A Journey of Light and Shadow with Ida von Aves
The Mythic Self
A Fantasy Photoshoot Retreat w/ Ida von Aves.Step into a world of myth and legend, where personal discovery is nurtured, and catharsis is embraced.
September 18 - 24, 2025
Apply now
A Journey of Light and Shadow with Ida von Aves
The Mythic Self
A Fantasy Photoshoot Retreat w/ Ida von Aves.Step into a world of myth and legend, where personal discovery is nurtured, and catharsis is embraced.
September 18 - 24, 2025
Apply now
A Journey of Light and Shadow with Ida von Aves
The Mythic Self
A Fantasy Photoshoot Retreat w/ Ida von Aves.Step into a world of myth and legend, where personal discovery is nurtured, and catharsis is embraced.
September 18 - 24, 2025
Apply now
This six-night immersive retreat at Château de Puy Vidal is a journey into your inner myths and archetypes—embracing strength and vulnerability, grief and joy, beauty and pain. Guided by visionary photographer Ida von Aves and expert stylist Celine Wilkes, you’ll explore and celebrate a self-image rooted in compassion and power.
Drawing on classical art and her mastery of light and shadow, Ida will help you embody your inner villain, queen, knight, or goddess—becoming a living work of art inspired by the Medieval, Renaissance, and Pre-Raphaelite eras.
Surrounding the photoshoots, the Lady of the Château team offers a curated program of yoga, journaling, vision boards, local excursions, and themed evenings. This unique blend of self-exploration, creativity, beauty, and rest—set in a 13th-century château—promises transformation, connection, and a deeper link to your fantasy self.
Step through our enchanted doors—where muses gather and myths come alive.
€5,150- €6,250
Master Photographer
Ida von Aves
Artist's Letter
Artist's Letter
Artist's Letter
My photography blends classical art with modern emotion—painterly portraits that tell stories beyond the frame. Trained in art history and classical photography, I’ve spent years crafting images that reveal strength, softness, and myth within each person.
Now based in Germany, I’m bringing my studio to France to help you step into a living masterpiece. This retreat isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about uncovering the art that’s always been there.
Ready to become part of the story?
Gallery
Hair & Make-up Artist
Sarah Scherer
The multi-functional chameleon, somewhere between Pippi Longstocking and Rapunzel, she likes to face challenges in order to grow from them. This could be about perfecting the latest hair trends or about making our world a little bit more open and colorful.
She has worked with Ida on many shoots in Germany, and is so excited to be your Hair and Makeup Artist for what promises to be an incredible week together.
Immersive 6-night
Château Retreat
3 Fine Art
Photoshoot Sessions
All Genders and
LGBTQ+ Welcome
Immersive 6-night
Château Retreat
3 Fine Art
Photoshoot Sessions
All Genders and
LGBTQ+ Welcome
Immersive 6-night
Château Retreat
3 Fine Art
Photoshoot Sessions
All Genders and
LGBTQ+ Welcome
Step Into Your Story
The Timeless Portrait
The Story Unfolds
The Grand Finale
Step Into Your Story
Ever dreamed of being a mythic muse, legendary warrior, or figure in a timeless painting? This retreat goes beyond photoshoots—it’s a chance to explore and express different facets of yourself through art.
Photographer Ida von Aves will bring costumes and accessories to help shape your unique look, from flowing Renaissance gowns to regal capes and detailed armor.
Hair and makeup will be done by Celine, Ida’s trusted artist, who will also provide wigs for those wanting to try a new aesthetic—whether it’s soft waves, elaborate updos, or bold transformations.
Before the retreat, you’ll connect with Ida via chat or video to discuss your vision and choose looks. You’ll also receive her Intention Finding Quiz to help clarify the essence of what you want to express.
Step Into Your Story
The Timeless Portrait
The Story Unfolds
The Grand Finale
Step Into Your Story
Ever dreamed of being a mythic muse, legendary warrior, or figure in a timeless painting? This retreat goes beyond photoshoots—it’s a chance to explore and express different facets of yourself through art.
Photographer Ida von Aves will bring costumes and accessories to help shape your unique look, from flowing Renaissance gowns to regal capes and detailed armor.
