5 Day Yoga, Ceremony & Nature Retreat near Bordeaux, France
About
Join us next autumn at The French Retreat in the serene Bordeaux countryside for a rejuvenating weekend of yoga, shamanism, and nature connection. Guided by Joanne Sumner and Carl Hewitt, this 101st gathering celebrates Mabon, inviting you to pause and reflect. Reconnect with your inner wisdom in a supportive community.
🌼 Welcome to The French Retreat: A Journey of Reconnection 🌼
Join us in the sun-drenched countryside of South West France for a deeply nourishing and transformative retreat experience. At The French Retreat, we create a safe haven where you can relax, be nurtured, and reconnect with yourself and the world around you. This is your chance to pause, reflect, and rediscover your inner wisdom with like-hearted souls.
🏡 Retreat Overview
Located just an hour from Bordeaux, The French Retreat is nestled in a beautifully restored former Cognac estate, surrounded by golden sunflower fields and open skies. The majestic manor house and charming converted barn provide ideal spaces for reflection, relaxation, and personal growth.
As we gather to mark the Autumn Equinox—known as Mabon in the Celtic tradition—join us for a weekend filled with yoga, shamanism, ceremony, and nature connection. This retreat offers a unique blend of ancient practices and modern insights, bringing you home to yourself.
🌟 What’s Included
Your retreat package includes:
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Accommodation & Nourishment:
- 4 nights in beautifully restored en-suite rooms
- Three daily nutritious vegetarian meals prepared by a professional chef
- Welcome drink on the first evening
- Herbal teas, organic coffee, and wholesome snacks available throughout the day
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Daily Practices & Group Experience:
- Morning meditation or qi gong/tai chi sessions
- Daily yoga classes
- Shamanic rituals, ceremonies, and guided drum journeys
- Creative and reflective workshops
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Personal Support & Healing:
- One-on-one check-in with a facilitator
- Bespoke flower essence blend tailored just for you
- Pre and post-retreat support
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Local Life & Optional Adventures:
- Local walks, cycling trips, and visits to nearby markets
- Information for wild swimming, kayaking, and exploring local villages
- Bicycles available for your convenience
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Conveniences & Extras:
- Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from Chalais train station
- Free Wi-Fi and on-site parking
- Access to our outdoor pool and relaxation areas
💰 Prices & Dates
Our upcoming retreats run on select dates throughout the year, and availability is limited:
- Prices starting at: $1,345 per person for shared accommodations
Join us for a transformative experience where growth knows no bounds!
🙌 Organizer & Teaching Team
Your retreat hosts are experienced facilitators:
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Joanne Sumner: A seasoned Reiki Master, Yoga Teacher, Coach, and Shamanic Practitioner. Joanne has been facilitating retreats for 19 years, creating nurturing spaces for transformation.
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Carl Hewitt: A Shamanic Practitioner, Counselor, and Transpersonal Therapist. Carl’s grounded presence and gentle humor ensure a supportive and insightful journey.
Together, they create a warm, welcoming environment that invites deep healing and connection.
🌄 Retreat Center & Location
The French Retreat is set in the breathtaking Bordeaux countryside, offering a serene environment to slow down and breathe deeply. Enjoy the stunning manor house, converted barn, and spacious indoor yoga studio designed for tranquility and reflection. This unique location serves as the perfect backdrop for your journey into deeper self-awareness.
🍽️ Food & Nourishment
At The French Retreat, meals are not just a necessity—they’re a celebration. Expect wholesome, vegetarian dishes crafted with love and intention. Sample dishes may include:
- Hummus with warm flatbreads
- Tagine with mint tabbouleh
- Sweet potato curry with basmati rice
- Decadent desserts like chocolate brownies and cinnamon apple crumble
We cater to all dietary preferences, ensuring everyone feels nourished and cared for.
🌟 Guest Reviews & Experience
Guests often describe their experience at The French Retreat as transformative and deeply satisfying. They've expressed gratitude for the nourishing food, the beautiful environment, and the supportive community. Many highlight the retreat's unique blend of yoga, shamanism, and nature connection as a standout aspect of their time spent here.
💖 Why Choose This Retreat
Choosing The French Retreat means stepping into a nurturing space designed for profound healing and transformation. Here’s why you should join us:
- Immerse yourself in nature for holistic healing experiences 🌱
- Reconnect with your authentic self in a supportive community
- Engage in unique practices blending yoga and shamanism
- Enjoy healthy, nourishing meals that support your well-being
- Take a break from daily life and immerse in the sacred cycles of nature
This retreat is for you if you’re ready to reconnect with your inner wisdom and celebrate life’s journey amidst the beauty of the French countryside.
🌈 If you feel the call to join us on this sacred journey home to yourself, we can't wait to welcome you to The French Retreat!