FIND BEAUTY WITHIN
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A JOURNEY OF LIGHT AND SHADOW WITH IDA VON AVES
THE MYTHIC SELF
€5,200 - € 5,900
September 18 - 24, 2025
€5,150- €6,250
THE MYTHIC SELF | A Fantasy Photoshoot Retreat w/ Ida von Aves
Step into a world of myth and legend, where personal discovery is nurtured, and catharsis is embraced.
This six-night immersive photoshoot retreat at Château de Puy Vidal is a journey into the myths and archetypes within you, a journey toward embracing your strength and vulnerability, grief and joy, beauty and pain. Guided by the visionary Ida von Aves and her expert hair and makeup artist, Celine Wilkes, this retreat invites you to uncover and celebrate a self-image rooted in both strength and compassion.
With her masterful command of light and shadow, and endless inspiration from classical art, Ida will guide you to unearth your inner villain, queen, knight and goddess. Become a living masterpiece under her gaze, evoking the drama of the Medieval, the beauty of the Renaissance, and the romanticism of the Pre-Raphaelites.
The Lady of the Château team has designed a fully immersive program around these photoshoots - yoga classes, journaling exercises, vision boards, regional explorations, and themed evenings where the inspirations of the day come to life. This is an experience unlike any other—a unique blend of rest, relaxation, self-exploration, play, beauty and connections with like-minded fantasy lovers, set in the ancient, knowing atmosphere of this 13th-century château. All this, while creating and participating in transformative fine art photoshoots, ensures you will leave with an utterly different connection to yourself and your fantasy worlds.
Come cross our enchanted threshold, where muses gather and myths come to life.
IMMERSIVE CHÂTEAU
6 NIGHT RETREAT
3 FINE ART
PHOTOSHOOT
SESSIONS
ALL GENDERS,
LGBTQ+ WELCOME
“I choose this incredible experience not as a want, but an actual need for my senses and well being.
In times like these, it is imaginative and creative activities that can nurture the soul.“
Fantasy Photoshoot Participant 2024
The Timeless Portrait
1st Photoshoot
We begin with something classic—a portrait inspired by the elegance of historical paintings.
This 30-minute session is designed to ease you into the experience while capturing you in a setting reminiscent of old-world artistry. Think soft, painterly light, composed serenity, and the kind of portrait that feels as if it belongs in a grand hall.
The Story Unfolds
2nd Photoshoot
Now, we step deeper into visual storytelling—where the magic begins. This will be a full 1 hr session.
Inspired by Vollkommen-style editorial photography, this session is more than just a portrait. It’s an unfolding visual tale, a mix of striking compositions, unexpected perspectives, and cinematic storytelling.
Whether you choose to fully embody a mythic character or let the setting shape your expression, this is where you begin to explore, feel, and transform.
The Grand Finale
3rd Photoshoot
For our final session, we return to the essence of Ida's signature style—bold, iconic.
This 30-minute shoot is all about embracing the extraordinary, with a standout outfit and a atmosphere that feels like stepping into a dream. It’s a space for creativity, a chance to experiment with striking compositions, and an opportunity to create something truly
timeless.
Unlike the second shoot, this one focuses less on storytelling and more on the power of a singular, unforgettable image.
STEP INTO YOUR STORY
3 PHOTOSHOOT SESSIONS
Have you ever imagined yourself as a figure in a timeless painting, a mythological muse or a legendary warrior? This retreat is more than just photoshoot sessions—it’s an opportunity to explore different facets of yourself and bring them to life through art.
To make this experience even more immersive, your photographer Ida von Aves will be bringing a selection of costumes and accessories to help craft the perfect look for each session. Whether you dream of flowing Renaissance gowns, regal capes, or intricate armor details, we’ll create a vision that feels uniquely yours.
Hair and makeup will be expertly handled by Celine, Ida's trusted hair and makeup artist and an essential part of her studio. Together, we will ensure that every detail—whether it’s an elaborate updo, natural waves, or a perfectly styled wig—enhances your transformation. She will also be bringing a selection of wigs for those who want to explore a completely new aesthetic.
