Are you ready to unlock your inner artist in the enchanting heart of France? Whether you've wielded a paintbrush or not, imagine yourself in our private château, where judgment has no place, and creativity knows no bounds. Picture yourself leaving with your own creativity journal and the awe-inspiring fruits of your artistic endeavors, all while saying, 'WOW – I had no idea I could create that!'
Treat yourself! With a team of six hosts, including two professional artists, two professional chefs trained at Le Cordon Bleu, and two dedicated chatelains, this is truly is a bespoke experience in an authentic French setting.
Your world of self-discovery and boundless creativity awaits!
Your Adventure Awaits!
Our goal is not to teach you to be a painter but rather, to expose you to a number of different creative activities that allow you to figure out what really sparks your interest. It is about play, experimentation and getting your hands messy. Remember what it felt like to do art
classes as a child? We want to reintroduce you to that enthusiastic experience!
A different activity every day! Here is our proposed agenda – if the opportunity arises, we may
include access to additional local events:
-
Creativity Exercises: Dive into these engaging exercises that will have you laughing
and ignite your creative spark! -
Daily Journaling: Immerse yourself in the world around you, discovering inspiration at every turn through daily journaling…a quick sketch, watercolour and a short Haiku…a
wonderful memory of your trip! -
Encaustic Painting: Painting with melted beeswax and heat – embrace serendipity and
become the master of the blowtorch! -
Hand Painted Silk Scarves: Uncover the secrets of crafting your own exquisite silk scarves using professional techniques.
-
Abstract Painting: All about experimentation; explore the world of abstraction as you wield a palette knife, bringing your unique vision to life.
-
Handmade Paper: Get your hands wet and integrate natural materials to create your own handmade paper.
-
Print Making: Discover the art of printmaking using gel plates. Learn how to do photo transfers and monoprints.
-
History Lesson: Take a walk back in time as we visit local Medieval and Renaissance villages, taking a break with a gourmet picnic by the river.
-
Market Day: Explore an authentic French market and select fresh ingredients with our Chefs for culinary experiences from the kitchen.
Please note: We might adjust this itinerary due to the usual reasons - weather, group direction, or unplanned opportunities!
Your Experience
Authentic French Cuisine
-
Champagne reception on evening of arrival!
-
Meals at the château, prepared by two professional Chefs trained at Le Cordon Bleu.
-
Continental breakfast with pastries fresh from the boulangerie just steps away.
-
House wines served with meals, locally sourced from small producers & selected by wine expert
-
Non-alcoholic beverages of your choice.
-
Tea & coffee all day, plus snacks and aperitif too!
-
Other premium wines available for purchase from our cave.
Live the Château Life
-
Enjoy the château common rooms and 15 ha of grounds during your 8-day, 7-night stay.
-
Bedrooms are generously sized, with a small seating area.
-
Mix of en-suite and shared facilities - max 2 bedrooms share w.c. or shower.
-
Rooms are first-come, first-served by reservation date.
-
Stay with a small group of like-minded people - limit of 10 guests.
Meet Your Hosts
Meet Kate
I'm Kate Taylor, an abstract artist originally from England, now proudly crafting my artwork right here in Toronto from my cozy studio. I earned my Fine Arts degree from Western University, where I was taught painting by the internationally-renowned artist, Paterson Ewen.
My art is a joyful interpretation of nature. Inspiration comes at the cottage with its evocative soundtrack of loons, water and wind. The very distinct feelings of grounded calm and dynamic movement that happens in the natural world resonates with me…positive & negative, energy & calm, push & pull. I create with those seemingly opposing energies always in my mind’s eye.
Welcome to my artistic world – let's create together! To see an example of my work, visit Kate Taylor, Fine Artist (katetaylorstudio.com)
Meet Angela
Hi, I'm Angela Lane. From my studio nestled in Thornhill, I pour my heart into creating art that mirrors the nature I've cherished during hikes, tranquil kayak trips, and moments of tending to my garden. Encaustic painting spoke to me in a way nothing else did - an immediate connection.
