Carlos San Millán

July 25 - August 5, 2026

Carlos San Millán

July 25 - August 5, 2026

Carlos San Millán

July 25 - August 5, 2026

"Suggestion is more powerful than description""

Carlos San Millán

"Suggestion is more powerful than description""

Carlos San Millán

"Suggestion is more powerful than description""

Carlos San Millán

The Lady of the Château is delighted to welcome Spanish artist Carlos San Millán back for a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in his world of painting and philosophy. Carlos’ work strikes a balance between the figurative and the abstract. More than recording his surroundings, he imbues each subject with a lived-in narrative that invites discovery—transforming interiors, everyday objects, and unfolding landscapes into something layered and in motion.

Known for the looseness and liveness in his work, Carlos encourages artists to look beyond what the eye perceives and paint the atmosphere that lingers. His opalescent palette, palette knife passages, and sensitivity to light and shadow capture life in all its nuance: how spaces hold memory and how forms dissolve into feeling. If you are ready to think deeply about visual processing—approaching a scene from both an intellectual and a practical perspective—this workshop is for you.

Throughout this week, Carlos will guide you to move past rigid detail and rethink your approach to tools. Whether with the tip of a brush, the edge of a palette knife, or even a simple metal scraper, he opens up new ways of mark-making—leading you toward a freer and more expressive way of painting. Still life, interiors, gardens, shifting landscapes, or the fleeting play of light itself all become pathways for exploration.


€5,250- €6,250

Carlos San Millan in Puy Vidal Studio
Carlos San Millan in Puy Vidal Studio
Carlos San Millan in Puy Vidal Studio

Spanish Artist

Carlos San Millán

Artist's Letter

Artist's Letter

Artist's Letter

Carlos San Millán’s work strikes a lucid balance between the figurative and the abstract. More than painting his surroundings, he affords each scene a subtle, lived-in narrative that takes viewers on a journey of discovery. Everyday interiors and objects are masterfully imbued with character, whilst landscapes seem to undo themselves just as they come to fruition.

Millán’s approach is distinguished by a looseness and liveness, a practice attentively developed through study at the University of Basque Country School and his travels around Latin America.

Soft brushwork, and an opalescent colour palette captures life in all its nuance; the way living quarters mesh with our memories and dreams, or how light ever-phases in and out of darkness. Each piece acts as reminder to take delight in the sensual, an appeal embodied through the becoming of form into content itself.

- Sarah Ryan, NewBlood Art

" I use anything to make marks, the handle of a brush, a metal scraper, a rag. I am drawing with every mark"

Carlos San Millán

" I use anything to make marks, the handle of a brush, a metal scraper, a rag. I am drawing with every mark"

Carlos San Millán

" I use anything to make marks, the handle of a brush, a metal scraper, a rag. I am drawing with every mark"

Carlos San Millán

ABOUT THE ARTIST

What Sets Him Apart

Carlos San Millán, born in Spain in 1969. Since graduating from the University of Basque Country in Bilbao, he worked as an illustrator before becoming a professional painter. Carlos later attended Architecture School, followed by Art School, Institut D’Arts Visuels d’Orléans, France (ERASMUS). 
 
It was here that he honed his drawing skills and developed a love for built spaces, which have become his usual painting subjects. He is known for his work that strikes a balance between the figurative and the abstract.

While being a highly sought after workshop instructor around the world, Carlos vehemently protects his studio time- working long and slowly to deepen and develop his incredible work. 

Awards & Accolades

2008 - 1º Premio XXXVI Concurso Internacional de Pintura Alcalá de Guadaíra, Sevilla, Spain

2007 - Premio de adquisición III Certamen CCM de Pintura Ciudad de Toledo, Spain

2006 -  1º Premio II Certamen Nacional de Pintura Parque del Capricho. Madrid, Spain


7-Nights

All Inclusive

Advanced Beginners

to Intermediate Painters

Intimate

Class Size

Tentative Workshop Schedule

A preliminary schedule for the week

A Sample Workshop Day

8:30 - 9:30

Breakfast in the Spode Room

10:00 - 13:30

Morning Lecture & Painting Session

13:30 - 14:30

Lunch in the Interior Courtyard

15:00 - 18:00

Afternoon Painting Session

16:00 - 17:30

Rest, Relax or Keep on Painting!

19:30 - 20:30

Aperitif Hour

20:30 - 22:00

Dinner in Renaissance Dining Room

22:00 - 24:00

Evenings at the Chateau, Cognac tasting, Bonfire under the stars, Cinema night

A Sample Workshop Day

8:30 - 9:30

Breakfast in the Spode Room

10:00 - 13:30

Morning Lecture & Painting Session

13:30 - 14:30

Lunch in the Interior Courtyard

15:00 - 18:00

Afternoon Painting Session

16:00 - 17:30

Rest, Relax or Keep on Painting!

19:30 - 20:30

Aperitif Hour

20:30 - 22:00

Dinner in Renaissance Dining Room

22:00 - 24:00

Evenings at the Chateau, Cognac tasting, Bonfire under the stars, Cinema night

A Sample Workshop Day

8:30 - 9:30

Breakfast in the Spode Room

10:00 - 13:30

Morning Lecture & Painting Session

13:30 - 14:30

Lunch in the Interior Courtyard

15:00 - 18:00

Afternoon Painting Session

16:00 - 17:30

Rest, Relax or Keep on Painting!

