Along the sun-kissed coast of southwest France, you will find…
the enchanting Atlantic landscape of Arcachon Bay, where golden sand dunes meet the sea, and vineyards stretch for miles.
Home to one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions and a vibrant coastal food scene. Here, you are invited to savour, soften, and soak in the late summer sunshine.
This is Nurture Your Nature. A retreat designed to connect you with the local land, the healing power of the sea, and the sensory celebration of being alive!
Through movement and stillness, exploration and rest, this retreat invites you to pause, play, and enjoy the good life.
Sun on your skin. Feet in the sand. A glass of something beautiful in hand.
August 31 - September 5, 2026
Included in Your Retreat Package:
6 days + 5 nights accommodation at Villa La Tosca on the Arcachon Bay
Daily themed yoga + meditation practices
5 nourishing brunches + 3 vibrant dinners prepared by a Michelin-starred chef
Private boat journey aboard an authentic wooden Pinasse + oyster tasting
Energy healing + breathwork journey + curated ceremonies under the stars
Access to orchard gardens with fresh fruit + sauna and pool on site
Spacious time to rest, reflect + explore the historical village of Saint-Émilion
High value gift bag from our retreat partners lululemon + Pokoloko + North Coast Naturals
+ many more thoughtful surprises and delights!
Optional Additions:
Sand dune excursion + sunset seafood dinner with live music
Vineyard tour + wine tasting + long table gastronomy lunch
Your Hosts:
Aleysha Derksen
Inspired Yoga • Embodied Practices • Ceremonial Offerings
A note for you:
“This region has long been a dream retreat destination of mine. Back in 2020, I had a retreat in France booked that had to be cancelled as the world recalibrated. Since then, I’ve carried the vision of gathering here with you to share yoga, wine, and delicious food.
The time has come! Imagine an elegant European holiday - full of flavour and the finer things - yet also deeply restorative and grounding, with slow meals shared around the table, and the kind of open-hearted connection you can expect from my retreats.
It would be an absolute honour to have you here.”
Arinn Ryan
Breathwork Facilitator • Energy Healer • Journey Curator
A note from Arinn:
“It’s my joy and honour to help guide your experience in this beautiful, sun-soaked corner of France. This region has long been known for its fresh ocean air and restorative pace. The Bay is shaped by powerful tides that move in and out each day. That steady return has its own kind of wisdom, like an inhale and exhale we can follow.
During our time together, I’ll lead you through a somatic breathwork journey, gentle energy work, and reflection rituals designed to help you land in your body and support a sense of clarity, release, and renewal.
I cannot wait to share this unfolding with you.”
Kaylyn West
Photographer • Intuitive Guide • Energy Healer
A note for you from Kay:
“It feels really special to be here with you.
As a photographer, I’m here to document the moments as they naturally unfold. I’m a nurturer by nature, and I’ve always seen the beauty in people, in their stories, in the small, in between moments that often go unnoticed. I see people deeply, what makes them who they are, and I love reflecting that back through my work.
Alongside that, I move through this space as an intuitive guide, offering 1:1 energy healing and intuitive readings for those who feel called. Supporting you in softening, reconnecting, and maybe even seeing yourself a little more clearly, too.
I’m so looking forward to sharing this space with you.”
Accommodations:
Tucked into the scenic shores of the Arcachon Bay in southwest France, Villa La Tosca is a serene beachfront escape. This restored 20th century villa is a sanctuary of light and trees, inviting you to slow down and connect with nature’s rhythms.
Each room at Villa La Tosca has its own character and story, thoughtfully curated with artistic details that feel both elegant and unique. Whether you’re sitting in stillness by the seaside, reading in a sunlit corner of the garden, or simply resting in your room, you are sure to discover a sense of wonder and ease.
Surrounded by lush gardens and the salt air of the Atlantic ocean, Villa La Tosca offers space to breathe deeply and soak in the late summer sunshine. Step into the ecological swimming pool fed by natural spring water, take a forest bath among the pines, or ground with a beach walk at sunset. A deeply nourishing experience awaits you here.
Bordeaux Region:
Often called the heart and soul of French wine country, Bordeaux is a historic gem with a rich cultural legacy and some of the world’s most celebrated vineyards. This retreat offers you the chance to experience and explore some of the best of the region:
Arcachon is a classic seaside town on the Bay, known for its boating culture, relaxed coastal energy, and an abundance of oysters and fresh seafood. This is the area where our retreat house is situated.
Cap Ferret (on the Atlantic coast near Arcachon Bay) is a chic coastal town at the tip of the peninsula known for its style, small boutiques, and café culture. The day of our boat trip you will have time to wander, browse local shops, and stop for something sweet at a local favourite patisserie Frédélian!
