Experience Europe Together

Join us on July 16-21, 2026 for our first European Getaway in partnership with ITI Catholic University in Trumau, Austria. Reconnect with your spouse, grow in your Catholic faith, and explore one of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in the world.

Your Team

  • Mike and Alicia Hernon

    Mike and Alicia Hernon are co-founders of the Messy Family Project, a ministry dedicated to empowering moms and dads to embrace their sacred calling. Their Messy Family podcast has over 2 million downloads from all over the world and they regularly speak to dioceses and parishes around the country. Parents of ten children and grandparents to eight, the Hernons have made their home in Steubenville, OH for the past 30 years

  • Dr. Vincent and Eva DeMeo

    Dr. Vincent and Eva DeMeo have been married for over twenty years and are parents of four. Vincent is an associate professor of New Testament and Theology at ITI Catholic University in Austria, specializing in Scripture, Patristics, and marriage theology. Eva holds a Master’s in Sacred Theology and is completing a second in Marriage and Family Studies. Together, they speak and teach on topics related to Catholic family life.

  • Fr. Edmund Waldstein, O.Cist.

    Fr. Edmund Waldstein, O.Cist. is a Cistercian monk of Stift Heiligenkreuz in Austria and a moral theology lecturer at both the Hochschule Benedikt XVI and the International Theological Institute in Trumau. He directs the János-Brenner-Haus for vocational discernment and holds a Doctorate in Theology from the University of Vienna. His work focuses on the common good, Catholic social teaching, and the theology of nature.

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ITI Catholic University

The ITI possesses a beautiful 12th century Castle which has two Chapels, an auditorium, many meeting rooms, and a large lovely outside garden. Participants will be able to walk around the quaint village of Trumau, exploring parks, gardens, and 15th century parish church. Our hosts, the staff of ITI, will be available to answer questions, provide insights to local places, and make sure every couple has what they need to relax and enjoy the Austrian countryside. The ITI was founded by St. John Paul II for the study of Catholic theology with particular attention to the theme of marriage and the family.

    • Presentations & mentoring with the Hernons
    • Mass, confession & adoration
    • Workbook & couple exercises
    • All meals & drinks (Thursday–Monday)
    • Private apartment-style room with balcony
    • 4 unforgettable off-campus excursions

Romance & Culture Off Campus

Four Extraordinary Excursions All Included In your Getaway

Boat ride, castle tour, historic gardens

Laxenburg Castle Park

Laxenburg Castle Park is among the most significant historical landscaped gardens in Europe. In addition to a multitude of monuments, buildings and picturesque garden areas, you can also discover the majestic crowning of the park: The “Little Treasure House of Austria” – the Franzensburg Castle, built in 1800 in the neo-gothic style. Guests will be able to explore the relaxing landscaped gardens, take a boat ride on the lake, or tour the castle.  

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3-hour thermal bath spa visit

Therme Wien Spa

During our Getaway we will take a trip to Therme Wien spa to enjoy three hours of soothing warmth in all the thermal pools.  Guests can simply sink into the warm water and relax in the natural atmosphere or take advantage of the massages, saunas, and treatments offered at an additional cost.  

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Dinner, wine tasting, and scenic views

Danube River Wine Cruise

One of the highlights of our trip is going to be experiencing the beauty of the Danube River up close on a relaxing boat ride. While on board guests will enjoy a wine tasting and excellent food, as our eyes feast on the beautiful landscape of the Danube River Valley.  

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Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg

Vienna Guided Tour

On Monday the staff at ITI will bring us into the Austrian capital, Vienna, to give us a tour of the city with its rich Catholic heritage including the Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg.  Vienna is one of the top cities to visit in Europe because of its urban charm, with a rich and long history, culture, and a selection of cakes that will do evil things to your willpower!

Your cozy apartment suite is part of the campus of the ITI Catholic University, a 12th century former Cistercian castle “Schloss Trumau”. Each apartment includes a living room, kitchenette, as well as a bedroom with a balcony and full bath. Every room is supplied with pillow Top mattresses, soft comforters and beautiful duvet covers.

Booking Details

Save $300 when you register before August 1, 2025

Book now and save! Register before August 1, 2025 for $300 Early Bird Discount. Discount will be reduced September 1. Last Minute full price will be from December 1 on until supplies last.