Before the retreat, Ida would love to connect with each of you in a chat or video call. This will give you the chance to discuss your vision, explore character ideas, and decide which costumes and accessories to bring along. To help you clarify your artistic direction, you’ll also receive Ida's Intention Finding Quiz—a tool designed to guide you toward the essence of what you want to express in your shoot.
The Retreat Journey
MEET YOUR GUIDE
Master Photographer Ida von Aves
My work is where classical art meets photography—where the timeless beauty of old masters blends with the immediacy of the present. With a deep appreciation for light, shadow, and emotion, I create portraits that feel both cinematic and painterly, capturing something beyond just an image: a story, a moment, a feeling.
My journey began in the world of art history, where I immersed myself in Renaissance paintings and medieval architecture, drawn to their depth, symbolism, and craftsmanship. But I wanted more than just studying the past—I wanted to bring it into the now. After a classical photography apprenticeship and earning my master’s certification, I spent nearly a decade refining my craft before taking the leap into full-time self-employment. That moment came on April 1, 2022—a fitting date, considering that following one’s artistic vision sometimes feels like the ultimate April Fool’s joke. And yet, here I am, turning clients into timeless works of art ever since. My studio is based in Germany, and I am thrilled to be bringing my studio and team to France for this incredible expereince.
For me, photography is not about changing you, but about revealing what has always been there. Strength and softness, power and vulnerability, reality and myth—every session is a chance to embody a new version of yourself while staying utterly, beautifully you.
At this retreat, we’ll step into a world of legends, where each image tells a story only you can bring to life.
Are you ready to become part of art?
MEET YOUR HOSTS
The Lady of the Château Creative Team
We are Julia and Carolina, your retreat designers and guides, and it is our pleasure to welcome you into our world. We are a couple and the founders of the Lady of the Château retreats.
We moved to France as a multi-generational family, from NYC and California, in pursuit of a long-cherished dream. We run each retreat is with the help of Penelope, Julia's sister, and Maruca, our mother, who is the ultimate magic maker, creating immersive atmospheres for each retreat theme. Julia's father, Robert, is also an active host during retreats, enjoying welcoming guests from around the world.
Together with our carefully assembled team including our Guest Instructor, Retreat Chef, and Château Staff, we create a world where living authentically and beautifully becomes inevitable - where energy is everything, and each of us connects with our purpose.
We cannot wait to welcome you to an experience that will leave your cup full for months to come.
Dear Muses,
Something extraordinary awaits you.
A journey beyond the everyday, where time slows, and you step into a world that exists just for you. A realm where your strength, your softness, your fire, and your vulnerability are all welcome—where you become art itself.
This September, join us for an immersive photography retreat unlike any other. Over the course of three unique shoots, we will explore your essence, capturing the spirit that makes you who you are. Our main themes—Knightcore meets Mystic Renaissance—are not just about aesthetics; it’s about embodying your own legend, stepping into a timeless masterpiece where myth and reality blur. Think pre-Raphaelite muses, ethereal warriors, mythological figures, and the kind of cinematic presence that makes you feel like you just stepped out of an epic tale.
We are not here to change you. You are already perfect. Instead, we invite you to experience yourself anew—to see yourself through an artistic lens, to embrace the emotions that arise, and to walk away not just with breathtaking imagery, but with a deeper connection to yourself. This is not just a photoshoot. It is an experience, a transformation, a celebration of everything that you are. After all, what’s a retreat without a little Main Character Energy?
Expect the unexpected. Come open, curious, and ready to explore the many facets of your being. And you will not be alone—this is a journey shared with kindred spirits, with friends old and new who seek the same connection, the same artistic awakening. Together, you will create something timeless, something uniquely yours.
And you will be in the best hands—Celine, my trusted Hair & Makeup Artist and an essential part of my team, will be by my side. We’ve worked together for years, ensuring that every detail, every look, and every moment aligns perfectly with your vision. We are here to guide you, support you, and make sure you feel your absolute best.
Are you ready to step into your story?
Armor up, grab your sword (or just your favorite outfit), and let’s make some magic.
See you at the Chateau!
With anticipation,
Ida
MEET YOUR HAIR & MAKE-UP ARTIST
Celine Wilkes
Hello beautiful souls,
I'm Celine, a master stylist and makeup artist from Germany. It’s an absolute joy to be part of this extraordinary journey with all of you!
