Lake Como & Lugano Wellness Nature Experiences

Welcome to WholeHearted Living on Lake Como

Escape the crowds. Breathe with the rhythm of nature. Reconnect with yourself.

Welcome, it's great to have you here in this space.

You're invited to join Debs Thorpe, somatic guide, therapist, and founder of WholeHearted Living, for a series of gentle, soul-nourishing wellness experiences by the tranquil shores of Lake Como (Menaggio) and Lake Lugano (Porlezza), and through the forested beauty of Val Sanagra.

Designed for both visitors and locals, these experiences invite you to slow down, soften, and remember what really matters.

Forest Therapy & Restorative Nature Walk near Lake Como

Reconnect to what matters most.

Join me for a gentle, soul-nourishing nature walk through one of Lake Como’s most beautiful forested trails, designed to restore your nervous system, awaken your senses, and invite a deep sense of calm and clarity.

This is not a hike, but a therapeutic nature experience. We move slowly, with intention. You’ll be guided through grounding practices, quiet invitations to connect with the land, and moments of stillness to listen, both to nature and to yourself.

Whether you're navigating a life transition, seeking rest from burnout, or simply longing for deeper connection, this experience offers a return to inner peace.

What’s included:

• 2.5–3 hour guided restorative walk through a quiet woodland near Menaggio

• Mind-Body based grounding practices

• Mindful nature-based invitations to connect with your surroundings

• Herbal tea ritual, with time to integrate

Price: €120 per person
Group size: Intimate (max 6 people)
Location: Park Val Sanagra, starting just outside Menaggio
Language: English

Private Nature Immersion Experience

Come home to yourself, in nature’s quiet embrace.

This private experience is for those craving space, depth, and a slower rhythm to reconnect to their truth. Whether you’re at a crossroads, holding something tender, or simply want to be guided into nature with care, this one-on-one immersion is designed to meet you where you are.

Together, we’ll move gently through forest paths and open spaces, tuning into your energy and the rhythm of the land. Along the way, I’ll offer gentle prompts, moments of reflection, and intuitive space-holding, letting the forest become your mirror, guide, and sanctuary.

This is for you if you’re seeking:

• Grounding after burnout or overwhelm

• Time to reflect, integrate, or simply breathe

• A soulful companion to hold space as you reconnect inward

What’s included:

• 3 hour private guided walk (customised to your pace and needs)

• Herbal tea + seasonal snack

• Optional nature-based integration practice (journaling, ritual, or creative expression)

Price: €250 per person
Availability: By request only
Location: Park Val Sanagra, Menaggio
Language: English

Sunrise Swim & Nature Connection Circle

Start your day in the most soul-nourishing way, immersed in the stillness of the lake and the beauty of nature.

Join me for a gentle sunrise swim on the shores of Lake Como, followed by a moment of grounding, breath, and optional tea. This experience is less about performance, and more about presence. You don’t need to be a strong swimmer, just willing to meet the morning with an open heart.

This is a small, seasonal group experience, offered only when the weather and energy invite it. A beautiful add-on to deepen your connection to self, nature, and the wonder of being alive.

Perfect for you if...

• You’re craving stillness, awe, and simplicity

• You love slow mornings and meaningful rituals

• You’re visiting Lake Como and want to connect with it in an authentic way

Bring: swimsuit, towel, warm layers for after, water shoes (optional)

Price: €30 per person
Group size: Intimate (max 8 people)
Location: Lakefront Menaggio
Language: English

Why Join a WholeHearted Living Experience?

Rooted in nervous system regulation, somatic wisdom, and authentic connection

Held with gentle guidance, emotional safety, and ethical care

Ideal for slow travelers, mindful explorers, creatives, or anyone longing to feel more alive

Easy to join. All experiences are beginner-friendly, open-hearted, and located within 10–20 mins of Menaggio or Porlezza

Whether you’re on holiday or living nearby, come as you are. Leave a little lighter.

"I discovered a depth and beauty to Lake Como that I would have never discovered without this experience. Debbie's gentle guidance enabled me to access a whole new state of being and I am so very thankful."

"I wasn't sure what to expect from the Forest Therapy & Nature walk as I've never done anything like this before, but it is genuinely one of the most nourishing things I have ever done. I didn't think it was possible to feel this relaxed!"

"What a delight to slow down and truly experience this incredible place! Debbie seemed to just intuitively know when to prompt and when to step back and allow reflection. I am carrying this experience with me. Thank you so much!"

Bespoke 1:1 Immersion Days

A soulful, luxurious day of reconnection, designed entirely around you.

For those seeking a more intimate and tailored experience, I offer bespoke 1:1 immersion days on the shores of Lake Como, crafted to meet you exactly where you are, and guide you gently into where you're ready to go.

These private experiences weave together deep coaching, embodied practices, rest, beauty, and nature in a way that feels grounding, expansive, and deeply supportive.

