Mahjong Retreat in Tuscany — Play, Learn & Relax in the Heart of Italy
ITALY
October 18 - 23, 2026
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Download the complete itinerary and retreat brochure.
Val d’Orcia
ITALY
Join avid Mahjong teacher and enthusiast Stephanie Kruse for an enriching and playful retreat in the heart of Tuscany. The retreat is designed for both beginners and seasoned players. There will be instruction, supportive guidance, and plenty of opportunities to deepen your skills while enjoying the camaraderie of the table.
Set against the breathtaking landscapes of the UNESCO-designated Val d’Orcia, this retreat invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and immerse yourself in the joy of learning something new. Wander medieval and Renaissance hill towns such as Siena and Pienza, and savor world-renowned wines in Montepulciano and Montalcino—all while experiencing the unhurried rhythm of Tuscan life.
Come immerse yourself in beauty, culture, and the delightful challenge of Mahjong with like-minded souls on our most beloved Tuscan itinerary.
✦ Enjoy a cooking class at a historical, family-owned castle winery
✦ Tour an organic farm and taste their pecorino cheese
Highlights
✦ Savour farm to table meals prepared by a private chef
✦ Wander Pienza and Siena on guided tours
The
Experience
Day Trips
We'll visit hidden gems like a nearby Romanesque abbey, tour a prestigious Montalcino winery, and enjoy the most charming, medieval and Renaissance-era towns of Tuscany like Montepulciano, Siena and Pienza.
Private Chef
We'll have a top local chef cooking us typical, Tuscan cuisine —including beautiful breakfast spreads and delectable dinners. Local wine and spirits are included, no extra cost.
Cooking Class
We'll have a cooking class at a nearby, top-rated historical castle winery. Afterwards, we'll eat what we've made and enjoy tasting the wineries perfectly paired wines.
The
Location
Italian Country Charm
Authentically Tuscan, the villa has been beautifully refurbished while still maintaining its original character.
Glorious Grounds
The villa has a panoramic swimming pool and plenty of places to lounge and play.
Relaxing Spaces
A converted barn is now an extra living area and yoga studio with a view looking out onto the countryside and Montalcino in the distance.
Comfy Rooms
Each of the villa's rooms is spacious and comfortable. Some boast views across the valley while others face the thick trees in the back. Wake up to chirping birds and sleep to the soothing soft sounds of crickets and frogs.
Stephanie Kruse
A note from
Socializing is like breathing for me. So, one could say that the game of Mahjong has afforded me that much more oxygen. Through Blue Sparrow Mahj, I’ve enjoyed teaching countless groups the engaging, strategic and fun game of American Mahjong. I’m so excited to combine instruction with travel as a way to connect to the game, new places and each other! See you in Italy!
“
Inclusions
Prices are per person and include:
Shared rooms starting at
£3950 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
*Simply opt in during the registration process and a member of our team will be in touch.
FAQs
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We recommend you fly into Florence as it's a small, easy airport to navigate and well connected to the city center. It's also where we're all going to meet in Piazza Santa Maria Novella on the first day of the retreat for private transfer to the villa.
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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. You can opt in during the registration process or write to us at duende@duenderetreats.com and we'll help with a bespoke itinerary suited to exactly what you're looking for.
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All are welcome! It's an itinerary that would be enjoyable for anyone who likes to eat, laugh, walk, cook, wine taste and play mahjong. (Children not permitted.)
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Yes. When you register and pay your 30% nonrefundable deposit, you can opt into setting up a payment plan.
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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.
Our trips, tailored to you.
Any of our trips can be tailored to suit your needs. Click on the button below and fill out our simple easy form and we’ll send you a quote.