Hair and makeup will be done by Celine, Ida’s trusted artist, who will also provide wigs for those wanting to try a new aesthetic—whether it’s soft waves, elaborate updos, or bold transformations.
Before the retreat, you’ll connect with Ida via chat or video to discuss your vision and choose looks. You’ll also receive her Intention Finding Quiz to help clarify the essence of what you want to express.
Step Into Your Story
The Timeless Portrait
The Story Unfolds
The Grand Finale
Step Into Your Story
Ever dreamed of being a mythic muse, legendary warrior, or figure in a timeless painting? This retreat goes beyond photoshoots—it’s a chance to explore and express different facets of yourself through art.
Photographer Ida von Aves will bring costumes and accessories to help shape your unique look, from flowing Renaissance gowns to regal capes and detailed armor.
Hair and makeup will be done by Celine, Ida’s trusted artist, who will also provide wigs for those wanting to try a new aesthetic—whether it’s soft waves, elaborate updos, or bold transformations.
Before the retreat, you’ll connect with Ida via chat or video to discuss your vision and choose looks. You’ll also receive her Intention Finding Quiz to help clarify the essence of what you want to express.
The Retreat Journey
A preliminary schedule for the week
18
September
The Call to Adventure
Meeting the Mentor
Welcome to the Chateau!
Your journey begins as you arrive by train at Angoulême Station between 2 PM - 4 PM, where shuttles will transport you to our enchanting retreat.
As you pass through the château gates, step into a world where myth, art, and self-discovery intertwine.
Settle in, meet your fellow participants, your hosts and your photographer guide as you explore the château grounds—a place where legends come to life.
That evening, we gather for an Opening Circle & Welcome Dinner, a ceremonial first step into the experience ahead.19
September
Crossing
the Threshold
1st Photoshoot | 30 min sessions
Outside of your prep and photoshoot time, the château becomes your sanctuary. Book a massage, attend a yoga class, go on a countryside walk or lounge by the pool, soaking in the tranquility.Dinner | Harvest Celebration
An autumnal celebration of the equinox.Evening | Persephone's Bonfire
An intention-setting bonfire beneath the stars—casting your spell for the days ahead.20
September
The Transformation
Begins
Regional Daytrip
Join us on a trip to a historic village, where we’ll wander through cobblestone streets, have lunch in a traditional french restaurant, and explore quaint shops. A day of exploration and learning a bit more about the Renaissance history of the region.Dinner | Renaissance Kings & Queens
A candlelit dinner honoring the history of the Chateau.Evening | Cinema Night
Renaissance themed film screening in the Grand Salon.21
September
The Deepening Quest
Test, Allies and Enemies
2nd Photoshoot - 1/2 the group - 1 hr sessions
To allow each participant a full one-hour shoot, the group will be divided into two.Afternoon | Medieval Garden Games
After your photoshoot, join the fun in the grounds for a round of archery, croquet, slackline, and more.Dinner | Joan of Arc Banquet
A Knightcore-inspired medieval banquet, where we dine like warrior queens and rebels of legend.Evening | Medieval Dungeon
A quest of secrets.22
September
Return with the Elixer
the Resurrection
2nd Photoshoot - 1/2 the group - 1 hr sessions
Afternoon | Goddess Energy Pool Party
Bring your most golden, radiant selves to luxuriate by the pool, soak in the spa, and revel in the beauty of your bravery.Dinner | Bacchanalian Feast
As the golden hour arrives, we gather for a glittering dinner in the Grand Salon, an assembly of radiant gods and goddesses.Evening | Minotaur in the Labyrinth
An ancient challenge of chase and suspense.23
September
The Road Back
as the Mythic Self
3rd Photoshoot | 30 min sessions
Afternoon | Chateau living
Enjoy your last day of life in the Chateau, soak in the grounds, the salons and the accomplishment of your mythic journeyEvening | Closing Ceremony
24
September
The Hero
Returns Home
Departure Day
The journey concludes as shuttles to Angoulême Station begin at 6 AM for those catching the 6:36 AM train to Charles de Gaulle Airport.
A farewell breakfast is served from 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM, as guests say their final goodbyes, carrying their newfound mythic selves back into the world.Shuttles continue throughout the morning, with departure recommended no later than noon.
