A Magical Week in Tuscany with Kelly Surtees

I recently attended an astrology retreat at Fattoria Del Colle in Tuscany, and the experience was as illuminating as it was enchanting. The retreat, “Prepare For the Major Astrological Cycles of 2025 with Annual Profections,” provided a perfect combination of instruction, setting, and management, making it a deeply enriching journey. Here’s a detailed look at each aspect of my unforgettable experience:

1. Teachings and Content

Guided by the renowned astrologer and teacher Kelly Surtees, we delved into the intricacies of preparing for 2025’s major astrological cycles using the technique of Annual Profections. Kelly’s gift for breaking down complex astrological ideas was immediately apparent. With participants from various levels of expertise—including myself, a hobbyist with limited formal training—Kelly skillfully crafted sessions that were accessible yet richly layered with wisdom. Her teaching style was both focused and compassionate, allowing her to keep sessions on topic and on schedule without ever feeling rushed.

One of the aspects I found particularly rewarding was Kelly’s emphasis on hands-on learning. She presented theoretical insights with clarity and then encouraged us to apply them to our own charts, ensuring we left with a truly personalized understanding of what the upcoming year holds. I was so inspired that I immediately purchased several of Kelly’s online courses to continue my astrological journey at home. Her teachings resonate beyond the retreat, offering guidance that feels both practical and mystical.

2. Location and Setting

The retreat’s setting at Fattoria Del Colle, nestled in the serene Chianti region of Tuscany, was like stepping into a dream. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush vineyards, the countryside offered a tranquil backdrop that naturally supported the contemplative work of astrology. Fattoria Del Colle is a charming estate with plenty of hidden spaces, perfect for losing oneself in a book or meditative reflection. Rain fell softly for most of the week, enhancing the calm atmosphere and creating a cozy ambiance that helped me stay grounded and focused on learning.

I requested a private room, which was clean, and my showers were always refreshingly hot. The food was another highlight: fresh, flavorful, Italian dishes paired with the award-winning wines of Donatella Cinelli Colombini that truly elevated each meal. And the little details—a welcoming staff, carefully chosen dishes, and even the delightful presence of the estate’s resident cats—added layers of warmth and comfort. Zeus, one of the resident cats, quickly became a favorite of mine. Overall, Fattoria Del Colle felt less like a retreat center and more like a nurturing sanctuary, where the beauty of nature and thoughtful hospitality combined to create a space perfectly aligned with the retreat’s introspective focus.

3. Management and Leadership

The retreat was coordinated by Jane, whose attention to detail and warmth shaped an experience that was both professionally managed and deeply personal. I connected with Jane early in the planning process, and she was upfront about what to expect in terms of accommodations, logistics, and the overall atmosphere. Her honesty was a comfort, allowing me to set my expectations realistically and arrive with a sense of ease.

Throughout the retreat, Jane and her husband Jesse were the epitome of attentive hosts. They created a welcoming atmosphere, greeting each of us as if we were family, and promptly addressed any issues that arose. Their ability to pivot quickly to meet our needs showed a level of care and professionalism that’s rare. Jane has a remarkable gift for curating experiences that feel intimate and thoughtfully tailored. She was both a guide and a caretaker, making Fattoria Del Colle feel like a home-away-from-home, even for those of us who had traveled across oceans to be there.

Final Thoughts

This retreat was everything I had hoped for and more: a chance to deepen my astrological practice under the guidance of a master teacher, Kelly Surtees, and to do so in a stunning Tuscan setting curated by the wonderfully supportive Jane and Jesse. For anyone considering an astrology retreat, I can wholeheartedly recommend this one. It offers a unique blend of high-quality teaching, inspiring scenery, and genuinely caring management that makes it more than just a learning experience—it’s a transformative journey that leaves you feeling connected, inspired, and perhaps a little closer to the cosmos.

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-Erica guest of Timing Your Life With Astrology Retreat 2024