I revel in the liberating dance of brushes and torch, as each piece carries me on a voyage of revelation. Organic shapes and hues ebb and flow in delicate layers, weaving together a tale of its own. These canvases are my visual love letters to those 'happy places', both visited and envisioned. They invite you to step into their world, let your imagination roam, and compose the rest of the story.
Together, let's embark on this journey of artistic discovery. To see an example of my work, visit Angela Lane Fine Art (angelalanestudio.com)
Meet Valérie & Megan
Let’s face it: French haute cuisine isn’t often associated with fun.
We started Sel Hospitalité - a boutique hospitality group specializing in one-of-a-kind culinary experiences - because we wanted to bring the two together in a refreshing experience that reflects who we are. So, who are we?
We’re Megan & Val. We’re two Le Cordon Bleu trained chefs hailing from Canada and Haiti, respectively. We met at the prestigious institute in Paris. Between us, we hold diplomas in Cuisine, Pastry & Boulangerie. Over glasses of wine during our studies - we were in Paris, after all - we traded stories, realizing we shared the same views on food & hospitality and the joy that comes from sharing our love of food with others though cooking and education. So, we decided to create Sel with the simple mission of bringing people together through the art of cooking and the pleasure of savouring exceptional food.
We’re looking forward to doing just that at the Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés this coming season! Indulge, savour and learn with us during your stay through thoughtfully prepared meals, optional ateliers and our open kitchen policy.
Bonne dégustation!
Meet Sara & Stephen
We are Sara & Stephen Cole, Canadians who dreamt of moving to France. We're excited to share our dream, our home, the Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
The tower of the château is from the 16th century, and features a broad spiral stone staircase. Built by a noble family nearly 500 years ago, the 'blazon' or crest of the family still shows on the tower.
We created “Manor and Maker” to reflect the two sides of our adventure. One, to live as chateau owners with all the ups and downs and two, to pursue our passions as makers, creating art in all its forms. We invite others to come together, united by their passions, to share in this adventure.
We will be available on-site to ensure you have a comfortable stay.
Welcome to Manor & Maker.
Creative Adventure Testimonials
From start to finish this retreat was hands down my favorite of the many I have tried. The Chateau was a lovely place to stay and create, the owners were engaging and knowledgeable and added their own creativity to the experience. The choice of media was different from why I had tried and challenged me to attempt new things in unique ways. The atmosphere was relaxed, encouraging and very friendly. Everyone had space for themselves but often found their way back to the group for chats during down time. And the food was divine! Overall the best experience I've had at a retreat and I would highly recommend it!
I was not sure what to expect from my first Creative Adventure....I am not creative; can't even draw a straight line but Angela and Kate were so supportive and I went home amazed at what I created. My painting now hangs proudly in my kitchen. I'm excited to continue my creative journey.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Creative Adventure. Kate and Angela were supportive and encouraging without any pressure. The environment was like a being transported to a fairy tale. The chateau being majestic and ancient, surrounded us, providing a very inspirational space. I came away having produced artwork I was very pleased with and met some lovely people along the way. A fantastic time!
I've been trying out different retreats since 2017 and this one ticked all the boxes, especially with the atmosphere created by Kate and Angela. I never felt like I didn't know what I was doing. They were helpful and encouraging and happy to demonstrate. This was especially important for me because I am a visual learner.
Register for Your Adventure Today!
Reserve your spot by completing the deposit payment below. Completing your deposit is your agreement to the Terms & Conditions.
Early Bird Pricing in effect until February 14, 2025 - save €500!
Single Occupancy
Early Bird €4995
Private room.
En-suite or shared bath (max 2 rooms per bath).
Regular price €5495 from February 15, 2025
Double Occupancy
Early Bird €3995
Bring a Friend and Save €1000!
When you bring a friend and share a room (or elect to share your room), you'll both enjoy 20% off!
That's a savings of €1000 each!
Regular price €4495 from February 15, 2025
Two Dates to Choose from
May 21-28 & October 14-21 2025
What's Included
-
8 days & 7 nights accommodation at Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés
-
Daily instruction and creative guidance from two professional artists - Kate & Angela
-
All art materials & supplies including watercolours & a journal - you just need to get here!
