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South of france

Women's Yoga & Pilates Retreat: Restore & Enjoy

A 7-day retreat to restore your body, reconnect with joy, and savor the beauty of simply being

July 5 - 11, 2026

the retreat:

Set at a sun-drenched villa in the rolling hills of Provence, this 7-day retreat is an invitation to slow down and return to yourself. Between daily movement, nourishing meals, and long, spacious afternoons by the pool, you’ll rediscover the quiet magic that comes from creating space—physically, emotionally, and energetically.

This isn’t a retreat about fixing or striving. It’s about softening. About saying yes to pleasure, presence, and the simple joy of being alive.

Through daily yoga, Pilates, meditation, and breath-led practices—rooted in the Present Practice philosophy—you’ll strengthen your connection to your body, your breath, and the version of you that’s grounded, joyful, and clear. You’ll feel both strong and soft, restored and empowered, held and free.

Afternoons are yours to enjoy: lounge by the pool, play tennis on our private court, wander through nearby villages, or simply do nothing at all. We’ll gather each evening for chef-prepared meals inspired by the flavors of the French countryside, and share stories, laughter, and connection under the golden light of summer.

This retreat is for the woman who’s ready to feel good in her body, clear in her mind, and inspired by her life again. You’ll leave feeling more like yourself—spacious, radiant, and deeply at home

The Journey: summer in provence

Tucked into the rolling hills of the Luberon, just outside the storybook village of Gordes, lies our private villa — a sun-soaked sanctuary surrounded by lavender fields, olive trees, and the quiet rhythm of southern France. July is peak lavender season, and the entire region hums with color, scent, and beauty.

This elegant countryside estate is all ours for the week. With a sparkling private pool, shaded terraces, a full-size tennis court, and expansive gardens, the villa offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and refined comfort.

Each guest room is cozy and chic, with options for private or shared occupancy. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, sipping coffee in the garden, or wandering through nearby villages, you’ll feel both held and free — with space to breathe and be.

During the day, you’ll have the freedom to explore or simply enjoy the art of doing nothing:

  • Wander through fragrant lavender fields in bloom

  • Stroll the cobblestone streets of Gordes

  • Play a friendly match on the tennis court (rackets included!)

  • Join a guided wine tasting on the terrace

  • Or spend the afternoon curled up with a book and a breeze

This is a retreat designed to restore your body, awaken your senses, and invite you into the fullness of the moment — all in one of the most enchanting corners of the world.

What to Expect

Yoga, Pilates & Presence

Each morning begins with a nourishing movement practice — a blend of breath-led vinyasa yoga and invigorating Pilates designed to help you feel strong, spacious, and at home in your body. Rooted in the Present Practice philosophy of discipline, discovery, and devotion, our sessions will guide you back to presence through mindful movement, breathwork, and intention.

Every other day includes a deeper workshop or restorative flow: think gentle yin, core-focused Pilates, or heart-opening practices that invite you to slow down and soften into yourself.

Slow Living & Spacious Afternoons

This retreat invites you to embrace the art of slowing down. Between practices, you’ll have wide open afternoons to move at your own pace:

Lounge by the private pool with a glass of rosé or sparkling water

Play tennis on our private court (rackets included!)

Wander the blooming lavender fields

Explore nearby villages like Gordes for markets, coffee, or a quiet afternoon stroll

Sink into stillness with a book, a nap, or conversation under the trees

Seasonal French-Inspired Cuisine

Our private chef will prepare fresh, seasonal meals inspired by the vibrant flavors of southern France — think colorful salads, local cheeses, nourishing grains, and lighter takes on French classics. Meals are shared al fresco and designed to feel both grounding and indulgent.

A special wine tasting evening will highlight local varietals, and dietary needs will be joyfully accommodated.

The Energy

This retreat is feminine, joyful, and easeful — a week of beauty, movement, and connection that fills you up from the inside out.

