Spring Rebirth - The Creation

Welcome to "Scented Opulence, an exclusive retreat that invites you to explore the art of perfume-making and indulge in the rich flavors of South of France gastronomy.

Duration: 6 Nights

Day 1: Arrival and Welcoming Feast

Afternoon:

- Arrive at Le Vaquier, nestled in the picturesque Languedoc-Roussillon region and Cèvennes National Park, known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

- Warm welcome with a refreshing spring-inspired aperitif made from local herbs and flowers.

- Settle into luxurious accommodations adorned with fresh floral arrangements that set the tone for the aromatic journey ahead. (please mention any allergies upon resgistration)

Evening:

- Welcome dinner featuring a fusion of traditional and modern Languedoc-Roussillon cuisine, crafted by a renowned local chef.

- Introduction to the retreat theme by Retreat Director Sylvain Lonchay on behalf of Master Perfumer Paul Houlsby. Sylvain  will share insights into the connection between fragrance, food, and the rejuvenating energy of spring.

Day 2: The Essence of Spring

Morning:

- Sunrise yoga and meditation session in the garden, designed to awaken the senses and attune participants to the vibrant energy of the season and the valley.

- Gourmet breakfast featuring locally sourced, seasonal produce.

Late Morning:

- Workshop with Sylvain on the basics of perfume creation, exploring the aromatic notes that embody the essence of spring. Participants will begin crafting their own unique scents by the end of the retreat.

Afternoon:

- Light lunch with a focus on fresh, aromatic herbs and edible flowers.

- Special Chocolate Festival & Coffee experience

- Massage availability 

- Socratic Method 2.0 private sessions

Evening:

- Perfumed evening walk through the gardens and vineyards, guided by Sylvain, highlighting the natural scents of the region.

- Dinner under the stars, featuring a menu that celebrates the fragrant bounty of spring + Ice Cream Special

Day 3: Culinary and Olfactory Synergy

Morning:

- Morning Movement and Breathing Techniques

- Olive Oil Tasting

- Cooking class with a local chef, focusing on the use of aromatic herbs and spices from Languedoc-Roussillon. Learn to create dishes that are as fragrant as they are flavorful.

- Olive Oil Tasting

- Brunch featuring the dishes prepared in the class.

Afternoon:

- Interactive session with Sylvain Lonchay on blending food and fragrance, exploring how culinary and olfactory elements can complement and enhance each other.

- Free time to relax by the pool, explore the grounds

- Massage availability 

- Socratic Method 2.0 private sessions

- Meditation : visualisation on scents 

-  Perfume Workshop

Evening:

- Dinner with wine pairings from the region’s finest vineyards, each course designed to harmonize with specific fragrance notes created by Paul Houlsby

Day 4: The Art of Perfume Creation

Morning:

- Morning Yin Yoga and Breathing Techniques 

- Workshop on the Scent Trail. Dive deeper into the process, refining the personal scents started earlier through natural scents

- Breakfast with a selection of local pastries and special aromatic teas.

Late Morning:

- Visit to a local provencal market , guided by Sylvain, to gather inspiration and ingredients for personal perfume blends.

Afternoon:

- Picnic lunch by the Gardon, near the centuries old Roman bridge Pont du Gard, surrounded by the heady scent of blooming flowers.

- Free time to explore the local village of Uzes and enjoy a history walk 

- Massage availability 

- Socratic Method 2.0 private sessions

- Perfume Workshop

Evening:

- Lavish dinner featuring traditional Easter dishes infused with aromatic herbs and spices, symbolizing renewal and rebirth.

Day 5: Spring Celebrations

Morning:

- Sunrise hike to a nearby hilltop for a breathtaking view of the region or by the natural springs / waterfalls, accompanied by a light breakfast picnic.

- Return to Le Vaquier for an identity creation session, focusing on the final touches of participants’ personal evolutions. Your perfume is the reflection of your identity but this also changes through time. It's time for rebirthing.

Afternoon:

- Lunch showcasing local cheeses and wines.

- Art and fragrance workshop: create a visual representation of personal perfume journeys using natural dyes and materials.

- Last Socratic Method 2.0 individual sessions

- Massage availabIlity

- Perfume Workshop

Evening:

- Spring feast with an opulent menu inspired by the New Energy theme, accompanied by live music performance.

Day 6: Reflection and Farewell

Morning:

- Gentle yoga and meditation session on the new You.

- Farewell breakfast featuring a selection of gourmet dishes.

Late Morning:

- Final workshop with Paul Houlsby in visioconference to create and finish your personal perfume flacon with a discussion on how to carry the energy of spring and the art of perfume into daily life.

Afternoon:

- Farewell lunch, offering a final taste of Languedoc-Roussillon’s culinary delights 

- Champagne Tasting.

- Departure with a special gift: your personalized luxury perfume and a curated selection of regional gourmet products.

This retreat promises an immersive experience that intertwines the olfactory and culinary arts, inspired by the vibrant energy of spring and the rich cultural tapestry of Languedoc-Roussillon. Participants will leave rejuvenated, with a deeper appreciation for the art of perfume and French gastronomy, and their own unique scent as a lasting memento.

All included at Le Vaquier: Food & Beverages / Room / Tours / Trails / Massage Therapist / Facilitation & activities / Perfume Workshop + your own perfume to take home

Car Transfer to/from airport available (extra) quotation to be sent upon request.

Request your quotation for a single or double room

Excluding:

• Flights cost and Transfers
• Travel insurance + visa fee
• Personal expenses
• Additional activities not included in the programme
• Additional treatments on demand