A typical immersion may include:
✨ A restorative morning at a beautiful local spa, with time for coaching and reflection
✨ Somatic and embodiment practices to reconnect with your body’s wisdom
✨ A nourishing, leisurely lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant
✨ A guided nature walk or forest therapy session for integration and renewal

This is a sacred pause, an invitation to soften, receive, and remember who you are beneath the noise.

Each day is fully tailored to your energy, needs, and intention, and includes pre-immersion guidance to help you prepare and integrate meaningfully afterward.

Investment: €1000
(includes private facilitation, spa entry, lunch, and bespoke pre and post day integration)

👉 Click here to inquire or reserve your day
Or email me directly at debbie@whlinstitute.com

Looking for a deeper journey?
This experience also serves as a beautiful entry point into The Recalibration, my private mentorship for soul-led individuals ready to shift how they live, lead, and relate from a foundation of wholeness.

Looking for something special as a gift to yourself or a loved one?

How To Book

All of our experiences are for small groups, please book using the calendar below.

Individual and private experiences are available on request, please email us at info@whlinstitute.com or use the contact form below.

FAQ's

Who are these experiences for?

These sessions are for anyone seeking rest, reconnection and presence. Whether you're visiting the area, recently relocated, or live locally, you're welcome. No prior experience in meditation, somatic work, or mindfulness is required.

I’m not very fit / I can’t swim confidently, can I still join?

Yes, absolutely. These are gentle, beginner-friendly experiences. For swim sessions, entering the water is optional, you can simply sit at the shore and enjoy the atmosphere. For the walk, we stay on well-maintained, easy trails with plenty of pauses.

What language are the experiences in?

All experiences are held in English, but simple Italian can be used to support guests if needed. These are designed to be inclusive and heart-led , you don’t need perfect English to participate and feel welcome.

What should I bring with me?

For swim sessions:

Towel + swimwear

Water

For the nature walk:

Comfortable walking shoes

Sunscreen / hat

Water

A journal (optional – I’ll provide prompts)

How many people will be there?

Group sessions are kept intentionally small, usually 3–8 people, to create an intimate, grounding space. Private 1:1 or 1:2 sessions are available if you prefer something more personal.

What happens if it rains?

In the case of light rain, we will continue with adapted movement and stillness under trees or sheltered spaces. In case of severe weather, you’ll receive an update the evening before, and we’ll either reschedule or refund you.

Are children and dogs able to attend?

Unfortunately we are unable to accomodate under 16's at the moment. As much as we love dogs, these experiences aren't suitable for our four-legged friends. We highly recommend DearDogClub for dog-friendly activities.

How do I pay and book?

You can book online using the calendar above, and pay securely via credit/debit card or PayPal. Walk-in spots are sometimes available, but pre-booking is recommended to secure your place.

Do you offer bespoke or private experiences?

Yes! You can book a VIP private experience for individuals, couples, or small groups, perfect for birthdays, solo retreats, or a nourishing break in your travels. Reach out via the contact form above or WhatsApp (+39 3919139576) to design your custom session.

Where exactly do we meet?

You'll receive the exact meeting point and directions by email after booking. All locations are within 10–20 minutes of Menaggio or Porlezza, and easy to reach by car, bike, or bus. Let me know if you need help finding us!

Can I cancel if my plans change?

We understand life happens. If you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, you'll receive a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Meet Your Guide

Ciao, I’m Debs

A trained therapist, somatic practitioner and guide for those longing to return to the truth of who they are.

After years of guiding others through burnout recovery, identity healing, and the journey back to self-worth, I followed my own call to live a slower, more heart-led life, and it brought me here, to Lake Como, Italy.

I created these nature-based wellness experiences as invitations to come home to your body, your breath, and the quiet wisdom within.
Whether we’re sitting at the lake’s edge with the sun rising, walking through forest trails, or sharing a gentle silence at sunset, my intention is always the same:
To hold space for you to soften, reconnect, and remember that you are enough.

Qualifications & Experience:

Qualified Counsellor + Somatic Practitioner (BACP-registered, UK)

Over 18 years of experience in emotional wellbeing and trauma-informed work

Trained in nervous system regulation, mindfulness and body-based healing

Creator of WholeHearted Living: a space for personal transformation rooted in wholeness, not hustle

Based in Menaggio, Lake Como, offering in-person and online mentoring, retreats and courses

"There is an indescribable essence held within Lake Como and its surrounding forests and rivers.
It’s not just the views, it’s the energy.
A quiet invitation to rest deeply, relax fully, and just be for a while.

Here, you're allowed to exhale, to reconnect, and to feel your own rhythms again, the ones that life outside of this place often pulls you away from.

It’s beautiful.
It’s healing.
And it’s an experience I am truly passionate about sharing with you."