Makeup has always been my passion—not just for its beauty, but for the art it creates. To me, every face is a unique canvas, and my role is not to change or mask who you are, but to enhance the beauty that already exists within you.
Just like every masterpiece requires its own touch, every face deserves a personalized approach. A few brushstrokes can reveal something powerful—your essence, your confidence, your individuality. Makeup is not about transformation; it’s about elevation. It’s about celebrating the beauty that is already yours.
True beauty is not about perfection—it’s about embracing yourself, unapologetically.
I can’t wait to see you all in September and be part of this incredible photography retreat. Let’s make it an unforgettable experience!
With love,
Celine 💕
“The part I will cherish the most about this experience was getting to meet a bunch of similarly weird, wonderful, creative people like me. It's been a long time where I felt like I could be totally myself.”
Fantasy Photoshoot Participant 2024
A Glimpse at a Retreat Day
8:30am-9:30am
Breakfast in the Spode Room
10:00am – 1:30pm
Set the Stage | Get Ready Hair & Make-up
Individual Photoshoots
1:30pm – 2:30pm
Lunch in the Interior Courtyard
2:30pm - 5:30pm
Individual Photoshoots continue
Outside of your photoshoot, the Chateau is yours to explore, relax and play in.
7:00pm
Aperitif Hour
8:00pm
Joan of Arc Banquet
9:00pm
Medieval Dungeon
What's Included?
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FINE ART PORTRAITS
Final delivery of 3 high-resolution fully edited digital images from the three photoshoots. Option to purchase more images directly through Ida von Aves.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Chateau de Puy Vidal rooms have a variation of opulent and spacious décor to charming, storybook chambers, as well as contemporary and cozy retreat spaces.
AUTHENTIC FRENCH
MEALS & WINE
Breakfast buffets each morning, with both continental and savory options. Light refreshing lunches. Decadent dinners offer the classics of french cuisine. All events have flowing craft cocktails and french wines.
REGIONAL DAY TRIP
Transportation on our day trip to the local village of La Rochefoucauld, entry ticket to Chateau museum, and lunch at a riverside restaurant all included.
ATMOSPHERIC CHATEAU EVENTS
The photoshoot themes come to life at dusk. You are invited to bonfires under the stars, escapades through the labyrinth, cinema screenings by candlelight, and fairy revelries in the forest.
TRAIN PICK UP | DROP OFF
On arrival day and departure day, a Chateau team member will meet you at the train station in Angouleme to shuttle you to the chateau - an 18-minute drive. The train is the best way to travel to the Chateau from Paris- the total time is 2 hours.
PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGE
3 FINE ART PORTRAITS INCLUDED
OPTION TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PORTRAITS
In the dedicated Chateau Studio, Ida von Aves will guide and direct you in unleashing your power and beauty in front of the camera. Over the five day retreat, there will be 3 different photoshoots, two short and one long, to give plenty of opportunity to explore different looks, different stories and different aspects of yourself.
After the retreat you will receive a gallery of approximately 100-200 unedited images to look through. From these you will select the 3 images that are included, and add any additional images you may want.
Whichever images you select will be edited in the Ida von Aves signature style, including skin retouching, any cosmetic requests as well as adding in the background scenery to each image. These will be delivered to you as high-resolution digital files. Ida will add in two complimentary detail shots from your storytelling shoot.
Additional digital images cost €140 each and will be purchased directly through Ida.
PHOTOSHOOT COSTUMES & STYLING
For your photoshoot sessions, Ida Von Aves Studio provides an extensive selection of costumes, drapes, fabrics, accessories, headpieces, corsets, and more—everything you need to create your perfect castlecore fantasy photoshoot.
Before the retreat, you'll have a one-on-one Zoom meeting with Ida to discuss your vision and plan your photoshoots. Once at the Château, Ida and Céline will guide you through the styling process, making sure each photoshoot look is fully cohesive. You’ll have access to full Ida Von Aves Studio’s wardrobe collection—including flowing drapes, ornate swords, intricate headpieces, and structured corsets—ensuring you are able to bring to life your creative vision. You are welcome to bring any props or accessories that you may want to incorporate into a shoot, and encouraged to bring long flowing wigs for these shoots. Ida will also have a collection of wigs available to you as well.
