Softness & Serenity: A French Wellness Retreat for Mindful Living with Paula Strupeck Gardner
Your TourHero
Paula Strupeck Gardner
Paula has been teaching, coaching, guiding retreats, creating and leading workshops and courses, writing, and loving on her students and clients for over 40 years.
She’s a best-selling author of 3 books and a lifelong student of all things spiritual and corporeal.
Paula has multiple advanced degrees and certificates of study, an uncommon resume of life adventures (including being the first-ever US woman to complete the Mt. Everest Marathon, 1989; finishing 3rd woman in the Nanisivik Midnight Sun Marathon, 1991; living in France and Italy and Quebec before and with her sons.)
But what she MOST wants you to know about her is this:
Paula cares for you. Deeply. She cheers for you. Loudly, without reservation, and with unmatched enthusiasm.
She is your staunchest supporter, the most loving mirror you’ll ever look into, the most transparent, unflinchingly authentic voice you’ll ever hear.
Paula makes EVERYTHING accessible to EVERYONE who wants access. She is generous with her whole spirit.
And she holds space for you to do the same for you…
Join her on this beautiful, soul soothing, mind and heart expanding retreat!
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Sep 22 - 28, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 - 12
Transportation
Group airport & activity transfers
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Wellness, nature, food & wine, restorative yoga, gentle yoga
Fellow Travelers
Adrienne
Audrey 
kimberly
Paula
Kinzie
Barbara
Joseph
Roxane
Shelley
Bruce
Kelly
Joan
CherylYour Local Guide
The FrogS' House is a bed and breakfast located in Saint-Jeannet, run by Corinne and Benoit. Since 2006, they’ve been delighted to share this magical place with guests of all kinds. They offer a weekly program where you can discover or deepen your yoga practice, while enjoying all that the region has to offer. Options include outdoor adventures, cultural activities, French and regional gastronomy cooking classes, and so much more. Corinne and Benoit are committed to sharing this space with you, conducive to relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-discovery and will ensure you have a great experience from beginning to end.
Discover the magic of France on this exquisite wellness retreat, designed to help you create moments of softness in your everyday life. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of charming villages, the rich culture and history of Nice, and the serenity of lush forests, while you make ever-lasting connections with like-minded souls, experience an array of healing modalities, and reconnect with nature's heartbeat.
Paula's retreats are not yoga retreats. They are spaces where self-care intersects with and nourishes joy through a variety of practices. Paula has carefully curated the itinerary for France, 2024, tailoring it to nourish your spirit and encourage self-discovery. Delight in culinary gems during a Nice city food tour, indulge in the relaxation of a beach or spa day, and deepen your appreciation for the local culture through visits to ancient oak forests, Matisse's chapel, and local vineyards in between restorative yoga sessions and healing sound baths.
If you’ve never enjoyed the deliciousness of restorative yoga with Paula, prepare to be amazed: You’re surrounded by pillows and blankets, lovingly attended to by Paula, with no stretching and with your only focus on softening and rest. And Paula makes Gentle Yoga sessions accessible to all who choose to participate so that you are able to experience what it feels like to embody your beauty, your courage, your joy.
Throughout your stay, you'll also have ample time to rest, explore, and experience personal growth through our wellness sessions, each designed to infuse your life with moments of softness and inner peace.
Join us on this transformative journey and uncover the secrets to lasting harmony and well-being. When you book now and secure your spot today, you’ll begin to feel the difference before you even arrive!
Please note that all participants on this retreat will take home Paula’s signature gift bag to help integrate the retreat into their EveryDay life!
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until July 22, 2024. If the departure is cancelled out of your control, you will be alerted by July 22, 2024 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip up until July 22, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit amount. After that time, no refunds will be issued.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Your TourHero
Paula Strupeck Gardner
Paula has been teaching, coaching, guiding retreats, creating and leading workshops and courses, writing, and loving on her students and clients for over 40 years.
She’s a best-selling author of 3 books and a lifelong student of all things spiritual and corporeal.
Paula has multiple advanced degrees and certificates of study, an uncommon resume of life adventures (including being the first-ever US woman to complete the Mt. Everest Marathon, 1989; finishing 3rd woman in the Nanisivik Midnight Sun Marathon, 1991; living in France and Italy and Quebec before and with her sons.)
