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Staying in a gorgeous house in the harbour of St Martin, this creative and culinary retreat will be a week of fun and creative experiences.
You will be in the company of superstar florist Kate Langdale, and leading canine painter Sara Abbott.
With Kate, you will discover how to make flower cocktails, wreaths, and the perfect table arrangement. With Sara, you will unlock your creativity and experiment with acrylic painting techniques. And with yoga therapist Cinthia Decelle, you’ll unwind through group yoga practice. Wine bar-owner and talented chef Victoria Ryan will be cooking delicious lunches and dinners using fresh local produce, while Karon Foxwell makes sure everyone gets the most out of the week.
You do not need to be proficient in any classes just have the enthusiasm to learn!
Each day, there’ll be a group workshop as well as time for a one on one chat over wine and supper in the evenings. There will be downtime for you to explore Île de Ré. Bicycles are the best option of transport which we can organise for you.
We hope that you will return home rejuvenated and inspired, with a fresh perspective on life and new friendships with like-minded people.
Galathee Retreats featured in The Telegraph 12 Feb 2020
The 10 best European holidays
Your hosts
Sara Abbott
Sara Abbott has carved out a very special place in the world of animal portraiture. More than just an uncanny likeness, her brushes deftly get under the fur of her subjects and connect us to their soul. Artist in residence at Harrods for two years in the Pet Dept and a regular creator of work for the Kennel Club, she is rightly recognised as one of the country’s leading canine painters. However, all living things come to life on her easel and horses, cats, cows, and native British wildlife have all been recent subjects. Sara spent August 2021 travelling through the highlands of Scotland capturing the beautiful views in watercolour which she plans to put into a book with tales of her travels.
Cinthia Decelle
Cinthia is both a yoga instructor and yoga therapist. She trained in Bali and lived there with her family for 11 years before coming to Saint Martin de Ré. Cinthia teaches a complete and comprehensive style of yoga, giving individual attention to each person. This allows her to teach breathing, relaxation, and stretch, rejuvenating the body with kindness and care, strength and commitment, awareness and understanding. Cinthia is unequivocally convinced that yoga is in complete alignment with improved day-to-day wellbeing.
Kate Langdale
Kate has worked as a florist for 35 years. She started her career in London as a wedding and event florist before opening her own shop in Brighton in 2006. Her unique flower emporium is filled with delightful vintage curiosities, floral wreaths, and beautiful seasonal flowers. When Kate isn’t in the shop, she’s styling events and photoshoots or teaching flower workshops. Kate’s worked with prestigious clients over the years, including Elton John, Nick Cave, and Sophie Robinson.
Here's what to expect
You will like this retreat if
You want to learn from two of the UK’s leading experts on how to master the art of floristry and painting with acrylic on paper
You’re looking for inspiration and relaxation on one of Europe’s most beautiful islands
You’re ready for an adventure and once-in-a-lifetime experience
You’re inspired by travel, different cultures, and cuisines
You want to learn new skills regardless of your experience
You’re looking to connect with like-minded, creative individuals
You like structured time with a group but also a couple of hours each day to do your own thing
You love yoga and relaxation with good company, good food and lots of laughter
What’s included
7 nights accommodation and 6 days of classes. Breakfast and lunch, and 4 evening meals with wine. Lunches and dinners will be cooked by Chef Victoria Ryan using fresh local produce.
What’s not included
Your flights to La Rochelle, transfers to and from the airport, any trips, taxis or guides you might want to book during your individual downtime each day.