Dune du Pilat is the region’s most iconic natural landmark. They are Europe’s tallest dunes with panoramic views over Arcachon’s sandbanks, the Atlantic coastline, and inland stretching pine forests. The area is also home to excellent seafood restaurants. The day of our boat trip we will enjoy a sunset view of the dunes and dinner with live music at a waterfront terrace.
Saint-Émilion is one of France’s most enchanting wine villages, surrounded by renowned vineyards and full of energy. The town is beautifully preserved, with honey-coloured limestone buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and terraces that spill into sunny squares.
Saint-Émilion’s vineyards form a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape, with a winemaking tradition shaped over centuries by the land itself and the people who have cultivated it. The terroir here is famously diverse, creating wines known for depth, structure, and elegance. This will be the area we explore on the day of our vineyard tour.
Daily Wellness Practices:
Channel and refine your energy through daily movement and meditation. Inspired yoga practices will be themed around an intention for the day and will be guided by Aleysha.
Styles of yoga may include vinyasa flow, yin, restorative, yoga nidra, pranayama, and guided meditations. Practices may take place inside the sun-filled yoga room, or outside in the covered garden dome. Essential oils, hands-on assists, and mini massages all included!
Breathwork and gentle energy work will be facilitated by Arinn and. A somatic breathwork journey will blend intentional breathing, body awareness, and guided prompts to support nervous system regulation, emotional release, and grounded presence.
Practices will be suitable for all levels. Villa La Tosca has mats and an abundance of props on site available for your use, no need to travel with any extras.
Nourishment:
Your meals on retreat will be prepared by Raoul de Koning, an award winning, Michelin-starred chef devoted to the art of cooking. Trained in classical French cuisine, he has refined his craft through decades of international experience across Europe, Mexico, the Middle East, and Asia. His approach blends intuition with a deep understanding of global flavour.
Over his career, he has owned five restaurants, earning a Michelin star and three Gault & Millau toques (chef hats).
Today, his cuisine is healthy, light, and modern, rooted in seasonal, organic ingredients and conscious sourcing. For Nurture Your Nature, Raoul will be designing meals that are both refined and deeply nourishing. Shared meals are a cornerstone of our week together, where you will slow down, connect, and savour the region through its food.
“Food that doesn’t bring joy, cannot truly nourish. Cooking, for me, is not only about feeding people. It is about caring for them.”
- Chef Raoul de koning
Sample Dinner Menu
Starter: Oysters of the Bay prepared 3 ways with pickled garnish
Main: Saffron Risotto with Mackerel, Haddock, shrimp, peas and pecorino
Dessert: Mille-Feuille, caramel sauce, peanut cream, cocoa powder
Private Boat Journey:
A classic pinasse is the signature boat of the Arcachon Bay. Departing in the afternoon from Cap Ferret, we will enjoy a 3 hour cruise close to the coastline in a traditional wooden boat. Highlighting the kind of elegance and adventure the region is known for.
As the Bay shifts into golden hour, we will dock in Arcachon and head to Dune du Pilat for sunset overlooking the sand dunes, and then continue on to a seaside dinner at a local terrace with live music, oysters, and bubbles.
Vineyard Tour:
Wander through the historic town of Saint-Émilion, and enjoy a private tour of Château de Candale, one of the region’s most distinct vineyards and winemakers. The tour includes a tasting of three wines, including one Grand Cru Classé, and a paired long-table lunch at the castle’s restaurant, L'Atelier de Candale. The four course gastronomic menu features dishes enhanced by four wines with distinct aromatic profiles, produced by Magali & Thibaut Decoster and sourced from the surrounding vineyards.
Note: This excursion is optional and is in addition to your retreat package.
Rooms & Investment:
Pricing is in Euros, all taxes included
€800 non-refundable retainer required to secure booking
Flexible PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE
La Vue
En-Suite | 360° Sea View | King Bed
Located on the 2nd and 3rd floors in the villa’s belvedere. Gaze out over the horizon onto the ocean and pine forest, with Arcachon and Cap Ferret in the distance. Here, time stands still, and you feel as if you’re suspended in the clouds.
Double Occupancy
(SOLD) €3725 per person
L’Eau Vive
En-Suite | Sea View | King Bed
Located on the 1st floor, this is the largest suite in Villa La Tosca. This refined 80 m2 suite features two private terraces: one overlooking the Bassin and the gardens, and another overlooking the ecological swimming pool. Two dressing rooms, one for each guest, make this room feel extra spacious and luxurious.
Double Occupancy
€3875 per person
Ocean view from La Vue
Le Bassin
En-Suite | Sea View | King Bed or 2 Single Beds
Located on the 1st floor, Le Bassin offers access to a large walkout private terrace from which you can admire the sunset and a magnificent view of the ocean. A marble fireplace and hand carved wooden decor come together to create a cozy, warm atmosphere.
Single or Double Occupancy
(SOLD) €4300 single OR €3475 per person
Le Verandah
En-Suite | Sea View | Queen Bed | Dressing Room
Located on the ground floor, La Vérandah opens directly to the garden and beach. Including a private sea view terrace. This is the most accessible room on the property.