But what she MOST wants you to know about her is this:
Paula cares for you. Deeply. She cheers for you. Loudly, without reservation, and with unmatched enthusiasm.
She is your staunchest supporter, the most loving mirror you’ll ever look into, the most transparent, unflinchingly authentic voice you’ll ever hear.
Paula makes EVERYTHING accessible to EVERYONE who wants access. She is generous with her whole spirit.
And she holds space for you to do the same for you…
Join her on this beautiful, soul soothing, mind and heart expanding retreat!
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Sep 22 - 28, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 - 12
Transportation
Group airport & activity transfers
Discover the magic of France on this exquisite wellness retreat, designed to help you create moments of softness in your everyday life. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of charming villages, the rich culture and history of Nice, and the serenity of lush forests, while you make ever-lasting connections with like-minded souls, experience an array of healing modalities, and reconnect with nature's heartbeat.
Paula's retreats are not yoga retreats. They are spaces where self-care intersects with and nourishes joy through a variety of practices. Paula has carefully curated the itinerary for France, 2024, tailoring it to nourish your spirit and encourage self-discovery. Delight in culinary gems during a Nice city food tour, indulge in the relaxation of a beach or spa day, and deepen your appreciation for the local culture through visits to ancient oak forests, Matisse's chapel, and local vineyards in between restorative yoga sessions and healing sound baths.
If you’ve never enjoyed the deliciousness of restorative yoga with Paula, prepare to be amazed: You’re surrounded by pillows and blankets, lovingly attended to by Paula, with no stretching and with your only focus on softening and rest. And Paula makes Gentle Yoga sessions accessible to all who choose to participate so that you are able to experience what it feels like to embody your beauty, your courage, your joy.
Throughout your stay, you'll also have ample time to rest, explore, and experience personal growth through our wellness sessions, each designed to infuse your life with moments of softness and inner peace.
Join us on this transformative journey and uncover the secrets to lasting harmony and well-being. When you book now and secure your spot today, you’ll begin to feel the difference before you even arrive!
Please note that all participants on this retreat will take home Paula’s signature gift bag to help integrate the retreat into their EveryDay life!
Timeline
- Day 1 · Saint-Jeannet
- Arrive in Nice
- Group transfer from airport/train to accommodation
- 14:00 - 17:00 – Check-in at The FrogS’ House
- 17:00 - 18:00: Restorative yoga session
- 18:00 - 21:00: Welcome buffet dinner and tour (wine included)
- Day 2 · Saint-Jeannet
- 7:00 - 8:30: Yoga (optional)
- Morning Circle
- 8:30 - 10:00: Community breakfast
- Free time
- 11:00 - 17:00: Hike with picnic lunch
- Return to the house
- 18:30 - 20:00: Restorative yoga & healing sound
- 20:00: Community dinner
- Day 3 · Saint-Jeannet
- 08:30: Transfer to ancient oak forest
- Light breakfast
- Shinrin-yoku (Forest bathing) in ancient oak forest with Paula
- Goat farm visit
- 12:00: Full spread picnic lunch
- 15:00: Visit Matisse’s chapel
- 18:00: Return to the house
- 18:30 - 20:00: Restorative yoga session with healing sound session
- 20:00: Community dinner
- Day 4 · Saint-Jeannet
- 7:00 - 8:30: Yoga (optional)
- Morning Circle
- 8:30 - 10:00: Community breakfast
- 10:00 - 12:00: Free time
- 12:00: Lunch at La Table des Baou
- 15:00: Wine tasting
- 18:00: Return to the house
- 18:30 - 20:00: Restorative yoga & healing sound
- 20:00: Community dinner
- Day 5 · Saint-Jeannet
- 7:00 - 8:30: Yoga (optional)
- Morning Circle
- 8:30 - 10:00: Community breakfast
- 10:00: Nice city and food tour (lunch included)
- 18:00: Return to the house
- 18:30 - 20:00: Restorative yoga session
- 20:00: Community dinner
- Day 6 · Saint-Jeannet
- 7:00 - 8:30: Yoga (optional)
- Morning Circle
- 8:30 - 10:00: Community breakfast
- 10:00: Beach or spa day (group chooses)
- 18:00: Return to the house
- 18:30 - 19:30: Restorative yoga and sound healing session
- 19:30 - 20:00: Free time to get ready for dinner
- 20:45: Farewell dinner at Table des Baou
- Day 7 · Departure
- 7:00 - 8:30: Yoga (optional)
- Morning Circle and Closing Circle
- 8:30 - 10:00: Community breakfast
- 11:00: Check out of accommodation
- 11:00 - 15:00: Group transfer to airport/train
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to France – get settled at your rustic village house and meet the group at a yoga session and welcome dinner
We are so glad you’ve made the journey to France for a rejuvenating wellness retreat led by Paula. You’ll be staying at a charming retreat house nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Saint-Jeannet, surrounded by the breathtaking Maritime Alps with views of the Côte d'Azur.
