TRAILTRACERS TRANSFORMATIONAL RETREATS

Discover the Anti-Aging Power of Walking the Camino de Santiago

Forget Botox. The Fountain of Youth is on a Footpath in the Southwest of France.

The most powerful anti-aging remedy has been hiding in plain sight, waiting for you along an ancient pathway through breathtaking natural landscapes.

Science has confirmed what walkers have experienced for centuries: extended immersion in nature combined with mindful walking creates measurable rejuvenation at the cellular level.

After just 6 days on this remarkably rejuvenating, invigorating and revitalising retreat in Southwest France, you’ll leave looking and feeling years younger, with results that continue to unfold long after you have returned home.

An Exclusive Anti-Ageing Retreat Hosted by A Medical Doctor

“Friends keep asking what cosmetic procedure I’ve had—but the glow is coming from within. Two months after my TrailTracers retreat, I’m still experiencing the benefits in my appearance, energy, and outlook.” — Margaret L., 58

This Retreat Will Rewind Your Biological Clock And Can Give You:

A Radiant Complexion – As inflammation markers drop by up to 30%, your skin regains its natural glow and elasticity without expensive treatments
Lots of Energy – Experience the sustained vitality that comes from optimised cellular function and restored metabolic health
Increased Physical Resilience – Return with improved posture and a body that feels years younger than when you arrived
A Stress-Free Expression – Watch how the release of chronic tension transforms your facial features and body language
Mind and Memory Reboot – Restore your mental clarity and cognitive function:
- Sharper focus and attention span
- Enhanced creativity and problem-solving abilities
- Improved memory formation and recall
- Protection against age-related cognitive decline

“My doctor was shocked at my follow-up visit. My inflammatory markers had decreased dramatically, my blood pressure normalised without medication for the first time in years, and even my skin tone had improved. The scientific measurements confirmed what I already felt—I was biologically younger.” — Robert T., 64

This is Not Just a Retreat. It’s Your Annual Anti-Ageing Discoveries Update (with Epic Views)

You’ll Feel Different—Because You’ll Be Different:

Less Stressed – Experience what researchers call the “three-day effect”, where extended nature immersion triggers a complete reset of physiological and psychological systems
Better rested – Reclaim the deep, restorative sleep patterns of your youth that are essential for cellular repair and rejuvenation
In Natural Circadian Alignment – Reset your body’s internal clock to optimise hormone production, metabolism, and recovery processes
Mentally Clear and Emotionally Balanced – Clear the mental fog and emotional static that accumulate in our over-stimulated world

“I arrived feeling burned out and old beyond my years. By the second day on the Camino, something profound shifted. My sleep deepened, my mind cleared, and I reconnected with a sense of joy I hadn’t felt in decades. This wasn’t just a vacation—it was a return to my essential self.” — Daniel M., 52

Lasting Longevity Lifestyle

Practical Knowledge – Return home with a clear understanding of the biological mechanisms behind nature’s anti-ageing effects and how to integrate them into your daily life
Sustainable Practices – Master simple daily rituals that maintain your rejuvenation between deeper nature immersions
Renewed Perspective – Gain the mental clarity and expanded awareness that naturally leads to healthier choices aligned with vibrant longevity

The Science-Based Approach That Makes This Anti-Ageing Retreat Different

Unlike most typical walking tours or generalised retreats, my Nature Immersion experience integrates cutting-edge research in environmental medicine and longevity science:

Precision-Timed Nature Exposure – We schedule key activities during optimal biological windows to maximise anti-ageing effects
Terrain-Based Movement Medicine – The carefully selected Camino routes provide the precise type of varied-terrain walking shown to optimise cellular regeneration and joint health
Circadian Optimisation – Every aspect of the retreat is designed to reset your body’s internal clock—from morning sunlight exposure to evening wind-down rituals

Your Utterly Unique 7-Day Transformation Includes:

