An Immersive Journey

Workshops & Retreats

An Immersive Journey

Workshops & Retreats

An Immersive Journey

Workshops & Retreats

OUR RETREATS & WORKSHOPS

Calling

all lovers of beauty

We partner with incredible guest instructors from around the world to create retreats that are as thoughtfully designed as they are inspiring. Our commitment to uncompromising quality is why we offer just a few exclusive retreats each year, ensuring you receive only the very best of Puy Vidal.

Join our family, our team, and our creative instructors as we discover new ways to forge friendships, reach creative depths, and re-enchant our world. Our retreats span the gamut from Oil Painting to Creative Writing, Screenwriting, Personal Style, Fashion, Dance, Filmmaking, Photography, and more. Each retreat season's offerings depend on our guest instructors and the equilibrium of the season. 

Check back here to see all currently available retreats and workshop, and teasers for upcoming launches.

To be the first to know when new retreats launch, sign up here.

Current Retreats & Workshop

Painting workshop

Aug 13, 2025

-

Aug 20, 2025

Impressions of Light

Oil Painting Workshop with Haidee-Jo Summers

Sold out

Sold out

Workshop sold out, click to join our waitlist!

Painting workshop

Aug 27, 2025

-

Sep 3, 2025

Luminous Landscapes

Plein Air Oil Painting Workshop with Sergiu Ciochina

Fantasy photoshoot

Sep 18, 2025

-

Sep 24, 2025

The Mythic Self

Fantasy Photoshoot with Ida Von Aves

Sold out

Sold out

Reading retreat

Oct 8, 2025

-

Oct 14, 2025

The Lady's Literary Salon

A Reading Retreat Week

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Echoes of the Experience

A Typical Retreat Day at Puy Vidal

8:30
Slow Morning

Ease into the day with a creative theme introduction—through workshops or thoughtful discussions—to spark inspiration and set the tone.

10:00
Morning Session

Engage in hands-on learning or creative exploration that deepens your connection to the retreat’s focus.

13:30
Lunch

Savor a relaxed lunch in the West Wing or gardens, enjoying nourishing cuisine in an equally nourishing atmosphere.

14:30
Afternoon Session

Continue your creative journey with collaborative sessions, skill-building, and inspiring exchanges.

17:00
Rest & Wander

Unwind with a stroll, swim, bike ride, or quiet rest—whatever helps you recharge in the château’s peaceful surroundings.

19:00
Evening Delights

Gather for cocktails in the courtyard, followed by a candlelit dinner and optional Cognac tasting—celebrating connection and the artful atmosphere.

Our Signature Retreat Themes

Oil Painting

Retreat Pillar

Château de Puy Vidal is a painter’s dream—inside and out. With sweeping views, elegant interiors, and painterly light, it offers endless inspiration. Our oil painting retreats are a cornerstone of the season, designed for deep creative immersion.

Fantasy

Photoshoot

Step into your cinematic dream and become the fantasy version of yourself. Guided by a skilled photographer and stylist, this immersive shoot blends reality, myth, and editorial art to create timeless, empowering portraits.

Creative

Writing

Write where history whispers from every stone. In our 800-year-old château, you’ll join inspiring writers to explore voice, structure, and story in an environment that fuels focus, imagination, and momentum.

Personal

Branding

Go beyond trends and reconnect with your core identity. Through color theory, introspection, and play, explore how to express your authentic self in style, career, and life transitions—with confidence and creativity.

Storytelling for

Entrepreneurs

In a noisy digital world, your story matters. These workshops equip creatives and entrepreneurs with tools for brand clarity—from archetypes and strategy to content creation and planning—all rooted in timeless storytelling.

Before You Apply

What's Included?

Our retreats are thoughtfully designed to be all-inclusive, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about logistics.

Your stay includes:

  • Château accommodations (unless you’ve booked as an offsite guest)

  • Three gourmet meals per day, prepared by our private chefs

  • An all-day snack bar with coffee, tea, fruit, and sweet treats

  • Daily instruction from world-class guest artists or facilitators

  • Basic Art Supplies - Pochade & French Easels, Palettes, Shareable Oil Paint Tubes, Aprons, & Solvents.

