Bring enchantment back
into your world
A Sanctuary
for artists and dreamers
The Lady of the Château offers immersive journeys in a 13th-century French château that awaken trust in yourself, joy in the process, and a creative confidence that lasts.
This is more than an escape. It’s a week to feel held, to feel inspired, to remember what lights you up—and why it matters.
You’ll be surrounded by others who know that art is sacred. That beauty is a language. That creation is how we find ourselves again.
Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush, writing your next chapter, stepping into a dream, or simply seeking clarity—this is a place where your process is honored.
We don’t rush it. We nourish it.
Immersive, Heart-Opening
Creative Retreats
Each of our retreats and workshops is rooted in a specific creative focus—painting, photography, storytelling, literature—but all share one purpose: to bring you back to yourself through art, meaningful connection with your fellow artists, and the fulfillment of creating.
We welcome guest instructors who are not only devoted artists and masters of their craft but also generous mentors—present, attentive, and deeply invested in your growth.
Days are a balance of guided instruction, open studio time, and meals prepared with care. Evenings unfold in salon gatherings, fireside conversations, or spontaneous dancing in the dining room.
You’ll be staying in a fully hosted, lived-in, and loved home where beauty is found in both the grand details and the quiet corners—a place to soften, connect, and remember what it feels like to belong.
The Lady of the Château is a creative sanctuary offering intimate, immersive experiences set within the walls of a 13th-century château in Southwest France.
Our Creative Retreats transcend the ordinary, blurring the lines between reality and dreams. Amidst the gently rolling hills of this richly historic region we invite you to step into a world where creativity flourishes, self-discovery is celebrated, and deep connections are forged.
As you cross the threshold of Château de Puy Vidal, time loosens its grip. The château’s oldest stones, laid in 1267, still whisper—holding centuries of story, silence, and soul.
As you cross the threshold of Château de Puy Vidal, time loosens its grip. The château’s oldest stones, laid in 1267, still whisper—holding centuries of story, silence, and soul.
Still Available in 2025
Château de Puy Vidal
Built in 1267
A living part of history.
Château de Puy Vidal is a place where time loosens its grip. As you step through the Renaissance staircase and into the ancient rooms of the central wing, you are walking through eight centuries of history—stone walls that have held silence, art, conversation, and change. But this isn’t a museum. This is a living home, one that holds space for beauty, curiosity, and the creative spirit in all its forms.
Every corner tells a story: tapestries and candlelight in the salons, soft light pouring through antique glass, the echo of laughter from several rooms down the long corridors. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t demand your attention but earns it—slowly, reverently, with details that only reveal themselves when you’re truly present.
Puy Vidal is more than a backdrop for your retreat. It’s a companion in your process—a still and storied presence that grounds you, softens you, and gently calls you back to the joy of creating.
Step inside
Step inside
Step inside
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Led with Vision, Sustained by Love
We are your hosts—and it’s our joy to welcome you into the world we’re building here at Château de Puy Vidal.
Lady of the Château was co-founded and is led by Julia and Caroline, a couple and the creative force behind the brand. They are joined by Julia’s sister Penelope and their parents, Maruca and Robert, to create a family-centered space where creativity, personal growth, and meaningful connection are at the heart of everything they do.
Each retreat is crafted in collaboration with carefully selected guest instructors, chefs, and a small but devoted team—all chosen not only for their talent, but for their deep commitment to presence, generosity, and the art of creating together.
We believe in the transformative power of beauty—that when artists, dreamers, and seekers come together in a place that honors their voice, something shifts. We hope to spark a movement—of more art, more intention, and more creative community rippling outward through each person who passes through our doors.
We hope you’ll join us.
Led with Vision, Sustained by Love
We are your hosts—and it’s our joy to welcome you into the world we’re building here at Château de Puy Vidal.
Lady of the Château was co-founded and is led by Julia and Caroline, a couple and the creative force behind the brand. They are joined by Julia’s sister Penelope and their parents, Maruca and Robert, to create a family-centered space where creativity, personal growth, and meaningful connection are at the heart of everything they do.
Each retreat is crafted in collaboration with carefully selected guest instructors, chefs, and a small but devoted team—all chosen not only for their talent, but for their deep commitment to presence, generosity, and the art of creating together.
