Reviews
Retreat Reviews
The Lexis retreat caught my eye because I have always been interested in creating and appreciating interiors and was looking for something rewarding to do when I got a break. I had been following Miv for a while, having read an article about her Australian home in a magazine, some years ago.
The retreat was particularly appealing because it combined my interest in design with a bit of yoga (which I like) and was in France (which I love).
Miv has a lovely studio in a converted outbuilding, where innumerable fabric swatches and reference magazines were at our disposal. Miv guided us through approaching design ideas for specific rooms in our homes. She has a wealth of experience from working and travelling on many continents which really contribute to her individual approach and style which was truly wonderful to soak up and hopefully use as inspiration in the future!
We were very well looked after, the independent accommodation was comfortable and cosy, each individual room tastefully put together with artwork and objets from Miv’s travels or local brocantes.
Francesca Wezel introduced us to her extensive range of stunning paint colours. Some of her paints can be seen in the house and this was also very inspiring, as I feel I have a tendency to choose safe colours as a rule.
Francesca also took led our daily yoga practice which took place in a magnificent barn with a view on the garden which was a great start to the day.
We were catered for by charming French chef, Philippe, and our meals were delicious and thoughtfully prepared, starting at breakfast with fresh eggs from Miv’s hens. Local rose wine flowed!
Miv had arranged access for us all to visit to local chateaux/homes of interest and to both a brocante and food market in pretty local village.
The informal nature of this retreat suited me very well, as it was also a holiday for me. I would say that we learned as much from Miv, walking and talking around the chateaux and sitting around the table in the kitchen, as in the more formal times, working in the studio. It was a happy combination of resources and I would highly recommend.
There was also excellent massage available which was much appreciated after my journey from Paris.
This could have easily been simply a really nice creative retreat in wonderful surroundings, with amazing food, but it was much more than that.