french countryside dreamscape with abbey
french countryside dreamscape with abbey
$0.00
2nd - 6th, september, 2026
starting from €2985
deposit €300
join abbey sadlier for a five-day girls’ escape in the french countryside… think the ultimate dinner-party-meets-holiday retreat. designed around connection, relaxation, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences, this is a chance to slow down and savour the magic of rural france together.
days unfold at an easy, indulgent pace: a hands-on cooking class with local ingredients, a vineyard tasting among rolling vines, and a scenic countryside drive in classic cars. in between, linger over long lunches, wander through storybook villages at golden hour, and soak up quiet moments in beautiful surroundings.
with a small group of like-minded women, the retreat feels less like a trip and more like being welcomed into an extended dinner party in the french countryside, full of laughter, meaningful conversation, and meals you’ll be talking about long after the last glass of wine.
you’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and full of the kind of memories that only come from slowing down, sharing good food, and experiencing somewhere special together.
a timeless sanctuary — a centuries-old château shaped by fire, renewal, and quiet beauty
with origins dating back to 1368, the château carries the romance of centuries within its walls. medieval towers rise beneath ancient chestnut trees, while remnants of its old walls and moat quietly echo the spirit of its past. once a fortified castle, the estate has been lovingly restored into an elegant retreat, where antique-filled interiors and thoughtful details honour its remarkable history.
the estate continues to evolve in harmony with its surroundings. a historic gatehouse has been carefully revived, a serene elevated pool overlooks the landscape, and restored outbuildings complete this enchanting setting, offering a rare sense of stillness in the heart of nature.
since opening to guests in 2022, the château has become a place to slow down, wander, and reconnect - a truly magical highlight of the retreat.
itinerary
day one
ARRIVE into a storybook countryside of Loire Atlantique, and be welcomed to the 100-acre estate
NESTLE into your beautiful room and explore the private grounds, woodland and pond
MEET abbey and your fellow guests, relax by the pool, welcome drink in hand
DINE with your private chef under the stars
day two
MORNING yoga to gently awaken body and mind, surrounded by countryside stillness
BRUNCH at the chateǎu
WINE TASTING experience at a local Loire Valley vineyard, exploring the cellar, the vines, and the glass.
DINNER PARTY at the manor. get all dressed up and expect a long table, candles, flowers, and a menu worth remembering
day three
MORNING yoga to start the day off strong
LONG LUNCH in the courtyard with cold rosé, charcuteries and this morning’s pasteries
FREE TIME to swim, fish from the pond or wander the woodlands
DINNER at the manor table, slow, candlelit and full of good conversation
MOVIE NIGHT under the open sky
day four
BREAKFAST overlooking the estate with warm croissants and fresh-pressed juice
FREE TIME
VILLAGE FOOD & ART TOUR through the markets of Machecoul or Pornic aged cheeses, fresh oysters, salt-marsh honey and a visit to a local atelier or gallery
COOKING CLASS beurre blanc, Atlantic seafood and seasonal produce with a local chef (dinner)
DINNER under the stars in the courtyard with candlelight and lingering conversation
MOVIE NIGHT under the stars
day six
FINAL BRUNCH one final generous table together with seasonal dishes and great coffee
FAREWELLS and transfers to Nantes, hearts full and reawakened
an invitation from abbey
xxxxxxxx
exclusions
Flights to and from France
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Any optional add on activities
inclusions
4 nights accommodation in an beautiful french manor house
Meals as per the itinerary
Activities as per the itinerary
Goodie bag
Return transfer from Nantes
Transformative travel guidebook and journaling prompts from Aweventurer
meet your host
xxxxxx
FAQs
How can I join?
Please secure your place by paying a deposit. Confirmation will take place via email. There is a limited number of places available on this retreat, so act fast.
How do I get there?
We will be picking up guests at 2pm on day 1 from an appointed spot in Paris.
What is an OPT IN activity?
These activities are optional and will be at an extra fee. You will be able to purchase your add-ons closer to the trip.
What is the rooming configuration?
The trip has options for private and shared rooms.
How can I pay?
Click pay now and follow the booking process.
What should I pack?
Day pack for carrying essentials.
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
Sun protection - a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen.
Insect repellent and hand sanitiser.
Light layers for the daytime
Warmer layers for night time.
Swimmers.
Electrical adaptor.
Water bottle.
Will I need a visa?
Obtaining a visa is the individual responsibility of the traveller. Please note that entry requirements can change at any time. France is in the European Schengen area. Most travellers can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Be sure to check with your government’s foreign travel advisories and consular websites to ensure you have the correct information.
What does the Aweventurer team do?
We provide the most thorough support for you to have an epic travel experience with us. From an on-the-ground local host to our team at HQ, there is always someone available to help solve any issues you may encounter. Throughout your expedition, a local host will accompany you and your fellow travellers to make sure you have everything you need for an inspiring and safe journey. You are also able to reach out with any concerns or questions – before, during and even after your trip. We pride ourselves on prompt responses and are happy to hear from you, whether by email, phone or via a Zoom call, on how we could improve your stay or anything we need to prepare before your arrival.
past retreat - the creative writing retreat with emma gannon in tuscany
“The Tuscany retreat with Aweventurer completely exceeded my expectations. I'd never been on a creative/writing retreat before and wasn't sure if it was a going to be an expense I could justify. Within 24 hours of the group's coming together at an astonishing one-thousand-year-old restored Italian manor set in the heart of the lovely Tuscan countryside, with yoga each morning, delicious big vegetarian meals twice a day, stretches of writing and interesting conversations, and charming villages nearby, I was ready to sign up for the next one. Tara's quiet and meticulous attention was evident throughout. Two weeks later, I'm still in a glow!” - Kristen
