, nurturing and sustainable, whatever life is throwing at you.
What's included?
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6 nights accommodation
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5 Morning yoga sessions
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2 Afternoon workshops
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1 cookery class focusing on local Puglian cuisine
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2 delicious plant based meals daily, to include breakfast/brunch and evening dinner
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Light snacks and refreshments including, a selection of teas, coffee, water & fruit
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Wi fi internet connection
What's not included?
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Flights and transport (Yogapulia can organise local taxis and airport transfers)
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Travel and medical insurance
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Optional extras (can booked on the retreat)
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Massages by experienced local therapists
Accommodation and Facilities
Our retreat centre is set in 2.5 acres of grounds in a valley filled with olive and almond groves.
Accommodation consists of six twin rooms and one double room all with private ensuite bathroom. All rooms have been renovated to a high standard using locally sourced materials, to create a luxurious yet simple and understated feel. A large outdoor courtyard provides the main communal eating space, and several outdoor terraces offer a place to relax in the sun or the shade.
Situated at the heart of the complex, the swimming pool acts like a colourful meeting point – with the blue water combining with the green olive trees and the red soil.
Food plays a central role in both our yoga practice and life. We believe food should be varied, unprocessed and nourishing to promote energy and wellbeing. The food we serve is predominantly plant based with some vegetarian options. All produce we source and grow at YogApulia is local, seasonal and organic wherever possible.
Refreshments are also available throughout the day and include tea, coffee, water & fruit.
The international airport at Brindisi is approximately 40 minutes drive away and Bari is further to the north approximately 55 minutes drive. Hiring a car in Puglia is relatively inexpensive and provides a great way to explore the surrounding countryside, local historical towns and beaches. Both Bari and Brindisi airports have a large selection of hire car companies including Avis and Hertz. It is recommended to book a car before your arrival. Alternatively, we can arrange a taxi to collect you on your arrival.