19:30 - 20:30

Aperitif Hour

20:30 - 22:00

Dinner in Renaissance Dining Room

22:00 - 24:00

Evenings at the Chateau, Cognac tasting, Bonfire under the stars, Cinema night

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

What's included?

Painting
Classes

A week of morning and afternoon painting sessions with lectures, demos, and ample studio time. Includes ongoing feedback and a final group review.

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.

Château Evening
Entertainment

Evenings come alive with bonfires under the stars, mystery games, costume nights, and candlelit cinema.

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.

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.

What's included?

Painting Classes

A week of morning and afternoon painting sessions with lectures, demos, and ample studio time. Includes ongoing feedback and a final group review.

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.

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.

Château Evening Entertainment

Evenings come alive with bonfires under the stars, mystery games, costume nights, and candlelit cinema.

What's included?

Painting
Classes

A week of morning and afternoon painting sessions with lectures, demos, and ample studio time. Includes ongoing feedback and a final group review.

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.

Château Evening
Entertainment

Evenings come alive with bonfires under the stars, mystery games, costume nights, and candlelit cinema.

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.

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.

Art supplies included

Art supplies included

Art supplies included

Retreat Accommodations

See all bedrooms

See all bedrooms

See all bedrooms

Offsite retreat

€3,900

The Offsite retreat option lets you experience our Lady of the Chateau workshops and retreats by day while enjoying your own nearby accommodations by night. This option is ideal for artists looking for a budget- friendly way of attending the workshop, as the local accommodation prices are very reasonable. It is also ideal if you prefer a bit more independence during your stay. A car rental is required for daily travel between your accommodations and the château. The accomodation we recommend is Chez Jumaine, a lovely rustic farmhouse Bed and Breakfast, and our closest neighbor to the north. To keep class sizes intimate, this option is limited to 3 spots.

Questions about staying offsite? please email us at retreats@ladyofthechateau.com

Apply now

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

Echoes of the Experience

FAQ

Can I bring a non-painting partner?

Non-Painting Partners are most welcome to our workshops- we find they round out the groups and add a wonderful energy during the evenings after a long day of painting. There is plenty for them to do on the grounds - enjoying the pool, relaxing in the gardens, reading, going on countryside bikes or walks. We have Wifi, so working remotely at the Chateau is possible. If you'd like to bring a Non-Painting Partner to share your room with you they are welcome to join you in any of our double occupancy rooms. If they'd like to explore the region during the week, a car rental is recommended. 

 

Non-Painting Partner rate: 2,500 €

Can I bring a non-painting partner?

Non-Painting Partners are most welcome to our workshops- we find they round out the groups and add a wonderful energy during the evenings after a long day of painting. There is plenty for them to do on the grounds - enjoying the pool, relaxing in the gardens, reading, going on countryside bikes or walks. We have Wifi, so working remotely at the Chateau is possible. If you'd like to bring a Non-Painting Partner to share your room with you they are welcome to join you in any of our double occupancy rooms. If they'd like to explore the region during the week, a car rental is recommended. 

 

Non-Painting Partner rate: 2,500 €

Can I bring a non-painting partner?

Non-Painting Partners are most welcome to our workshops- we find they round out the groups and add a wonderful energy during the evenings after a long day of painting. There is plenty for them to do on the grounds - enjoying the pool, relaxing in the gardens, reading, going on countryside bikes or walks. We have Wifi, so working remotely at the Chateau is possible. If you'd like to bring a Non-Painting Partner to share your room with you they are welcome to join you in any of our double occupancy rooms. If they'd like to explore the region during the week, a car rental is recommended. 

 

Non-Painting Partner rate: 2,500 €

What supplies do I need to bring?

Bring your Brushes.

We provide the majority of the supplies, including painting tubes to share amongst your fellow Artists - Pochade & French Easels, Palettes, Solvents, Aprons, Shareable Oil Paint Tubes are all available for your to use in our Puy Vidal Art Studio. 

Once you've booked your retreat we will send you your specific instructors Art Supplies. 

What supplies do I need to bring?

Bring your Brushes.

We provide the majority of the supplies, including painting tubes to share amongst your fellow Artists - Pochade & French Easels, Palettes, Solvents, Aprons, Shareable Oil Paint Tubes are all available for your to use in our Puy Vidal Art Studio. 

Once you've booked your retreat we will send you your specific instructors Art Supplies. 

What supplies do I need to bring?

Bring your Brushes.

We provide the majority of the supplies, including painting tubes to share amongst your fellow Artists - Pochade & French Easels, Palettes, Solvents, Aprons, Shareable Oil Paint Tubes are all available for your to use in our Puy Vidal Art Studio. 

Once you've booked your retreat we will send you your specific instructors Art Supplies. 

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.

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. 

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.

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

I'm interested in:

© 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

I'm interested in:

© 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

I'm interested in:

© The Lady of the Chateau SAS | Est. 2021