Upon your arrival at the airport or train station, our friendly staff will be there to greet you and whisk you away to your home away from home – The FrogS' House. This cozy and inviting accommodation effortlessly blends the rustic charm of a traditional French village house with modern comforts and amenities, ensuring a truly memorable stay.
Enjoy some free time to unpack and settle from your travels before we come together for a restorative yoga session, designed to help you release tension, reconnect with your inner self, and find balance within the serene surroundings of our retreat after a long day of travel.
After our deeply restful restorative session, it's time to gather with your fellow retreat-goers for a delightful welcome dinner, featuring a finger food buffet of local favorites, complemented by fine wines from the village vineyard. As you savor each bite, you'll be introduced to the enchanting world of Saint-Jeannet and the transformative experiences that await you during the next seven days.
Day 2
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature on a half-day hike with delectable picnic lunch
Today is all about rejuvenation, connection, and exploration, providing us the space and time to embrace the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and unlock our vulnerability. Allow yourself to be swept away by the enchanting charm of our quaint village, and be inspired by the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you.
We’ll start the day by greeting the sun with a Morning Circle. This soothing practice will help awaken your body, mind, and spirit, and set the perfect tone for the day ahead. From here, we’ll come together for a delightful breakfast on our sunny terrace. Enjoy a delectable spread of fresh, locally-sourced dishes, while basking in the warm rays of the morning sun and engaging in inspiring conversations with new friends.
As the morning melts into afternoon, embark on an invigorating 8 km roundtrip hike up the majestic cliffs that overlook the village. Discover the meaning behind the word Baou, a local term dating back to Roman times, as you marvel at the panoramic views of the French Riviera and the serene landscape below. A sumptuous picnic lunch will be served on the plateau, offering you the chance to rest and meditate in nature before making your descent.
Upon your return, enjoy some free time before we settle in for our daily transformative restorative and sound healing session. Combining the shapes of restorative yoga with healing sound guides you to a deep state of relaxation as soothing vibrations harmonize your body, mind, and soul. As twilight settles, join us for a light dinner featuring delectable dishes and fine wines from the organic village vineyard. Spend the evening socializing with your fellow retreat-goers, reflecting on your day's experiences, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the setting.
Day 3
Reconnect with the Earth’s heartbeat with Forest Bathing in an ancient oak forest with a goat farm visit and delicious picnic lunch
We’ll start another beautiful day in France with a trip to an ancient oak forest, where you'll be surrounded by trees that have stood tall for over a thousand years. Upon arrival, treat yourself to a selection of nuts, dried fruits, teas, and coffee, before joining Paula in the beautiful and soothing practice of Shinrin Yoku amidst the enchanting forest. Our gentle and guided walk through the serene woods allows the peace and tranquility of nature to wash over and through you. It will be our retreat within our retreat. Your journey will lead you to a charming local goat farm, where the retreat sources their delicious cheese.
At the goat farm, indulge in a sumptuous picnic lunch, complete with a mouthwatering spread of French delicacies. Feast on quiches, salads, farm-fresh cheese, bread, fruit, and delectable home-baked pastries, all accompanied by fine wine from the village vineyard. After lunch, take some time to relax and absorb the beauty of your surroundings.
