Escape to our Chateau
A French Adventure
June 6th -13th 2024
Join us on a magical journey through the French countryside as we escape to our very own Chateau in the heart of the Loire Valley! Known for its lush gardens, fairy-tale chateaus, and glowing sunflower fields, we can’t think of a better place to unwind and get inspired!
Explore medieval towns and charming villages, shop for hidden treasures at bustling antique markets, and experience chateau life on our private 25-acre estate, where we’ll feast on farm-to-fork chef-prepared meals while living like a queen!
Along the way, we’ll lead you through creative prompts as we take time to gather inspiration from the beautiful places we visit. Our talented guest artist Sarah Cray has designed custom workshops just for us from Vintage Botanical Illustrations to her signature French Florals!
This journey is for anyone looking to explore their creative side and all of our activities and workshops are for beginners and seasoned artists alike! No Art experience necessary!
Our adventure begins in the heart of the Loire Valley. Set amongst Europe’s longest river and backdrop to castles, fragrant gardens, and charming towns, it’s easy to see why this area has inspired so many artists over the years!
Step into history as we settle into our very own 19th-century Chateau nestled among the forest. Our charming hosts will give us a private tour of this magnificent estate, from opulent rooms to greenhouses, gardens and pools there is something to explore around every corner!
Our journey continues to quaint riverside villages like Laval, where we’ll explore local brocante and antique markets, the picturesque medieval town of Sainte Suzanne to visit a 13th-century papermill and an escape to the stunning world heritage town of Angers, home to a historical chateau, famous tapestries and more!
With a relaxing itinerary that merges idyllic days of tea parties on the lawns of the chateau to bespoke day trips, creative workshops, studio tours, cooking classes, and more, this retreat is the perfect balance between rest and play!
If you’ve been looking to take some time for yourself to reconnect and explore your creative side with an awesome group of women, consider this your invitation!
Why should you join us?
Umm..when are you going to get the chance to stay at your very own chateau in the heart of France?!
This is truly the adventure of a lifetime and with all the hustle and bustle of everyday life (not to mention these uber-stressful times we’re living in) you deserve to take some space for yourself. That’s right! Not the kids, family or your job, but something just for you!
So buckle up buttercup cause we’re offering an adventure to reset and explore your best self.. It’s more than a retreat, it’s an experience, so let’s loosen up, get inspired, and above all have fun!
Come Wander with us!
A peek into our adventure!
Where we’ll be staying
We went all out and booked our very own Chateau!
Nestled in the serene French countryside, this 19th-century chateau is an estate full of surprises and a good dose of whimsy, a place to take your time and enjoy the French way of life.
Take in the aromas of walled gardens brimming with lavender and herbs, soak in the sun poolside with an epic view of the countryside, and explore many of the fun amenities such as bocce ball, croquet, a gigantic life-size chess set, and more!
Pamper yourself with farm-to-fork fare sourced from the chateau’s own organic porter, baked goods, hors d’oeuvres, wine, cocktails, you name it! This is a luxury all-inclusive experience!
Make sure to check out the slideshow below for more pictures of this beautiful venue!
Let’s Talk Food
France is famous for its fine cuisine, fresh produce markets, delicious baguettes, and cheeses!
Our charming host and chef extraordinaire Suzie creates custom seasonal menus featuring only the best locally sourced ingredients, many from the estate’s own garden!
This retreat includes a variety of meals, all organic farm-to-fork fare, and prepared just for us.
We’re also in for a treat with a nightly cocktail hour featuring classic French aperitifs, and hor devours, umm yes, please!
Meet our Guest Artist
Meet Sarah Cray!
Sarah is known for her whimsical watercolor and ink illustrations and as the co-founder of Let’s Make Art. Artist and entrepreneur, she has inspired thousands of creatives to learn watercolor and live a more creative life. From illustrating books to teaching, she can’t wait to share her love of art with a new group of ladies!
