Slip between the pages of a novel and into another world—where the air is thick with candle smoke, the wine is mulled, and the silence is shared by fellow readers.
This six-night literary retreat at Château de Puy Vidal is designed for those who find deep pleasure in solitude, story, and the eerie hush of an October evening. A gathering for book lovers and quiet souls, this is a chance to rest, read, and revel in the beauty of a place steeped in centuries of romance and mystery.
Surrounded by velvet chairs, creaking floorboards, and the golden glow of firelight, you’ll find yourself wrapped in stories—both fictional and real. This is not a workshop or a writing intensive. It’s a week for immersing yourself in the books you’ve long meant to read, the conversations you’ve longed to have, and the mood you didn’t know you were craving.
The Lady of the Château team has designed an intimate, atmospheric program filled with decadent meals, fireside salons, bookish events, and playful touches that bring the spirit of the season to life. Wander the grounds with a gothic novel tucked under your arm, join in our candlelit reading circles, or simply disappear into your own quiet corner with a cup of tea and a tale.
Whether you arrive with a suitcase full of books or let yourself be inspired by others’ favorites, this retreat is an invitation to slow down, indulge your inner romantic, and spend a week surrounded by kindred spirits—people who also believe that the best conversations happen after dusk, and the best vacations involve a good book.
€3,250- €4,250
All-inclusive 6-night
Literary Escape
Uninterrupted
Time to Read
Magical Château
Evenings
All-inclusive 6-night
Literary Escape
Uninterrupted
Time to Read
Magical Château
Evenings
All-inclusive 6-night
Literary Escape
Uninterrupted
Time to Read
Magical Château
Evenings
A Day at the Retreat
8:30
Start the day with a leisurely french breakfast buffet in the West Wing, followed by quiet hours to read wherever the mood takes you — in a salon, a tower nook, or under the trees. (Optional yoga or gentle movement sessions offered. Add-on massages available.)
13:30
Enjoy a seasonal, gourmet lunch at 1:30pm. Spend your afternoon reading, swimming in the heated pool, or exploring the art studio for a bit of creative play.
19:00
At 7pm, we gather for apéritif hour — a favorite château ritual of shared stories and sparkling conversation. Dinners follow in the candlelit Renaissance dining room, each night with its own mood and menu. Afterward, the fireplaces glow and the salons await with atmospheric evening activities such as ghost story tellings, poetry readings, cinema screenings and more.
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.
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?
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?
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.
What makes our reading retreat different?
What makes our reading retreat different?
What makes our reading retreat different?
Champagne Welcome Circle
Journaling & Discussion
Fireside Reading
Literary Masquerade Dinner
Ink & Quill Writing Station
Wine & Cognac Tasting
French Market
Yoga, Massages, Pool & Hot Tub
Champagne Welcome Circle
Journaling & Discussion
Fireside Reading
Literary Masquerade Dinner
Ink & Quill Writing Station
Wine & Cognac Tasting
French Market
Yoga, Massages, Pool & Hot Tub
Champagne Welcome Circle
Journaling & Discussion
Fireside Reading
Literary Masquerade Dinner
Ink & Quill Writing Station
Wine & Cognac Tasting
French Market
Yoga, Massages, Pool & Hot Tub
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 love, loss, growth, and change. But this isn’t a museum. This is a living home, one that holds space for humanity 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
Your Journey Awaits
To make this retreat more accessible, we offer flexible payment options. The retreat fee is divided in 3 installments, and we’re happy to work with you to arrange a payment cadence that suits your needs. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for details!
If you have any questions regarding our retreats or if you are having trouble booking please email us at retreats@ladyofthechateau.com
Apply now
Apply now
Apply now
Retreat Accommodations
The Château Stay
All taxes & fees included
€3,250- €4,250
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.
See all bedrooms
See all bedrooms
See all bedrooms
Before you Apply
Who is this retreat for?
This retreat is for book lovers, journal keepers, slow-morning dreamers, and anyone longing for uninterrupted time to read.
Whether you're halfway through your favorite series or just hoping to start that novel you've carried around for months — this week is a gentle invitation to return to yourself and the stories you love.
Who is this retreat for?
This retreat is for book lovers, journal keepers, slow-morning dreamers, and anyone longing for uninterrupted time to read.
Whether you're halfway through your favorite series or just hoping to start that novel you've carried around for months — this week is a gentle invitation to return to yourself and the stories you love.
Who is this retreat for?
This retreat is for book lovers, journal keepers, slow-morning dreamers, and anyone longing for uninterrupted time to read.
