Gascony, france

Rediscover the wonder in your life

In collaboration with classical Hatha yoga teacher Tamsin Chubb of Little French Retreat, we are running two seven-night retreats in the peace and tranquility of the rolling countryside of Gascony. This is the gentle and inspirational landscape beloved by writers such as Andre Breton and Françoise Sagan, and the chocolatier in nearby Nerac was the location for Joanne Harris’s novel, Chocolat.

Accommodation is in Tamsin's Lovingly restored house, built into the walls of the Medieval castle which was, at one time, home to the 18th century philosopher, Montesquieu. Welcome to a week of writing, yoga, meditation, walking, wild swimming, cycling, relaxing and discovering what life is like with a notebook in your hand instead of your phone. You will write down your life, rediscover your creativity and delight in the expression of your unique writing voice. You will discover the therapeutic benefits of writing down your hopes, fears and memories on paper. Your week will be nourished by Tamsin's delicious vegetarian food and accompanied by local organic wine – all devised to help you end the day relaxed and refreshed.

This will be a nurturing and inspirational week filled with love, laughter and new friendships. An escape from work and family pressures in the restful French countryside, with healthy meals lovingly prepared for you. Disconnect from the daily grind and tune in deeper to discover who lies beneath the many coats of digital and professional activity that we constantly wear to protect and define ourselves. You will have time and space to think consecutively, to daydream, imagine and embrace silence. You will walk with an observational and thoughtful intention, breath clean air, stare at the stars and make plans for your future. You will laugh and may cry, you will amaze yourself and learn new skills. Daily yoga sessions will stretch and soften your body and you will eat slowly, mindfully and with gratitude. You will return home refreshed and empowered, with your self-esteem renewed and your body regenerated. 

Arrival: Collection from and return to Bordeaux on the first and last days of the retreat is included.

Group numbers: The course is limited to six people.

Food & drink: The price of the holiday includes full board – breakfast, lunch, dinner, a meal out and wine with dinner.

Transport: All transport other than transfers to and from the retreat on the day of arrival and departure are included.

2016 dates

2–9 July

1–8 October

Prices

£965 twin room

Included

Daily mindfulness meditation

Two daily writing workshops

Daily yoga classes

Guided walks

Wild swimming and cycling

Visit to a local market

Massage

Dinner in Nerac