Meet our Featured Local Artist
Meet Julie North award-winning artist and printmaker. We’ll enjoy an artist talk and live demo to learn all about her process and the making of various printmaking techniques from linocut to drypoint and collagraph prints.
“I am fortunate to live in the beautiful Pays de la Loire, France, which gives me endless inspiration for my work. The natural world and my surroundings constantly fill my head with patterns, images, and ideas for new subjects and projects.”
A Word From Your Host
Hi Everyone! Cassie here, founder of Wandering Women Retreats, art, and travel lover!
I can’t tell you how excited I am to share France with an awesome group of gals! With over a decade of experience in the travel industry and as a professional artist, it’s been a long-time dream to merge the two and offer unforgettable journeys that both nurture your creative side and immerse you in local culture.
I’ve cooked up a seriously dreamy itinerary that has a taste of it all! We’ll not only be visiting different towns and villages throughout the Loire Valley but with creative workshops, amazing day trips and a magical chateau to explore this retreat is chock full of inspiration!
So join me as we “Escape to the Chateau” for the adventure of a lifetime!
Our Itinerary
Day 1: Thursday, June 6th – Arrival , Opening Celebration & Cocktail Reception followed by a Welcome Dinner
Arrival in La Cropte, a group transfer from the airport directly to the Chateau will be provided.
Settle in and get refreshed! Explore the grounds, lounge by the pool or take in the numerous gardens.
In the evening join us for a celebration of our new adventure! Sip on cocktails and get to know your fellow creative companions, followed by a scrumptious Welcome Dinner.
Day 2: Friday, June 7th – Tour of the Chateau & Gardens, Botanical Book Illustrations Workshop, Local Artist Visit & Demo, Wine & Cheese Tasting Dinner
Homemade breakfast followed by a tour of the Chateau & its fabulous gardens! Find out all about the chateau’s wonderful history and how the owners brought it back to life after many years of neglect. With over 35 rooms, outbuildings, stables, and more, this property has plenty of secrets to share!
After our tour, we’ll settle in for our first workshop as Sarah goes over simple techniques to create beautiful botanical illustrations on antique book pages. We’ll be framing our creations in antique frames that we’ll hunt for on our day at the antique market, so everyone will leave with at least one framed illustration as a keepsake!
We’ll break for a delicious lunch followed by a visit and live demo by local artist and printmaker Julie North. Hear all the inspiration behind Julie’s work and shop beautiful pieces from her private collection.
Enjoy free time after to relax poolside or go for an afternoon stroll and soak up the “ slow life”.
In the evening, we’ll meet for a special wine and cheese pairing dinner. Sample local wines perfectly paired with dishes featuring the region’s cheeses for a one-of-a-kind scrumptious meal.
Day 3: Saturday, June 8th – Day trip to Laval, Antique Market Visit, Brocante Shop, Robert Tatin Sculpture Museum, Al fresco Dinner
Homemade breakfast and then off on our first-day trip to the charming riverside town of Laval. Famous for its bustling produce, antique, and vintage markets, we’ll take it all in as we explore various markets, along with a visit to the brocante and thrift shop! Enjoy free time to meander the many cobblestone streets, shops, and cafes.
After exploring, we’ll head over to the eccentric Robert Tatin Museum, famous for its collection of eclectic sculptures and installations.
Once back at our magical oasis, we’ll set to framing our botanical illustrations from the day before, followed by some free time to rest and get refreshed. Meet us in the evening for a special Al fresco dinner under the stars.
Day 4: Sunday, June 9th – Floral Foraging, French Florals Workshop, Cooking Class, Sunset Soiree Party, Poolside Dinner
Homemade breakfast followed by an adventure in the garden as we forage for florals, followed by a special French Florals workshop. Sarah will go over her favorite techniques for creating luscious watercolor florals!
In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a cooking class by our onsite chef and host Suzie, using ingredients harvested from the estate. We’ll enjoy the fruits of our labor with a delicious lunch followed by free time to explore, play and wander.
