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Arrival & Departure
Arrival Day Check-in between 2p -5pm
Departure Day Check-out before 12 PM
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These check-in & check-out times apply to all of our retreats & workshops.
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Shuttle Services: Complimentary shuttle pickup from Angoulême train station starts at 2 PM on arrival day and as early as 5:30 AM on departure day.
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Driving Guests: Onsite parking is available, and you may arrive any time after check-in opens.
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Early arrivals or late departure accommodation nights are not available at the Château, but we can recommend hotels in Angouleme city center.
Trains to Angoulême
Gare Angoulême is your destination station
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Paris Montparnasse City Center to Angoulême: The direct high-speed TGV train is the easiest and fastest option, taking about 2 hours.
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Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Angoulême: Limited direct trains are available - Early Morning and Evening direct train 3.5 hours.
How to Get Here
Our Address
Our Closest City​
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Château de Puy Vidal
72 Lieu Dit Puy Vidal
16110 La Rochefoucauld-en-Angoumois
France
​Angouleme
2 hours South West of Paris City Center
via High Speed Train​
Travel Guide
Booking your Train
Trains to Angoulême run frequently throughout the day, making it convenient to find a time that works for you. We’re here to assist you every step of the way—feel free to reach out with any questions.
Book your train tickets directly on the SNCF website.
Helpful Tips:
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Book 2-3 Months in Advance: Tickets for French trains are usually only available to book 3 months in advance. But make sure to not wait till the last minute.
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Book a Direct Train: Make sure your Paris to Angouleme time is only 2 hours and is direct.
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Seat Selection: If you're carrying heavy luggage, opt for a seat on the lower level of double-decker trains to avoid hauling bags up stairs.
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We Recommend selecting a InOui Train over a OUIGO Train: See explanation to the right.
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Download the SNCF App: This app allows you to download e-tickets for offline use, it provides real-time updates on train schedules, platform information, and disruptions, ensuring a smoother journey.
Train Operator: SNCF, the National French Train Operator, offers two main options for your journey:
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TGV InOui : Premium high-speed train with more spacious seats, and amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and offer different classes (First and Second Class).
Tickets tend to be slightly pricier but offer more flexibility. These are easier to change or cancel. For this reason, we recommend these trains.
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OUIGO: A budget-friendly version. Tickets are a bit cheaper but come with restrictions like fewer amenities (no onboard food cart or Wi-Fi), limited baggage allowance (extra luggage requires a fee), and tighter boarding policy (you must check in at least 30 minutes before departure).
These tickets are difficult to change or cancel. For this reason, we recommend avoiding Ouigo if you can.
Coming soon | Our step by step video on
how to book your train ticket
Planning Your Journey to the Château
Below, we’ve outlined the most common routes from Paris to the Château.
If you’re traveling from regional airports or other train stations not covered here, email us at retreats@ladyofthechateau.com for assistance.
When to book your train tickets?
Train tickets are not bookable until 2–3 months before your travel date.
However, you can still preview approximate train schedules on the SNCF website. Keep in mind that these schedules are subject to change, and additional train options may be added closer to your travel date.
ARRIVAL DAY
Choose a train departing Paris between 12PM -2 PM for a smooth arrival. Direct trains from Gare Montparnasse to Angoulême take approximately 2 hours.
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Our pick-up shuttles will meet you at Angoulême Station anytime after 2 PM to bring you to the Château, an easy 18-minute drive away.
DEPARTURE DAY
The earliest train departs from Angouleme at 6:30 AM directly to Charles de Gaulle Airport—perfect if your flight departs in the afternoon.
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For those heading back to central Paris, we recommend direct trains departing between 9:30 AM and 12 PM to enjoy your breakfast, and have a relaxed departure.
Need Additional Help?
If you're traveling from regional airports or train stations not listed here, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Email us at retreats@ladyofthechateau.com, and we’ll be happy to assist you with personalized guidance.
Get to Paris Early!
Based on past guest experiences we recommend arriving in Paris a day or two before your retreat to give yourself time to adjust, explore, and avoid travel-related stress. Paris is a treasure trove of culture, food, and stunning sights—make the most of it before heading to the Château!
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Stay tuned for our Paris Recommendations Guide!
What to Bring for the Retreat
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and a cozy sweater for cooler evenings are must-haves. Don’t forget a journal or sketchpad for moments of inspiration, and be sure to pack a glam outfit for our final dinner together!
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If you'd like to enjoy the heated pool and hot tub, don’t forget your swimsuit!
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A universal adapter for all of your electronics.
Rental Cars
If you plan to explore the Charente countryside, renting a car is highly recommended. Scenic drives through vineyards, historic villages, and picturesque landscapes are truly unforgettable!
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For non-painting partners joining a retreat, a car is essential for independent exploration while participants are immersed in workshops. Attractions like the Cognac distilleries, Romanesque churches, and charming local markets are all within a short drive.
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Avis and Europcar are conveniently located near Angoulême Train Station for easy rentals. Make sure to book in advance for availability.
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Access Car Rental sites below
Avis Angouleme Station here
EuropCar Angouleme Station here
What art supplies do I need to bring to the retreat?
Please bring your brushes, pencils, and sketchpad. Everything else will be provided in our fully equipped Art Studio, including various types of easels, pochade boxes, french easels, large student-grade oil paint tubs for sharing, palettes, canvases, solvents, aprons and more.​
Do you have a recommendation for brushes?
Yes! If you're looking for a new set of brushes to bring, we highly recommend the Eclipse best-seller synthetic brush set from Rosemarie & Co. With over 40 years of high-quality brush-making history, their brushes are loved by artists worldwide.
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What else should you know?
Here are a few of our past guest recommendations & questions about the retreat experience.