THE FRENCH CONNECTION

Welcome to the French Connection- a retreat where something quietly shifts.

Here, under the soft Provençal light, you are invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and slip into a gentler rhythm. The days unfold unhurriedly: shared conversations around the table, laughter echoing across the olive trees as you forge new friendships. You reconnect with yourself, the other women who simply get it, and with your hosts, who welcome you like old friends, and with the enchanting Provençal landscape.

By the week’s end, something subtle has changed. You feel lighter. Rested. Reconnected. Inspired, in all the ways that matter.

Retreat Dates

7 days / 7 nights

18 - 25 April 2026 30 May - 6 June 2026

Maximum of 8 women

Itinerary

Welcome to the Luberon

Arrival in Saignon

Welcome to the Luberon. Your private transfer will meet you in Avignon and whisk you back to Villa Vauvert.

Settle in, unpack, and let the rhythm of Provence take over. Wander through the garden, explore our private forest, or cool off by the pool.

In the evening we will enjoy a poolside aperitif then dine together at one of our favourite addresses.

Le programme précis est gardé secret jusqu'au jour J pour préserver la surprise et encourager le lâcher-prise. Le but : se laisser porter par le plaisir et l'instant présent.

Market & Antiques in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Start your Provencal adventure in one of the region’s most iconic towns and a paradise for antique lovers and market wanderers.

We’ll stroll along the canals, browse colourful market stalls, and explore the famous antique galleries and flea markets. After a leisurely lunch in one of our favourite bistros, enjoy free time to explore the boutiques, sip a coffee on a café terrace or soak in the artistic atmosphere.

Return to the villa for an evening dip and an aperitif by the pool while Rebecca prepares an authentic Provencal meal- your first hands on cooking workshop of the week.

Art & simplicity in Saignon

The morning starts with coffee in Saignon, our charming hilltop village.

We will join the locals at Chez Christine, visit the studio of local artist Pierre Jacaud, stroll the charming cobblestone streets and admire the breathtaking panorama from the very top of the Saignon rock.

Lunch will be by the pool at the villa. Together we will assemble a beautiful sharing board of charcuterie, cheese, local produce and fresh fruit.

In the afternoon, enjoy a painting class in the provencal fields, immersed in the magical light and stunning landscapes that inspired artists like Cezanne and Chagall.

We end the day in a truly local bistrot -simple, warm and full of charm.

History & Heritage : Gordes, Sénanque, Bonnieux

Step back in time to the middle ages with a visit to the Abbaye de Sénanque.

Founded in 12th century by Cisterian monks, its austere architecture, beautiful proportions, and pure lines embody centuries of peace and reflection.

We then continue to Bonnieux, a picturesque village spilling down the hillside, for a bistro lunch at Café de la Gare.

This afternoon, we cross the valley to Lacoste, known for the Marquis de Sade’s former castle, and for the remarkable restoration carried out by Pierre Cardin, famous fashion designer. Expect stunning views, beautiful Provencal architecture, and a touch of artistic flair from the Savannah College of Art and Design, now based here.

The day ends at the villa, with dinner prepared by Rebecca.

A day to pause and savour

Today, let Provence unfold gently.

Sleep in, swim, wander the forest—at your own pace.

We’ll start with coffee in the village square of Apt before a slow stroll through its historic streets: Roman remnants, medieval houses, potters’ studios, antique shops, linen boutiques… and a few of our favourite hidden addresses. Together, we’ll choose cheeses, fruit and fresh produce for our picnic.

Lunch will be shared in the breathtaking Provençal countryside, followed by a tour and tasting at the oldest estate in the Luberon. There will be time to unwind by the pool before a relaxed dinner in a local restaurant.

A day of slow pleasures, good conversations, and the gentle rhythm of Provençal art de vivre.

Colours of Provence : Roussillon & Ménerbes

This morning is all about the light and colour that have drawn artists to Provence for centuries.

We’ll walk the Sentier des Ocres in Roussillon, where cliffs glow in deep ochre and red tones, then wander the village streets, browse the weekly market and enjoy our ritual of morning coffee in a local café.

A scenic drive through the countryside brings us to lunch in a vineyard restaurant, followed by a visit to Ménerbes — a beautifully preserved medieval village beloved by artists, including Dora Maar, Picasso’s muse.

The evening is dedicated to simple pleasures: cocktails by the pool and a homemade dinner prepared by Rebecca. Join in the cooking, watch with a glass of wine, or simply relax until dinner is served. You’ll also return home with a recipe book of Villa Vauvert’s favourite recipes — including tonight’s meal.

Market morning in Lourmarin

Our final day takes us to Lourmarin, one of Provence’s most beloved villages.

Its lively Friday market is a feast for the senses- from beautiful French linens, to sun ripened fruits, to local olives and golden honey. Enjoy a long, lazy lunch on a carefully chosen café terrace, perfectly placed in the heart of the village, to watch the world go by.

In the afternoon, after a short pause to discover the village itself, we return to Villa Vauvert for some last quiet moments by the pool, or in the garden.

Our last supper will be in the heart of the Luberon countryside, hidden and peaceful, a magical moment of slow, simple Provencal life.

