Ever wondered what you could create if everyone around you was rooting for you? Our private château in the heart of France is where you find out. You'll be surrounded by others asking the same question, guided by people who genuinely want to see you succeed.
Think of it as the most supportive art retreat you've never had, in a 500-year-old château, with chefs who thrive in the gastronomic Périgord region. You'll surprise yourself with what you create, and how much you'll enjoy this week of French life.
Treat Yourself! Six of us take care of everything so you can focus on creating. Kate and Angela are the kind of art facilitators who make you feel like you can do anything. Valérie and Megan are the chefs who make every meal feel like a celebration. Sara and Stephen make sure you have everything you need, exactly when you need it.
Your Creative Adventure At a Glance
When
May 21 - 28 2026
October 8 -15 2026
May 25 - June 1 2027
September 21 - 28 2027
8 Days & 7 Nights
Who It's For
Designed for non-artists and beginners welcome. All skill levels encouraged. Small group.
Home Base
Privately Owned 16th Century Chateau in the Dordogne, France countryside.
Retreat Packages
From €3645 per person. Early bird savings available. Multiple accommodation options.
Daily Adventures
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. We want you to feel that childhood joy again. You'll discover the parts of yourself that come alive when you create.
Please note: The itinerary might change if a can’t-miss local event, like a flea market or local festival, comes up. We may also need to adjust plans because of weather, unexpected closures, or other special opportunities that pop up to make your trip even better.
Taste of the Périgord
From village markets to château meals, experience why Périgord cuisine is legendary. Valérie and Megan share culinary secrets and create dishes so beautiful you'll want to photograph them before tasting. These images capture real moments from our past events.
Your Château Home
Create and explore from our enchanting 16th-century château, where period charm meets modern comfort. Whether you stay with us or nearby, the château is your home base for this week of creative discovery.
What Awaits You
-
Indoor and outdoor studio spaces
-
Generously sized bedrooms with period character
-
Mix of en-suite and shared facilities (max 2 rooms share)
-
Elegant common areas for group gathering
-
15 hectares of private grounds to explore
-
Quiet spaces for reflection
-
WiFi throughout for staying connected
Small Group Experience
You'll form genuine friendships while having space for personal reflection. It's intimate enough to feel like a group of friends, yet organized enough to ensure everything flows smoothly.
Your Adventure Guides
Kate Taylor
Artist Facilitator
I'm a Toronto-based abstract artist with a BFA from Western University, where I studied under internationally-renowned artist Paterson Ewen. At our château retreats, I teach an intuitive, hands-on approach that's all about play and experimentation. Whether you've never picked up a brush or you're returning to art after years away, I'll help you discover your creative voice through encouragement and the freedom to simply create.
Angela Lane
Artist Facilitator
I'm a Thornhill-based artist specializing in encaustic painting: working with melted beeswax and torch to create layered abstracts inspired by nature. At our château retreats, I teach encaustic and mixed media with an emphasis on experimentation and discovery. My approach is hands-on and encouraging. I want you to embrace the unexpected and find joy in the process. Together, we'll discover what happens when you let go of rules and simply create.
Megan & Valérie
Sel Hospitalité Chefs
We’re Megan & Val. We’re two Le Cordon Bleu Paris trained chefs hailing from Canada and Haiti, respectively. We’re serial hostesses with a passion for French cuisine - with flair. Our mission is simple: to bring people together through the art of cooking and the pleasure of savouring exceptional food.
Bonne appétit!
Stephen & Sara
Manor & Maker Hosts
Imagine being surrounded by people who create unapologetically and love what inspires them. That's the feeling we've built at Manor & Maker, our 500-year-old château in authentic French village life. We live here year-round with our small dog, and this glorious setting becomes truly alive when filled with makers pursuing their passions. We can't wait to welcome you to our home.
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!
DATES
2026
MAY 21 - 28
Early Bird December 1 2025
OCTOBER 8 - 15
Early Bird May 1 2026
2027
MAY 25 - JUNE 1
Early Bird December 1 2026
SEPTEMBER 21 - 28
Early Bird April 1 2027
PACKAGES
Indulge Yourself
PREMIUM PACKAGE
€4995
€5495 After Early Bird
Private single occupancy room
Share & Save
€1000 OFF
€3995
€4495 After Early Bird
Shared accommodation with your choice of one or two beds
Stay Your Way
€1350 OFF
€3645
€4145 After Early Bird
Contact us for boutique accommodation options
Early Birds
Save €500
Perfect for solo travellers seeking privacy and comfort.
Ideal for friends, community-minded travellers, partners or couples.
Perfect for those who prefer their own accommodation nearby.
Reserve your spot by completing the deposit payment below. Completing your deposit is your agreement to the Terms & Conditions.
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!
Questions You May Have
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.
+
_
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. Some allergies, sensitivities and food restrictions can be accommodated, however, we are not set up to manage severely restrictive diets. Please reach out to us for more details.
+
_
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 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. Layers are important to maintain your personal comfort, as we move between the indoor and outdoor areas of the chateau, and explore the local area. Pack a good pair of walking shoes if you want to try the local trails.