Basic Medical Health Check on arrival
Camino de Santiago de Compostela walks to gain clarity about your future while practising walking meditation to help you focus your mind, no more than 10 easy kms a day.
A visit to a French fresh food market, the best in the region, with its kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells awakening and seducing your senses while you do the 5 senses mindfulness exercise
Locally-Sourced Anti-Inflammatory Cuisine: Enjoy the very best food that Gascony has to offer – mindfully: Paella with an African twist, Tagine à la Française, Ratatouille aux 7 Epices served al fresco…your taste buds will think they are in seventh heaven.
Simple but comfortable accommodation in an authentic half-timbered 200-year-old French farmhouse, on the edge of an ancient forest, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature, in the heart of the Armagnac and Cotes de Gascogne wine region in the south-west of France.
Rejuvenating Sleep: In your cool, light and airy room, you’ll be able to sleep deeply, undisturbed, for as long as you need to wake up feeling fully rested, refreshed and rearing to get going!
Forest bathing (also called shinrin-yoku or “taking in the forest atmosphere”) – an opportunity to immerse yourself in and reconnect with nature in an invigorating “green space.”
Discovery of the laid-back French way of life in a region where people live happy and healthy lives well into their nineties because they cope with stress by focusing on être (being) instead of faire (doing) or avoir (having) as represented by the Slow Food and Slow and Sustainable Travel movements.
Stargazing and communing with the universe by doing Yoga Nidra last thing at night (there is barely any light pollution here) to remind you of the infinite possibilities and innumerable opportunities that await you.
Connect with my Friesian and Falabella horses, who are mindfulness masters, during equine-guided mindfulness and meditation sessions to benefit from their intuitive and authentic wisdom. We work with the horses from the ground, the horses are not ridden during the retreat.
Morning Vitality Practices – Simple routines that activate your body’s natural rejuvenation systems
Optional Post-Retreat Support Program – A structured plan to help you maintain and build upon your transformation – additional cost

Every activity has been carefully chosen to empower you not just to survive this life transition, but to thrive while you are going through it, and make the most of the resources naturally available in the exceptionally glorious and gorgeous Gascony region.

Enough free time is available for resting, relaxing and recharging your batteries. If you prefer to skip an activity, you are more than welcome, all arranged activities are optional. The program is not set in stone and might be adjusted according to the weather etc.

Where is Maison Meraki and How Do You Get There?

By car, Maison Meraki is about 2 hours south-east of Bordeaux, and 2 hours south-west of Toulouse, between two small towns: Eauze and Nogaro.

The easiest and most effortless way to get here is to rent a car at Bordeaux, Toulouse, Biarritz, Pau or Lourdes airport. It’s much cheaper now than it was pre-COVID. It is highway nearly all the way here, and the road signs are clear, even if you don’t speak a single word of French. If you prefer to use public transport, the best option is to fly to Toulouse, take the train to Auch, and visit the impressive cathedral with its exceptional hand-carved choir. When you have had a scrumptious lunch at one of the sidewalk bistros on the square in front of the cathedral, you take the bus to Nogaro, where you’ll be picked up and transferred to the retreat.

The most entertaining and cheapest way to get here is by getting a lift from the carpooling website, BlaBlaCar(dot)fr, which is available in English. Direct transfers by taxi are available either from the airport or from the train stations, but are expensive and need to be booked well in advance.

We’d love to welcome you to our little part of paradise here in the sun-blessed southwest of France on the first Saturday of every month from March to December. The retreat starts at 18h on Saturdays and ends at 12h on Fridays.

Upcoming Dates for 2025

– October 4 – 10, 2025
– November 1 – 7, 2025
– December 6 – 12, 2025

Fringe Benefits

an insight-giving pre-retreat course to prepare you for your retreat
a 40-page e-guide “Make Your Next Retreat Your Best Retreat Ever” that you can use to enrich your retreat experience
a copy of Dr Montagu’s 200-page e-book Embracing Change in 10 Minutes a Day
detailed instructions on how to keep a travel diary, so that you can benefit from what you learned for years after your retreat ended
A Certificate of Completion that mentions the kilometres walked on the Camino
a 10% discount on your next retreat (valid for booking within 12 months) – this discount is only available to From Troubled to Triumphant retreat graduates

Your Investment in Ageless Vitality

At the end of this retreat, you’ll feel intensely alive, profoundly rested, serenely contented, positively radiant, irrepressibly energetic, bien dans votre peau… and at least ten years younger. The new you grabs every second of every minute of every hour of the day and squeezes every last ounce of meaning out of it.