18
September
The Call to Adventure
Meeting the Mentor
Welcome to the Chateau!
Your journey begins as you arrive by train at Angoulême Station between 2 PM - 4 PM, where shuttles will transport you to our enchanting retreat.
As you pass through the château gates, step into a world where myth, art, and self-discovery intertwine.
Settle in, meet your fellow participants, your hosts and your photographer guide as you explore the château grounds—a place where legends come to life.
That evening, we gather for an Opening Circle & Welcome Dinner, a ceremonial first step into the experience ahead.19
September
Crossing
the Threshold
1st Photoshoot | 30 min sessions
Outside of your prep and photoshoot time, the château becomes your sanctuary. Book a massage, attend a yoga class, go on a countryside walk or lounge by the pool, soaking in the tranquility.Dinner | Harvest Celebration
An autumnal celebration of the equinox.Evening | Persephone's Bonfire
An intention-setting bonfire beneath the stars—casting your spell for the days ahead.20
September
The Transformation
Begins
Regional Daytrip
Join us on a trip to a historic village, where we’ll wander through cobblestone streets, have lunch in a traditional french restaurant, and explore quaint shops. A day of exploration and learning a bit more about the Renaissance history of the region.Dinner | Renaissance Kings & Queens
A candlelit dinner honoring the history of the Chateau.Evening | Cinema Night
Renaissance themed film screening in the Grand Salon.21
September
The Deepening Quest
Test, Allies and Enemies
2nd Photoshoot - 1/2 the group - 1 hr sessions
To allow each participant a full one-hour shoot, the group will be divided into two.Afternoon | Medieval Garden Games
After your photoshoot, join the fun in the grounds for a round of archery, croquet, slackline, and more.Dinner | Joan of Arc Banquet
A Knightcore-inspired medieval banquet, where we dine like warrior queens and rebels of legend.Evening | Medieval Dungeon
A quest of secrets.22
September
Return with the Elixer
the Resurrection
2nd Photoshoot - 1/2 the group - 1 hr sessions
Afternoon | Goddess Energy Pool Party
Bring your most golden, radiant selves to luxuriate by the pool, soak in the spa, and revel in the beauty of your bravery.Dinner | Bacchanalian Feast
As the golden hour arrives, we gather for a glittering dinner in the Grand Salon, an assembly of radiant gods and goddesses.Evening | Minotaur in the Labyrinth
An ancient challenge of chase and suspense.23
September
The Road Back
as the Mythic Self
3rd Photoshoot | 30 min sessions
Afternoon | Chateau living
Enjoy your last day of life in the Chateau, soak in the grounds, the salons and the accomplishment of your mythic journeyEvening | Closing Ceremony
24
September
The Hero
Returns Home
Departure Day
The journey concludes as shuttles to Angoulême Station begin at 6 AM for those catching the 6:36 AM train to Charles de Gaulle Airport.
A farewell breakfast is served from 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM, as guests say their final goodbyes, carrying their newfound mythic selves back into the world.Shuttles continue throughout the morning, with departure recommended no later than noon.
18
September
The Call to Adventure
Meeting the Mentor
Welcome to the Chateau!
Your journey begins as you arrive by train at Angoulême Station between 2 PM - 4 PM, where shuttles will transport you to our enchanting retreat.
As you pass through the château gates, step into a world where myth, art, and self-discovery intertwine.
Settle in, meet your fellow participants, your hosts and your photographer guide as you explore the château grounds—a place where legends come to life.
