The French Retreat

21/08/2025

Mandala Magic was created at The French Retreat this summer. Every bit of it was magical, and the leader Julie Gibbons Creative was really one of the wisest women I’ve ever met (and that is saying something). Also even someone as hopelessly cack-handed with a paintbrush, such as me, can access their innate creativity with her support.

16/08/2025

Nearly time for this year's French Guitar Adventurers week in France (Mon 8th to Sun 14th Sept). A friendly gathering of guitarists of various styles and abilities who are up for musical discussion and general, constructive fun and hard work. There are still two double rooms available for any of you that might like to attend as observers (full board + open air pool). info@richarddurrant.com The workshops, rehearsals and end of week concert (not to mention evening discussions and open mic sessions) are all full of musical interest.

And we can now announce that the 10th Anniversary French Guitar Adventurers week will take place at The French Retreat from Monday 6th July to Sunday 12th July 2026. Booking now open. info@richarddurrant.com

And here is Jon Everitt's FGA sticker for this year! Another masterpiece (he's not just a great geetar player you now).

You can also visit:
https://www.richarddurrant.com/.../french-guitar.../

09/08/2025

The sun’s turned Charente into a crouton — but our niçoise? Still the coolest dish in town 🥗☀️🇫🇷

04/08/2025

04/08/2025

Amongst the pleasures of August by the Sussex seaside I have also been quietly preparing for this September's guitar trip to France when, once again, my French Guitar Adventurers will be gathering at the fantastic French Retreat in the beautiful countryside near Chalais.
At each FGA I lead a productive and fun week for guitar players who want to spend quality time practising and studying, discussing the benefits of standing up to play guitar, honing technique, developing fluency in sight reading, answering questions, chatting about important stuff, larking about and generally enjoying a wonderful, musical time together.
My French Guitar Adventurers week always ends with a concert in the lovely town of Yviers. At this event participants perform solos and ensembles to a lovely, enthusiastic, local audience - and the music flows.
Come and join us. We still have two rooms left (both double) either for guitarists or for interested observers who can watch the workshops and sit by the open air pool surrounded by the guitar music.
For more details please email: info@richarddurrant.com
You can also visit:
https://www.richarddurrant.com/discover/french-guitar-adventurers-2025/

04/08/2025

24/07/2025

He might be gone but that doesn’t mean we aren’t still dishing up the best Lebanese food we can produce each week.

19/07/2025

An Emma between two Julies. On the right is our much loved . On left is the newest member of The French Retreat family , an absolutely stellar creature who we all adored. She was here in July running an art journaling Magic Mandala retreat. Of all the retreats this year, Julie’s is the one I most wish I’d been part of. I really recommend you follow her at and sign up to whatever she offers. She has this rare quality I only see in some of the greatest teachers of being able to take people very deep whilst bringing joy and laughter too.

15/06/2025

13/06/2025

12/06/2025

This autumn, Friday 19th September – Tuesday 23rd September, join us for a deeply nourishing weekend of yoga, shamanism, ceremony, and nature connection.
Guided by experienced facilitators and .hewitt.7315, this retreat marks their 101st gathering and offers a unique blend of ancient practices and modern insight in the space where yoga, shamanism and nature connection meet.
Aligned with Mabon, the Celtic Autumn Equinox, it’s a time to pause, reflect, and remember who you truly are.
So, come rest, reconnect, and reawaken your inner wisdom. Let the stillness of the land, the firelight, and a community of like-hearted souls guide you home to yourself.
Prepare early! Booking with use code FRENCHRETREAT150 when booking for £150 off (valid until 30th June) (Photo appreciation and credit )

17/04/2025

Our next retreat starts on 16th May and as well as 2 yoga classes daily (taught in English) there are options to visit St Emilion to taste some of the world’s best wine, go wild swimming in the river Dronne and to potter around local French markets. You will be guided by not one but two teachers from and and the best news? There is one twin room left. Is this yours?