Camino de Santiago Walking & Reading Retreat in Gascony, France

The retreat is built around two simple things: walking the ancient Camino de Santiago and having uninterrupted time to read. It's run by Dr. Margaretha Montagu, who moved from a long medical career to host retreats at her farmhouse in Gascony. The walking is a taster of the Camino rather than a full pilgrimage—two mornings of walking through countryside that includes vineyards, sunflower fields, and woodland, with transport to and from the trail provided. The walks are optional; if the weather is poor or you'd rather stay home with your book, nobody will mind. Other than the two walks, your time is entirely your own. Margaretha recommends walking and writing meditations, and there's a yoga mat available, but none of it is organized or required. The point is escape and rest. The setting does the work. The farmhouse is among rolling hills between Bordeaux and Toulouse, the nearest village is three kilometers away, and the grounds include a small herd of Friesian and Falabella horses. Reviews describe it as a relaxed, unpressured week where you can be as solitary or as social as you like, and where guests often leave with more clarity about their lives. There are only a handful of guest rooms, so the group stays small and the atmosphere stays intimate. The fine print matters here: it's not a fitness bootcamp or a structured wellness schedule. It's a quiet, comfortable place to walk, read, and rest, with a knowledgeable and warm host if you want her company.

What's included

- 4 nights accommodation in a private room at a restored Gascon farmhouse - 4 brunches, 3 dinners, and afternoon tea (dinner on Day 4 not included) - Transport to and from the start/end of the Camino on walking days - Two guided sections of the Camino de Santiago (approx. 10–11 km each) - Introduction to walking meditation, writing meditation, and Yoga Nidra - Use of yoga mats and other relaxation resources

What's not included

- Flights and other transport to/from the region - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Alcoholic drinks - Dinner on Day 4 at the local restaurant - Extra nights (available from €115 per night)