Spiritual Travel to France: La Source of Provence
What was it that drew Mary Magdalen to the shores of what was then known as Gaul? That attracted important progressive artists? And continues to pull those who can sense what is inherent in the very earth of Provence, those who recognize what is reflected in the incredible light that floods the region?
Join us in this unique program that melds sacred historical sites, the energy of the land, with a hearty taste of old Provençal culture — and the influential art that was born of it. Witness "terroir", a closely held value of living with respect toward nature, responsible for producing foods and wines fit for gourmands. This special way of life may soon be gone, threatened by technology and those wanting to dispense with old ways.
This is the region that so profoundly underwent the struggle between the Roman Catholic Church and those they called heretics, finally culminating in the Inquisition. Perhaps that’s why locals live with the open secret that registers the presence of the woman who, legend says, carried the Holy Grail.
We begin in the picturesque village of St. Maximum, visiting the basilica whose crypt contains an important relic of Mary’s. Then, a short distance away, we come to the most hallowed of sites, near St. Baum, the grotto in which The Magdalen lived and taught during her remaining years. Here we will immerse ourselves in the energy, so prevalent and strong that the last king forbade the villagers to embrace the trees in the surrounding forest, and it will inform the rest of our journey. A day trip to the coast, through the beautiful Camargue with its famous white horses and flamingos, brings us to the place where “The Marys” landed. We spend time in the Church Stes. Maries and the shrine to Black Sarah, the patron saint of the Gypsies, where countless healings have been documented.
Stirring in the artistic component, we experience places that inspired famous painters. We spend a morning in Arles where Van Gogh stayed for a time and see the nighttime café he captured in a well-known work. And we visit the village of St. Remy and the asylum where he voluntarily committed himself, remaining until shortly before his death. In this poignant place, we can get a real sense of this tragic master and appreciate the beauty in which he sought to surrender himself.
We learn why Cézanne was so enamored with St. Victoire, a huge limestone mountain arising from the landscape, which he often painted, and we hike the very paths he took up to a refuge. In Aix-en-Provence we enter his atelier, or studio, and get the feeling that he just stepped out for a moment.
Pleasurable surprises are peppered throughout, leading to an immersion in local flavor and encounters with colorful characters. A traditional winery, a tasting of fresh cheese, vespers with the chanting monks of Abbaye de Senanque, ancient villages and traditional markets, culminating with a very special closing of the circle that will remain a secret until then.
We invite you to enter into a deep appreciation of beauty and the natural rhythms of connection to place, an opportunity to step outside time — and into the legendary mystique of Provence.
Important Notes: We reserve our programs for those harder to reach, often unusual places and seek to offer experiences that are unlikely you would have elsewhere.
Through this vessel called spiritual travel, we can give permission — to ourselves — to open and explore the beauty and depth we own but may have forgotten. We can remember it all by creating connections through such places and people that extend them to us... as possibility.
When you register for our programs you are also helping to sponsor others. A percentage of proceeds are donated to a nonprofit that seeks to honor and preserve indigenous wisdom and sacred cultural practices. Their scholarship programs provide cross-cultural exchange, education and community-building opportunities for indigenous peoples, young adults and others.
Registration Deadline: August 15, 2008.
An Experience to Feed Your Soul!
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1, October 11th: Leave home.
Day 2, October 12th: Arrive 11-2. Rest. Meeting 6 PM. Buffet dinner provided.
Day 3, October 13th: Visit St Maximum and Basilica. Grotto St. Baum, Meditation.
Day 4, October 14th: Arles. Camargue, Church Stes, Maries.
Day 5, October 15th: St Remy, Cathedrale D’Images, Special Meditation, Les Baux.
Day 6, October 16th: Hike St Victoire, Meditation, Picnic lunch provided, Museum.
Day 7, October 17th: Cezanne l’atelier, free time to explore Aix-en-Provence.
Day 8, October 18th: Traditional wine and tasting, Abbaye de Senanque, Dinner.
Day 9, October 19th: An experience of lavendar and thyme, special ceremony, Meal.
Day 10, October 20th: Depart for home.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Cost: Early registration discount to $2995 by June 20. After June 20: $3095.
Price Includes:
- All work with spirituality author Carla Woody, including pre and post-trip interface regarding intent and re-entry
- Continental breakfasts, some meals
- Entrance fees
- In-country transport
- Airport transfer to/from Marseille
First come lodging will be on the grounds of the elegant Château de Valmousse, double or triple rooms. Overflow at a nearby B&B. MC/Visa accepted.
Deposit: Non-refundable deposit of $500 to hold your place. Remainder due in full by August 22. Additional $60 returnable deposit as insurance against a weaker dollar.
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
France
Pilgrimage/Spirituality
Archeology/History
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