A knitting  retreat in Italy may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of travelling solo, but it has quietly become one of the most rewarding choices our guests make. There’s no need for a packed itinerary or constant sightseeing. Just a peaceful rhythm of yarn, conversation, and warm Italian sunshine. Some of our solo travellers might arrive feeling a little hesitant. They leave with renewed confidence, new friendships, and a sense of calm they hadn’t realised they were missing.

Knitting session at Convento del Carmine

The solo travel myth

Traveling alone doesn’t mean being lonely. In fact, our knitting holidays in Tuscany are designed to bring people together in the most natural of ways. When your hands are busy and your heart is open, conversation finds you.

Every week, our guests share their delight at how quickly connections are made over dropped stitches, café doppios, and impromptu terrace chats. The inclusive environment of the retreat, combined with the gentle structure of classes, outings, and shared meals, makes it easy to be yourself and easier still to find kindred spirits.

What to expect on a knitting holiday in Tuscany

From the moment we greet you at Pisa airport, your week is curated to be both restful and enriching. Mornings might be spent under the vine verandah, learning new techniques with inspiring tutors. Afternoons bring excursions to hilltop villages or lazy riverside knitting sessions. Evenings mean aperitivi, laughter, and local dishes served in our courtyard dining room.

The week unfolds with a lovely rhythm. Some days you’ll settle into quiet corners of the garden or studio with your yarn and thoughts. On others, you’ll head out… maybe to the market in Fivizzano, a hilltop monastery with ancient frescoes, or a local trattoria nestled beneath the mountains. Midweek brings a gentle adventure by train to Lucca or the Cinque Terre. Every evening ends with a meal worth lingering over, shared with new friends and a glass or two of wine.

Why a solo knitting retreat might be right for you

• You set the pace: nap, knit, or join every excursion, it’s up to you
• You meet people who share your passions, not just your postcode
• You gain the quiet confidence that comes with doing something just for you

Guests at the Linda Daniel’s knitting retreat week enjoying some prosecco on their last day

One guest summed it up beautifully:

“This was a return visit and, as on previous visits, it didn’t disappoint. The course itself, which was led by Georgia Farrell, had just the right balance of tuition, support and free knitting time. Most days there was something special to do such as a visit to the local market in Fivizzano, or lunch in a delightful small walled hill town, or a visit to Cinque Terre. The Watermill itself is a haven of peace and calm. The food is amazing, the rooms are beautiful and immaculately clean and who doesn’t love apéritivi time, not to mention post-dinner digestivi? Lois, Bill and Karsten and their team are brilliant hosts. Can’t wait to go back again next year.”

– AW

And just to reassure, there’s no single supplement. Everyone is welcome. Everyone gets their own beautiful room (unless they prefer to share with a friend or non-knitting partner).

An open invitation to join us

Group portrait from Linda Daniel’s knitting week

We believe there’s something almost magical about the companionship that springs up over needles and wool. You might want to hone your skills, soak up the scenery, or simply find some space to breathe, our knitting retreats in Italy are ready for you.

Join us this year and discover why going solo might be the most generous, joyful thing you do for yourself.

Click here to view our upcoming knitting courses and treat yourself to a week of inspiration, indulgence, and Italian sunshine.