Whether you're halfway through your favorite series or just hoping to start that novel you've carried around for months — this week is a gentle invitation to return to yourself and the stories you love.
Is there a reading list for this retreat?
There’s no required reading.
Bring whatever book (or books!) calls to you right now. We also encourage you to bring a favorite book to contribute to our book swap table — wrap it in paper and include a note about why it mattered to you.
Is there a reading list for this retreat?
There’s no required reading.
Bring whatever book (or books!) calls to you right now. We also encourage you to bring a favorite book to contribute to our book swap table — wrap it in paper and include a note about why it mattered to you.
Is there a reading list for this retreat?
There’s no required reading.
Bring whatever book (or books!) calls to you right now. We also encourage you to bring a favorite book to contribute to our book swap table — wrap it in paper and include a note about why it mattered to you.
What is our Literary Masquerade Dinner?
This will be a formal evening with moody lighting, ambient music, and you are invited to dress in your most decadent black-tie-meets-literary attire—complete with masks.
Think lace, velvet, brooches, and gloves. Even better? Channel a particular author or favorite literary character!
What is our Literary Masquerade Dinner?
This will be a formal evening with moody lighting, ambient music, and you are invited to dress in your most decadent black-tie-meets-literary attire—complete with masks.
Think lace, velvet, brooches, and gloves. Even better? Channel a particular author or favorite literary character!
What is our Literary Masquerade Dinner?
This will be a formal evening with moody lighting, ambient music, and you are invited to dress in your most decadent black-tie-meets-literary attire—complete with masks.
Think lace, velvet, brooches, and gloves. Even better? Channel a particular author or favorite literary character!
How far are you from Paris?
Château de Puy Vidal is located in the scenic Charente region, just two hours south of Paris by high-speed train (SNCF from Paris-Montparnasse to Angoulême).
We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off at Angoulême station (an 18-minute drive from the château). If you're arriving by car, detailed directions will be shared after booking.
Our location offers the perfect blend of countryside calm and convenient access.
Check out our Travel Guide page for full details.
How far are you from Paris?
Château de Puy Vidal is located in the scenic Charente region, just two hours south of Paris by high-speed train (SNCF from Paris-Montparnasse to Angoulême).
We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off at Angoulême station (an 18-minute drive from the château). If you're arriving by car, detailed directions will be shared after booking.
Our location offers the perfect blend of countryside calm and convenient access.
Check out our Travel Guide page for full details.
How far are you from Paris?
Château de Puy Vidal is located in the scenic Charente region, just two hours south of Paris by high-speed train (SNCF from Paris-Montparnasse to Angoulême).
We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off at Angoulême station (an 18-minute drive from the château). If you're arriving by car, detailed directions will be shared after booking.
Our location offers the perfect blend of countryside calm and convenient access.
Check out our Travel Guide page for full details.
What should I pack?
This week is about embracing your favorite literary worlds! Bring gowns, velvet or whatever fantastical Chateau-wear makes you happy! There will be polaroids and many photo opportunities to capture your october chateau vibes. If you yearn to curl up in a fuzzy set of pjs and a robe opt for that! Outside of this, bring some stretchy clothes to do yoga in if you will want to join. For the Chateau grounds, we recommend some sturdy waterproof boots/shoes that can stand up to wet grass, gravel and mud. Bring layers for cozy evenings by the fire and a bathing suit for the hot tub and heated pool. A journal is lovely to have on hand for reflections or notes.
What should I pack?
This week is about embracing your favorite literary worlds! Bring gowns, velvet or whatever fantastical Chateau-wear makes you happy! There will be polaroids and many photo opportunities to capture your october chateau vibes. If you yearn to curl up in a fuzzy set of pjs and a robe opt for that! Outside of this, bring some stretchy clothes to do yoga in if you will want to join. For the Chateau grounds, we recommend some sturdy waterproof boots/shoes that can stand up to wet grass, gravel and mud. Bring layers for cozy evenings by the fire and a bathing suit for the hot tub and heated pool. A journal is lovely to have on hand for reflections or notes.
What should I pack?
This week is about embracing your favorite literary worlds! Bring gowns, velvet or whatever fantastical Chateau-wear makes you happy! There will be polaroids and many photo opportunities to capture your october chateau vibes. If you yearn to curl up in a fuzzy set of pjs and a robe opt for that! Outside of this, bring some stretchy clothes to do yoga in if you will want to join. For the Chateau grounds, we recommend some sturdy waterproof boots/shoes that can stand up to wet grass, gravel and mud. Bring layers for cozy evenings by the fire and a bathing suit for the hot tub and heated pool. A journal is lovely to have on hand for reflections or notes.
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
© 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
