25/11/24
There’s something about Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur that invites you to breathe a little deeper. The rolling hills, charming villages, and the simple beauty of the natural surroundings create an atmosphere that seems to slow time itself. Hosting wellness retreats in this part of the world has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life, and I’d love to share a little of what I’ve learned.
One of the first lessons this region taught me is the power of connection. In the quiet beauty of the Grasse region, I’ve witnessed participants let go of daily pressures and lean into shared stories, laughter, and the kind of deep conversations that often elude us in busy lives. Retreats create a space where people feel safe to be open, to rest, and to rediscover what truly matters to them.
I received a message a few days ago from a participant of our last retreat in France, and her words brought me right back to the heart of what makes these experiences so special.
She wrote: "Dear Bel, I woke yesterday, remembering our trip together into town to buy baguettes for breakfast on our first morning of the retreat. I remember the feeling of relief and happiness, arriving safely into the beautiful Provence bubble.
If I close my eyes, I can be sitting at our table, under the ancient olive tree in Provence, and hear Ash working in the kitchen, knowing a sumptuous breakfast wasn’t far away."
It’s moments like these—simple yet profound—that stay with us long after the retreat ends.
The second lesson is about the importance of environment. Retreats are more than just a location—they are places that hold and nurture you. I’ve seen how a walk along quiet paths through 100 year-old olive trees or exploring nearby villages can shift a person’s energy entirely.
The region is known for its breath-taking landscapes, charming hilltop villages, and the soft Mediterranean light that seems to bring everything to life. These natural and cultural elements create an atmosphere that is as grounding as it is inspiring.
A House Meant to Be...
During our last retreat, we visited a house in nearby Châteauneuf that felt like it stepped out of a dream. Through a series of unexpected synchronicities, this house found its way into our plans for the next retreat.
I’m thrilled to share that we’ve secured this haven for May 2025. If I could imagine the perfect place to host a week of calm, genuine connection, and meaningful shifts, this would be it. The moment I walked through its doors, I could picture mornings bathed in soft light, afternoons filled with shared laughter and quiet walks, and evenings savouring simple, nourishing meals.
When I shared my excitement about booking this house for our next retreat with Ash, his response was immediate and heartfelt: “Mum, just tell me when and where we’re hosting, and I’ll be there. I loved it and can't wait to do it again.”
Lessons from Simplicity and Connection...
I’ve also learned to trust in the beauty of simplicity. Time slows when we gather around rustic French meals—beautiful, unpretentious food that nourishes not only the body but the soul. Watching participants savour each bite has reminded me that sometimes the greatest luxury is simply being present.
One of the greatest joys of this journey has been working alongside my son, Ash. During our last retreat, we found a rhythm that felt so natural, so effortless—it was a truly special experience as a mother and son team. Ash’s passion for French-inspired cuisine and his
ability to create meals that nourish and delight brought an irreplaceable warmth to the retreat. His quiet humour and care for the participants added a layer of connection that I’ll always treasure.
Looking ahead, I’m dreaming about our next retreat in this magical setting from May 11–17, 2025. With Ash by my side and this home as our sanctuary, I feel quietly excited about what’s to come.
Closer to Home
In addition to Provence, I’m also planning retreats a little closer to home. A retreat in Kinglake, Victoria, is in the works (dates to be advised), and I’ll be returning to the Byron Bay Hinterland in July 2025. Each retreat is unique, but they all share the same intention: to provide space for rest, reflection, and genuine connection.
If this whispers to you, I’d love to hear from you. Until then, I hope this reflection inspires you to embrace a moment of simplicity, connection, or beauty in your day.
With Love,
Bel x
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