Our world is filled with distraction. Buzzing cell phones, clacking keyboards, or screeching vehicles contribute to an overwhelming and rushing environment. Often, we wish we could hit the pause button, freeze the frame, and remove ourselves from this picture all together. But sprawled across France, tucked into small villages and quaint farms sit various wellness retreats, perfect for creating a new type of reality. Whether it be discovering new vegan recipes or unwinding during a guided meditation session, these French wellness retreats serve as the ideal pause button.

Wellness retreats trace back to the ancient civilizations of Asia, Rome, and Greece. Although they are not a new experience, more modern wellness retreats have been around since the 1950s. People started to change the way they view wellness and health all together. Today, French wellness retreats serve as a tranquil getaway for any guest, young or old.

Praana Wellness

Praana Wellness is nestled between Bordeaux and Cognac. The petit château, Chez Vallée, is home to a spacious swimming pool and exercise facilities that sit amongst the winding vineries. Ensuite rooms, luxury dormitories, and even a luxury garden cabin are available for guests to reside in during their time at Praana Wellness. Some might opt to rent out the full property, with access to housekeeping, chefs, and personal trainers or guides. Praana Wellness offers events for simple rest and relaxation, but also therapy sessions and services. During the past year, the retreat also introduced a virtual community. This option is available for any guest searching for a sense of comfort but could not make the retreat in person.

Domaine De Mournac 

Founded in 2017, Domaine De Mournac is located in Mournac, France. The 12th century stone coach house was recently renovated, with room for 15-17 guests (and is flexible for more). Complete with a pool and large social living space, it is easy to feel at home. The semi-professional standard kitchen along with a dining space fit for 20 also make up the coach house. Guests can take in the views of the Pyrenees Mountains as they unwind within nature. Domaine De Mournac aims to achieve health and wellness goals through yoga, Pilates, meditation and cycling. As for the arts, this retreat presents language and food courses. Guests can brush up on their French speaking skills, or simply pick up a few new words during a wine tasting course.

Le Pélot 

“Wellbeing, Wellness, and Welcome” are Le Pélot’s three ideologies. This wellness retreat is located in Montreal du Gers, surrounded by rural French life and historical villages. The Gascon Farmhouse hosts up to 14 people, tucked away in the Occitanie countryside. Their programs combine learning, relaxation, and fun for any type of guest. Whether one is attending Le Pélot solo, with a group, or company, there is sure to be something for everyone. Food lovers will appreciate the healthy, in depth food courses or wine tours. On the more athletic side, yoga and guided walks throughout the beautiful scenery are offered. This retreat ensures that guests leave feeling balanced and refreshed.

The accommodations within the Gascon Farmhouse mirror the relaxing, refreshing atmosphere. There are various types of rooms which are home to either king or double beds with fresh and high quality linens. Antique furniture, exposed beaming, and stone walls give the rooms character and charm.

Yobaba Lounge

Yobaba Lounge is an award winning boutique retreat center founded in 2013. Located in a 13th century medieval bayside village in the foothills of the Pyrenees, the village chateau is made up of a walled garden and dawns a stylish yet comforting ambiance. During May through October, guests can indulge in yoga and meditation retreats. All of the food provided and served at Yobaba Lounge is vegan. The vegan and plant based options are created in the property’s kitchen, commonly referred to as Narnia.

Online retreats are also offered through Yobaba Lounge. The two-week virtual yoga retreat focuses on mindfulness and awareness through the human body. This course also includes a five day Ayurvedic cleanse through guided practices and reading materials. From breathing techniques, to developing intuition senses, these virtual courses provide an array of material and content.

Little French Retreat 

For an intimate and refreshing stay, the Little French Retreat hosts 1-4 guests. Three double guest rooms consist of soothing stones and pure cotton linens, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Along with the bedrooms, the house also is host to a living room, enchanting garden, and even a library. When it comes to wellness, the Little French Retreat takes a specific approach: nourishing one’s body from within with healthy food, while sustaining the outside with natural surroundings. They follow the principles of Ayurveda and yoga to declutter the mind. Combined, these practices ultimately focus on breath, posture, and strength.

As for nutrition, this retreat’s technique is rooted in the Ayurvedic teaching that food is a form of medicine. Various vegetarian options created with organic, seasonal ingredients make up their meals. Brunch, midday snack, and supper are timed perfectly for optimal digestion and wellness. The Little French Retreat’s recipe book follows similar dining patterns, even if one is not residing on location.

All of these retreats have their own spin on wellness and rejuvenation. However, the goal remains the same: to stop the clock and step into paradise. A fresh start is not too hard to obtain in one of these restful, relaxing retreats.