Single or Double Occupancy
(SOLD) €4300 single OR €3475 per person
Walk out terrace from Le Bassin
Le Confort
En-Suite | Skylight | King Bed
Located on the 2nd floor, Le Confort is perhaps our most romantic room. A former attic converted into a loft style room. The overhead skylight lets you drift into sleep as you gaze up at the starry sky.
Single or Double Occupancy
€4100 single OR €3275 per person
La Foret
En-Suite | Tree View | King Bed or 2 Single Beds
Located on the 1st floor, La Foret is a room feels like a warm hug. Gaze out the window onto the beautiful oak tree tops. Featuring chateau inspired decor and your very own fireplace.
Single or Double Occupancy
(SOLD) €4100 single OR €3275 per person
La Source
En-Suite | Garden & Villa View | 2 Single Beds
La Source is a peaceful and elegant room located in the garden house separate from the main villa. Featuring a private terrace surrounded by trees, and an outdoor lounge that offers a calm sanctuary to unwind in nature.
Double Occupancy
€3150 per person
Le Papillon
En-Suite | Garden & Villa View | 2 or 3 Single Beds
Le Papillon is a whimsical, light-filled room nestled in the garden house separate from the main villa. Featuring a spacious entrance, full-length mirrored wardrobes, and a cozy lounge with reading nook.
Triple Occupancy
(2/3 SOLD) €2850 per person
La Chaudiere
En-Suite | King Bed or 2 Single Beds
Located on the ground floor, La Chaudiere is our most intimate and cozy room. In warm beige tones and colors with pops of pinks and reds, it’s simple yet elegant style is the perfect space to retreat to at night.
(SOLD)
Not Included in Your Retreat Package:
Airfare to/from Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD) or Charles de Gaulle airport (CDG)
Ground transportation to/from the Villa (can be organized through us, but is not included)
Optional Vineyard Tour + dinner in Saint-Émilion on Sept 3
Additional excursions / optional activities
Additional food / beverages
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Gratuities
Villa La Tosca from Arcachon Bay
Travel & Arrival Notes:
Check in is at 4pm on Monday August 31.
We recommend flying into Bordeaux, with Paris as an easy option as well. If your schedule allows, arriving early is a lovely way to explore Bordeaux or Paris before our time together at Villa La Tosca.
Closest airport: Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD)
By car from BOD: approximately 50 minutes to Villa La Tosca
Main train stations nearby: Arcachon and Biganos–Facture
Arriving from Paris
If you are arriving from Paris, you can take the train south toward Arcachon Bay. The route typically takes approximately 3–4 hours, depending on the schedule and connections. From Arcachon or Biganos–Facture, it is a short drive to the villa.
Arriving from Bordeaux
If you fly into Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport, the villa is approximately 40 minutes by car. If you arrive by train to Bordeaux Saint-Jean, the ride is typically about 1 hour. You can take the train from Bordeaux to Arcachon in approximately 50–60 minutes, then continue by car to the villa.
Transfers
Taxis and ride shares are available. We will share recommended transfer options closer to the retreat and can help coordinate shared transfers for guests arriving at the similar times at the same locations.
Check out is at 11am on Saturday September 5.
Cancellation Policy:
If you are unable to attend the retreat after making a payment, a refund (minus deposit) will only be given in the event that another person is able to take your place with a minimum of 30 days out from the retreat start date. Deposit is non-refundable and non-transferrable.
Travel agent: Deanna BEATTY - deanna@romanceandfoodietravel.ca
TICO #50021282
1003-55 York St Toronto, On M5J 1R7
What people are saying about Nurture Your Nature:
San Miguel de Allende, 2025
San Miguel de Allende, 2024
Joshua Tree, 2023
Sedona, 2022
Sedona, 2019
“a first class experience with the attention to detail that you would expect from aleysha. A truly unique retreat. Do it if you can”
- bill connerty
“Aleysha has a gift for attracting amazing people. I could not have imagined a better group or scripted a more fulfilling experience.”
- WALTER PAMIC
“a beautiful, personalized, and thoughT provoking retreat. It truly invigorated my senses and gave me space to bloom.”
- ERIN MORLEY
“My gratitude to Aleysha for creating such an exquisite space in which to explore this new territory, is eternal. A dream.”
- Karen Dover
“simply one of the best times of my life, and a time I will cherish forever. I highly recommend Aleysha's retreats."
- aMANDA Rassam
“Sagrada was absolutely stunning, and the whole experience just felt really welcoming and special.”
- Steven Morgan
“The setting, the practices, the food, the company - truly magical."
- Kate Kennedy
“It was more than a retreat - it was a return to myself."
- aida robbins
Your hosts, Arinn & Aleysha
"The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea,"
ISAK DINESEN