-
Transportation from the pickup point (local train stations of Angoulême, Limoges or Thiviers) to the château (to be coordinated with other guests)
-
Three meals per day, except for one market-day excursion, prepared by professional Chefs - plus snacks & apero
-
House wines, beer, & cider served at meals at the château
-
Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages
-
Transport & entry fees for two local excursions highlighting authentic French life & culture
-
Complementary services of our travel agent to ensure smooth connections for you and our other guests
What's Not Included
-
Transportation from your hometown to the pickup point, including airfare, train connections, or car rental
-
Baggage, accident, cancellation, nor travel insurance ('cancel for any reason' strongly recommended to protect your investment)
-
Personal expenses, such as telephone calls, passport & visa expenses
-
Meals not served at the château
-
Alcoholic beverages not served at meals at the château (Premium wines available for purchase)
-
Any extra tours or excursions off the property, should you choose to roam
-
and any other items not specifically noted as included
Special Gift!
Something special you can use during your stay & take home after will be waiting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
I don't have a lot of experience creating art - is this retreat for me?
Absolutely! This retreat is specifically designed for non-artists, regardless of your prior artistic
experience. Kate and Angela created this concept after hearing so many people lament that fact that they were not creative. We KNOW you are creative….just out of practice!
It's all about play, trying new things, embracing creativity, and savoring the journey rather than striving for perfection. Come with an open heart and a willingness to explore – you'll be amazed at what you can discover and create along the way! Kate & Angela will provide guidance and support throughout your journey.
Where are you located & how do I get there?
We are in the town of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Dordogne, postal code 24160 (there are a couple of more places of that name in France!). Here's our guide on how to get to us. We offer pickups from Gare d'Angoulême. (may be scheduled with other guests' arrivals) or Thiviers Gare. Plus, our travel agent Sherri-Anne will help you every step of the way.
+
_
Do I need to speak French?
No, your hosts can help you with all local needs. It's always nice to be able to say 'hello' (Bonjour!) and 'thank you' (Merci!) though, isn't it?
+
_
Is it suitable for solo travelers, or will I feel out of place without a companion?
Our retreat warmly welcomes solo travelers. Many participants join us individually, and you'll quickly find a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for creativity and adventure. Our supportive and inclusive atmosphere ensures that you'll feel right at home, making new friends and connections as you embark on this inspiring journey together. Come solo and leave with a heart full of beautiful memories and newfound friendships.
+
_
May I arrive earlier or stay later than the given dates?
Much as we love having guests, we aren't open as a B&B, so accommodation is only available on the listed dates. There is lots to explore in our area, if you wish to make your own plans to extend your holiday.
+
_
Can you accommodate my food sensitivity?
France is famous for its fine cuisine, fresh produce markets, delicious pastries and cheeses! Enjoy chef-prepared suppers all week; the taste of France is part of your immersive experience. Due to hospitality laws, we cannot offer restaurant style selections or service; unfortunately, severely restrictive diets and other food sensitivities can not be accommodated.
+
_
What if I get sick and can't come? (Cancellation Policy)
We strongly recommend 'cancel for any reason' travel insurance. We do not offer last-minute refunds for any reason, due to advance planning costs. Check out the terms & conditions for other timing. Travel insurance protects your investment, and helps alleviate disappointment if your plans have to change.
+
_
What will the weather be like?
In July, you can expect warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). There may be occasional showers, but overall, it's a pleasant and sunny time for outdoor activities. It's advisable to bring light clothing for the daytime and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
By October, the daytime temperatures range pleasantly from 12°C to 21°C (54°F to 70°F). Rainfall slightly increases during this month, so it's a good idea to have an umbrella or waterproof jacket on hand. To stay comfortable in varying temperatures, pack layered clothing for your visit.
As always, these are averages, so weather may be warmer or cooler, sunnier or rainier during your stay.
_
+
What should I bring?
We'll have your supplies ready at the château. You'll want to pack some clothes to be creative in, something that doesn't mind getting a bit messy. Bring an open attitude to try new things & new activities. Pack a good pair of walking shoes if you want to try the local trails.