  • Wine and Cocktails served during l’apéritif hour and dinner service

  • Round-trip transportation from the local train station


What's Included?

Our retreats are thoughtfully designed to be all-inclusive, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about logistics.

Your stay includes:

  • Château accommodations (unless you’ve booked as an offsite guest)

  • Three gourmet meals per day, prepared by our private chefs

  • An all-day snack bar with coffee, tea, fruit, and sweet treats

  • Daily instruction from world-class guest artists or facilitators

  • Basic Art Supplies - Pochade & French Easels, Palettes, Shareable Oil Paint Tubes, Aprons, & Solvents.

  • Wine and Cocktails served during l’apéritif hour and dinner service

  • Round-trip transportation from the local train station


What do I need to bring?

We provide most of the art supplies basics you’ll need, so you can focus on your creativity rather than packing your entire studio. That said, if you're joining a painting workshop/retreat, we ask that you bring your own brushes — these are highly personal tools, and having your favorites on hand will make a big difference.

You'll also receive a detailed supply list tailored to your workshop or retreat. Feel free to bring any additional materials you love or rely on in your creative process.

We also recommend packing:

  • Comfortable clothing for painting and lounging

  • A swimsuit for the pool or garden sunbathing

  • Layers for cooler evenings

  • A good book for downtime


What do I need to bring?

We provide most of the art supplies basics you’ll need, so you can focus on your creativity rather than packing your entire studio. That said, if you're joining a painting workshop/retreat, we ask that you bring your own brushes — these are highly personal tools, and having your favorites on hand will make a big difference.

You'll also receive a detailed supply list tailored to your workshop or retreat. Feel free to bring any additional materials you love or rely on in your creative process.

We also recommend packing:

  • Comfortable clothing for painting and lounging

  • A swimsuit for the pool or garden sunbathing

  • Layers for cooler evenings

  • A good book for downtime


Can I bring a Partner?

Almost always Yes — non-participating partners are very welcome, and often make a wonderful addition to the retreat experience. While you’re in workshop sessions during the day, your partner is free to enjoy the beautiful surroundings: relaxing by the pool, reading in the gardens, going for country walks or bike rides, and soaking in the creative atmosphere.

In the evenings, they’ll join you for our beautifully prepared meals and any communal events or activities. If there’s a day trip on the itinerary, they’re more than welcome to come along as well.

For other types of retreats beyond our painting workshops, please check the individual retreat page to see if non-participating partners are permitted.

Can I bring a Partner?

Almost always Yes — non-participating partners are very welcome, and often make a wonderful addition to the retreat experience. While you’re in workshop sessions during the day, your partner is free to enjoy the beautiful surroundings: relaxing by the pool, reading in the gardens, going for country walks or bike rides, and soaking in the creative atmosphere.

In the evenings, they’ll join you for our beautifully prepared meals and any communal events or activities. If there’s a day trip on the itinerary, they’re more than welcome to come along as well.

For other types of retreats beyond our painting workshops, please check the individual retreat page to see if non-participating partners are permitted.

Are your painting retreats open to beginners?

Yes! Unless otherwise noted on a specific retreat page, most of our workshops are open to beginners and welcome artists of all levels.

That said, we do recommend having some basic familiarity with oil paints and materials — enough to feel comfortable setting up your palette and workspace. This helps you step into the creative flow right from the start.

Whether you're just beginning your artistic journey or refining your skills, our instructors provide personalized guidance to support you every step of the way.

If you consider yourself a true beginner and you're not sure if a painting retreat is the right fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to set up a call to help guide you toward the experience that will best support your growth.

Are your painting retreats open to beginners?

Yes! Unless otherwise noted on a specific retreat page, most of our workshops are open to beginners and welcome artists of all levels.

