Off the beaten track, you’ll discover Gascony, the Jewel in the Crown of Southwest of France where Dr Margaretha Montagu hosts her Camino de Santiago walking retreats.
Do you feel uber-stressed, overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you feel mentally and physically drained and unable to cope with the never-ending and ever-increasing demands made of you? Escape to a little French farm, surrounded by horse paddocks on the edge of an ancient forest where you can rest, relax and recharge your batteries during a transformational From Troubled to Triumphant retreat.
Gascony is a land of undulating hills, fertile valleys, and quaint villages that exude rustic charm. This picturesque landscape, often described as the “Tuscany of France,” never fails to captivate my guests with its timeless beauty and rich tapestry of colours and textures.
Rolling hills, draped in emerald-green vineyards and golden sunflower fields, stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a patchwork of vibrant hues that dance in the sunlight. Prepare to be enchanted by this until-now-well-kept-secret region, reminiscent of a bygone era when life unfolded at a slower pace and community bonds ran deep, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life. In the ancient villages, some dating back to the 11th century, you’ll find narrow cobbled streets lined with charming cafés, artisanal shops, and centuries-old churches. Time seems to stand still here, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the changing seasons and the age-old traditions of the countryside.
As the sun sets over the horizon, casting a warm glow across the mighty Pyrenées mountains, the landscape takes on a magical quality, bathed in hues of gold, crimson, and violet. We barely have any light pollution here. The air is filled with the scent of wildflowers and the chorus of crickets, as the countryside settles into a peaceful serenity that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
I’m so looking forward to introducing you to this region, conservatively named “Glorious Gascony! – Dr M Montagu
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