Outside the photoshoots, we invite you to fully lean into to the fantasy in your wardrobe! This is the chance to express yourself fully in a safe space, surrounding by themed atmospheres, and stunning chateau scenes.
Embrace the magic of dressing up in a historic château setting.
What Should You Bring?
While costumes for your photoshoots are provided, we encourage you to bring your own outfits for our immersive themed evening events and celebrations throughout the retreat! These themed gatherings are an opportunity to fully embrace the Château experience, play with your personal style, and step into different mythic, historical, or fantasy-inspired worlds each night.
🍁 The Feast of Persephone- Harvest Dinner & Bonfire- Autumnal inspirations, woolen sweaters, velvets, boots
🎭 Renaissance Kings & Queens Dinner & Film Night – Renaissance-inspired outfits, velvets, brocades, courtly attire, historic accessories.
⚔️ Joan of Arc Banquet – Knightcore, warrior queen, medieval rebel. Armor pieces, structured silhouettes, or bold statement pieces.
✨ Goddess Energy Pool Party & Bacchanalian Revelry – Golden hues, ethereal robes, laurel crowns, shimmering fabrics, and divine goddess energy.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Our all-inclusive packages, lovingly curated, cover everything during your stay, from train pick-up to accommodations to day trips. Our goal in putting these together is to allow you to completely relax during your time here, delve into learning, and have the rest taken care of.
The Château Bedchambers
An integral part of the Retreat Experience is the sense of unity that comes with everyone gathering under one roof to create and unwind. We offer a selection of 8 distinctive historic bedrooms and suites, each designed to provide a one-of-a-kind experience.
Our room offerings cater to various preferences, ranging from spacious and opulent decor to enchanting, fairy-tale chambers, and French country cozy retreats. If you are seeking the chance to unwind alone, our single occupancy option allows you to enjoy the retreat in your own private room. Decompress, reflect and recharge in your personal sanctuary. For those who prefer to share the retreat experience, we offer double occupancy rooms. This option is ideal for friends, couples, or those who wish to forge new connections with fellow participants.
If you're a solo traveler and choose double occupancy, we'll pair you with another solo traveler for a shared experience, enhancing the sense of community. For solo traveler double occupancy options please email us at admin@ladyofthechateau.com
YOUR JOURNEY AWAITS
Due to high demand, as well as to ensure a cohesive group dynamic, we invite you to apply below. The application process ensures that we are able to personalize this journey as much as possible to your needs and that the group is balanced and supportive so that everyone can flourish.
You will be notified within 72 hours of submission whether you have been accepted. If accepted, you will receive an invitation to book your spot. Your spot will not be confirmed until you book.
To make this retreat more accessible, we offer flexible payment options. The retreat fee is divided in 3 installments, and we’re happy to work with you to arrange a payment cadence that suits your needs. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for details!
If you have any questions regarding our retreats or if you are having trouble booking please email us at retreats@ladyofthechateau.com
How do I get there?
Puy Vidal is nestled in the scenic Charente region, just 2 hours south via SNCF Train from Paris-Montparnasse station. This idyllic location offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility.
We offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off from our local train station of Angouleme just 18 minutes from the Chateau . If you’re driving, detailed directions will be provided upon booking. We’re easily accessible from major French cities, making your journey as smooth as possible.
Check out our Travel Guide website page for details.
Do I need to bring my own costumes? Hair and Makeup?
Ida will be bringing her entire Studio Closet to the Chateau- including her beautiful draping fabrics in many colors, incredible gilded accessories, props and more. Each look will be planned and discussed in advance of the retreat over a zoom call as much as possible, and then refined on the day of each shoot. Celine will be providing professional hair and makeup. This means you are not required to bring anything but your beautiful self in order to be ready for the photoshoots!
Some things you can bring if you like: you are welcome to bring your own wigs, which add an incredibly fantasy and otherworldly effect. Ida will bring some wigs, but if you would like long flowing hair, it may be best to source the perfect color for you. If you have a prop or accessory or even a favorite dress/outfit that you would like to incorporate into the shoot, you are also welcome to bring that as well.
Outside of the shoots, we will be enjoying immersive festivities, parties and more along the same themes as the shoots. For these evening activities, fantastical dressing is celebrated and encouraged, so have fun styling your retreat wardrobe for each day's theme!