That said, we do recommend having some basic familiarity with oil paints and materials — enough to feel comfortable setting up your palette and workspace. This helps you step into the creative flow right from the start.

Whether you're just beginning your artistic journey or refining your skills, our instructors provide personalized guidance to support you every step of the way.

If you consider yourself a true beginner and you're not sure if a painting retreat is the right fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to set up a call to help guide you toward the experience that will best support your growth.

Will I have the same experience as an Offsite participant?

Absolutely! As an offsite participant, you’ll enjoy the same workshop instruction, daily activities, and creative atmosphere as our onsite guests. You’ll spend your days at the Château, fully immersed in the retreat — from classes to meals to evening gatherings.

All Château amenities, including the gardens, studio spaces, and communal areas, are yours to enjoy. The only difference is that you’ll return to your own nearby accommodations at night.

Will I have the same experience as an Offsite participant?

Absolutely! As an offsite participant, you’ll enjoy the same workshop instruction, daily activities, and creative atmosphere as our onsite guests. You’ll spend your days at the Château, fully immersed in the retreat — from classes to meals to evening gatherings.

All Château amenities, including the gardens, studio spaces, and communal areas, are yours to enjoy. The only difference is that you’ll return to your own nearby accommodations at night.

Where in France is Puy Vidal?

Puy Vidal is located in the Charente region of southwestern France, about two hours south of Paris by high-speed train from Montparnasse station. Surrounded by quiet farmland, limestone villages, sunflower fields, and winding country roads, it offers a peaceful setting that feels worlds away — yet is remarkably easy to reach.

The nearest train station is Angoulême, where we provide round-trip shuttle service for retreat guests.

Where in France is Puy Vidal?

Puy Vidal is located in the Charente region of southwestern France, about two hours south of Paris by high-speed train from Montparnasse station. Surrounded by quiet farmland, limestone villages, sunflower fields, and winding country roads, it offers a peaceful setting that feels worlds away — yet is remarkably easy to reach.

The nearest train station is Angoulême, where we provide round-trip shuttle service for retreat guests.

How do I get there?

We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off from the Angoulême train station, just 18 minutes from the Château. This high-speed SNCF station is easily accessible from Paris, Bordeaux, and other major French cities — making your journey to us smooth and stress-free.

If you’re driving, detailed directions will be provided after booking, along with parking information.

How do I get there?

We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off from the Angoulême train station, just 18 minutes from the Château. This high-speed SNCF station is easily accessible from Paris, Bordeaux, and other major French cities — making your journey to us smooth and stress-free.

If you’re driving, detailed directions will be provided after booking, along with parking information.

What are the offsite accommodation & car rental options?

If you’re joining us as an offsite guest, we’ll provide you with a curated list of nearby accommodations upon booking — starting with our charming neighbors just up the road at Chez Jumaine B&B.

Please note: you’ll need to rent a car to travel to and from the Château each day. We recommend using Avis or Europcar for your rental during retreat week.

Parking is available onsite, and we also offer electric vehicle charging for guests.

What are the offsite accommodation & car rental options?

If you’re joining us as an offsite guest, we’ll provide you with a curated list of nearby accommodations upon booking — starting with our charming neighbors just up the road at Chez Jumaine B&B.

Please note: you’ll need to rent a car to travel to and from the Château each day. We recommend using Avis or Europcar for your rental during retreat week.

Parking is available onsite, and we also offer electric vehicle charging for guests.

Is there a pool?

Yes! Our outdoor pool is heated, making it perfect for a refreshing swim in summer or a cozy dip during the cooler spring and fall months.

We also have a spacious hot tub — an ideal spot to unwind after a full day of creativity, whether you’re soaking solo or sharing stories with new friends under the stars.

Is there a pool?

Yes! Our outdoor pool is heated, making it perfect for a refreshing swim in summer or a cozy dip during the cooler spring and fall months.

We also have a spacious hot tub — an ideal spot to unwind after a full day of creativity, whether you’re soaking solo or sharing stories with new friends under the stars.

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.

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