Nestled within timeless walls
Welcome to Château de Puy Vidal, a place where fairytale, fantasy and magic are alive and well.
Our Lady of the Château Creative Retreats are dreamed up to offer all who enter our gates the wisdoms of French living, the richness of the past, and the vibrancy of creative collaboration.
Join our family, our team, and our creative instructors as we discover new ways to forge friendships, reach creative depths, and re-enchant our world. Our retreats span the gamut from Oil Painting to Creative Writing, Screenwriting, Personal Style, Fashion, Dance, Filmmaking, Photography, and more. Each retreat season's offerings depend on our guest instructors and the equilibrium of the season.
Step into your own cinematic universe.
An Immersive Haven
Creative Retreats
Start your day with a delightful breakfast buffet in our west wing breakfast salon. Savor a selection of fresh pastries, fruits, and other gourmet delights, all while basking in the morning light that warms the Chateau.
Slow Mornings | 8:30 am
Dive into the day’s creative theme during the Morning Session. Whether it’s an inspiring workshop or an enlightening discussion, this time is dedicated to fueling your passion and expanding your horizons.
Morning Session | 10 am
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the West Wing Salon or take your lunch out to the Chateau gardens where the atmosphere is as nourishing as the cuisine. This midday meal offers a perfect balance of flavors, providing the energy needed for the afternoon ahead.
Lunch | 1 :30 pm
Continue your creative exploration in the Afternoon Session. This time is reserved for deepening your skills, sharing insights, and connecting with fellow retreat participants in a setting designed to inspire.
Afternoon Session | 2:30 pm
Take this opportunity to unwind and explore. Wander the château’s picturesque grounds, take a refreshing swim, enjoy a leisurely bike ride, or simply rest and recharge in the serene surroundings.
Rest & Wander | 5 pm
As the sun sets, join us in the courtyard for a charming cocktail hour, or “Apero,” where you can unwind with fine beverages and light bites in the company of fellow guests. The evening continues with a candlelit dinner in the Renaissance Dining Salon, where every detail is designed to delight your senses. Afterward, indulge in a nightcap with a Cognac tasting(since we are in the Cognac region!), offering the perfect conclusion to a day of creativity and connection in this enchanting setting.
Evening Delights | 7 pm
A Typical Retreat Day at Puy Vidal
We collaborate closely with our guest instructors to craft balanced itineraries for our Instructed Creative Retreats, ensuring a harmonious blend of learning and inspiration. Each retreat is thoughtfully curated to include moments of rest, relaxation, engaging instruction, enriching day trips, and delightful group activities. And, of course, we leave room for you to simply sit back, savor a glass of French wine, and relish the beauty of the experience.
NOW OPEN | PAINTING WORKSHOP
AUGUST 13 -20 2025 | Haidee-Jo Summers
We are delighted to welcome Haidee-Jo Summers back in August of 2025 for another magical workshop at Puy Vidal. Sign up to be notified when this retreat launches for a chance to attend this unforgettable experience.
Château Bedrooms
An important part of the Creative Retreat Experience is the feeling of the group all coming together under one roof to learn, play, contemplate and rest. The balance between participating during the day in classes, lectures, activities, meals and more, and being able to ascend to your bedroom and rest, reflect and restore is a magical combination that strengthens the immersive quality of these retreats.
We have seven bedrooms which range from large sumptuous decor to romantic fairy tale chambers, to more modern cozy experiences.
Rooms are assigned in sign up order for each retreat, so book early!
Our Signature Retreat Themes
Oil Painting
Chateau de Puy Vidal was made to be beheld by an oil painter's eye. A beautiful u-shaped jewel of a building, there are scenes which tempt a painters eye inside and out. Boasting everything from charming vignettes and grand vistas to elegant living scenes and historic decor. One of our retreat pillars, oil painting retreats form the foundation of each retreat season.
Fantasy Photoshoot Events
A very special offering, our fantasy photoshoot experiences invite you to become the fantasy version of yourself. Whilst you step into the cinematic atmospheres of your dreams, you are photographed by a accomplished photographer who captures your beauty with a classical, editorialized, and empowering lens. Immersive event merges with a photoshoot and the lines between reality, fantasy and image-making blur into an unforgettable experience.
Creative Writing
Delve into the backdrops of hundred of years of dramas, love stories, battles and comedies here in an 800 year old castle. Find inspiration around every corner in a setting that will insist on your complete concentration. Led by brilliant writers, writing groups are guided to explore and develop voice, structure, character and more. Experience the momentum of writing in creative company within the most supportive of environments.
