Discover the Soul of France: Announcing our 2026 Retreat Season
- stephanie557
- Aug 5
- 5 min read

At Maison d'Amies, we believe that travel is most meaningful when it's rooted in connection, to people, to places, and to ourselves. As we look ahead to our 2026 retreat season, we're thrilled to announce two unforgettable experiences in regions of France that have long captured hearts and imagination. Whether you're drawn to coastal cliffs and ancient abbeys or charming city streets steeped in gastronomic heritage, our upcoming retreats promise to slow you down and draw you in. (Read more about our opinion on Slow Travel here)
2026 is not just about where we're going, it's about how we're going. We're making a conscious shift to smaller group sizes so that every guest can fully sink into the moment, find a sense of peace, and walk away feeling truly seen. It's a part of our ongoing commitment to offer women not just a trip, but a once in a lifetime getaway that fills your cup, feeds your curiosity, and leaves you grinning from ear to ear.
Introducing our 2026 France Retreats

May 2026: Normandy, Beyond the Beaches
Normandy is much more than a chapter in the history books. While we will of course pay tribute to the legacy of D-Day and WWII, our journey through this storied region will take you far beyond the beaches. Think rolling green countryside, half-timbered villages, bustling harbors, and hidden local gems that most tourists miss.
We'll wander cobblestone streets, sample Normandy's famous cheese and cider (cidre en Français!), and of course, stand in awe of the majestic Mont Saint-Michel. From it's dramatic coastline to its rich culinary traditions, Normandy is a place that invites slow exploration and thoughtful connection.
This retreat is perfect for women who love history, nature, and the thrill of discovering the lesser-known side of France. And with fewer guests in 2026, you'l have more space to soak it all in, without the rush, without the crowds.
September 2026: Savor Avignon- A Cultural and Culinary City Escape
In September, we head to the South of France for an all new city-based retreat in Avignon, a place where food, art, and history come together under Provençal sunshine.
Unlike our previous countryside retreats, Savor Avignon places you right in the heart of the city. From our charming accommodations you'll walk to cafés, markets, bakeries, and museums. We'll dive into the rhythms of local life, learning from regional artisans, savoring Provençal cuisine, and spending our days exploring the winding streets and awe-inspiring architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
This retreat is designed for the culturally curious, women who want to taste everything, ask questions, and let a city surprise them. And with a smaller group, you'll experience the city more intimately, like a local. Not a tourist.

Why These Regions?
At Maison d'Amies, we don't pick destinations based on trendiness, we choose places that speak to the soul.
Let's be honest: Provence retreats are everywhere. You've probably seen endless images of lavender fields and sun-drenched villas. And while there's beauty in that, we wanted to offer something different. Our Savor Avignon retreat brings you into the heart of a real French city, one rich in culture, layered in history, and alive with local life. This retreat isn't for everyone, and that's okay. It's for women who crave authenticity over aesthetics and who are curious about France beyond the Instagram version.
Normandy offers a stunning contrast to the sun-soaked south, with it's dramatic coastlines, green pastures, and a deep sense of history that lingers in every village. It's a region full of stories, ideal for those who appreciate quiet beauty and meaningful reflection.
While the markets and medieval charm are unforgettable, what keeps us coming back are the people. The warm-hearted wine makers, the playful chefs, the storytellers who've called these regions home for generations. These people are the true soul of France. We've built these retreats around relationships, not just itineraries. You'll share meals with locals, learn from their craft, and feel like you're visiting old friends instead of just checking off sights. That's what make our experiences feel so deeply personal, and so different from the rest.

Smaller Groups, Bigger Impact
One of the most exciting changes for 2026 is our move towards more intimate group sizes. Each retreat will host fewer women than in previous years, allowing for a more personal and peaceful experience.
Smaller groups mean:
More meaningful conversations
Greater flexibility in the daily schedule
Easier access to local experiences
And most importantly, the space to simply be
This shift isn't just a logistical change, it's a response to what you've told us you love most. After every retreat, we heard the same thing: that the slow pace, the thoughtfulness behind each experience, and the opportunities to connect with other women were what made each trip so special. So we're leaning into that. Whether you come solo or with a friends you'll be welcomed like family and cared for like a cherished guest.
What's Included?
While each retreat has it's own unique itinerary, all Maison d'Amies Retreats include:
Accommodations in beautiful, locally owned properties
Chef-Prepared meals and curated dining experiences
Daily excursions and local experiences
Time to rest, wander, and connect
Thoughtful planning and on-site hosting by Stephanie (founder of Maison d'Amies)

Join us in 2026
We've designed these retreats for women who are ready to press pause on the busyness of everyday life and reconnect with what matters: beauty, belonging, and a sense of wonder.
How to Book
Spots are limited, and we mean it. These smaller group sizes fill fast, and we anticipate both retreats selling out.
If you're ready to claim your space in Normandy or Avignon (or both, treat yourself girl), we encourage you to book soon. It only takes a deposit to reserve your spot and your remaining balance will be split into two follow-up payments. And if you're not quite sure yet, you can join our mailing list to get first dibs on future dates and insider updates.
Maison d'Amies Retreats: Travel for the Soul
Follow us on Instagram at @maison_damies_retreats for a behind the scenes look at what makes our retreats so special.
Comments