Prepare to be a different person by the time you have to tear yourself away from this profoundly restful and peaceful haven to return home.

The path to ageless vitality begins with a single step. Reserve your rejuvenation on a Nature Immersion retreat:

The Trail Tracers Rejuvenating Nature Immersion is a once-in-a-lifetime transformational retreat. This life-changing 7-day 6-night retreat includes accommodation, meals, activities, mentoring and mentoring materials and costs 1799€ for a single bedroom and 3399€ for 2 people in a double bedroom. To ensure participants get the attention they need, no more than four participants attend each retreat.

Payment Plans are available. Secure your transformation with a €450 deposit.
Please read the Terms and Conditions before booking.
Full payment is due 30 days before the retreat starts

Think of asking your employer to pay for this transformational stress management retreat; you can motivate your application by mentioning that, according to Forbes, approximately 70% of people experienced burnout in the last year. Work-related consequences include job dissatisfaction, decreased productivity, poor performance, professional mistakes, absenteeism, quiet quitting and resignations, resulting in a high turnover rate. Although conditions at work may also need improvement, a retreat focused on stress management, led by a medical doctor, can contribute significantly to preventing burnout in employees.

Are you ready for an unforgettable retreat that will leave you feeling vibrantly alive, full of joie de vivre, deliciously indulged and profoundly relaxed from the top of your head to the tips of your toes? There are a limited number of these transformational retreats per year and only 3-4 guests per retreat- Contact me at welcome2gascony@gmail.com to inquire about availability and to pay a 450€ deposit to secure your spot.

Is This Experience Right for You?

Let’s make sure this experience fits like your favourite worn-in hiking boots:

✅ You’re not looking for another spa weekend—you’re craving real change, from the inside out.
✅ You feel nature-starved. Your body’s whispering (or screaming) for silence, space, and serenity.
✅ You’re intrigued by science-backed wellness, but you’ve got zero interest in fads or fluff.

✅ You’re open to quiet moments, thoughtful integration, and the kind of personal insight that lingers long after the journey ends.
✅ You can walk 10-12 km a day (on 2 days) at a relaxed pace and love the idea of moving with intention, not racing for a Fitbit badge.
✅ You sense there’s more to ageing than creams, cleanses, or chasing your 30-year-old self.
✅ You’re ready to invest—not just money, but effort, time, and energy—into becoming the most vital version of you.

This may not be the right fit if:

You’re looking for luxury in the traditional sense—this is restorative, yes, but rooted in the simplicity of nature.
You prefer a fast-paced itinerary over time for reflection and reconnection.
You’re not quite ready to unplug, slow down, or explore the internal landscape this journey invites.

If you’re nodding yes, if something within you stirs just reading this, you’re likely exactly who this retreat was designed for.

“At 67, I was concerned about keeping up, but the mindful pace and supportive approach made it perfect for my ability level. The focus was never on distance or speed, but on presence and connection—exactly what my body and spirit needed to thrive.” — Eleanor J., 67

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Burning Questions Answered (with a Dash of Zen and a Pinch of Sass!)

So, what exactly is this ‘Nature Immersion’ thing, and why should I care?

Think of it as your biological clock’s personal rewind button, disguised as a glorious escape into the wild. This isn’t just a walk in the park; it’s a meticulously crafted anti-ageing retreat designed to make you feel like you’ve discovered the fountain of youth, but without the awkward quest for a mythical spring. We’re talking about a deep dive into nature that promises to leave you glowing, energised, and possibly even a few biological years younger. Because who needs expensive creams when you have the power of the great outdoors?

