Bardou village, set in the stunning Parc Naturel Regional du Haut-Languedoc that surrounds it, dotted with hiking trails and mountain pools for swimming, is the perfect getaway location for our immersive retreats.

Abandoned not long after the First World War, Bardou was re-discovered by the current owner’s stepfather in 1967. Privately owned since then, the village has been gradually restored with communal purpose by family and friends.

While there is now electricity and water piped off the mountainside, much of Bardou’s infrastructure has changed little since the 17th century, meaning facilities are comfortable and basic. Together with its isolation, these limited concessions to modern life are part of what makes Bardou so special.

As simple as the village might appear, the experience of staying here feels incredibly welcoming. During your stay, you will eat delicious French mountain food, relax in front of a roaring fire at the end of the day, and sleep in a warm bed.

Covid-19 update: with a maximum of 8 participants, social distancing will be possible during the retreat, should this still be required in September. In the event that we cannot run the retreat, all deposits are fully refundable, or can be rolled over to the next available retreat.