In the afternoon, a short drive will take us to the remarkable Chapel of the Rosary, designed by the legendary artist Henri Matisse. You'll be treated to a guided tour by a knowledgeable and passionate guide, offering you a unique glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
As the day draws to a close, return to the comfort of the FrogS' House, where you'll unwind with a restorative yoga session infused with the healing energy of sound. This soothing practice will help you find balance and harmony within, as you release the day's experiences and prepare for a delicious group meal and time for rest.
Day 4
A day of sumptuous gastronomy awaits with lunch at La Table des Baou and a wine tasting experience in the village
Today is all about culinary delights that are immersed within the charming village of Saint Jeannet. We’ll begin this epic day by awakening your body and mind with a Morning Circle, followed by a delicious community breakfast. After you nourish your body, take some time for yourself to rest, explore the enchanting cobbled streets of the village, book a revitalizing massage or Reiki treatment (please note that these are not the options that are offered in the add-ons section), or simply relax at a local café and soak in the breathtaking views and friendly atmosphere.
At noon, indulge your taste buds with a delicious lunch at La Table des Baou, a charming restaurant helmed by passionate local chef Sébastien Liprandi. Savor the exquisite flavors of the region, while enjoying the option to purchase drinks at an additional cost. From here, we’ll embark on a gentle stroll through the village to a local vineyard, where you'll meet the winemakers and learn about their unique winemaking practices that date back to Roman times. Delight in a tasting of six to eight varieties of their delectable wines, before wandering back to the house, enriched by the history and flavors of Saint-Jeannet.
In the evening, gather with your fellow retreaters for a transformative restorative yoga and sound healing session, as soothing vibrations harmonize your body, mind, and soul. We’ll close out the day with a sumptuous dinner, and go to bed with a smile knowing this day was pure magic.
Day 5
Explore coastal Nice on a city and food tour that will take you from the beaches to the hidden gastronomic gems
After our Morning Circle and breakfast, we’ll experience the vibrant culture, history, and flavors of Nice on a full-day tour. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture, as you discover the fascinating stories of renowned artists and writers such as Chagall, Matisse, Nietzsche, and Chekhov, who once called this enchanting place home. Marvel at the azure waters of the Mediterranean and the city's pleasant year-round climate, which has drawn European royals and aristocracy for generations. Our exploration of Nice will include a unique culinary experience, as lunch takes the form of a tour through the city's hidden gastronomic treasures, known only to the most discerning locals. Savor the delectable flavors of the region, as you indulge in a variety of mouthwatering dishes that showcase the best of Nice's culinary scene.
As the day draws to a close, return to the comfort of the FrogS' House, where you'll unwind with a restorative yoga session to help you find balance and harmony within, then gather with your fellow retreat-goers for a communal dinner, where you'll share stories, laughter, and insights from your day's adventures.
Day 6
Spend one final day in France enjoying the coastline, the spa options, and the group’s last wellness sessions
This unforgettable journey of self-discovery and blissful relaxation is coming to a close, but we have one final day to enjoy the company of the group and this amazing location in France. After our Morning Circle and breakfast, the group will choose their own adventure for the day’s excursion.
At 10:00, embark on a journey to either the crystal-clear waters of the bay of Antibes or a luxurious spa nestled among the awe-inspiring Southern Alps. Whichever destination the group chooses, you'll be in for an extraordinary day of relaxation and indulgence.
As the day comes to a close, return to the comfort of the FrogS' House, where you'll unwind with a restorative yoga and sound healing session. This transformative experience will help you release the day's experiences and find a deep sense of inner peace, preparing your mind, body, and soul for the journey home.
When the sun sets, enjoy a farewell dinner, where you'll share stories, laughter, and insights from your unforgettable journey together.
Day 7
After a heartfelt farewell, start your journey home
Begin your day with our Morning Circle, allowing your body and mind to fully awaken and find balance within. Following your practice, join the group in a heartfelt Closing Circle, where you'll have the opportunity to share your reflections, insights, and gratitude for the incredible journey you've shared together. From here, gather for one last community breakfast, and embark on a group transfer to the airport or train station, where the retreat will come to an end.
As our enchanting wellness adventure concludes, we invite you to cherish the memories, connections, and transformative experiences that have brought us together on this remarkable journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation. Safe travels and be well!