You’ll leave feeling more like yourself: strong, rested, radiant, and reconnected to what truly brings you joy.

Itinerary Overview

Each day invites movement, reflection, and pleasure — with space to reconnect, restore, and simply be.

  • Afternoon arrivals at the villa

    Spritz + chef-prepared snacks by the pool

    Opening circle + intention-setting ritual

    Welcome dinner under the setting sun

  • Morning coffee + quiet reflection: walk the lavender fields, meditate, or read

    Co-taught Yoga & Pilates fusion class with Morgan & Anika + journaling circle

    Brunch

    Free afternoon: swim in the pool, play tennis, wander into Gordes, or rest in the gardens

    Evening snacks + chef-prepared dinner

  • Morning coffee + quiet reflection

    Morning Yoga flow + journaling circle

    Brunch

    Afternoon Pilates session for strength and tone

    Evening snacks + dinner

  • Morning coffee + quiet reflection

    Morning Pilates flow + journaling circle

    Brunch

    Afternoon Restorative yoga workshop to reset body and mind

    Wine tasting at the villa before dinner

    Chef-prepared dinner

  • Morning coffee + quiet reflection

    Morning Yoga flow + journaling circle

    Brunch

    Free afternoon: soak up the sun, read by the pool, play tennis, or revisit the lavender fields

    Evening snacks + dinner

  • Morning coffee + quiet reflection

    Co-taught Yoga & Pilates class with Morgan & Anika + journaling circle

    Brunch

    Spacious afternoon: rest, reflect, connect, or explore

    Closing circle + cacao ceremony before dinner

    Farewell dinner under the stars

  • Optional final Pilates flow to seal the experience

    Light breakfast + heartfelt goodbyes

    Depart grounded, joyful, and renewed

Note: Itinerary may shift slightly based on timing, group energy, and flow. We’ll follow the rhythm of the retreat and the magic of Provence!

Meet your retreat leaders

Morgan O’Hare

Retreat Leader | Founder of Present Practice Yoga

Morgan is the founder of Present Practice Yoga and the visionary behind our global retreats. Known for her grounded presence, poetic cueing, and ability to hold soulful, transformative space, Morgan’s teaching blends yoga philosophy, embodiment, and mindfulness. She invites you to slow down, feel deeply, and reconnect with your truest self — on and off the mat.

She and Anika dreamed up this retreat while in Montenegro for Morgan’s 2025 women’s retreat, where Anika attended as a guest and shared her signature Pilates class. That spark of connection has grown into this shared offering — a week of movement, rest, and radiant self-discovery in the South of France.

Anika Carlson

Retreat Co-Leader | Pilates Instructor

Anika has always turned to movement as a way to reset and reconnect. After years of group fitness, running, and strength training, she followed her calling to become a certified Pilates instructor — first on the reformer, then expanding into mat work. Since then, she’s taught over 400 classes and found her voice in a teaching style that blends mindful movement with functional strength.

Her classes are dynamic, challenging, and full of heart — designed to leave you feeling strong, aligned, and energized. Expect smart sequencing, intentional cueing, and Anika’s sunny energy to lift your spirits and move you from the inside out.

Retreat Coordinator & Photographer

Morgan will be joined by one of Present Practice’s trusted retreat coordinators and a dedicated photographer to ensure your journey is seamless, well-supported, and beautifully documented. From logistics to laughter, you’ll be fully held every step of the way.

FAQ

  • Not at all. All classes are beginner-friendly and intentionally designed to meet you where you are. Whether it’s your first retreat or your fiftieth, you’ll be fully supported — and inspired.

  • Absolutely. Many of our guests come solo and leave with lifelong friends. If you book a shared room, we’ll pair you with another guest in the group.

  • We recommend flying into Marseille (MRS) or Avignon (AVN). From there, the villa is about 1–2 hours away by car. Some of us will take the scenic train from Paris to Avignon and coordinate group transportation to the villa — you’re welcome to join!

