Woven by the Sea: A Creative Craft Retreat in Liguria, Italy
Hands-On Macramé and Tombolo Workshops on the Italian Riviera
Looking for an authentic, creative escape in Italy? Tucked between the Cinque Terre and Portofino, the seaside village of Moneglia, Liguria offers something unique—an immersive art & craft retreat where tradition, culture and wellbeing come together.
Hosted at the boutique Villa Edera & La Torretta, Woven by the Sea invites you to learn two historic Italian textile techniques—macramé and tombolo lace-making—in small, intimate workshops led by local artisan Donatella.
What Is Macramé? And Why Learn It in Liguria?
Macramé is a traditional knotting technique with deep roots in the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Arab world. In Liguria, it was introduced as early as the 13th century by Genoese traders returning from the Black Sea. They brought with them finely woven textiles and cultural practices that still survive today in the hands of local women.
What makes Ligurian macramé unique is its sculptural, low-relief texture—created without tools, using only fingers and patience. It’s a meditative, tactile experience that connects you directly to the heritage of the region.
What Is Tombolo Lace?
Tombolo is a form of bobbin lace, originally popular across Northern Italy and preserved in Ligurian households for centuries. Ligurian tombolo is known for its geometric patterns, clean detail and fine threads—often made of silk or linen.
During your retreat, you’ll witness a tombolo demonstration and learn about its role in Ligurian domestic life, from bridal dowries to religious ceremonies.
Why This Retreat Is Perfect for Culture Lovers and Wellness Travellers
This experience is designed for:
- Creative travellers looking for hands-on, meaningful experiences
- Couples or friends interested in Italian culture beyond the typical sightseeing
- Wellness-focused guests seeking reconnection and balance through slow, mindful travel
- Solo travellers who value depth, discovery and human connection
- Cultural tourists who are drawn to Italy’s artisan heritage
You don’t need prior skills—just curiosity and the desire to learn something truly Ligurian.
What’s Included in the Woven by the Sea Retreat
- 4-night artisan holiday package in Liguria, Italy includes:
- Accommodation in a Superior Double Room or higher at Villa Edera or La Torretta
- Daily breakfast with locally-sourced Ligurian products
- Two half-day workshops with Donatella
- 1 Macramé hands-on session
- 1 Tombolo lace demonstration
- A pesto-making class and premium olive oil tasting with Orietta
- A wine tasting with Ligurian tapas curated by our in-house sommelier, Daniele
- One 90-minute Longevity Wellness Ritual in our boutique spa
- Access to the wellness area, Mediterranean gardens and countryside-view terraces
Group size: max 6 guests per session for an intimate and personalised experience.
2025 & 2026 Retreat Dates
October 2025
October 13–17
October 20–24
October 27–31
Spring 2026
April 6–11
April 13–17
April 20–24
April 27 – May 1
Retreat Price & Room Options
€600 per person (non-refundable rate, Superior Double Room, B&B basis)
Prepayment required to confirm reservation
Room upgrade options:
Deluxe Double Room: + €100 p.p.
Junior Suite: + €150 p.p.
Suite: + €330 p.p.
Book now: info@villaedera.com
Explore the venue: www.villaedera.com