Experience a thoughtfully structured day that blends artistic practice, exploration, and rejuvenation. There is so much to explore, both inside and out.
Each week combines daily art instruction sessions led by expert instructors with free studio time, and optional holistic practices like rooftop yoga and sound-bowl meditation.
ART + WELLNESS RETREATS
SOUTH OF FRANCE
ALL-INCLUSIVE STAY DETAILS
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
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Airport transportation to and from the venue
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Five nights at the historic Villa Marguerite
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Daily art sessions
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Individual guidance and demonstrations with art instructor
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Time for creative exploration and experimentation
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Free access to the Château de La Napoule and its expansive gardens to roam and gather inspiration
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Daily rooftop yoga
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Sound bowl healing and meditations
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Swimming and paddleboarding on the Mediterranean, just steps from the venue
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Lunch made with fresh local produce and responsibly sourced ingredients
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Traditional Southern French cuisine prepared by resident Château Cheffe
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Wine, cocktails, coffee, tea, and aperitifs daily
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Please note: airfare and art materials are not included
A DAY AT THE RETREAT
What is included:
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Daily art sessions, individual guidance and demonstrations with the instructor
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5 nights of accommodation at the beautiful and historic Villa Marguerite
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2 meals per day, including 1 per day prepared by the Chateau Cheffe (all meals prepared to accommodate dietary restrictions) Some traditional French cuisine, and many delicious dishes with fresh local produce and ingredients sourced by the Cheffe
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Wine and aperitifs at meals
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Coffee, tea, and water available throughout the day
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Full access to the Chateau and gardens to roam and gather inspiration
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A very short walk (2-5 minutes) to several beaches so you can relax or take a swim in the Mediterranean
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Access to the Foundation's paddle boards
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Art excursion to local or regional museum
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Private transportation for excursions
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Fully staffed retreat venue
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Daily yoga, optional
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Sound bowl meditation sessions, optional
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Transportation to and from the venue when you arrive and depart *see the transportation for more information*
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Plus all of the amenities listed on the accommodations page
What is not included:
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Airfare
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Travel Insurance
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Art Materials
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Other expenses guests may incur on their own
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Unexpected medical expenses
OTHER DISCOUNTS
- Discounted rates for groups of
5 or more in the same retreat
- Discounts for families wanting to stay in the Mer Bleue private suite
- Special offer if you book more than one retreat. Nearly all retreats have the instructors teaching two back-to-back sessions while instructing in different topics.
CREATIVE IMMERSION
Dive deep into your artistic voice with daily painting or other mixed-media lessons led by expert and inspiring instructors. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, brushing up on your skills, or are entirely new to art. Our instructors are versed in teaching for all levels.
ICONIC ALL-INCLUSIVE STAY
Stay in the Villa Marguerite, former home of an Austrian princess, stroll through sculptor Henry Clews’ gardens, learn about the historic Chateau, and create beside the glittering Mediterranean. Included in the cost of your retreat includes accommodations at the Villa Marguerite, 2 healthy meals per day, art studio access, and optional soft wellness practices.
HOLISTIC ITINERARY
The itineraries for our retreats are designed so that you experience a balance of structured and free time. We want you to have time to learn about the art discipline you chose, and then have time to integrate. Slow mornings begin with an offering of a walk by the sea, rooftop yoga, or sound‑bowl meditation; afternoons begin with a mix of optional outings, evening dinners by candlelight, or time for you to explore the area
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8:00 AM | Morning Movement
Guided seaside walk or gentle yoga to awaken the body and mind.9:30 AM | French Breakfast Under the Pergola
Fresh pastries, seasonal fruit, rich coffee, and conversation in the morning light.10:30 AM | Art-Making with Intention
Studio time focused on guided creative exploration and personal expression.12:30 PM | Chef-Prepared Lunch
A vibrant meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients, enjoyed al fresco.1:30 PM | Creative Studio or Free Time
Continue your art practice or relax — swim, read, journal, or simply rest.4:30 PM | Garden Aperitif
Aperol spritz or botanical mocktails in the garden as the afternoon softens.6:00 PM | Evening Integration
Sound bowl meditation, restorative session, or optional stroll into town.7:30 PM | Dinner by the Sea
A relaxed, candlelit dinner on the beach as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.Picture a ribbon of Mediterranean coastline where the sea shifts from sapphire to turquoise, backed by terraced hills scented with pine and rosemary—that’s the Côte d’Azur.
This legendary French Riviera unfolds from Nice westward through glamorous beaches, boats, and sun-lit bays. Nestled between the red cliffs of the Massif de l’Estérel and the glittering Gulf of Cannes lies the charming town of Mandelieu‑La Napoule — a seaside destination that blends relaxed Mediterranean life with natural beauty and cultural character.
Here in Mandelieu-La Napoule, you’ll find 2 miles of fine sandy beaches and hidden coves edged by the Estérel’s fiery red rock, inviting coastal walks, hikes, and water sports. The town’s historic port and marinas showcase hundreds of yachts, while inland, olive-scented hills and mimosa-covered slopes create a fragrant, scenic backdrop.
At its heart is the romantic and iconic Château de La Napoule, a restored medieval castle by the sea — part museum, part garden, but entirely iconic of the Riviera’s blend of history and scenery.
Read more about the area at the Mandelieu Toursim website.
2026 RETREAT OFFERINGS
Twelve unique experiences -
Choose one or more!
MULTI-MEDIA ASSEMBLAGE
JUNE 29-JULY 3
THE SECRET LIVES OF MATERIALS
Instructors: Cindy Parker & Kathryn Cameron
painting and mark making
JULY 6-10
Color as matter: EXPLORING PIGMENT THRough sURFACE & FORM
Instructor Kathryn Cameron
OIL PAINTING
JULY 13-17
THE ART OF BEING: A JOURNEY TO YOUR AUTHENTIC PAINTING STYLE
Instructor: Joalida Smit
WRITING AND FILM
JULY 27-31
BEYOND THE FRAME:
AWAKenING THE INNER VISONARY
Instructors: Joalida Smit and Kristina Darling
WORDS FROM OUR PAST PARTICIPANTS
“I'm continually fed by the connections and conversations from the wonderful group of creatives at the retreat. This was an incredible experience - the week fulfilled me in so many unexpected and beautiful ways, I can't wait to return!”
"I went on a whim, thinking it would just be a simple getaway. What I didn’t expect was a truly magical experience, one that allowed me to release all my worldly worries and rediscover my joy."
"I'm just full of calm and happiness today and it's thanks to your incredible talent for gathering people and making us feel seen, heard, welcome and most of all for your relaxed spirit of fun!"
“I just have to express my gratitude for that incredible week. It was life-changing, nurturing, everything! EVERYTHING!"
"There are people and places that change your life, and my experience at le Chateau de la Napoule has lodged itself as a sliver of inspiration and happiness into my consciousness. I was given the gift of agency to make discoveries around every corner and then embroider these discoveries as poetry, visual expression, and ongoing thought and investigation!"
“The Threshold Retreat was a truly magical experience. I learned, created, and tapped into my creativity in ways I never had before. And as an interior designer in the creative field daily - that's saying a lot. Between the art workshops, daily rituals, incredible food, swimming in the sea, and exploring France, it felt like a dream - one that I’ll carry with me forever. I left with not only inspiration but also deep friendships and a sense of renewal..."
