Location

La Région Charmante de Charente

Welcome to the enchanting Cognac region of France, where Ceangal retreats unfold amidst the serene landscape of vineyards and rolling hills. Our retreats typically held at the historic Logis du Paradis, a haven of tranquility that allows you to connect with nature, yourself, and others while enjoying the best of French culture and Irish hospitality.

Logis du Paradis

Logis du Paradis is a charming 18th-century complex, built around a classic Charentais courtyard. Nestled near the small river Né and amidst the vines of the Grande Champagne Cognac region, it provides a perfect setting for our retreats. The property features a number of comfortable and spacious chambre d'hotes with ensuite bathrooms, luxury self-catering cottages, an outdoor swimming pool, and walled gardens, all designed for your relaxation and enjoyment.

The Cognac Region

The Cognac region is renowned for its production of the world-famous Cognac brandy. Rich in history and culture, the area offers a plethora of experiences for visitors to explore, from visiting Cognac houses and distilleries to strolling through picturesque villages and markets. The region also boasts stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable stay during your retreat.

Proximity to Cities and Attractions

Our retreat location is just ten minutes from Barbezieux-Saint-Hilaire, and thirty minutes from the cities of Cognac and Angoulême. In the vicinity, you can find a range of attractions and landmarks to visit, including historic chateaux, charming villages, and local vineyards.

Outdoor Activities

The beautiful surroundings of the Cognac region offer a variety of outdoor activities for guests to enjoy during their retreat, such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the picturesque countryside. Take a leisurely walk through the vineyards or visit nearby attractions for a taste of local history and culture.

Accessibility and Transportation

Reaching the retreat location is easy, with the nearest airport located in Bordeaux, just an hour's drive away. The region is also well-connected by train, with the closest station in Angoulême. We also provide transport to and from Bordeaux airport included as part of your retreat, taking any stresses of navigating the other side of the road off your plate.

Climate and Weather

The Cognac region experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, making these seasons ideal for exploring the outdoors and participating in retreat activities. Be sure to check the local weather forecast before your visit to pack accordingly.

Like a Gathering of Old Friends

Olive and Charlie were so kind, generous and hospitable and really couldn’t do enough for the group and to make our stay as comfortable as possible. There was a lovely balance between our sessions and local trips. It became like a gathering of old friends after the first night at dinner...I’ll certainly be back!

Miriam Glynn

Far Above My Expectations

My Painting holiday with Ceangal was far above my expectations: our hosts Olive and Charlie were very generous with their time, local knowledge and transport to beautiful local painting sites and towns. Our introduction to gourmet French cuisine, cooked lovingly by Maggy our very talented chef, was a real treat.

Olivia Hayes

A Wonderful Experience

We enjoyed a wonderful experience thanks to the exceptional care from Charlie and Olive, who looked after all our group’s specific needs and included many of our special requests in the programme. We would also like to mention the wonderful cuisine supplied by Maggie. Truly a memorable week.

George & Elaine Balmer

Upcoming Experiences

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Ceangal's upcoming retreats. From the serene mindfulness retreats designed to calm your body and mind, to our gourmet cookery and cognac experiences that indulge your senses, there's an immersive experience waiting just for you. As we continue to create retreats that appeal to a variety of interests, each of our offerings aims to provide an authentic taste of the French countryside, its rich culture, and history.

Mná Mindfulness Retreat

29th September - 1st October 2023

Join us at the exclusive Logis du Paradis, nestled within the breathtaking Cognac region of France, for a very special mná retreat aimed at rejuvenating both your mind and body. Led by Martin Towey, a qualified mindfulness teacher, this retreat introduces participants to various practices that help cultivate awareness, kindness, and compassion towards oneself and one's experiences.

Christmas Cuisine Weekend

8th - 11th December 2023

Join us from 8th to 11th December for lots of fun in the kitchen as you learn from the wonderful Maggy some very special French recipes to dazzle your guests over the Christmas season. Enjoy the perfect balance between chilling and cooking as you pick up endless hints and tips to entertain and impress friends and family.

New Year Cuisine Weekend

26th - 28th January 2024

Begin the New Year with lots of fun in the kitchen as you learn from the wonderful Maggy some very special French recipes to dazzle your guests throughout the year. Join us from 26th to 28th January for a weekend of cooking and relaxation as you pick up endless hints and tips to entertain and impress friends and family.

Cookery & Cognac

18th - 24th February 2024

Join us for a delightful Cookery & Cognac Retreat from the 18th to the 24th of February, 2024. This immersive experience, returning by popular demand, combines the art of French cooking with the allure of the Charente region, home to the world-famous Cognac.

Mná Yoga & Meditation Weekend

12th - 14th April 2024

Join us for a very special Yoga and Meditation Retreat which offers a unique blend of physical and mediative practice. There will be daily yoga and meditation sessions with Tina and Martin, designed to connect to our bodies and senses, and develop a mindful approach to our daily lives. There will be time to get to know other mná, savour quintessential French cuisine, enjoy the beautiful surrounding countryside and create some magical memories.

Plein Air Painting with Michelle Boyle

16th - 20th May 2024

Welcome to the great outdoors for a watercolour painting residency immersed in the beautiful landscape of Grand Champagne de Cognac. Join Artist in Residence Michelle Boyle for an immersive getaway that will nourish both body and soul. Develop your observational and painting skills and explore your unique artistic voice under Michelle's professional guidance.

A Month of Mindfulness Online

12th, 19th, 26th & 30th June 2024

Move through 2024 more mindfully by pausing and listening to what’s really going on within the body, the heart and the overactive mind. Take time to cultivate your capacity to be more mindful day to day, more present to yourself and to others, and look forward to brighter days.

Celtic Wellness Retreat

12th - 15th October 2024

Join us for a very special Yoga and Mindfulness Retreat which offers a unique blend of physical and mediative practice. There will be daily yoga and mindfulness sessions with Tina and Martin, designed to connect to our bodies and senses, and develop a mindful approach to our daily lives. There will be time to rest, relax, socialise if you wish, savour quintessential French cuisine, enjoy the beautiful surrounding countryside and create some magical memories.

French Food & Wine Tasting Experience

20th - 24th November 2024

Join us from 20th to 24th November for a very special food & wine tasting experience. a sensory immersion in the food and wine of the Aquitaine region of France. Hosted by Olive & Charlie, you will embark on a journey of sensory delight...savouring the foie gras of Aquitaine, the oysters of Arcachon, the renowned wines of Bordeaux, Medoc, Saint-Emilion - Pomerol - Fronsac, Entre-deux-Mers, Graves, Sauternes, Blaye, Côtes de Bourg and much more...

Spring Revival Retreat

15th - 18th May 2025

Join us in Spring 2025 at the beautiful L'ancienne Distillerie, nestled within the breathtaking Cognac region of France for a special restful retreat aimed at restoring body and mind. Led by Natalia Ripsher, founder of The Little Room of Harmony, this experience will introduce you to practices, which help relax and still the body, quieten the mind and centre the spirit.