That evening, we gather for an Opening Circle & Welcome Dinner, a ceremonial first step into the experience ahead.19
September
Crossing
the Threshold
1st Photoshoot | 30 min sessions
Outside of your prep and photoshoot time, the château becomes your sanctuary. Book a massage, attend a yoga class, go on a countryside walk or lounge by the pool, soaking in the tranquility.Dinner | Harvest Celebration
An autumnal celebration of the equinox.Evening | Persephone's Bonfire
An intention-setting bonfire beneath the stars—casting your spell for the days ahead.20
September
The Transformation
Begins
Regional Daytrip
Join us on a trip to a historic village, where we’ll wander through cobblestone streets, have lunch in a traditional french restaurant, and explore quaint shops. A day of exploration and learning a bit more about the Renaissance history of the region.Dinner | Renaissance Kings & Queens
A candlelit dinner honoring the history of the Chateau.Evening | Cinema Night
Renaissance themed film screening in the Grand Salon.21
September
The Deepening Quest
Test, Allies and Enemies
2nd Photoshoot - 1/2 the group - 1 hr sessions
To allow each participant a full one-hour shoot, the group will be divided into two.Afternoon | Medieval Garden Games
After your photoshoot, join the fun in the grounds for a round of archery, croquet, slackline, and more.Dinner | Joan of Arc Banquet
A Knightcore-inspired medieval banquet, where we dine like warrior queens and rebels of legend.Evening | Medieval Dungeon
A quest of secrets.22
September
Return with the Elixer
the Resurrection
2nd Photoshoot - 1/2 the group - 1 hr sessions
Afternoon | Goddess Energy Pool Party
Bring your most golden, radiant selves to luxuriate by the pool, soak in the spa, and revel in the beauty of your bravery.Dinner | Bacchanalian Feast
As the golden hour arrives, we gather for a glittering dinner in the Grand Salon, an assembly of radiant gods and goddesses.Evening | Minotaur in the Labyrinth
An ancient challenge of chase and suspense.23
September
The Road Back
as the Mythic Self
3rd Photoshoot | 30 min sessions
Afternoon | Chateau living
Enjoy your last day of life in the Chateau, soak in the grounds, the salons and the accomplishment of your mythic journeyEvening | Closing Ceremony
24
September
The Hero
Returns Home
Departure Day
The journey concludes as shuttles to Angoulême Station begin at 6 AM for those catching the 6:36 AM train to Charles de Gaulle Airport.
A farewell breakfast is served from 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM, as guests say their final goodbyes, carrying their newfound mythic selves back into the world.Shuttles continue throughout the morning, with departure recommended no later than noon.
A Day at the Retreat
8:30 - 9:30
Breakfast in the Spode Room
10:00 - 13:30
Set the Stage, Hair & Make-up, Individual Photoshoots
13:30 - 14:30
Lunch in the Interior Courtyard
14:30 - 17:30
Individual Photoshoots continue
19:00
Aperitif Hour
20:00
Joan of Art Banquet
21:00
Medieval Dungeon
Outside of your photoshoot, the Chateau is yours to explore, relax and play in.
What's included?
Accommodation
Options
Château de Puy Vidal offers a range of rooms—from opulent and spacious to charming, storybook-style chambers and modern, cozy retreats.
Authentic French
Meals & Wine
Daily breakfast buffets (continental and savory), light lunches, and decadent French dinners. Dinners are accompanied with Aperitif and excellent French wines.
Train Pick-up
& Drop-off
On arrival and departure days, a Chateau team member will meet you at the Angoulême train station (just 18 minutes away). The train from Paris takes 2 hours and is the recommended route.
Fine Art
Portraits
Final delivery of 3 high-resolution fully edited digital images from the three photoshoots. Option to purchase more images directly through Ida von Aves.
Regional
Day Trip
Transportation on our day trip to the local village of La Rochefoucauld, entry ticket to Chateau museum, and lunch at a riverside restaurant all included.
Atmospheric Château Events
The photoshoot themes come to life at dusk. You are invited to bonfires under the stars, escapades through the labyrinth, cinema screenings by candlelight, and fairy revelries in the forest.
What's included?
Accommodation
Options
Château de Puy Vidal offers a range of rooms—from opulent and spacious to charming, storybook-style chambers and modern, cozy retreats.
Authentic French
Meals & Wine
Daily breakfast buffets (continental and savory), light lunches, and decadent French dinners. Each meal is paired with flowing craft cocktails and French wines.
Train Pick-up
& Drop-off
On arrival and departure days, a Chateau team member will meet you at the Angoulême train station (just 18 minutes away). The train from Paris takes 2 hours and is the recommended route.
Fine Art
Portraits
Final delivery of 3 high-resolution fully edited digital images from the three photoshoots. Option to purchase more images directly through Ida von Aves.
Regional
Day Trip
Transportation on our day trip to the local village of La Rochefoucauld, entry ticket to Chateau museum, and lunch at a riverside restaurant all included.