Join us at the golden hour for a Sunset Soiree Party, where we’ll enjoy h’orderves and cocktails poolside before a special sunset dinner in the gardens.
Day 5: Monday, June 10th – Day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Angers, Chateau Visit, Shopping & Free Time, Tapestry Museum
Homemade breakfast and then our adventure begins with a journey to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Angers. Set upon the river lies this medieval city with the impressive Chateau d’Angers at its center. The Chateau d’Angers has a striking appearance, sumptuous interiors not to mention the famed Apocalypse tapestry. Explore its many rooms, tapestries, and gardens.
After exploring, enjoy free time to visit nearby shops and have a bite to eat at one of the many cafes.
Our adventure continues as we wander over the river to the Jean-Lurçat Museum of Tapestries which houses beautiful pieces by the prolific artist Jean Lurçat and other contemporary textile artists.
The main part of the museum which exhibits the work of Jean-Lurcat is housed in a magnificent building of the late 12th century; with soaring Plantagenet Gothic architecture the perfect place to enjoy larger-than-life tapestry installations. Contemporary tapestries are also on display along with a small exhibition of tapestry making for a glimpse into how these works of art are crafted.
After resting from a day of exploring, join us in the evening for another delicious chef-prepared dinner.
Day 6: Tuesday June 11th – Day Trip to Sainte Suzanne, Handmade Paper Tour & Workshop, Picnic & Croquet, French Landscapes Workshop
Homemade breakfast followed by a fun day trip to the nearby medieval village of Sainte Suzanne, perched atop the hillside with sweeping views of the river, this quaint little town is home to one of oldest paper mills.
Working in techniques handed down since the 13th century we’ll enjoy a private tour and behind-the-scenes glimpse at how these beautiful papers are made! After our tour, we’ll dive into paper making with a hands-on workshop where you’ll create your very own handcrafted paper!
Enjoy free time in Sainte Suzanne to explore its many quaint shops and iconic cobblestone streets.
After exploring, we’ll head back to the Chateau for a whimsical afternoon picnic set across the sprawling lawn, followed by a fun game of croquet. Relax, have some drinks, and let your inner Victorian aristocrat come out!
Join us at sunset for another fun creative workshop as we dive into french landscapes ! Using the surrounding countryside for our inspiration Sarah will walk us through the steps as we create a series of fun landscapes from fields of lavender to hills of sunflowers!
Join us in the evening for another tasty meal prepared by our charming hosts.
Day 7: Wednesday, June 12th – Afternoon Tea Party, Watercolor Postcards Workshop, Secret Garden Photoshoot, Closing Celebration & Farewell Dinner
Homemade Breakfast followed by our last creative workshop, watercolor postcards! Capture scenes from our journey as Sarah goes over simple techniques and tips to create a special series of postcards.
Enjoy free time to pack up your one-of-a-kind shopping finds from our market adventures, take one last dip in the pool and soak it all in!
Join us for an afternoon tea party and lunch hosted in the gardens, where we’ll snack on all the classic favorites from tea sandwiches to baked goods and more!
In the evening, it’s dress-up time and we’ll have a special secret garden-themed photo shoot! With a looming chateau and glorious gardens as a backdrop, this is sure to produce some epic photos that will last a lifetime!
Our photoshoot will be followed by a fun closing celebration where we’ll share our favorite takeaways and creations, followed by a special farewell dinner.
Day 8: Thursday, June 13th – Breakfast and Departure
We’ll share one last opening circle and breakfast together before departing for the train station. Remember to stay in touch with your new creative besties and we hope you. Wander with Us on our next adventure!
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS OUR PROSPECTIVE ITINERARY. SMALL CHANGES MAY BE MADE DUE TO WEATHER, DESIRES OF THE GROUP, AND UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITIES
(such as spontaneous adventures, can we say heck ya?!)
Spots are limited! Our retreats aren’t just about the wonderful things we’ll see and do but about building relationships, that’s why we like to keep our groups small and intimate. This enables us to travel like a local and have an inside look at all the region has to offer! This retreat is limited to 12 guests.