  • You’re welcome to, especially if you’d like to explore the region before or after the retreat. The villa is walking distance (about 30 minutes) to the picturesque town of Gordes, so you won’t need a car for daily activities. We’ll help coordinate carpools and shared rentals for those interested.

  • Yes — please bring your own yoga mat. Most airlines allow mats to be carried in the overhead bin (we’ve never had any issues), or you can fold it into your suitcase.

  • Connected, light-hearted, and deeply supportive. This retreat is for women craving movement, presence, fun, and soul-nourishing community. Expect laughter by the pool, meaningful conversations over spritzes, and space to truly be yourself.

  • Retreat deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. All remaining payments are non-refundable due to the nature of international travel and retreat planning. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment — because Life happens.

  • Yes. Our private chef creates fresh, French-inspired meals using seasonal, local ingredients and can accommodate most dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan. We’ll collect your preferences after booking.

Investment & Room Options

  • Your home for the week is The Fountainhead — a secluded, design-forward villa nestled in the hills of the Luberon. Surrounded by lavender fields, gardens, and panoramic views of the Provençal countryside, the property features beautifully curated interiors, artistic touches, and plenty of quiet corners to rest and restore. Each room offers luxury linens, natural light, and elegant details that reflect the beauty of the region.

    We offer the following room types to support your ideal retreat experience:

    Private Room with Ensuite

    • One guest per room

    • One double bed + private ensuite bathroom

    • Ideal for solo travelers seeking privacy, stillness, and comfort

    • Beautifully appointed with garden or countryside views

    Shared Room with Ensuite

    • Two guests per room (shared with a friend, we can pair you with someone!)

    • Two single beds (or one shared bed upon request) + private ensuite bathroom

    • Spacious, stylish, and light-filled — perfect for those seeking connection and ease

  • At Present Practice, we believe in making life-changing experiences feel possible, supportive, and worth every moment.

    Early Bird Pricing

    (Available through October 10, 2025, or while space remains!)

    Retreat Pricing

    Double Room with Ensuite (shared with a roommate): $2,900 per person

    Private Room with Ensuite (solo occupancy): $4,200 per person

    Deposit & Payment Plans

    • A $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to reserve your spot in a shared room

    • An $800 deposit is required to reserve a private room

    • Your deposit is applied toward your total retreat investment

    • Remaining balance may be paid in full or divided into monthly payments — we’re happy to create a custom plan that works for you

    • Full balance is due by April 29, 2026 (60 days before retreat begins)

    Please note:

    • Flights and car rentals are not included in the retreat price. Guests are welcome to rent cars if they’d like to explore the greater Provence region — we’re happy to help coordinate with fellow participants to make travel easy and enjoyable.

    • 7 days / 6 nights of immersive retreat programming at a luxury private villa in the South of France

    • Daily yoga, Pilates, and journaling practices in a light-filled indoor space and outdoor garden areas

    • Afternoon workshops, cacao ceremony, opening circle

    • Free time to enjoy the villa: lounge by the private pool, walk the lavender fields, play tennis, or explore nearby towns

    • Spritz bar select afternoons and wine tasting at the villa (alcohol outside of this not included, but you may bring your own or purchase wine locally)

    • Chef-prepared meals:

      → Morning coffee + light offerings

      → Midday brunch

      → Evening snacks + multi-course dinners

    • Use of the villa’s private tennis court, pool, and spacious indoor/outdoor living spaces

    • Present Practice retreat journal

    • Group support with travel coordination and car rentals (if you'd like to explore further afield)

    • Other special surprises along the way

  • Not Included

    • Flights to and from France

    • Transportation to the villa (car rentals optional; we’ll help coordinate group carpooling or scenic arrivals from Avignon)

    • Alcoholic beverages beyond the spritz bars and included wine tasting (you’re welcome to bring your own wine or purchase from local shops)

    • Meals or drinks enjoyed off-site

    • Travel insurance (recommended)

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