campfire stories
Food traditions from the land
September 23rd-29th - France
the Magic of Slow Living
Are you looking for a unique and one-of-a-kind escape from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind? Longing for a break that offers more than just relaxation – something that ignites your curiosity and fills your soul? Join us during this immersive week like no other and come and experience the simple life.
In this world where there is always new information, always a new groundbreaking breathing technique, new marketing tool or ice bath trend to follow, we would like to invite you to slow down. Experience the grounding and healing effects of spending your days outside, learning more about preserving your foods, having fun and exploring the wild.
Welcome to our deep dive into the food stories of the mountains of Ardeche and beyond. The ultimate way to get to know a place is through it’s food and stories and that’s exactly what we will do. Experience artisanal food connected to nature’s season.
Picture this: nestled in the wild surroundings of the Ardeche, surrounded by towering mountains and lush landscapes, lies an old Chestnut farm.
Here, amidst the tranquil setting, you'll have the chance to learn from the best of the best. Max, a master of traditional food conservation, with stories that could fill volumes and Lottie, chef and steward of the land, passionate about zero waste living and sharing her knowledge on fermenting and creating your own food traditions.
But wait, there's more. As a nature lover myself, I'll be there every step of the way, guiding you through exhilarating experiences that will leave you feeling alive and restored.
Breathe, Learn, Reconnect
Wake up to birdsong and the sound of the water running down the mountain. Rise to freshly brewed coffee and grounding morning activities. Immerse yourself in our workshops and daily activities Reconnect with nature.
Transformative in its approach this event is purposely small for its attendees to be fully immersed and truly hands on. You will have exclusive time learning artisanal food preparation with chefs and foragers, learn to create your own food rituals and why now more than ever, these are important for you and the planet.
Immerse in nature with lots of opportunities for stargazing, moonlit walks, river dips, hiking and even wild sleeping if that takes your fancy. You decide your own rhythm.
Learn about chestnuts, wild river food, the hunter and gatherers of days long gone and the new kids on the block. Meet new food heroes, eat wonderfully, drink beautiful wine and frothy beers, make friends for life and go home inspired ready to connect with what you make, eat and serve to your friends and family. You will have some skills learned from the pro’s in your back pocket too.
The perfect setting
At the foot of the Mont d’Ardèche nestled among mountains and set deeply into the chestnut woodland of the Bourges valley, you find Margot a bijoux little hideout.
Move in nature’s rhythm. Breathe. Let your lungs fill with clean air. Listen to the trickling of the stream and rustling of leaves through the treetops. The birds sing their morning song, the butterflies dot around. Watch the stars at night. Laze in a hammock. Just be.
Margot is a family run business run by Lottie & Jean-Marc. After thirty years of living in London, they decided to relocate to the south of France and to be closer to nature. Jean-Marc from the Languedoc in France originally worked as a photographer and creative arts educator. Lottie was born in the Netherlands and worked in London as a freelance chef and running her own successful food business. They use their experiences to join the dots between positive climate action, and hospitality. They like to share their philosophy around local economy, less waste & landfill in the everyday life and aspect of a small-and-beautiful business.
“I’ve learned to slow down, appreciate the small things, and seriously, I feel like I can take on anything now. It’s not just an event. it’s like I’ve been given this new lens to see the world – and it’s so beautiful. experience it for yourself if you can.”
The after glow
You will leave with a whole new set of culinary skills. We will give you easy to make recipes, tips and tricks, so you can really integrate these new learned skills into your everyday life, all while caring for our planet.
You developed a deep understanding and love for the rich history of local food traditions.
You found yourself a new big love for fermentation and zero-waste cooking.
You feel revitalized, mentally and physically, as you reconnected with nature through stargazing, river dips, and mindful walks. It's like hitting the reset button for your well-being.
You take home a new and unique toolbox of mindfulness and relaxation techniques that stick with you long after the retreat ends. You are ready to embrace a slower, more fulfilling pace of life.
You'll leave with new lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging, built on our shared experiences and values. It's like finding your tribe!
You discovered practical ways to live more sustainably, aligning your lifestyle with your values. From food choices to reduce waste you'll feel empowered to make a positive impact.
You experienced personal growth through self-reflection and insight, gaining new perspectives on life and your priorities. Unlock your hidden potential and embrace new possibilities.
You are inspired to unleash your creativity, fueled by the beauty of nature and the joy of learning new skills.
You feel more confident, ready to make meaningful changes and share your knowledge with others.
You have reignited your sense of adventure and curiosity, eager to explore new places and embrace life's possibilities.
Price: 2.350 euro per person
Includes:
Single bed in shared Glamping tent
All meals
All food workshops including material and ingredients
All nature activities
Does Not Include:
Transportation to and from Margot. We can arrange a pick up from the nearest train station or airport for you. More details will be send to you after booking.
Extra drinks and snacks. (Are available on-site)
Supplements:
300 euros for a shared room in the Woodland Cabin or the Little House. Only 4 places available
250 euros for the Mushroom House. Perfect for a couple
ready to join? here are the details
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Lottie Tork
CHEF & CUSTODIAN OF LA FESAYE
Followed her dream to live a life slower and more connected to the planet. Lottie wants to share these beautiful grounds to inspire others and to build a community that sees value in living a life that is sustainable for people and for the planet.
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Max Jones
TRADITIONAL FOOD CONSERVATIONIST
Max from ‘Up there the last‘ reveals much more than delicious food. He uncovers our connection to nature, animals, and the planet around us. He shares the simple skills that create flavourful, sustainable food.
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Selfa Verlaat
CREATING IMMERSIVE NATURE EXPERIENCES
Campfire Chronicles is her new way to express the love of reconnecting people to nature. Hosting immersive experiences and sharing her positive view on life is what she lives for.
