Summer Travel Series: France
Sensory Escape: A Mindful Journey through the French Riviera
July 10 – July 18, 2025
Akilah Reynolds
$3,850 double occupancy / $5,100 single occupancy
14 participants minimum
Trip Description
Imagine a retreat where every moment brings you closer to serenity and mindfulness as you journey through the picturesque French Riviera. Sensory Escape: A Mindful Journey through the French Riviera invites you to indulge in a 10-day immersion into the beauty, culture, and tranquility of Southern France and Monaco.
Each encounter—mindfulness walks, perfume-making workshops, vineyard tastings, and healing water experiences—engages your senses and helps you reconnect with your inner calm, enhancing mental clarity and emotional well-being through intentional, sensory-rich activities.
From wandering through fields of lavender to tasting local delicacies and listening to the gentle waves of the Mediterranean, this retreat rejuvenates and grounds you, allowing you to appreciate the simple joys of the present moment.
Included in the journey are comfortable accommodations, two meals daily, and a curated selection of experiences: a visit to the Monaco Oceanographic Museum and Palace, a perfume workshop at the renowned Fragonard Factory, a tour of the Jardin Exotique d’Eze, a confections tasting, beach yoga, the Lavender Museum, and a scenic vineyard tour. Your transport between these delightful excursions is also included, ensuring a smooth, peaceful experience every step of the way.
Join us for a mindful escape that celebrates the unique beauty of the Riviera and the power of presence.
Info Sessions
- Monday February 3 at 6pm
- Wednesday February 5 at 3pm
- Wednesday February 19 at 12pm
- Monday February 24 at 4pm
- Wednesday March 5 at 3pm
- Thursday March 6 at 7pm
- Monday March 17 at 10am
- Monday March 24 at 4pm
https://stmarys-ca.zoom.us/j/96760483197?pwd=dI9W0C8iJxGpABP71tnWWYMnhlUN2A.1
Meeting ID: 967 6048 3197
Passcode: 719957
Key Dates
Deposits due: April 3
Final payments: April 28
(subject to change)
Day 1: Bienvenue! Thu. July 10th
Arrive and Check in at Hotel Beau Rivage: Located a few steps away from the Promenade des Anglais and the Old Town.
Rest & Orientation: Settle in and take a leisurely stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. Enjoy an engaging welcome dinner with the group at a local restaurant to begin our mindfulness journey with a taste of Provençal cuisine.
Day 2: Explore Nice Fri. July 11th
Définir une intention (Intention setting breakfast): Join us for an intention-setting breakfast where you’ll connect, reflect, and set meaningful intentions for the journey ahead, preparing to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Nice.
Morning visit in the Old Town (Vieux Nice): Set out on a stroll through the vibrant streets of Old Town, enjoy your choice of food and flower selection from Cours Saleya Market (a local market), and explore historic landmarks like the Cathedral of Sainte-Réparate.
Afternoon lunch and relaxation at Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Enjoy panoramic views of Nice and the Mediterranean, and participate in a series of mindfulness exercises including a mindful picnic together overlooking this wonderful view of the city.
Evening dinner and unwind: Enjoy a beachfront dinner and unwind with the calming sound of the waves.
Day 3 Day Trip to Monaco Sat. July 12th
Enjoy breakfast on your own at the hotel.
Travel 30 minutes by train from Nice to Monaco.
Begin the day by activating your sense of sight through experiencing the glamor of Monaco via the Monaco Harbor and Monte Carlo Casino.
Take an afternoon mindful walking tour through the Japanese Garden and/or choose to visit the Princess Grace Botanical Garden: Wander through at least one of these stunning botanical gardens, where you can saunter through these local natural beauties.
Engross yourself in the history and culture by exploring the Prince's Palace of Monaco.
Stay for dinner or return to Nice in the evening to enjoy dinner at a local bistro of your choosing.
Day 4: Day Trip to Èze Sun. July 13th
Breakfast at the hotel.
Take a 20 minute local bus from Nice to Èze.
Start your morning visit to the medieval hilltop village of Èze and explore its narrow streets, craft shops, and gardens.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant together on the mountain top.
Engage your sense of smell at the Fragonard Perfume Factory: Tour the perfume factory to learn how French perfumes are made and immerse yourself in the world of fragrance. Create your own Eau de Toilette (perfume).
Explore the natural wonders at the hilltop where you find the Jardin Exotique d'Èze, tantalizing both your sense of sight and smell.
Hike the Nietzsche Path down from Èze to the sea for a stunning, mindful walk with breathtaking views.
Return to Nice to enjoy a quiet evening and dinner of your choosing.
Day 5: Arouse the Excitement with Bastille Celebrations in Nice (Mon. July 14th)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Feel the exuberance of the city during Bastille, France’s national holiday.
Take to the streets to enjoy the celebrations in accordance with French culture. Bask in the excitement of the day.
Stroll through Parc de la Colline du Château where you will enjoy a French inspired picnic.
Throughout the day, delight in a sensory immersive experience indulging in traditional French cuisines. From crepes, croissants, and macaroons, to wine, cheese, and charcuterie, savor the tastes of the region.
If you’re wanting to engage multiple senses at a high level, watch the parade through Promendae des Anglais.
Select dinner at a location that matches your sensory needs!
Enjoy an electric nightcap with fireworks to commemorate the day.
Day 6: Luxe Leisure Day Trip to Cannes Tue. July 15th
Breakfast at the hotel.
Travel 40 minutes by train from Nice to Cannes.
Take a morning stroll along La Croisette, Cannes' famous boulevard, lined with luxury shops, cafes, and beaches. Enjoy the local cuisine at a cafe together.
Visit the Marché Forville, a bustling local market perfect for tasting fresh produce and local specialties.
Luxuriate on the beach in Cannes activating all of your senses. Enjoy the beauty of the ocean, the melody of the waves, and the fresh scent of the ocean. Feel the kiss of the sun, the grain of the sand on your feet, and the spray of the ocean breeze. Enjoy the refreshing taste of small bites or quench your thirst with water or a tasty liquid delight of your choice.
Enjoy the dinner in Cannes or return to Nice for an evening of leisure.
Day 7: Recharge in Nice (Wed. July 16th)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Start your day with a luxurious confection tasting experience at Confiserie Florian. You’ll be able to sample various fine chocolates and candies, and explore their artisanal methods of crafting each piece.
Head to the famous beach along the Promenade des Anglais. Relax by the Mediterranean Sea or take a refreshing dip.
Deepen your relaxation with guided yoga and meditation on the beach from a local yoga expert.
Further your attention to physical wellness through your own choice of activities for the day. Enjoy a local spa, massage, or continue to enjoy the healing properties of water through the beach or pool. Whatever you decide, center your own wellness needs.
After a relaxing day, activate your body and auditory senses with an evening of music, conversation, and dancing. You can choose to attend a local jazz bar, live music bar, rooftop, lounge, or stay back at the hotel. Have fun and be sure to save time for sleep so that you are rested with your bags packed for our next adventure.
Day 8: Grasee (Thu. July 17th)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Travel 1 hour by chartered bus to Grasse.
Afternoon visit to Lavender Fields: Enjoy the calming sight and fragrance of France’s famous lavender fields. Spend the afternoon in the charming town of Grasse. Visit local artisan shops and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Lunch: Experience a farm-to-table dining experience with organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Celebrate with a local wine tasting before our drive back.
Day 9 Bon Adieu & Setting Intentions for a Well Life (Fri. July 18th)
Enjoy savory bites at a goodbye breakfast where you will set intentions for mindful living.