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Join Us for a Season That Awakens the Senses
We’re building a stellar 2026 season: world-class artists from Paris, London, and New York galleries, seasonal garden-to-plate menus bursting with Charente’s finest flavours, and wellness soft activities to soothe your soul.
The big reveal is coming—join our waitlist now!
A DAY AT A CHATEAU CHARENTE RETREAT:
Begin the day with a ginger-turmeric health shot, then move into gentle qigong beneath a centuries-old tree.
Linger over breakfast on the terrace—flaky French pastries, sun-ripened seasonal fruit, organic eggs from the chateau hens, and freshly brewed coffee or tea.
Later, set up your easel for a plein air painting session, guided by a celebrated artist, surrounded by the natural beauty of the French countryside.
Every moment is designed to inspire, nourish, and connect.
Ease into the evening with apéro hour on the terrace. Sip a Spring Lilac G&T—one of our seasonal signature cocktails—fragrant with floral botanicals and a hint of citrus.
As the sun sets, gather for a garden-to-table dinner prepared with the day’s freshest local and seasonal ingredients. Wines from nearby vineyards flow, stories are shared, and new friendships begin to take root.
This is where the magic happens—over beautiful food, in good company, beneath the Charente sky.
Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch featuring seasonal quiches, crusty baguettes, vibrant salads picked fresh from the jardin potager, and the region’s finest artisanal produce.
As the afternoon unfolds, choose your own rhythm. You may wish to accompany the chateau chef on an optional market excursion or stay on the estate to continue painting, wander the gardens, or simply relax in the quiet luxury of your surroundings.
Whether you’re following creative inspiration or indulging in stillness, this time is entirely your own.
What You'll Walk Away With
01
Renewed creative confidence: Reignite your artistic spark with expert guidance.
02
Nourishment: Feel energised by movement and seasonal food.
03
Your Own Artwork: Take home a portfolio inspired by the landscape.
04
Real Connection: Leave with friendships that feel like family.
05
Inner Calm: Return home rested, centred, and inspired.
HOW IT WORKS
STEP ONE - JOIN THE WAITLIST
Be the first to know when bookings open. With only 12 guests per retreat, places go quickly—don’t miss your chance.
STEP TWO - Choose Your Season and Artist
In the coming months, we’ll reveal our 2026 line-up of renowned artists—masters in oil, watercolour, landscape, florals, portraits, and more. Waitlist members receive early access and first choice of retreats.
STEP THREE - Secure Your Spot
Once bookings open, waitlist members choose first. Rooms are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s simple, seamless—and well worth being on the list.
FAQ
(Frequently Asked Q's)
What’s the cost of the retreat?
The cost of the retreat starts at €3450 per person plus tax. Pricing varies based on room type, with several options available to suit different preferences. This includes all meals, accommodation, daily workshops, materials, and guided excursions. We offer a complete and indulgent experience where every detail is taken care of.
How do I get to Chateau Charente?
Chateau Charente is easily accessible by train and plane. The closest TGV station is Angoulême, which is 2 hours from Paris, 5 hours from Kings Cross London, and just 25 minutes from Bordeaux Airport. We will arrange transfers from Angoulême train station to the chateau and return you there at the end of your retreat.
Can I bring my partner?
Yes, we warmly welcome partners. Non-participating guests (partners, friends, etc.) can join at a 70% discounted rate, which includes all accommodation and meals. While you're painting and participating in the creative workshops, your partner can relax and enjoy the chateau's luxurious amenities. Alternatively, we provide a list of à la carte experiences for non-participating partners, including golf, fishing, hiking, cycling, Saint-Émilion tours and wine tastings, and cooking experiences. They can also explore the local town or simply unwind in the serene surroundings.
If your partner would like to take part in the full retreat experience, including workshops and activities, they can join as a participating guest 10% off the standard rate.
Can I share a room with a friend?
Yes, many guests choose to share rooms with a friend, partner, or fellow artist. We offer a range of accommodation options, from a fully self-contained chateau cottage to luxurious single rooms with en-suites, as well as shared rooms with both twin and double configurations. Please let us know your preferences when booking, and we will ensure your room is perfectly suited to your needs.
Do I need to be an experienced artist?
Each retreat is tailored to a specific experience level. Some retreats are designed for all levels, from beginners to advanced artists, while others are more focused on mid to highly experienced levels. When you sign up for the waitlist, let us know which season and painting style interests you, your experience level, and we will guide you towards the retreat that best suits your experience level. Our expert artists provide personalised guidance, ensuring each guest receives the support they need to thrive.
WHAT TYPE OF ART WILL WE BE CREATING?
Each retreat is led by a renowned artist, each specialising in a unique genre. From botanical watercolours to contemporary oil painting and plein air oil painting, you'll have the opportunity to choose an artist and painting style that resonates with you. When you join the waitlist, you'll be the first to hear about our incredible artists, their distinctive styles, and the workshop formats. Plus, you’ll get exclusive first choice in selecting the artist whose style best suits your artistic journey.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand that life can change unexpectedly, so we offer flexible cancellation terms. Bookings are open 9 months before each retreat starts. For cancellations made within 60 days of the retreat, we offer a full refund. Cancellations made after this period will be subject to partial refund based on the specific circumstances. Full details will be provided when booking.
Is the retreat suitable for solo travellers?
Yes, the retreat is perfect for solo travellers. The group is intentionally small and intimate, with only 12 guests per retreat. This ensures a personal and welcoming experience, where you can form meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Many of our guests come alone and leave with new friends for life.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, our expert chef prepares delicious, locally sourced meals that cater to all dietary needs. Whether you are vegetarian, gluten-free, or have any other dietary requirements, we will ensure your meals are both nourishing and enjoyable. Simply let us know your preferences when you sign up, and we’ll take care of the rest.
What are the seasonal themes for the retreats?
Each retreat is inspired by the season, creating a unique artistic and sensory experience:
Spring: Focus on flowers, landscapes, and the blossoming beauty of the season, complemented by fresh, vibrant cuisine.
Summer: A celebration of lush landscapes, vivid flowers, and the rich, abundant flavours of summer.
Autumn: Embrace the golden hues of the autumn landscape, with seasonal produce that inspires both the artist’s palette and the plate.
GET priority ACCESS
JOIN THE WAITLST
Our 2026 retreats will open soon—with artists, dates, and booking details to follow in the coming weeks. Spaces are limited to 12 guests per retreat and tend to fill quickly.
Be the first to know when bookings open. Join the waitlist today and ensure your place in a season of inspiration.
GET priority ACCESS / GET priority ACCESS
Dreaming of Hosting a Creative Retreat?
We’re curating our 2026 season and are looking for visionary hosts ready to create unforgettable experiences at Chateau Charente.
Bring Your Vision to Life at Chateau Charente
Chateau Charente provides an inspiring setting for artistic retreats. Surrounded by the beauty of Southwest France, it’s the perfect place to focus on your craft and immerse yourself in creativity.
We work with you to bring your vision to life, handling all the details, so you can focus on what matters most—your art. With luxurious accommodations and exceptional cuisine, Chateau Charente is the ideal venue for a memorable artistic retreat.
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