Is this some kind of woo-woo, tree-hugging retreat?

While we do appreciate a good tree hug (they’re excellent listeners!), this retreat is firmly grounded in science. It’s hosted by a medical doctor who understands the profound impact nature has on our physiology. We’re talking about measurable benefits: reduced inflammation, normalised blood pressure, improved heart rate variability, and even enhanced immune function. So, yes, you’ll feel amazing, but it’s not just good vibes; it’s good science!

What kind of magical transformations can I expect?

Prepare for a glow-up that even your friends will notice! Expect a radiant complexion (bye-bye, dull skin!), an energy surge that makes you wonder if you’ve secretly installed new batteries, and a physical resilience that’ll have you feeling years younger. Your posture might even improve, making you look effortlessly elegant. And for the grand finale? Reduced biological age markers and a mind so clear and sharp, you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life. It’s like a full-system reboot for your body and brain.

Will I actually feel different, or is this just a fancy vacation?

Oh, you’ll feel different, alright – because you will be different! This isn’t just about escaping; it’s about transforming. We’re talking about the famous ‘three-day effect’ where nature immersion literally resets your physiological and psychological systems. You’ll reclaim the deep, restorative sleep of your youth (remember that?), reset your body’s internal clock, and clear out all that mental fog and emotional static that accumulates from modern life. You’ll return not just rested, but truly re-aligned and re-energised.

Who is this retreat for? Do I need to be an outdoor enthusiast?

If you’re breathing, you’re qualified! Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone who considers a walk to the fridge an adventure, this retreat is for you. It’s for anyone who feels the relentless pace of modern life taking its toll and yearns for a deeper connection with themselves and the natural world. It’s for those who want to invest in their long-term health and well-being, and who are curious about the overlooked power of nature as a longevity elixir. No special skills required, just an open mind and a desire to feel fantastic.

What if I’m not a ‘nature person’? Will I be bored?

Boredom? In the embrace of nature? Never! This isn’t about forced marches or extreme survival. It’s about gentle immersion, mindful connection, and rediscovering the simple joys of being outdoors. You’ll find moments of profound peace, invigorating activity, and perhaps even a renewed appreciation for the rustle of leaves or the song of a bird. Plus, with all those amazing biological benefits kicking in, you’ll be too busy feeling fabulous to be bored!

How often do these magical anti-ageing retreats happen?

Like a perfectly timed natural phenomenon, our Nature Immersion retreats occur once a month, kicking off on the first Saturday from March all the way through December. It’s a regular dose of rejuvenation, ensuring you have ample opportunity to hit that biological reset button and keep your inner glow shining bright. So, pick your month, pack your bags, and prepare to reconnect with your most vibrant self!

Is this a religious retreat?

While we honour the spiritual heritage of the Camino, our retreat welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds. The focus is on the scientifically validated benefits of nature immersion and mindful movement, which are universal regardless of belief system.

“The fountain of youth, it seems, has been flowing beneath our feet all along.”

More Guestimonials

“Six months after my TrailTracers retreat, my biological age testing shows I’ve reversed ageing by 3.8 years. My doctor is now referring his other patients to this retreat.” — James L., 59

“I’ve done luxury spa weekends, tried expensive supplements, even considered cosmetic procedures—nothing has come close to the rejuvenating effect of this retreat. The changes weren’t just cosmetic; I feel fundamentally reset at a cellular level.” — Sophia R., 54

“As a healthcare professional, I was sceptical about the anti-ageing claims, but the science behind this approach is solid. What surprised me most was how quickly the benefits appeared and how long they’ve lasted.” — Dr. Michael K., 62

Still hesitating? This is your opportunity to attend an unforgettable retreat that will leave you feeling vibrantly alive, full of joie de vivre, deliciously indulged and profoundly relaxed from the top of your head to the tips of your toes?.There are a limited number of these transformational retreats per year and only 3-4 guests per retreat- Contact me at welcome2gascony@gmail.com to inquire about availability and to pay a 450€ deposit to secure your booking.