What to Expect

As well as time to relax and enjoy the beautiful grounds of the Maison de Clauzade, or take your own bicycle ride around the nearby villages, we’ll be taking you on excursions to explore further afield;

In the stunning portside town of La Rochelle, you will be able to explore the streets of the Old Port and discover the quaint boutiques and cafes.  The portside dining is so typically French, and if you like oysters – you’ll love them here!

At every turn in the Old Port, you’ll be taken back centuries! Discover the magnificent Giant Clock that stands as the gateway to the Old Port, and the towers around the port that date back to the early 12th century. 

We’ll take you across the bridge to visit Ile de Re, a picture postcard island, renowned for its beaches, the ruins of the 12th century Abbey de Chateliers, and THE most famous ice cream in the region, La Martiniere, people patiently queue for ages... it is worth the wait! (we’ve done it! And we hate to queue!)

The Charente region is world renowned for its cognac, and with us you’ll be visiting the town of Cognac, where you’ll be taken on a guided tour of the 10th century Chateau de Cognac.  Rebuilt many times over the centuries, Chateau de Cognac was the birthplace of Francois the First (King of France 1515 – 1547), Kings and Queens from all over Europe have walked the halls and been entertained in the Grand Ballroom, it’s been a prison (you can still see the names of prisoners carved into the sandstone), and since 1795 it has been the home of the Baron Otard Cognacs.  Even if history is not really your thing; this place will capture your imagination.  

Closer to ‘home’ you’ll explore the charming towns and villages dotted around the Chateau de Clauzade.  You’ll get to know the gals in the local Boulangerie in St Savinien, you’ll dine alongside the Charente ‘River’ in the enchanting village of Taillebourg, you can try your hand at pétanque if the urge takes you, we will wander around the grounds of the Chateau Taillebourg, nestled up on a hill, overlooking the village. 

You’ll have the opportunity to brush up on your high school French and practice with the locals you will meet along the way, when we spend time and experience the warmth and hospitality of some local friends!

OUR LADIES’ TESTIMONIALS  

This trip was everything and more- definitely more than I expected. So many pinch me moments. Commencing our mornings peacefully with fabulous women, food in abundance, a dream mansion, chats around the fireplace with a little wine, being introduced and discovering many areas of the French countryside and sharing heartfelt laughter. Memorable moments that will remain with me forever. Deb Payne, Samford QLD

Our retreat in the south west of France was all it was made out to be and much, more! This was the first time I had been to Europe so I was very hesitant and slightly terrified of meeting a whole bunch of strangers in a strange land! I also wasn't sure of the yoga part of the retreat as I hadn’t practiced Yoga for a while … I needn’t have worried. Leanne, Vickianne and Margo were the most amazing hosts, yoga and mindful movement teacher, chauffeurs, tour guides and cooks! Everything was catered for (except alcohol). The chateau was impeccably rustic and very charming. Our days were full of exploration of sweet little villages and markets, eating lots of beautiful food, tasting the local wines and cognac tasting in Cognac with a little mindful movement to round things out. What dreams are made of really. I left with a whole bunch of new friends and very fond and beautiful memories of my experience there! I would highly recommend this Retreat. Jane Huxley, WA