What is included:

From the moment we meet you at the designated meeting point, everything is taken care of.

All transport throughout the week is included, so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey.

Every meal is provided- from leisurely breakfasts, to relaxed lunches and memorable dinners- along with drinks at the villa and wine served with meals.

Breakfast at Villa Vauvert is a moment to savour: fresh buttery croissants, warm baguettes, homemade jam and our very own honey, granola, seasonal fruit, creamy yoghurt, and a rotating selection of savoury dishes prepared each morning with fresh, local ingredients.

All activities and visits mentioned in the itinerary are included, with no extra, hidden costs. Your only job is to savour, explore and enjoy Provence.

Excluded

Airfares and other transportation fares to and from the retreat
Travel Insurance ( we strongly recommend it)
Any activities not explicity mentioned in the itinerary

Shared Room

4 997€ / person

7 nights

Perfect for 2 people travelling together - mother and daughter, sisters, friends…

You will have two single beds in a beautiful, spacious bedroom, either in the Maison Rose or in the Petite Maison. Each room has it’s own ensuite bathroom.

All bedrooms have heating and air conditioning.

Your accommodation : Villa Vauvert

Your home for the week is Villa Vauvert, a peaceful hideaway surrounded by its own private forest. Elegant, restful and designed for slow living, it’s the perfect sanctuary to unwind between each day’s discoveries.

With four serene bedrooms, shaded outdoor dining and a heated infinity pool, and all the comforts of a true home, it is the perfect setting.

Join us in Provence

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Q&A

How many participants are there per retreat?

. Each retreat welcomes between 4 and 8 participants maximum. Il the minimum number of 4 participants is not reached, you will have the choice of: - a full refund, or - transfering your booking to another retreat on different dates. Bookings are closed and confirmed 60 days before the start of the retreat.

Can I come on my own?

. Yes - absolutely. Many of our guests travel solo. The intentionally small group size (between 4 and 8 participants) allows connections to form naturally, without the feeling of a large group or a packaged tour.

What happens in case of a change or cancellation?

. Detailed cancellation terms will be provided at the time of booking. We strongly recommend taking our personal travel insurance to cover any unforseen circumstances.

Are pets allowed?

. Yes - absolutely! We have two small dogs of our own, Telline and Tanga, who are very much part of life at Villa Vauvert.

Can I come with my mother, daughter, sister or a friend?

. Of course. Our retreats are designed for women of all generations. Duos and trios integrate very naturally into the group dynamic, making it a truly special experience to share. For groups of 4 or more, we invite you to contact us to create a tailor-made experience.

Is there a dress code?

. No -none at all. These are the opposite of staged perfection. They are about real Provence, real food and real connections. We'll send you a seasonal packing list ahead of time, but above all, we encourage you to prioritise cimfort.

What if I need some time to myself?

. That's completeky expected. While many moments are shared, you're always free to take time for yourself - to rest, enjoy the garden, the pool or your room. You're welcome to take part in all activities... or skip one if you feel the need. This retreat is yours.

Can I come with my husband?

. The French Connection is a women-only retreat. It was designed as a space for connection, sharing and freedom, where everyone can feel completely at ease. For couples, families or mixed groups, we offer tailor-made stays, created around your wishes. You're also welcome to explore our other tours and experiences, which are open to everyone.

Is this suitable if I'm travelling solo for the first time?

. Yes - absolutely. Many of our guests experience solo travel for the very first time on this retreat. The intimate setting and daily support help you feel comfortable and confident very quickly.

Do I need to know how to cook?

. Not at all. Everything is accessible, relaxed and fully guided.

What is the weather like?

. In Provence, the climate is generally mild and sunny, with the occasional breeze. Light clothing is recommanded, along with a jacket for the evenings.

What level of fitness is required?

. You should be comfortable with gentle walking several times a day.

Can I extend my stay?

. Yes, depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.

What if I have dietary requirements?

. No problem at all. Manus can be adapted to most allergies, intolerances and dietary preferences (gluten-free, vegetarian, etc.). Simply let us know at the time of booking. (Rebecca herself is gluten-free).

Do I need to speak French?

. No. All activities are offered in English, unless otherwise stated. All you need is a love of French culture - we'll take care of the rest.

Do I need to bring my own car?

. No -except for the Spring Detox retreat. You can arrive by train or plane, and all transportation during the retreat is taken care of. We'll collect you from Marseille Airport, Avignon TGV, or Aix-en-Provence TGV.

Will I need to share a room?

. No. The house has four bedrooms, each of which can be booked as either single or double occupancy. If you're travelling solo, you'll choose a single-occupancy room at the time of booking. If you're travelling as a pairn you can choose to share a room (double occupancy) or book two separate rooms (single occupancy). We never ask our guests to share a room with someone they don't know.

Is this retreat more cultural, culinary or focused on relaxation?

. The French Connection is a balance of all three. The retreat blends cultural discoveries, cooking and gastronomy, shared moments and time to relax - without an overloaded schedule.

Les Collections Vauvert

THE FRENCH CONNECTION

Welcome to the French Connection- a retreat where something quietly shifts.

Retreat Dates