The walking is the core of the week. Routes run through the landscapes of the Razès and the Pays Cathare: mountain peaks, deep gorges, forests, vineyards, rivers and the castles that appear to be carved into the rock itself. Along the way Jo talks through the history of the medieval communities who lived in these mountains and valleys, the Cathar movement and the conflicts of the 13th century. Some walks are short and gentle, others take several hours and involve hills and uneven ground.

What separates this from a standard walking holiday is the size and the flexibility. With a maximum of five women, the group can change the plan — linger under a ruined wall, take a different path, sit longer over lunch. Jo adapts the programme day to day according to the weather and how the group is feeling, and reviews from past guests describe exactly that: no rigid schedule, and routes adjusted when it got too hot.

Jo has run retreats in this part of southern France with Bob since 2006. She is certified as a nature therapy guide, meditation and mindfulness instructor, spiritual wellness and breathwork coach, past life regressionist and hypnotherapist, with over 19 years of experience. Her work uses forest bathing, meditation and nature walks. The couple also deliver residential Fast-Track courses for guides and coaches seeking accredited certification in nature therapy and natural wellness.

The base is a small village surrounded by rolling hills, vines, sunflowers, woods and wild orchids. Carcassonne, the medieval market town of Mirepoix and Limoux are all within reach, and the Cathar castles, villages and vineyards of the region are on the doorstep. Carcassonne airport and the train stations at Carcassonne and Bram are about 25 minutes away, and transfers from both are included in the price.

Expect a mix of walking, history and quiet. Mornings on the trail, picnic lunches outdoors, afternoons that may include a castle visit or a market, and relaxed evenings around the table with Jo and Bob, who are both writers. Guests repeatedly mention the conversations as a highlight — as well as the food, the garden and the cats.

What's included

- Airport pickup and drop-off from Carcassonne airport, Carcassonne train station and Bram train station - 4 nights accommodation - 3 daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Water, tea and coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Transportation during the retreat - Visits to some Cathar castles - Excursions and activities - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Parking - Luggage storage - Wifi connection

What's not included

- Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional activities not included in the itinerary