About the Retreat

Some of life’s best ideas begin around a shared table. Ours began over homemade pasta and a bottle of Italian wine, and the realization that movement, extraordinary food, and meaningful connection belong together.

Set in a private, beautifully restored 17th-century castle in the heart of Southern Italy, this intimate retreat blends daily mat Pilates, extraordinary Italian cuisine prepared by acclaimed chefs Ben Ford and Elizabeth Falkner, unforgettable excursions along the Adriatic coast, and leisurely evenings gathered around a shared table.

That simple idea became a retreat unlike any other- where movement, exceptional food, and authentic Italian hospitality are given equal importance.

Intentionally intimate, beautifully paced, and deeply rooted in Italian culture.

Our Philosophy

Intelligent Movement: Pilates should feel grounding, supportive, and deeply restorative for your body.

Exceptional Nourishment: Food should be seasonal, whole, and satisfying to both the senses and the soul.

The Art of Lingering: Time should stretch long enough for real conversation, laughter, and genuine connection to unfold.

Our rhythm is simple: move your body, eat exceptionally, explore with curiosity, rest deeply, and repeat.

A Thoughtful Collaboration

This retreat lives at the intersection of movement, culinary craft, and world class hospitality.

Hosted by Dru Mouser, Ben Ford, and Elizabeth Falkner, this experience reflects a shared belief in quality, creativity, and authenticity. Each host brings a distinct world renown expertise to the table, coming together to create a week that feels cohesive, elevated, and beautifully seamless.

Castello di Ugento was chosen for its gracious hospitality and extraordinary setting — recognized by some of the most respected names in travel and food, nothing here is accidental. Every detail has been meticulously considered so you can simply arrive, settle in, and savor the experience.

Who This Retreat Is For

This retreat is for those who believe extraordinary food, mindful movement and meaningful connection belong in the same journey. It is for the traveler who appreciates history, culture, and beauty, but values intimacy and connection in equal measure.

If you’re drawn to slow mornings, extraordinary meals, meaningful conversation, and the beauty of Southern Italy, we’d be honored to welcome you to our table.

*Private takeover of Castello di Ugenta

*Hosted by acclaimed chefs Ben Ford and Elizabeth Falkner

*Daily Pilates with Dru Mouser of Village Life Pilates, Beverly Hills

*Limited to 14 guests