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Zaytuna & Vigna Sicilian Harvest Retreat 

Nurturing Women Through Food and Friendship in the heart of Sicily - October 22nd to 26th, 2025

Zaytuna & Vigna​

Nurturing Women Through Food and Friendship in the heart of Sicily​

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Join Chef Lulu, a certified olive oil expert and sommelier from Egypt, and Michelle, a feminine anthropologist and founder of Cummari, for an unforgettable four-night women’s all-inclusive retreat in a small village on the enchanting slopes of Mount Etna, Sicily.

 

From October 22nd to October 26th.

 

This all-inclusive retreat is designed for passionate lovers of olive oil, food, and wine who crave an authentic connection to the origins of Sicilian & Egyptian delicacies and traditions.

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The Offering

This retreat is a celebration of connection, culture, and the universal language of food. Women from across the globe will come together to share meals, stories, and laughter, joining the vibrant Cummari community rooted in nourishment and togetherness.

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This retreat is an opportunity to step away from the bustle of everyday life and embrace the beauty of Sicily’s land, flavors, and traditions. Each meal will tell a story, showcasing the Mediterranean thread that links Sicily and Egypt—an interplay of bold spices, fresh herbs, and seasonal vegetables that highlight the shared culinary heritage of these regions.​.

Day 1: Chef Lulu will guide us through an engaging cooking workshop, diving into the vibrant world of Egyptian spices and culinary traditions.

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Day 2: We will visit a local olive oil mill and the indulge in a tasting experience led by Chef Lulu, where we’ll explore the season’s freshest olive oil.

 

Day 3: We will spend an unforgettable afternoon visiting a local Etna winery, enjoying a delicious lunch paired with a curated wine tasting.

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After breakfast each morning we will gather together to connect with Sicilian music & goddesses, feminine community and the island of Sicily - led by Michelle.

 

Through hands-on cooking experiences and shared feasts, we’ll not only explore plant-based dishes rooted in the local culture but also nurture a sense of belonging, sisterhood, and joy. 

Chef Lulu

​Chef Lulu, Culinary Consultant & Olive Oil Sommelier trained in Italy and Egypt, will guide us to the exploration of the world of olive oil, local delicious wines, and a generous collection of traditional Sicilian and Egyptian recipes around our table.

 

We’ll be celebrating the season’s finest Sicilian produce with a vibrant focus on vegan and vegetarian dishes, deeply rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Sicilian and Egyptian cultures. From sun-ripened tomatoes and velvety eggplants to fragrant herbs and freshly pressed olive oil, every meal will highlight the incredible flavors of the region. These plant-forward dishes aren’t just a nod to sustainability—they’re a delicious homage to the heart and soul of Mediteranian cuisine. ​​

 

Open your appetites and make room for some fun cooking workshops, where Lulu will also be teaching you how to cook some of the most loved Egyptian dishes such as Falafel, Koshari (one of Lulu's favorites) and Besara (fava and greens dip).

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Lulu's Kitchen 

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What's Included? 

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  • This is an all-inclusive retreat

  • Small group experience with attentive and thoughtful hosts

  • Four night stay at a private Sicilian villa

  • Transfers to/from Catania Int'l Airport 

  • All meals are included, with lunch & dinners - lovingly prepared by Chef Lulu

  • Wine tasting and lunch experience at local Etna DOC winery

  • Excursion to the olive oil mill & a local olive farm

  • Daily morning meditations and women's circles led by Miche

  • All local transportation to activities

  • Expansive villa grounds for relaxing 

  • Plenty of eating, relaxing and laughing!​​​​

Reserving Your Space

  • We currently have space left for eight women on this retreat

  • We kindly ask for a 400 euro deposit to hold your space.

  • Deposits are 50% refundable before May 2025. 

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Rates before March 1st:

  • Private room all-inclusive 2400 euro 

  • Shared room based on two guests, all-inclusive 3,200 euro (or 1600/per person

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Rates after March 1st:

  • Private room all-inclusive 2600 euro (after March 1st)​

  • Shared room based on two guests, all-inclusive 3,600 euro (or 1800/per person after March 1st)

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