Atmospheric Château Events
The photoshoot themes come to life at dusk. You are invited to bonfires under the stars, escapades through the labyrinth, cinema screenings by candlelight, and fairy revelries in the forest.
What's included?
Accommodations
Chateau de Puy Vidal rooms have a variation of opulent and spacious décor to charming, storybook chambers, as well as contemporary and cozy retreat spaces.
Authentic French Meals & Wine
Breakfast buffets each morning, with both continental and savory options. Light refreshing lunches. Decadent dinners offer the classics of french cuisine. All events have flowing craft cocktails and french wines.
Regional Day Trip
Transportation on our day trip to the local village of La Rochefoucauld, entry ticket to Chateau museum, and lunch at a riverside restaurant all included.
Atmospheric Château Events
The photoshoot themes come to life at dusk. You are invited to bonfires under the stars, escapades through the labyrinth, cinema screenings by candlelight, and fairy revelries in the forest.
Train Pick-up & Drop-off
On arrival day and departure day, a Chateau team member will meet you at the train station in Angouleme to shuttle you to the chateau - an 18-minute drive. The train is the best way to travel to the Chateau from Paris- the total time is 2 hours.
Fine Art Portraits
Final delivery of 3 high-resolution fully edited digital images from the three photoshoots. Option to purchase more images directly through Ida von Aves.
Photoshoot costumes & styling
Photoshoot costumes & styling
Photoshoot costumes & styling
What should you bring?
What should you bring?
What should you bring?
Built in 1267
A living part of history.
Château de Puy Vidal is a place where time loosens its grip. As you step through the Renaissance staircase and into the ancient rooms of the central wing, you are walking through eight centuries of history—stone walls that have held silence, art, conversation, and change. But this isn’t a museum. This is a living home, one that holds space for beauty, curiosity, and the creative spirit in all its forms.
Every corner tells a story: tapestries and candlelight in the salons, soft light pouring through antique glass, the echo of laughter from several rooms down the long corridors. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t demand your attention but earns it—slowly, reverently, with details that only reveal themselves when you’re truly present.
Puy Vidal is more than a backdrop for your retreat. It’s a companion in your process—a still and storied presence that grounds you, softens you, and gently calls you back to the joy of creating.
Step inside
Built in 1267
A living part of history.
Château de Puy Vidal is a place where time loosens its grip. As you step through the Renaissance staircase and into the ancient rooms of the central wing, you are walking through eight centuries of history—stone walls that have held silence, art, conversation, and change. But this isn’t a museum. This is a living home, one that holds space for beauty, curiosity, and the creative spirit in all its forms.
Every corner tells a story: tapestries and candlelight in the salons, soft light pouring through antique glass, the echo of laughter from several rooms down the long corridors. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t demand your attention but earns it—slowly, reverently, with details that only reveal themselves when you’re truly present.
Puy Vidal is more than a backdrop for your retreat. It’s a companion in your process—a still and storied presence that grounds you, softens you, and gently calls you back to the joy of creating.
Step inside
Built in 1267
A living part of history.
Château de Puy Vidal is a place where time loosens its grip. As you step through the Renaissance staircase and into the ancient rooms of the central wing, you are walking through eight centuries of history—stone walls that have held silence, art, conversation, and change. But this isn’t a museum. This is a living home, one that holds space for beauty, curiosity, and the creative spirit in all its forms.
Every corner tells a story: tapestries and candlelight in the salons, soft light pouring through antique glass, the echo of laughter from several rooms down the long corridors. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t demand your attention but earns it—slowly, reverently, with details that only reveal themselves when you’re truly present.
Puy Vidal is more than a backdrop for your retreat. It’s a companion in your process—a still and storied presence that grounds you, softens you, and gently calls you back to the joy of creating.
Step inside
Retreat Accommodations
The Château Stay
All taxes & fees included
€5,150- €6,250
Chateau de Puy Vidal offers 9 bedrooms for Retreat participants to stay at the Chateau full-time. Ranging from large and magnificent rooms fit for a king, to romantic, sensual decor, to French country charm, we have an experience for you. To see each bedroom visit our Chateau Bedrooms Page. Bedroom assignments happen on a first-come, first-served basis. Book early!