Accommodation
The FrogS’ House
The FrogS' House is a bed and breakfast located in the charming village of Saint-Jeannet. Perched in the heights of Nice, this magical place is ready to help you deepen your yoga practice, while you enjoy sumptuous French food and the beautiful mountain backdrop. The property is a 19th century guest house that’s been transformed into a warm and comfortable accommodation, with cozy rooms and modern baths. On site, you’ll find a large kitchen, common spaces, yoga shala, meditation/massage room, and outdoor terrace. With Wi-Fi throughout the property, you’ll have everything you need for the perfect getaway in France. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Twin beds. (Single occupancy option available — see packages.)
Included
Airport & activity transfers
One group airport arrival transfer
One group airport departure transfer
All meals (as noted in itinerary)
Daily restorative yoga sessions and inspirational practices with Paula
All activities listed in itinerary
Signature gift bag from Paula
Not included
All flights
All food & drink not mentioned in inclusions
Personal expenses not stipulated
Optional add-ons
Gratuities
FAQ
What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
Please check the cancellation policy section on this itinerary page for specific details.
Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?
Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.
If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.
Do I need a passport for this trip?
A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.
What's included in the price?
Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact hello@tourhero.com.
Available add-on
Private sound healing session
Book a private, 45-minute sound healing session with Paula.
Price: EUR 55
Sold out
Single supplement room upgrade for the entire trip
Want a little more privacy during your trip? Select this single supplement add-on and have a room all to yourself.
Price: EUR 432
Sold out
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until July 22, 2024. If the departure is cancelled out of your control, you will be alerted by July 22, 2024 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip up until July 22, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit amount. After that time, no refunds will be issued.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
- Welcome to Saint-Jeannet — a charming village in the cliffs of Nice. - Facebook: The FrogS' House
- Enjoy a delicious dinner on the terrace. - Facebook: The FrogS' House
- Welcome to The FrogS' House. - Facebook: The FrogS' House
- Rise and shine to yoga and a French breakfast. - Facebook: The FrogS' House
- Add-on: Single room upgrade - The Frogs' House
- A picnic lunch is included with the hike! - Facebook: The FrogS' House
- Today's main activity is a hike up to the top of the cliffs that surround Saint-Jeannet. Get ready for some amazing views. - Facebook: The FrogS' House
- The beauty of this location will be an excellent complement to the holistic health workshops we'll enjoy over the next few days. - Facebook: The FrogS' House
- As a group, we'll head to the village vineyard for a delectable wine tasting experience. - Unsplash: Kelsey Knight
- Spend your day floating in the turquoise sea. - Unsplash: Oscar Nord
- We'll start our day with a trip to an ancient oak forest to reconnect with nature and align our hearts with that of the Earth. - Unsplash: Theo Bickel
- A meditative walk will take us to a local goat farm, where the retreat buys its cheeses. - Facebook: The FrogS’ House
- For lunch, we have a special treat in store. We'll dine at La Table des Baou. - La Table des Baou
- La Table des Baou is the restaurant of the chef Sébastien Liprandi, who is a resident in the village and is passionate about showcasing the food of the region. - La Table des Baou
- Today, we'll explore Nice - the city and its decadent food options. - Pexels: Daniel Furrer
- We'll get to taste the local flavors with the help of our guides, exploring the hidden gems of the city. - Unsplash: Robin Ooode
- Or choose a spa day and enjoy an afternoon of pampering. - Pexels: Nadin Sh
- We'll close out our first day with dinner and a restorative yoga session to help us stretch it out from our travels. - Pexels: Thirdman
- Experience a transformative sound healing session that will guide you to a deep state of relaxation, as soothing vibrations harmonize your body, mind, and soul. - Unsplash: Julio Lopez
- After a day of exploration, we'll calm the mind and stretch the body during a restorative yoga session with Reiki healing. - Pexels: RODNAE Productions
- Let the power of frequency heal your mind, body, and soul. - Unsplash: Julio Lopez
- Unwind from a day of sightseeing with a restorative yoga session before closing out the day with a group dinner. - Pexels: Yan Krukau
- Tonight, enjoy one final restorative yoga session with sound bath to help you reflect on an amazing retreat and release anything that doesn't need to return home with you. - Unsplash: Julio Lopez
- Add-on: Private sound healing session - Pexels: cottonbro studio