We’re excited to welcome back chef Alessandro Giannatempo to Casa Lawa for the very first edition of our Watermelon Retreat, taking place 28 July – 1 August 2026, at the height of Sicily’s sun-soaked summer.

After leading last year’s memorable Tomato Retreat at Casa Lawa, Alessandro returns to continue our shared exploration of seasonal cooking, conviviality, and the playful spirit of Mediterranean summers — this time through a retreat dedicated entirely to watermelon in all its forms.

Known for his instinctive, ingredient-led approach and deeply sensory way of creating around food, Alessandro will guide a series of meals and experiences where watermelon moves far beyond the familiar!

Expect long outdoor lunches, slow evenings around the table, and immersive moments shaped by Sicily’s warmest days and Casa Lawa’s signature atmosphere of intimacy, creativity, and celebration.

Tickets are available to book your accommodation both at Casa Lawa and at our off-site location, only 8 minutes away.

What’s on the Program

Tuesday July 28

Arrival & settle in

Welcome Sicilian aperitivo in the orchard

Evening walk to discover Casa Lawa orchard.

Pizza night with Nino.

Wednesday, July 29

Big hug breakfast spread

Morning foraging session for wild edible flowers

Workshop with Alessandro making gelo di melone and we decorate with our foraged flowers

Late Lunch in the garden

Workshop with Alessandro: Candying Watermelon and Brioche

Casa Lawa for aperitivo and dinner

Thursday, July 30

Big hug breakfast spread

Watermelon farm visit

Free afternoon at the beach

Aperitivo and dinner out

Friday, July 31

Big hug breakfast spread

Workshop with Alessandro: making a showstopper watermelon cake for our final dinner

Lunch in the orchard

Chilling by the pool with watermelon margaritas

Grand Finale dinner

Saturday, August 1

Big farewell brunch

Check out + safe travels!

*Please note that the itinerary may change slightly depending on the weather.