There’s something about May that feels like possibility in full color. It’s the month the world exhales, when mornings carry the scent of lilac, and afternoons stretch lazily toward golden evenings.
This May, we’ll gather in the Loire Valley, at Villa de Nocfond, a place that feels like a secret shared among friends. The villa is home to Paula and JP, a charming couple whose warmth makes you feel as if you’ve been there before, even on your first visit. Their welcome is unhurried and real, the kind that comes with an easy smile, a poured glass of wine, and a sense that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
Surrounded by acres of rolling green, Villa de Nocfond is alive with character. A few friendly dogs roam freely; one big, sleepy guardian often found napping in the garden, while the two little ones dart in and out of the house and sunlit corners, collecting affection like it’s their job. Chickens wander near the orchard, offering fresh eggs each morning, while ducks glide across the pond, their quiet ripples catching the light. Beyond the garden lies a small peninsula, perfect for bonfires and barbecues, evenings spent under the stars, the air filled with laughter, the scent of grilled vegetables, and the sound of good conversations. There’s also a long wooden dining table for slow, rural dinners, the kind where buttery croissants, local cheeses, and bottles of Loire Valley wine turn meals into memories.
The Loire Valley itself is often called the Garden of France, and for good reason. It’s a landscape of vineyards, châteaux, and wildflower meadows, where history and nature intertwine. The region is famous for its world-class wines, medieval villages, and Renaissance castles, from the grandeur of Chambord and Chenonceau to the quiet charm of Saumur and Amboise. It’s the kind of place that invites exploration, and we highly recommend arriving by car (or renting one) so you can extend your journey beyond the retreat. Wander through local markets, discover tucked-away bakeries, follow the Loire River past vineyards and old stone bridges. Every road seems to lead somewhere worth discovering.
At Villa de Nocfond, life finds a softer pace. Mornings begin with yoga in the grass, the air still cool and fragrant, followed by freshly baked pastries and quiet reading by the pool, stories and sunlight mingling as the day slowly unfolds. Every meal is shared and savored; wholesome dishes prepared with care, with something for everyone: vibrant plant-based plates, gluten-free options, and comforting local favorites that celebrate the French art of simple, joyful eating. Afternoons unfold softly, a sound bath under the trees, a stroll through the woods, or simply time to rest. As the sun sets, glasses are raised by the fire, and conversation fills the air: warm, unhurried, real. Because this retreat isn’t just a pause. It’s a beginning; a gentle, joyful reminder that there’s always room to bloom again.
The Bloom Season Retreat 15–18 May 2025, Villa de Nocfond, Loire Valley
A retreat celebrating the French art of living, with spring blooms, good wine, fresh air, and a little magic between the pages of your next chapter.
Early Bird Offer: Book before 1 December to enjoy a special rate – €1200 instead of €1500.