See All Rooms
See All Rooms
See All Rooms
Your Journey Awaits
Our workshops and retreats are thoughtfully curated to bring together like-minded creatives in a supportive, inspiring environment. Due to high demand and to ensure a balanced group dynamic, we invite you to apply below. This helps us personalize your experience and create a space where everyone can thrive.
You’ll hear back within 48 hours. If accepted, you’ll receive a booking invitation—your spot is only confirmed once booked. To keep this retreat accessible, we offer flexible payment plans split into three installments, with custom options available upon request.
Questions or booking issues? Email us anytime at: retreats@ladyofthechateau.com
Apply now
Apply now
Apply now
Echoes of the Experience
"My first visit literally transformed me, sending me back into the world having healed a piece of my heart. And coming back, being embraced like family, given the change to excersise my creativity nad stretch my imagination is a testament to just how much Ive changed and thrived. "
Tasha Collins, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant, 2024 & 2025
“ I choose this incredible experience not as a want, but an actual need for my senses and well being. In times like these, it is imaginative and creative activities that can nurture the soul.”
Heidi Boucher, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant 2025
“The part I will cherish the most about this experience was getting to meet a bunch of similarly weird, wonderful, creative people like me. It's been a long time where I felt like I could be totally myself.”
Kat Wilbur, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant 2024
"Fully embrace your time here, this experience is worth the work it takes to get here. You are family here and forever after this unique bonding given here. I will never forget the magic here, I'll never forget how changed I feel."
Elizabeth Damm, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant, 2024
"My first visit literally transformed me, sending me back into the world having healed a piece of my heart. And coming back, being embraced like family, given the change to excersise my creativity nad stretch my imagination is a testament to just how much Ive changed and thrived. "
Tasha Collins, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant, 2024 & 2025
“ I choose this incredible experience not as a want, but an actual need for my senses and well being. In times like these, it is imaginative and creative activities that can nurture the soul.”
Heidi Boucher, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant 2025
“The part I will cherish the most about this experience was getting to meet a bunch of similarly weird, wonderful, creative people like me. It's been a long time where I felt like I could be totally myself.”
Kat Wilbur, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant 2024
"Fully embrace your time here, this experience is worth the work it takes to get here. You are family here and forever after this unique bonding given here. I will never forget the magic here, I'll never forget how changed I feel."
Elizabeth Damm, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant, 2024
"My first visit literally transformed me, sending me back into the world having healed a piece of my heart. And coming back, being embraced like family, given the change to excersise my creativity nad stretch my imagination is a testament to just how much Ive changed and thrived. "
Tasha Collins, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant, 2024 & 2025
“ I choose this incredible experience not as a want, but an actual need for my senses and well being. In times like these, it is imaginative and creative activities that can nurture the soul.”
Heidi Boucher, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant 2025
“The part I will cherish the most about this experience was getting to meet a bunch of similarly weird, wonderful, creative people like me. It's been a long time where I felt like I could be totally myself.”
Kat Wilbur, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant 2024
"Fully embrace your time here, this experience is worth the work it takes to get here. You are family here and forever after this unique bonding given here. I will never forget the magic here, I'll never forget how changed I feel."
Elizabeth Damm, Fantasy Photoshoot Participant, 2024
FAQ
Do I need to bring my own costumes? Hair and Makeup?
Ida will bring her full Studio Closet to the château—gorgeous fabrics, gilded accessories, props, and more. Looks will be planned via Zoom before the retreat and refined on shoot days. Celine provides pro hair and makeup, so you only need to bring yourself!
Optional: You’re welcome to bring your own wigs for extra fantasy flair—Ida will have some, but sourcing one in your perfect color is ideal. Favorite outfits, props, or accessories can also be brought to personalize your shoot.
Beyond photoshoots, we’ll enjoy themed festivities and parties. Fantastical dressing is encouraged, so have fun styling outfits for each day’s theme! A shared hair/makeup area will be available. This retreat is all about exploring your fantasy selves—on and off camera.
Do I need to bring my own costumes? Hair and Makeup?
Ida will bring her full Studio Closet to the château—gorgeous fabrics, gilded accessories, props, and more. Looks will be planned via Zoom before the retreat and refined on shoot days. Celine provides pro hair and makeup, so you only need to bring yourself!
