Introducing Mandali, an eco-retreat holiday centre in Italy
A spiritual sanctuary for those seeking peace and clarity in a busy world
Introducing Mandali in Italy, an eco-retreat holiday centre welcoming guests who are interested in developing a conscious, healthy and sustainable lifestyle, and a deeper connection to themselves.
Since opening in 2017, Mandali has become a spiritual sanctuary designed to help holiday guests disconnect from the pressures of daily life, switch off from technology, and take time to reflect and reset through meditation, yoga and dynamic retreat programmes.
Just two hours’ drive from Milan (an hour from Malpensa the airport) the centre sits high on a hilltop overlooking Lake Orta with stunning views across to the Swiss Alps, an idyllic setting to help find calm and clarity in the mind.
Run by a not-for-profit organisation, Mandali welcomes teachers from all traditions and guests of all abilities. It invites them to bring an open heart and curious mindset to fully benefit from their time at the centre.
From the architecture to daily rituals, Mandali has been designed to be as low-impact and sustainable as possible. It offers affordable premium accommodation, homecooked vegetarian food, and holistic body treatments for an immersive retreat experience.
Retreat programmes
Mandali Experience Retreats are simple but profound and designed for all levels. Taking place over three- or five- days, all activities are optional and include meditation, yoga, breathwork and qigong, combined with personal growth workshops, group sessions and periods of silence.
The centre also runs a series of themed retreats throughout the year, led by international visiting teachers from all traditions and lineages.
Accommodation
Mandali offers a range of sleeping options to suit your needs and budget. Choose from shared* rooms in simple dormitory style, single, twin and premium rooms with Queen-sized beds, all with en-suite bathrooms and lake or garden views. For something more indulgent, opt for a premium lake view room which comes with its own bathtub on the veranda.
There are also two beautifully designed apartments (hermitages) built over two levels with self-contained kitchens, that sleep up to four people.
Facilities
Common spaces at Mandali have been designed according to Feng Shui’s cornerstones of harmony and balance, from the terrace to the temple complex. Wifi is only available in the library to encourage guests to disconnect and immerse themselves fully into their retreat experience during their stay.
The body-care centre is a peaceful space designed for relaxation and includes a Turkish bath, sauna and swimming pool, as well as a variety of holistic body treatments using natural products.
Design
Mandali’s architectural and interior design concept was a collaboration between architects Gian Carlo and Matteo Primatesta, interior designer Reineke Antvelink and Feng Shuit specialist, Simon Brown. The quiet alpine setting, which can accommodate up to 57 guests, is composed of several dwellings, based on a medieval Italian village, with far eastern influences.
Sustainability
A strong commitment to ecological sustainability is one of Mandali’s core values: eco-friendly materials were used for its construction such as local stone, plaster, roof tiles, and reclaimed wood; wood chips fire its heating system; and solar energy powers the kitchen and swimming pool. Any surplus power is delivered to the main local grid, so that it can be used by the local community. Sustainability also applies to the daily fresh vegetarian menu which is sourced locally and organically.
The founders of Mandali believe it is essential to take time for yourself in a sacred space that cultivates an inward journey. This beautiful sanctuary has been built with the intention to support humanity in the awakening to its true nature.
*Shared rooms are permitted to guests coming from one household only, per current covid-19 health and safety guidelines.
For more information about Mandali and the full retreat schedule visit www.mandali.org.