Personal Branding
At Lady of the Chateau we believe in digging deep into who you are to develop how you want to present yourself to the world. Escape the endless chasing of trends, and step into your power. Defining core identity traits and values can transform your relationship with your self-expression in the world and guide you through life transitions, careers, lifestyles and versions of yourself. Find power and confidence by learning the tools of introspection, line, and color fundamentals and developing your inner sense of fantasy and play.
Storytelling for Entrepreneurs
In the new world of social media, digital economics and global interconnectedness, storytelling has never been more important for brands and solo entrepreneurs. We believe in anchoring down in the timeless principles of compelling stories, archetypal characteristics, value systems and visions to truly stay focused in our new economic landscape. Ranging from brand auditing, strategic positioning, brand archetype development, to content creation skills like photography and filmmaking, to content pillars and calendars these workshops aim to give your brand efforts a completely re-empowered reboot. Attend one of our storytelling workshops for a digital age and reclaim your story, your unique value and your power in what can feel like an overwhelming digital landscape.
FIND BEAUTY WITHIN
Follow our Journey in France on our social media channels.
What's Included
Our retreats are all-inclusive, covering chateau accommodations, three gourmet meals per day, an all-day snack bar, unlimited wine, world-class instruction, and round-trip transportation from the local train station. Every detail is thoughtfully planned to ensure you can fully immerse yourself in the retreat experience.
Can I bring a Partner?
Non-Participating Partners are very welcome, and make a wonderful addition to the group experience. While you attend the workshop classes by day, they can enjoy the beautiful surroundings, relax by the pool, read in the gardens, go on country walks and bike rides, and enjoy the creative atmosphere. In the evenings they will enjoy the varied and beautiful dining and evening activities we are known for. If there is a daytrip in the retreat itinerary, they are more than welcome to join this as well.
Non-Participant spots are limited to ensure an intimate and personalized experience for all our guests- and only Bedrooms with private bathrooms are open to bookings with a non-participant partner. If they want to explore the region, a rental car is necessary.
Where in France is Puy Vidal?
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.
How do I get there?
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.
Are your painting retreats open to beginners?
Yes! Unless specifically stated on the retreat page, most of our workshops are open to beginners and cater to artists of all levels. However, it is encouraged to have some familiarity of oil paints and materials, so you aren't getting acquainted with basic setup on your first day.
Whether you’re just starting your creative journey or deepening your skills and exploring new approaches, our instructors provide tailored guidance to ensure a fulfilling and enriching experience for everyone.
Is there a pool ?
Yes! Our outdoor pool is heated, perfect for a refreshing dip in summer and a comfortable swim in spring and fall.
Our large hot tub makes a perfect place to unwind alone or with some new friends after a day of creativity.
What do I need to bring?
We provide the majority of the supplies you’ll need for the workshops, so you can focus on your creativity. However, depending on your workshop or retreat, we recommend checking our detailed supplies list for any specific items you might want to bring, such as your favorite tools or personal materials. Comfortable clothing, swimwear, and a good book for relaxation are also suggested to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.
Will I have the same experience as an Offsite participant?
Absolutely! As an offsite participant, you'll enjoy the same instruction, activities, and Château ambiance as our onsite guests. All of the Château amenities are there for you to enjoy.
What are the offsite accommodation & car rental options?
Upon booking we will provide you with a list of nearby accommodations starting with our neighbors up north at the lovely Chez Jumaine B&B.
You will need to rent a car to shuttle daily to and from the Château so we recommend Avis or Europcar for your car rental during your retreat week. Parking & E-vehicle charging is available at the Chateau during you retreat.
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 retreats@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
CALLING ALL LOVERS OF BEAUTY
Whether you’re yearning to explore new ideas, forge deep connections, or broaden your horizons, each of our workshops and retreats is a lovingly crafted experience. We partner with incredible guest instructors from around the world to create retreats that are as thoughtfully designed as they are inspiring. Our commitment to uncompromising quality is why we offer just a few exclusive retreats each year, ensuring you receive only the very best of Puy Vidal.
Embrace the serenity and timeless beauty of the surrounding countryside. Leave your worries at the gate and immerse yourself in a world where the simple pleasures of nature, the luxury of abundant time, and the enchanting beauty that transcends history await you.
