ITALY
Mahjong in Italy with Coastal Mahjong
April 18th - 23th, 2027
Perugia, Italy
Join us, along with Andrea Berry of Coastal Mahjong, on an unforgettable adventure through the beloved region of Umbria. Together, we'll experience the region's charming and historical villages, and sample Umbrian dishes prepared with local ingredients. And of course, in the evenings, we'll gather to relax and play mahjong.
We'll be based in the lively, medieval and cosmopolitan gem of Perugia. With a thriving international language school and one of the oldest universities in the world, Perugia is vibrant, multicultural and brimming with people. Despite having pre-Roman, Etruscan roots and the architecture to prove it, it's a city that's young-at-heart and offers the very best of what Italy has to offer: culture, architecture, history, a vibrant nightlife, and of course, cuisine.
✦ Play pop up evening Mahjong
✦ Explore medieval Orvieto with is ancient well and stunning cathedral
Highlights
✦ Enjoy evening strolls down Corso Vannucci just outside our boutique hotel
✦ Taste world-class wines at top Umbrian wineries
The Accommodation
Stay in a Five-Star Boutique Hotel on Perugia’s Historic Corso Vannucci
Located on Perugia's gorgeous main street, Corso Vannucci, we’ll only be a few steps away from all the attractions of the town and masterpieces of Italian art. Located in one of the most beautiful old 'palazzi' of Perugia, the hotel showcases elements that date back to the 1700s.
The Experience
Experience Umbria:
Day Trips, Great Wine Pairings and Mahjong
Each day we'll explore and savor the best bits of Umbria, both off-the-beaten-path as well as not-to-miss highlights.
Todi
We'll visit Todi, a beautiful medieval village atop a ridge with three-hundred and sixty degree views. You'll have time to wander and enjoy the town's tranquil atmosphere.
Orvieto
With a guide, we'll visit Orvieto and see its world famous wonders, like its tufa outcrop, the magnificent duomo and Saint Patrick's well. We'll also sample some of the local baked goods — unforgettably delicious.
Montefalco
Known for its robust red 'sagrantino' wine, the Umbrian town of Montefalco has also been called 'city of wine and oil.' With a population of only five-thousand people, it's an idyllic place to enjoy the afternoon.
The Game
Evening Mahjong Sessions and Grand Tournament Finale
Join daily evening mahjong sessions led by your expert Mahjong host Andrea Berry of Coastal Mahjong, perfect for players of all levels to enjoy friendly competition and improve their skills.
Culminate the week with a thrilling Mahjong tournament where everyone can showcase their strategy and compete for top honors.
Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, this immersive experience offers fun, camaraderie, and a chance to connect over this timeless classic.
Andrea Berry of Coastal Mahjong
A note from
Mahjong is more than a game to me—it is a passion, a community, and a way of life. I have channeled that love into teaching classes, running tournaments, and building competitive leagues that bring players of all skill levels together. There is nothing quite like watching a beginner place their first winning tile or witnessing seasoned players challenge one another to new heights around the tournament table.
My vision for mahjong, however, extends far beyond the game itself. I believe it deserves to be experienced in extraordinary places, which is why I am thrilled to be planning an upcoming mahjong retreat with Duende in Perugia—a destination as layered and captivating as the game itself. I also hold a deep affection for Italy, a country I have visited many times, and especially for Umbria, whose rolling hills, medieval towns, and rich, unhurried culture provide the perfect setting for meaningful play and genuine connection.
At its heart, everything I do is guided by the belief that mahjong has the power to bring people together in the most beautiful ways imaginable, and I look forward to sharing a seat at the table with you in beautiful Perugia, Italy!
“
Inclusions
Prices are per person and include:
Shared rooms starting at
£3600 per person
Arrive early, stay late.
Let us help create the perfect add-on experience to enhance your trip. Both Rome and Florence are great places to spend a few nights in on either end of your retreat.
Rome
Florence
FAQs
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Perugia does have an airport but it's likely that if you're coming from the US your best bet is to fly into Rome or Milan. From there you can catch a train to Perugia.
Trainline is a helpful website that gives travel options and even allows you to book online.
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Yes, absolutely. We offer custom, add-on itineraries for those who'd like to spend a few days in Rome, Florence, or even the Amalfi Coast on either end of the trip. Write to us at duende@duenderetreats.com and we'll help with a bespoke itinerary suited to exactly what you're looking for or simply recommend or book your hotel if that’s what you need.
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This is an itinerary that would be enjoyable for anyone who likes to eat, laugh, walk, cook, wine taste and play mahjong. (Children and anyone under the age of 21 not permitted.)
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Yes. Once the trip is confirmed, you’ll automatically be added to a monthly payment plan with the final payment due 100 days prior to the start date of the trip. You can also opt out of the payment plan and pay in full 100 days prior to the trip start date.
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Deposits are nonrefundable unless there's a waiting list and someone would like to take your spot. In the case we are able to sell your spot, you will be refunded your deposit, less £250 admin / transaction fees.
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The full itinerary will be sent to you about a month prior to departure. If you have specific questions regarding the excursions, please do reach out to us.
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If you’re interested in booking, don’t wait! We full expect to sell out well in advance of our registration closing date, September 30th, 2026.
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All levels are welcome. However, if you’re a novice and have never played, we recommend getting a few lessons under your belt before the trip so you can relax and enjoy.