Optional: You’re welcome to bring your own wigs for extra fantasy flair—Ida will have some, but sourcing one in your perfect color is ideal. Favorite outfits, props, or accessories can also be brought to personalize your shoot.
Beyond photoshoots, we’ll enjoy themed festivities and parties. Fantastical dressing is encouraged, so have fun styling outfits for each day’s theme! A shared hair/makeup area will be available. This retreat is all about exploring your fantasy selves—on and off camera.
Do I need to bring my own costumes? Hair and Makeup?
Ida will bring her full Studio Closet to the château—gorgeous fabrics, gilded accessories, props, and more. Looks will be planned via Zoom before the retreat and refined on shoot days. Celine provides pro hair and makeup, so you only need to bring yourself!
Optional: You’re welcome to bring your own wigs for extra fantasy flair—Ida will have some, but sourcing one in your perfect color is ideal. Favorite outfits, props, or accessories can also be brought to personalize your shoot.
Beyond photoshoots, we’ll enjoy themed festivities and parties. Fantastical dressing is encouraged, so have fun styling outfits for each day’s theme! A shared hair/makeup area will be available. This retreat is all about exploring your fantasy selves—on and off camera.
How do I get there?
We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off from our local train station of Angouleme just 18 minutes from the Chateau . If you’re driving, detailed directions will be provided upon booking. We’re easily accessible from major French cities, making your journey as smooth as possible.
How do I get there?
We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off from our local train station of Angouleme just 18 minutes from the Chateau . If you’re driving, detailed directions will be provided upon booking. We’re easily accessible from major French cities, making your journey as smooth as possible.
How do I get there?
We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off from our local train station of Angouleme just 18 minutes from the Chateau . If you’re driving, detailed directions will be provided upon booking. We’re easily accessible from major French cities, making your journey as smooth as possible.
What If I Have Dietary Needs or Allergies?
Meals at the château are a cherished part of your experience — lovingly prepared four-course feasts that reflect the heart and soul of French cuisine. Our chefs create each menu with care, using locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors to bring you something truly special.
We’re happy to accommodate certain dietary needs, including vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free preferences. However, due to the nature of our kitchen, our chef’s traditional approach, and the foundations of French culinary style, we’re unfortunately not able to accommodate vegan diets, highly specialized dietary restrictions, or severe, life-threatening allergies.
If you have any dietary concerns at all, we kindly ask that you reach out before booking: retreats@ladyofthechateau.com.
Additionally, if you live with severe environmental allergies (such as to insects, dust, or humidity), please let us know in advance. For your safety and peace of mind, we reserve the right to decline bookings if we determine that we cannot safely meet your needs.
What If I Have Dietary Needs or Allergies?
Meals at the château are a cherished part of your experience — lovingly prepared four-course feasts that reflect the heart and soul of French cuisine. Our chefs create each menu with care, using locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors to bring you something truly special.
We’re happy to accommodate certain dietary needs, including vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free preferences. However, due to the nature of our kitchen, our chef’s traditional approach, and the foundations of French culinary style, we’re unfortunately not able to accommodate vegan diets, highly specialized dietary restrictions, or severe, life-threatening allergies.
If you have any dietary concerns at all, we kindly ask that you reach out before booking: retreats@ladyofthechateau.com.
Additionally, if you live with severe environmental allergies (such as to insects, dust, or humidity), please let us know in advance. For your safety and peace of mind, we reserve the right to decline bookings if we determine that we cannot safely meet your needs.
What If I Have Dietary Needs or Allergies?
Meals at the château are a cherished part of your experience — lovingly prepared four-course feasts that reflect the heart and soul of French cuisine. Our chefs create each menu with care, using locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors to bring you something truly special.
We’re happy to accommodate certain dietary needs, including vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free preferences. However, due to the nature of our kitchen, our chef’s traditional approach, and the foundations of French culinary style, we’re unfortunately not able to accommodate vegan diets, highly specialized dietary restrictions, or severe, life-threatening allergies.
If you have any dietary concerns at all, we kindly ask that you reach out before booking: retreats@ladyofthechateau.com.
