Château de Puy Vidal | The Lady of the Chateau Retreats - La Rochefoucauld-en-Angoumois

Noémie B.

Nous avons passé une journée dans ce fabuleux château pour réaliser un shooting photo pour ma nouvelle collection.
Julia et Caroline nous ont merveilleusement bien accueilli.
Un château, un jardin, un labyrinthe splendides !
Je recommande grandement cette endroit ainsi que l’accueil.
Merci pour tout ! À bientôt

Hayley T.

I had the opportunity to attend the "Haunting the Chateau," photography retreat this October. It was one of the most magical experiences I have had. As a solo traveler to France, they assisted me in booking my train tickets and provided their recommendations on hotel accommodations, favorite places to shop etc., which gave me peace of mind.

Staying at the chateau, I felt like extended family. The level of care and dedication they put into every experience is admirable. Each day/night was curated from meals, to decor, to the regional day trip. Their chef was able to accommodate my dairy-free dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste or quality.

We had free reign of the grounds and the common areas. I spent my free time taking walks along the garden, meditating in the grass, and general nature watching. It was peaceful. In the evening, I got to spend time during aperitif & dinner, talking and getting to know the other women at the retreat - which filled me with delight and some new friends.

If anyone is thinking about booking, I would empower you to do it! And if you are solo, fear not, as they made the experience smooth and were available for support each step of the way.

Sonya F.

I signed up for the photography retreat called Haunting the Chateau. Upon arrival, the staff picked me up at the train station and carried my luggage up to my room! Inside the room was a welcome gift with fun skin care products. The owners really went above and beyond to make sure everyone was comfortable and waited on us hand and foot. There was a private chef who made all of our meals and snacks each day! The schedule of activities included yoga, massage, games, karaoke, and a late night game in the amazing labyrinth complete with cloaks and torches! They helped us get ready for our photo shoots, took pictures, and made many extra costume accessories available for our use. I can't say enough about this family and their genuine love for what they do! 5 stars would do it again!!!

Tiffany R.

This place and the people who dwell here are beautiful, inside and out. While attending a workshop with photographer Autumn Luciano for 5 days, the family who ran this place is the pinnacle of hospitality. They share their home and hearts with people from all over the world, and if you ever get an opportunity to attend a workshop, you should. Thank you for everything!

Beatrice B.

We had an absolutely amazing stay at Chateau Puy Vidal!! The chateaux’s hosts are extremely kind and and responsive, they made us feel completely at home. The food was the best I’ve ever had! Each room is beautifully decorated with extremely comfortable beds, the grounds include stunning gardens. Towns nearby are easily accessible. Truly in incomparable restorative and picturesque French countryside experience everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.

Terry S.

I am on the last day of an 8 day sojourn to an artists' retreat at Chateau du Puy Vidal, AKA The Lady of the Chateau. I came her to rediscover my joy in painting after many years as an artist and a couple years of 'retirement' that just didn't feed my soul. The magic of this place has infused me since I came through the gates and has guided my brush this week My fellow artists and I were treated incredibly well by the family working together to live a dream: Spearheaded by Julia and Caroline, now two of my favorite people on the planet. The family also includes Julia's parents and younger sister. The history seeps from every pore of the stone walls and steps. The energy is strong and positive in every way. Our hosts were organized and well-versed in providing hospitality to a large group of creatives. Our meals were delicious and reflective of the local culture, often served with a dose of history by patriarch Robert. Matriarch Maruka is elegant, gracious, eager to make sure her guests are comfortable and enjoying their stay. Penelope, Julia's younger sister was dubbed the Magical Elf, appearing with cold water and items needed before we knew we needed them. The art studio is very nicely equipped. We were allowed to paint from the vast collection of objects in the Chateau, as well as on the truly breathtaking in
grounds. There was a beautiful pool to cool off after a hot day of painting en plein air. there are stairs to be climbed and gravel, cobblestone etc to navigate. There is an elevator to one wing of rooms. I ran art workshops for a major player in the US field, and IMO this is one of the best venues I have ever found. 12/10 recommend!

Kylie D.

The Haunting at the Chateau Retreat was a dream. There was so much laughter and joy shared by all. I felt like I was visiting family as we all settled in for days of exploring and creating together. There were magical photoshoots, amazing 4-course meals, silly games, massages, and more. Highly recommend booking a retreat soon!

C W.

Absolutely amazing oasis in the French countryside! We stayed for three nights and each day was full of delightful food, delicious drinks, beauty, and peacefulness. The hosts made us feel right at home, even though it was my first visit to France. The chateau is beautiful and the details in every corner are a delight to see. We can’t wait to return!