Hyères holds this kind of timeless allure that has captivated me ever since my first special visit for an arts retreat with Lisa Congdon at Simple Life in Provence in 2022. Returning to this idyllic location to lead retreats with Simple Life in Provence has allowed me the gift of guiding and witnessing the profound power of personal metamorphoses, self-discovery, and self-empowerment in the most magical setting. The Michaud family, Maria and Mathieu, are our hosts, chefs, and guides; their warmth, kindness, generosity, and hospitality will leave you feeling cared for and like a part of their family. The meals they prepare are sublime, and their sunlit villas are beautiful and spacious, ensconced in forests, with views to the sea.
— Gena Chieco, led retreats in 2023 & 2024
What makes A Life in Provence Retreats so unique and special is that you are staying in the home of a multigenerational French family in a barely discovered Provincial town by the sea. The hosts are incredibly kind and generous and share with us their favorite spots in their hometown. Every single dish we ate in their home was traditional and delicious - a truly authentic experience. Watching this French family work together is truly heartwarming and they make all of their guests feel like old friends.
— Annemarie Ahearn, taught a cooking class in 2023 & 2024

 
The family of Simple Life in Provence go above and beyond for their guests with delicious meals, private accommodations, relaxing environment with pool, and excellent excursions. I attended an art retreat with Victoria Johnson in summer 2022, and it was one of the best vacations I’ve ever had.
— Ingrid, Sweden

This retreat was more amazing than I ever could have imagined before attending! The location is so peaceful and lush, the family is full of kindness and humor and they are all so hospitable and welcoming, and the adventures planned are experiences you may never have thought you would have in your life! We biked on a beautiful island, swam in the Mediterranean, and cooked in a community kitchen with keepers of traditional regional recipes! And on top of all of that that we had an incredible crew of participants-turned-close-friends and the creative leadership and teachings of such an amazing artist. It was a really restorative and empowering trip, and I am so grateful to everyone who made it possible!
— Kelsey, Massachusetts

 
I attended a summer retreat last year and I think it was the best week of my life. Victoria is amazing, the owners of Simple Life in Provence make you feel part of their family, and the place is heaven.
— Laura, Argentina

 
I highly recommend this retreat! I did it last year & it was absolute perfection! Every need is met! From lovely accommodations, delicious food & drink, gracious & fun host family to amazing camaraderie with fellow artists all set in gorgeous Provence!
— Liz, Oregon

The retreat I attended at Simple Life in Provence was one of the most life altering and affirming experiences I have had in my life! From the moment you step foot into this stunning space, Mathieu and his beautiful and kind family are so welcoming. They go above and beyond in supporting each attendee in whatever needs they have. As a COMPLETE beginner to the art field, yes, I am talking stick figures. I wanted a high quality experience that would teach me technical skills while at the same time I wanted to not take a traditional class which in my experience tends to be stuffy or competitive. This retreat exceeded my wishes! The art classes were top notch, the space is beautiful, the food is wonderful, and the adventures are deeply fun. I walked away feeling more confident in the artistic process, refreshed, energized and joyful, I recommend Simple Life in Provence to everyone!
— Haley, Colorado

 
This retreat offers so many opportunities to experience: learning techniques from an amazing artist, delicious meals prepared and beautifully presented, excursions to explore the surrounding area, and a warm, welcoming family atmosphere in a beautiful Southern France setting. You will not be disappointed!
— Kristi, New York

 
I highly recommend! I felt so lucky to go last year! It was a magical week! I went by myself but felt instantly welcomed and part of a wonderful family of friends and artists! And I learned so much from Victoria. She is amazing! Wish I could go again this year. Best gift to yourself ever!
— Kathy, Tennessee