THIS ALL-INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE INCLUDES:
- 8 days & 7 nights accommodations at a private luxury Chateau
- One Group Transfer from CDG Airport to the Chateau on arrival day (we are one of the only groups that offer this as private transport is extremely costly in France) & Return Transfers to the Laval Train Station ( which has multiple trains both directly back to the airport and Paris)
- ALL INCLUSIVE MEAL PACKAGE: Daily Farm to Fork Chef Prepared Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners & Snacks
- DRINKS & REFRESHMENTS, including Nighty Aperitifs and Wine during meals
- Private transportation to and from all destinations/activities
- Intimate group limited to 8-14 women
- Tips for our guides, drivers
- Day trip to Laval
- Antique Market tour with visit to Brocante and Thrift Shop
- Visit & Entrance to Robert Tatin Sculpture Museum
- Day Trip to Angers
- Visit & Entrance to Angers Chateau
- Village visit with shopping
- Visit & Entrance to Jean-Lurçat Tapestry Museum
- Local artist talk and printmaking demo
- Day trip to Sainte Suzanne
- Visit to Historic Paper Mill with Handmade Papers Tour
- Hands-on Artisan Paper Workshop
- Private Chateau & Garden Tour
- Cooking Class
- Welcome and Departure Party
- Afternoon Tea Party & Garden Picnic
- Sunset Soiree Party
- Wine & Cheese Tasting Night
- Private Professional Photographer including daily candid shots, multiple group photos along with a Secret Garden Photoshoot & Photo Album
- Four Creative Workshops! Vintage Botanical Book Illustrations, French Florals, Watercolor Postcards, and French Landscapes with guest artist Sarah Cray
- Daily Art Exercises and journaling prompts to get your creative juices flowing!
Sweet Extras
A private Facebook Group so you can get to know your fellow 
A curated bag of goodies, aka the most amazing swag bag ever, including art and local French finds!
A Dedicated on site host to make sure you have the most amazing time ever!
This is a Wandering Women Luxe Retreat!
* This is a Wandering Women all-inclusive LUXE retreat! This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Luxury accommodations, chef-prepared meals, nightly aperitifs, fine wines with meals, along with a private photographer and professional photo album, are included in addition to our amazing itinerary and day trips!
Cost: Double Occupancy $6225 | Single occupancy $6725
(Airfare not included)
A $1000 Non -Refundable deposit is required to hold your spot balance due by February 15th, 2024.
What our retreaters are saying
Testimonials from our fellow Wandering Women
Something I will remember for the rest of my life!
“What a spectacular trip! I knew it sounded good on paper, but the real-life version was more than I could have ever imagined. Thank you for all the hard work you put into making this retreat something I will remember for the rest of my life”
Jocelyn K
The trip of a lifetime!
“ Wandering Women put together a fabulous venue, a great mixture of workshops, tours & amazing food. The friendships I made only sweetened the whole experience. If you’re on the fence, don’t be! Treat yourself – we’re all so worth it! “
Jill V.
Unique & Unforgettable!
“This retreat was the perfect blend of adventure, rest, and creativity. The luxe experience with activities that were off the beaten path made it unique and unforgettable.”
Molly D.
WHAT ISN’T COVERED IN THE COST?
- Airfare from your hometown to France
- Train from Laval to airport or Paris
- Travelers Insurance (required for this retreat)
- Any extra tours, meals, or excursions that you choose during your free time if you choose to go.
- Transportation & lodging outside of the retreat dates, should you choose to arrive early or stay later in France
- Anything you buy in the markets or on various outings.
Faq’s
Book with Confidence – A note about Covid 19
We have a great team in place that is monitoring the global pandemic and travel advisories on a daily basis. In the event we need to cancel the retreat due to Covid 19, retreat participants will be offered the option of moving funds to a rescheduled departure date . We are also requiring all participants to get a travel insurance policy.We want you to feel fully comfortable and confident when booking that you are covered!