We will have a group hair and makeup area where you can play with your styling for these events. This retreat is about embracing the many fantasy versions of yourself both in and out of the photoshoots.
Is there a pool ?
Yes! Our outdoor pool is heated, perfect for a comfortable swim even in the fall.
Our large hot tub makes a perfect place to unwind alone or with some new friends after an intensive photoshoot day.
Bring a swimsuit and sandals. The sandals can come in handy for the photoshoots too, as you walk between the hair and makeup room and the Studio location. Slippers with a good traction sole are also very useful to bring in the chateau for lounging. Robes and towels are provided.
Are Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?
We cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. However, due to the nature of our environment and kitchen, we cannot accommodate multiple food restrictions or severe life-threatening food allergies. Please contact us before booking at retreats@ladyofthechateau.com.
In addition, if you have severe dietary or environmental allergies (e.g., to insects, dust, or humidity), please contact us before booking at admin@ladyofthechateau.com. For your safety, we reserve the right to cancel bookings if we determine we cannot safely accommodate your needs.
FAQ
Our guests most frequently asked questions
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
DAY 5
DAY 6
DAY 7
The Call to Adventure, meeting the Mentor | Arrival Day
Welcome to the Chateau!
Your journey begins as you arrive by train at Angoulême Station between 2 PM - 4 PM, where shuttles will transport you to our enchanting retreat.
As you pass through the château gates, step into a world where myth, art, and self-discovery intertwine.
Settle in, meet your fellow participants, your hosts and your photographer guide as you explore the château grounds—a place where legends come to life.
That evening, we gather for an Opening Circle & Welcome Dinner, a ceremonial first step into the experience ahead.
Crossing the Threshold
1st Photoshoot
30 min sessions
Outside of your prep and photoshoot time, the château becomes your sanctuary. Book a massage, attend a yoga class, go on a countryside walk or lounge by the pool, soaking in the tranquility.
Dinner | Harvest Celebration
An autumnal celebration of the equinox.
Evening | Persephone's Bonfire
An intention-setting bonfire beneath the stars—casting your spell for the days ahead.
The Transformation Begins
Regional Daytrip
Join us on a trip to a historic village, where we’ll wander through cobblestone streets, have lunch in a traditional french restaurant, and explore quaint shops. A day of exploration and learning a bit more about the Renaissance history of the region.
Dinner | Renaissance Kings & Queens
A candlelit dinner honoring the history of the Chateau.
Evening | Cinema Night
Renaissance themed film screening in the Grand Salon.
The Deepening Quest-
Test, Allies and Enemies
2nd Photoshoot - 1/2 the group
1 hr sessions
To allow each participant a full one-hour shoot, the group will be divided into two.
Afternoon | Medieval Garden Games
After your photoshoot, join the fun in the grounds for a round of archery, croquet, slackline, and more.
Dinner | Joan of Arc Banquet
A Knightcore-inspired medieval banquet, where we dine like warrior queens and rebels of legend.
Evening | Medieval Dungeon
A quest of secrets.
Return with the Elixer- the Resurrection
2nd Photoshoot - 1/2 the group
1 hr sessions
Afternoon | Goddess Energy Pool Party
Bring your most golden, radiant selves to luxuriate by the pool, soak in the spa, and revel in the beauty of your bravery.
Dinner | Bacchanalian Feast
As the golden hour arrives, we gather for a glittering dinner in the Grand Salon, an assembly of radiant gods and goddesses.
Evening | Minotaur in the Labyrinth
An ancient challenge of chase and suspense.
The Road back as the Mythic Self
3rd Photoshoot
30 min sessions
Afternoon | Chateau living
Enjoy your last day of life in the Chateau, soak in the grounds, the salons and the accomplishment of your mythic journey
Evening | Closing Ceremony
The Hero Returns Home
Departure Day
The journey concludes as shuttles to Angoulême Station begin at 6 AM for those catching the 6:36 AM train to Charles de Gaulle Airport.
A farewell breakfast is served from 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM, as guests say their final goodbyes, carrying their newfound mythic selves back into the world.
Shuttles continue throughout the morning, with departure recommended no later than noon.