Keepers of Tradition & Culture in Travel

Eucharist Pilgrimage Through Greece and Italy

An Ecumenical Pilgrimage: Exploring the Eucharist Through Tasting, Baking, and Walking

12 Days

Join author, baker, and theologian Kendall Vanderslice on a sensory pilgrimage through the history of the Eucharist—tasting, baking, walking, and smelling your way through the regions in which this ritual took form. We’ll begin in the city of Corinth, where Paul warned the church not to eat and drink in an unworthy manner. Then we will travel across Greece and Italy, reflecting on the many theological conflicts waged over disagreements about what this phrase might mean. 

As we eat the breads and drink the wines traditional to the regions where these conflicts took place, our goal is to more fully appreciate the history of this meal that is central to Christian tradition, and to more richly understand why Christians have arrived at such different convictions about its form. This ecumenical pilgrimage is perfect for pastors, lay leaders, or the theologically inclined. You don’t need any formal training to participate—just a curious spirit and a hunger for great food and conversation!

Sacred Journeys with Life Beyond The Room

Sacred Journeys invite you to slow down, immerse yourself in the essence of a destination, and (re)connect—with yourself, the Divine, and stories of a place and its people. These curated experiences go beyond sightseeing, offering a way to engage deeply with local traditions, the land, and histories that have shaped cultures for centuries.

Whether tracing the footsteps of early pilgrims in Greece or connecting to the rolling countryside on a yoga retreat in France, each journey is designed with intention. On these journeys, travel becomes more than just movement—it’s a way to listen, to reflect, and awaken to the world with fresh eyes. More than just a change of scenery, Sacred Journeys create space for something deeper: a chance to pause, to be present, and to return home not just with memories, but with a renewed sense of connection and meaning.

Want to Learn More About This Trip?

What’s Included?
  • 4 nights at ERGON Bake House, Athens, Greece
  • 3 nights at ON Residence, Thessaloniki, Greece
  • 4 nights at Altarocca Wine Resort, Orvieto, Italy
  • Olive oil and wine tastings
  • Guided visits throughout Greece and Italy
  • Private baking class
  • Iconography studio visit
  • 2 food and wine paired meals
  • 10 breakfasts, 6 lunch, 6 dinners
  • Pilgrimage guide and LBR facilitator
  • Private transfers for all activities
  • Private airport transfers from/to
  • City tax
  • Airfare – should be arranged to arrive ATH (Athens Airport), connecting flight from Thessaloniki (SKG) to FCO (Fiumicino, Rome Airport) and departing from FCO
  • Gratuities – we kindly ask you to acknowledge the service for your guides and driver
  • Alcoholic beverages – all alcoholic beverages except for wine included during wine tastings and meals need to be paid separate
  • Additional meals
  • Additional spa services
  • Additional excursions – if time allows, there are many more amazing sights and experiences for you to explore

Meet Your Guide(s)

Kendall Vanderslice

Kendall Vanderslice is a writer and baker in Durham, North Carolina. She is the author of three books: Bake & Pray, By Bread Alone, and We Will Feast. A graduate of Wheaton College (BA Anthropology), Boston University (MLA in Gastronomy), and Duke University (Masters of Theological Studies), her life's work is to help Christians connect the Communion table to the tables they eat at every day. Find her writing on Christianity Today, Christian Century, Religion News Service, Common Good, and Bitter Southerner.

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Katie Archibald-Woodward
Katie Archibald-Woodward

Katie Archibald-Woodward has been traveling the globe since before she could walk, thanks to her parents’ love of travel, culture, history, and anthropology. She has always felt a connection to the world and seen herself as much a global citizen as a proud Southern Californian. In addition to being a Destination Expert and Travel Designer at LBR, Katie is also an ordained minister in the PC(USA), spiritual director and yoga instructor. She loves creating opportunities that help people connect more deeply with themselves, the Divine, and the world around them–especially through travel. Whether traveling or at home, you’ll likely find Katie out in nature, practicing yoga, relishing sensorial experiences (especially culinary ones!), learning new languages, and having meaningful conversations. She looks forward to this next adventure with you!

Departures Available
May 11-22, 2026
Starting at
€ 7.500
Single Occupancy Adjustment
€ 2.000
Maximum Group Size
18 Travelers

Meet Your Facilitator(s)

Kendall Vanderslice

Kendall Vanderslice is a writer and baker in Durham, North Carolina. She is the author of three books: Bake & Pray, By Bread Alone, and We Will Feast. A graduate of Wheaton College (BA Anthropology), Boston University (MLA in Gastronomy), and Duke University (Masters of Theological Studies), her life's work is to help Christians connect the Communion table to the tables they eat at every day. Find her writing on Christianity Today, Christian Century, Religion News Service, Common Good, and Bitter Southerner.

,
Katie Archibald-Woodward
Katie Archibald-Woodward

Katie Archibald-Woodward has been traveling the globe since before she could walk, thanks to her parents’ love of travel, culture, history, and anthropology. She has always felt a connection to the world and seen herself as much a global citizen as a proud Southern Californian. In addition to being a Destination Expert and Travel Designer at LBR, Katie is also an ordained minister in the PC(USA), spiritual director and yoga instructor. She loves creating opportunities that help people connect more deeply with themselves, the Divine, and the world around them–especially through travel. Whether traveling or at home, you’ll likely find Katie out in nature, practicing yoga, relishing sensorial experiences (especially culinary ones!), learning new languages, and having meaningful conversations. She looks forward to this next adventure with you!

Rich, Meaningful, Memorable Travel Awaits

Life Beyond the Room (LBR) is a sensorial™ travel concierge dedicated
to creating custom, unique itineraries for travelers seeking authentic experiences
immersed in the lifestyle, flavors, and culture of each region. Our local managers live in the destination countries and speak the local languages, allowing us to create incredible partnerships so our travelers can step off the beaten path, beyond the hotel room, and discover places unknown to most tourists.

Our commitment to sustainability ensures that your impact is positive. You will have the trip of a lifetime while making a long-lasting positive impact on the places you visit and the people you encounter. You will meet as a guest and leave as a friend! If you have questions about this group trip or are interested in custom travel design, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Group photo of Life Beyond the Room's Preferred Travellers

Preferred Traveler Program

The Life Beyond the Room preferred traveler program allows our frequent travelers to pay for their trips over time via a monthly subscription. Perks include discounts, access to exclusive destinations, and more!

Credits never expire and can be redeemed at any time towards a small group trip of your choice or any custom trip!

Group photo of Life Beyond the Room's Preferred Travellers