* Please note that we will NOT be refunding cancellations for any reason, including if you yourself contract covid before the retreat and can not attend. Due to the planning, logistics & upfront costs of these events, we have a strict no-refund policy regardless of circumstance. We are requiring retreaters to get trip insurance for this very reason, trust us the peace of mind alone is worth it! Our full cancellation policy can be viewed on our FAQ Page here.
Absolutely! All of our workshops and activities are for beginners and experienced artists alike!! We’ll provide you with creative prompts, but you will be at your own pace, and it’s completely up to you how you’d like to use your art journal and creative time.
The remaining balance after deposit is due on or before February 15th 2024. We will send a payment link a month before so you can complete payment.
Yes, a travel insurance policy is required in order for you to attend the retreat. Trust us, it’s worth it! Stumped on what policy to choose? Don’t worry we got you, our welcome packet has info on trip insurance and more!
That is completely up to you and depends on how much shopping you plan to do. ATMs are available to you and credit cards are taken at most major retailers.
In the event you are traveling solo and book a shared room we will do our best to pair you up with someone we think you’ll match well with!
Cute Story I met one of my besties on an art retreat where we shared a room! Little did we know we only lived 20 minutes apart, and we have been inseparable ever since!
France is famous for its fine cuisine, fresh produce markets, delicious baguettes, and cheeses! This retreat includes a variety of meals, all organic farm-to-fork fare and prepared just for us!
We really want to give you a taste of the country through its food. We will have vegetarian options, but unfortunately, severely restrictive diets and other food sensitivities can not be accommodated.
We will be offering one Group Transfer from CDG Airport to the Chateau on arrival day (we are one of the only groups that offer this as private transport is extremely costly in France) & Return Transfers to the Laval Train Station (which has multiple trains both directly back to the airport and Paris)
When booking your flights, please fly into Paris (CDG). We recommend booking your flights at least 90 days before the beginning of the retreat.
Weather in La Cropte will be pleasantly warm during the days with temperatures ranging in the 80s. Evenings can cool down and we’d recommend packing layers and a light jacket or cardigan.
France is best explored on foot. There will be lots of cobblestone streets, so opt for comfortable shoes, sneakers or sandals.For our day trips, we’ll spend most the day outdoors. Plan outfits that will work for exploring but will also be nice enough for a relaxed dinner. Layers are always a great idea!
For our Secret Garden photoshoot, bring a fun outfit to wear ( think whimsical dresses or any fun props such as wings, headpieces, top hats, and more, have fun with it!
The last thing we want is you having to lug a ton of supplies around, so we’ll send a minimal list of art supplies such as your favorite brushes, art journal, and watercolor set! We’ll also include a simple packing list and tips a couple of months before the retreat.
We also recommend that you bring an extra bag (a collapsible duffel or tote works great) to bring home your goodies you have collected on our shopping trips. France is known for its artisan and antique markets, so trust us, you’ll want the extra room to take back your one-of-a-kind finds! The temperatures will vary, so don’t forget layers, pack a bathing suit, sweater, and a light jacket!
It is your responsibility to be up to date on what the visa requirements are for entering the country.
One of our main goals is to lift up our fellow female creatives! When we set out to create Wandering Women Retreats we thought about all the wonderful female artisans around the world. What’s going on in their studio, what inspires them and how can we be inspired in return? Each of our retreats highlight a different woman artist with visits to her workspace and talks about her journey and creative process.
From floral foragers to textile designers to mixed media painters we strive to spotlight a diverse group of female artisans. On each of our retreat pages, you’ll find a bio for our featured female artist for that particular trip.
Still have questions? We got you! Visit our FAQ page.
Interested in a custom retreat for you and your tribe? We can create custom private retreats for your group that are tailored to your interests. Unique experiences, boutique accommodations and off the beaten path locations are our speciality! Reach out through our contact page for more info!
Come Wander with Us!
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