French Pyrenees

We own and run a natural woodland retreat in a hidden corner of the wild Pyrenean mountains in the Ariege region of south west France, where we offer a range of environmental and special interest courses and simple back to nature holiday options.

We established our base here in 2000, and have been gradually bringing the woodlands and meadows back into sensitive management ever since. The land surrounds a 100 year old stone cattle barn which has been converted into a small residential field centre.

This is an extremely peaceful and secluded rural property of wildflower meadows and extensive natural woodlands, organic gardens and orchards. We have our own stream, which supplies mountain spring water to the barn and offers a natural plunge pool and small cascades downstream. There are a number of great spots for quiet reflection and relaxation.

Facilities are basic but clean, green and functional. We are entirely off the grid at around 1000 metres altitude, using solar power, stream water and composting toilets and solar showers. We provide delicious home cooked healthy fare during our courses and you are welcome to pick your own raspberries and fruit in season from our organic gardens and orchards.

Accommodation options include the barn itself (sleeps 4 to 6), luxury bell tents with beds and bedding provided, and numerous wild camping options (under the stars, in hammocks, in natural shelters, or in tents provided). There are plenty opportunities for evening campfires.

We are also pleased to help organise bespoke holidays. For those interested in hiking we have detailed knowledge of great local routes (donkey hire can also be organised to support longer treks).The area has numerous local cultural attractions (see www.ariege.com for a sample) or you may simply prefer relaxing in this peaceful mountain location.

We work with a number of groups and individuals to promote low impact green tourism and environmental education courses, as well as bringing people back to nature in more informal ways.

Partners include wilderness survival trainers and traditional woodcraft practitioners, stone walling experts, ecological builders, yoga teachers, travel writers and ecologists. The land and accommodation are also available for private hire for your own holiday purposes, to develop small enterprises, run courses or host retreat. We are constantly developing new ideas for collaboration so please do contact us at any time.

There are also occasional and varied volunteering opportunities, for more information please contact