Additionally, if you live with severe environmental allergies (such as to insects, dust, or humidity), please let us know in advance. For your safety and peace of mind, we reserve the right to decline bookings if we determine that we cannot safely meet your needs.
Is there a pool?
Yes! Our outdoor pool is heated, perfect for a refreshing dip in summer and a comfortable swim in spring and fall.
Our large hot tub makes a perfect place to unwind alone or with some new friends after a day of creativity.
Is there a pool?
Yes! Our outdoor pool is heated, perfect for a refreshing dip in summer and a comfortable swim in spring and fall.
Our large hot tub makes a perfect place to unwind alone or with some new friends after a day of creativity.
Is there a pool?
Yes! Our outdoor pool is heated, perfect for a refreshing dip in summer and a comfortable swim in spring and fall.
Our large hot tub makes a perfect place to unwind alone or with some new friends after a day of creativity.
Led with Vision, Sustained by Love
We are your hosts—and it’s our joy to welcome you into the world we’re building here at Château de Puy Vidal.
Lady of the Château was co-founded and is led by Julia and Caroline, a couple and the creative force behind the brand. They are joined by Julia’s sister Penelope and their parents, Maruca and Robert, to create a family-centered space where creativity, personal growth, and meaningful connection are at the heart of everything they do.
Each retreat is crafted in collaboration with carefully selected guest instructors, chefs, and a small but devoted team—all chosen not only for their talent, but for their deep commitment to presence, generosity, and the art of creating together.
We believe in the transformative power of beauty—that when artists, dreamers, and seekers come together in a place that honors their voice, something shifts. We hope to spark a movement—of more art, more intention, and more creative community rippling outward through each person who passes through our doors.
We hope you’ll join us.
Led with Vision, Sustained by Love
We are your hosts—and it’s our joy to welcome you into the world we’re building here at Château de Puy Vidal.
Lady of the Château was co-founded and is led by Julia and Caroline, a couple and the creative force behind the brand. They are joined by Julia’s sister Penelope and their parents, Maruca and Robert, to create a family-centered space where creativity, personal growth, and meaningful connection are at the heart of everything they do.
Each retreat is crafted in collaboration with carefully selected guest instructors, chefs, and a small but devoted team—all chosen not only for their talent, but for their deep commitment to presence, generosity, and the art of creating together.
We believe in the transformative power of beauty—that when artists, dreamers, and seekers come together in a place that honors their voice, something shifts. We hope to spark a movement—of more art, more intention, and more creative community rippling outward through each person who passes through our doors.
We hope you’ll join us.
Led with Vision, Sustained by Love
We are your hosts—and it’s our joy to welcome you into the world we’re building here at Château de Puy Vidal.
Lady of the Château was co-founded and is led by Julia and Caroline, a couple and the creative force behind the brand. They are joined by Julia’s sister Penelope and their parents, Maruca and Robert, to create a family-centered space where creativity, personal growth, and meaningful connection are at the heart of everything they do.
Each retreat is crafted in collaboration with carefully selected guest instructors, chefs, and a small but devoted team—all chosen not only for their talent, but for their deep commitment to presence, generosity, and the art of creating together.
We believe in the transformative power of beauty—that when artists, dreamers, and seekers come together in a place that honors their voice, something shifts. We hope to spark a movement—of more art, more intention, and more creative community rippling outward through each person who passes through our doors.
We hope you’ll join us.
How to Reach us
Château de Puy Vidal
72 Lieu Dit Puy Vidal
16110 La Rochefoucauld, France
Phone: +33638447855
Mail: admin@ladyofthechateau.com
Letters from Puy Vidal
© The Lady of the Chateau SAS | Est. 2021
How to Reach us
Château de Puy Vidal
72 Lieu Dit Puy Vidal
16110 La Rochefoucauld, France
Phone: +33638447855
Mail: admin@ladyofthechateau.com
Letters from Puy Vidal
© The Lady of the Chateau SAS | Est. 2021
How to Reach us
Château de Puy Vidal
72 Lieu Dit Puy Vidal
16110 La Rochefoucauld, France
Phone: +33638447855
Mail: admin@ladyofthechateau.com
Letters from Puy Vidal
© The Lady of the Chateau SAS | Est. 2021