We believe in the transformative power of beauty—that when artists, dreamers, and seekers come together in a place that honors their voice, something shifts. We hope to spark a movement—of more art, more intention, and more creative community rippling outward through each person who passes through our doors.
We hope you’ll join us.
Led with Vision, Sustained by Love
We are your hosts—and it’s our joy to welcome you into the world we’re building here at Château de Puy Vidal.
Lady of the Château was co-founded and is led by Julia and Caroline, a couple and the creative force behind the brand. They are joined by Julia’s sister Penelope and their parents, Maruca and Robert, to create a family-centered space where creativity, personal growth, and meaningful connection are at the heart of everything they do.
Each retreat is crafted in collaboration with carefully selected guest instructors, chefs, and a small but devoted team—all chosen not only for their talent, but for their deep commitment to presence, generosity, and the art of creating together.
We believe in the transformative power of beauty—that when artists, dreamers, and seekers come together in a place that honors their voice, something shifts. We hope to spark a movement—of more art, more intention, and more creative community rippling outward through each person who passes through our doors.
We hope you’ll join us.
Echoes of the Experience
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
"There are only three words to describe how beautiful your Chateau is… and those are 'Heaven on Earth' "
"A part of me wants the Lady of the Chateau to remain a hidden gem that, selfishly, I can have access to long term, and another part of me believes that the Leach-Ibarra family should be rewarded resoundingly and perennially for their efforts and passions, and that as many artists as possible should experience something like this."
"This place is pure love."
"A paradise for anyone who loves beauty. I could paint 1,000 paintings in this place."
"The Lady of the Chateau hosts take hospitality to the highest standard, treating you like you are their very best friend or family member."
"I have attended several painting workshops in Europe and this one was by far the best. "
"I speak from personal experience- this is a magical place you will never forget!
The hosts are fabulous, the atmosphere of the Chateau not only invites but insists that your creativity will be at its best, and living in a literal castle for even a few days… Come on now- this is the stuff Bucket Lists are made of!""The love the the lady of the chateau team puts into every single detail makes every moment of this retreat so magical. I have never stayed anywhere so breathtaking."
"A sensational week- delicious on many levels, gastronomic, artistic, spiritual, and communal. An adventure of extraordinary growth and comfort. "
Glimpses from the Château
Outdoor Dining Painting Workshop
Carlos San Millan
Outdoor Dining Painting Workshop
Carlos San Millan
Outdoor Dining Painting Workshop
Carlos San Millan
Outdoor Aperitif Hours at Puy Vidal
Penelope & Aimee
Outdoor Aperitif Hours at Puy Vidal
Penelope & Aimee
Outdoor Aperitif Hours at Puy Vidal
Penelope & Aimee
Outdoor Dining at Castle
Johanna Spinks Workshop 2023
Outdoor Dining at Castle
Johanna Spinks Workshop 2023
Outdoor Dining at Castle
Johanna Spinks Workshop 2023
Painting Workshop 2023
Chateau Interiors Painting
Painting Workshop 2023
Chateau Interiors Painting
Painting Workshop 2023
Chateau Interiors Painting
Painting Workshop 2023
Plein Air Oil Painting
Painting Workshop 2023
Plein Air Oil Painting
Painting Workshop 2023
Plein Air Oil Painting
Haidee Jo Summers | 2024
Oil Painting Retreat
Haidee Jo Summers | 2024
Oil Painting Retreat
Haidee Jo Summers | 2024
Oil Painting Retreat
See all
See all
See all
Lady of the Château Productions
At The Lady of the Château Productions, we value meaningful, authentic lived experiences and storytelling. We spend our days observing and carefully recording our lives and experiences here in France.
We draw on our 15 years of filmmaking careers in the NYC film and television industry to helm the Creative Studio of Puy Vidal. Our first project has been to tell our story on our Youtube Channel- documentary style, to capture and share the daunting journey of moving from California to France as a five person family and starting our Retreats business.
Critical to our process is a period of reflection and absorption, where we let our lived experiences settle in. This helps invite objectivity and a sense of perspective. Like many crafts and arts, this process requires time and multiple stages. We call it our "distillation" process.
The result is videos that we feel proud of- bits of imagery, sound, and message that convey a sense of truth. By so doing, we hope to contribute to a better, more meaningful YouTube, internet, and world.
Caroline & Julia
Follow us on Instagram
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
© 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
© 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
© The Lady of the Chateau SAS | Est. 2021
