Reviews of the venue:

"The venue, run by Nicolas and Sophie and their staff, could not have been more supportive of the needs of the group with venue preparation, work room set up, unique dietary meals (and snacks!), and constant communication and assistance with everything throughout the week. Their coordination with the instructor, unique outings tailored to the course participants' interests, translation services, combined with their caring and friendliness, all contributed to my first visit to France being a wonderful experience. Uptrek was also extremely well-prepared and communicative throughout the experience, helping me to understand the trip, what to expect in France, and responded to our questions about accommodations, arrival methods, timing. Uptrek's coordination with the venue was seamless, very well done. Thank you to everyone involved - for me, it was the trip of a lifetime, and an important part of my professional development as an artist."

"The venue was just what I was hoping for -- I love the rural area. It was very clean, hosts were professional and pleasant. Food by all three caterers was wholesome."

"Excellent location and hosting; Sophie and Nicolas could not have been any sweeter and accommodating. The food was exquisite…chef’s choices were delicious. The selection of wines superb!!"

"I would give this retreat 20 stars if I could! I had the best experience I could have ever imagined during the last week in France with our instructor and an amazing group of women. And our hosts, Sophie and Nicolas, were exceptional at providing us with such a beautiful accommodations and care at their home. The venue is breathtaking - with the charming guest cottages surrounded by rolling hills of color. (The sunrises over the valley are spectacular!) Sophie and Nicholas are kind and welcoming, and did everything possible to make my stay and enjoyment of the retreat fulfilled. I cannot thank them enough. Uptrek really creates a memorable experience, taking care of the preparations, giving us travel guidance, and creating a schedule of events and activities to engage our group. "

"UpTrek: all transfers, tours & venues were great. It was perfectly charming and Sophie & Nicolas (the hosts) were absolutely wonderful & really adapted to all of our requests beyond what I expected! The week was made fabulous by our great group of women, the snacks, wine & the bond we all formed. We learned from each other & have formed lasting friendships!"

"I had a perfect week in France. The venue was beautiful and Sophie and Nicolas (the hosts) did everything in their power to make our stay comfortable. The trips were perfectly timed and provided much inspiration for our paintings. I thoroughly enjoyed the company of my fellow painters and would definitely use your company for travel again."

"The venue was so beautiful and comfortable. I was happy with my room and the circumstances that allowed me a comfortable single room. EVERYTHING we asked for was provided by the following day or meal! I enjoyed the pool and the outdoor dining and painting. Such care was given to us by our lovely kind hosts."

"Stunning venue; delicious food and wine; wonderful hosts. Lots of painting time. Interesting day trips. I definitely want to do another retreat!"

"The food, the hosts, the accommodations, and the views were wonderful. The field trips were enjoyable and educational. I would take another trip with UpTrek."

"The trip organization and warm, professional service from Uptrek, and the amazing service, delicious food, and high quality from the venue. And the other retreat participants were truly lovely! From the start, UpTrek provided prompt, careful service that was carried right through to our arrival at the retreat. Communication is key, especially when travel is just getting going again, and Andra (the retreat coordinator) was always ready with a response. I really appreciated the sensible, yet friendly approach, as well as the clear policies that were upfront from the start. Sophie and Nicolas (the venue hosts) were charming, attentive hosts who looked after many needs."