Two weeks is the stay we recommend to women on a sabbatical, newly retired, or simply in need of a break. One week is long enough to land; the second is when you start to live here.
Most of us arrive carrying something: the end of a long career, a decision we keep circling, or years of looking after everyone else. The first days in Sicily are often for sleeping, walking by the sea and doing very little. Then, somewhere around day six or seven, the noise quietens. That is when the island opens up, and when a second week matters most.
Why Cummari fits this moment
Cummari is a travel house for women in Riposto, a quiet seaside town on Sicily's east coast. It is small on purpose: three rooms, each designed with women in mind and filled with original art by women artists from around the world.
The sea is five doors away. Morning swims, evening walks on the promenade, and the Ionian light every day.
You have your own space. A private room with a desk and natural light, for reading, writing or simply closing the door.
You are not alone unless you want to be. Other women staying in the house, a shared kitchen table, and, when you want it, the wider community of women living in Sicily.
No car needed. The train runs along the coast to Taormina and Catania, and Riposto's cafes, markets and port are a short walk away.
Someone is looking out for you. Our founder, Michelle, personally helps every guest plan her stay and enjoy their time while here.
Week one: rest
The first week has one rule: nothing you have to do. Let the days find their own shape.
Mornings on the rooftop. Coffee as the sun rises over the sea, with Mount Etna behind you.
The sea at your door. Smooth volcanic stones and clear water a two-minute walk away; wider beaches eight minutes north.
Riposto's rhythm. The fish market at the port, a granita at the corner cafe, the evening passeggiata along the marina.
Slow afternoons. Read, write, nap, journal at the desk in your room, or unroll a mat with our yoga supplies.
Long lunches. Fresh seafood, Etna wines and the simple pleasure of a meal that takes two hours.
Rest without chores. Weekly cleaning is included in your stay.
Week two: immersion
Rested, you are ready to meet Sicily. Choose as much or as little as you like; Michelle can help you plan all of it.
Mount Etna. Walk the craters of Europe's highest active volcano, or visit a family winery on its slopes.
Taormina. About 35 minutes north by train: the ancient Greek theatre, gardens above the sea and the island of Isola Bella.
The Alcantara River. Swim or walk among the basalt gorges carved by Etna's lava.
Catania. The beautiful baroque centre, the famous fish market, incredible shopping and museums.
Cooking with a Siciliana. Learn the dishes that are cooked in Sicilian homes, not restaurants.
Women's history and myth. Michelle shares the island's matriarchal stories and the women who shaped Sicily.
Community. Join a gathering of our circle of international women living and creating lives in Sicily.
When to come: spring and autumn
March–April and October–November are our favourite months for a long, quiet stay: mild days, empty paths and the island at its most local.
Spring (March–April). Snow still on Etna while the coast turns green and the orange and lemon trees blossom. Easter in Sicily is unforgettable, and the days are warm enough for long walks and lunch outdoors.
Autumn (October–November). The sea is still warm enough to swim, the summer crowds have gone, and it is harvest time: grapes on Etna and olives across the island. Pressing new olive oil is one of the oldest rituals of the Sicilian year.
Practical details
Stay two weeks and we take an extra 5% off our weekly rate.
Included: unlimited coffee, tea and olive oil; a fully equipped kitchen; linens and towels; weekly cleaning; complimentary laundry; air conditioning and heating; strong WiFi and a desk in every room; beach and yoga supplies.
Getting here: fly into Catania (CTA). The train to Giarre-Riposto takes about 40 minutes, then it is a 20-minute walk downhill to the house, or a taxi from the airport takes about 45 minutes. We share the exact address once your booking is confirmed, for the privacy and safety of our guests.
Come and stay
“My time in Cummari, being so close to the energy of Mount Etna, continually moves me deeper into my heart. And with this, I let go of more and more things. Therefore, what is truly important to me becomes clearer and brighter.” — Yvonne, Cummari guest
Whether you are between chapters, newly free of a long career or simply tired, two weeks at Cummari give you time to rest first and then to fall in love with Sicily. Our spring and autumn dates fill early, so tell us when you would like to come and Michelle will reply personally.
#sabbatical #slowtravel #solofemaletravel
