france
october 10-15, 2027
Bordeaux Countryside
savor // verb: To delight in the fullness of the present moment. To linger over good food, fine wine, heartfelt connection, and the simple pleasures that nourish the soul. Savoring is the art of slow living—a gentle reminder that life's greatest luxuries are often the moments we nearly rush past.
savor: friendship + simplicity in the french countryside
YOGA + MEDIEVAL VILLAGES + WINE TASTINGS + SOUND BOWL MEDITATION
There is a rhythm to life in the French countryside that feels almost forgotten—a pace that invites you to linger a little longer, breathe a little deeper, and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the present moment.
Nestled among the vineyards of Bordeaux, Château Ad Francos is a place that feels beautifully out of time. Surrounded by rolling vines, rich history, and the quiet elegance of rural France, this enchanting château invites us to step away from the demands of everyday life and into a slower, more intentional way of living.
Savor is a celebration of the art of slow living. Together, we'll embrace the simple pleasures that nourish the soul: daily yoga, exceptional French cuisine, world-renowned Bordeaux wines, meaningful connection, and unhurried moments of rest and reflection.
Our journey will include a private historical tour of Château Ad Francos, wine tasting in the château's cellar, an exploration of the remarkable Monolithic Church and Bell Tower, time to wander the charming streets of Saint-Émilion, premier wine tasting at Château Ad Francos, local markets, and a special evening of meditation accompanied by the soothing sounds of crystal singing bowls. Along the way, we've woven in a couple of surprises and plenty of spacious time to simply be.
While Bordeaux offers countless treasures to discover, some of the most meaningful moments happen in the spaces between...lingering over a beautiful meal, sharing stories with new and old friends, watching the sun set over the vineyards, or savoring a quiet moment with nowhere else to be.
This retreat isn't about seeing it all or doing it all. It's about experiencing it deeply.
In a world that constantly encourages us to move faster, do more, and stay busy, Savor is an invitation to choose differently. To delight in life's simple pleasures. To reconnect with yourself. To cultivate presence. And to remember that some of life's greatest luxuries aren't things at all—they're the moments we allow ourselves to fully experience.
Practice presence. Savor each moment. Return home nourished.
If the vineyards, the château, and the promise of a slower, more intentional way of being are calling to you, trust the
invitation. We can't wait to welcome you to Château Ad Francos and create memories together that will linger long after
we've returned home.
Donna + Sarah
OUR LOCATION
Set amidst the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, Château Ad Francos is a historic French château where timeless elegance meets modern comfort. With its breathtaking grounds, rich history, and serene surroundings, it offers the perfect backdrop for rest, connection, and the art of slow living. Experience the magic of French château life as we gather to savor each moment together.
WHY THIS RETREAT?
Because life isn't meant to be rushed. And if you've been craving more space to breathe, slow down, and truly enjoy your days, this retreat may be exactly what your soul has been asking for.
Because a yoga retreat is so much more than a vacation—it's an opportunity to step away from the noise and rediscover the beauty of being fully present.
You are longing to slow down, savor your morning coffee, enjoy unhurried conversations, linger over incredible meals, and remember what it feels like to simply be.
Because you deserve exceptional French cuisine and meals that invite you to gather, connect, and savor every bite.
You are seeking meaningful connection with kindhearted women who value wellness, adventure, authenticity, and living life a little more intentionally.
Being immersed in the beauty of the French countryside, wandering charming villages, exploring centuries of history, and experiencing local culture in an intimate and thoughtful way excites you.
You've always dreamed of visiting France, or perhaps you've been before and know the magic of its vineyards, traditions, and slower pace of life.
You crave moments of rest and simplicity—time to reconnect with yourself, nurture your well-being, and return home feeling nourished from the inside out.
Because in a world that constantly tells us to do more, this retreat is an invitation to savor more.
And plain and simple...you deserve this.
our intention
Our intention is to create a week that feels like an exhale—a chance to step away from the pace of everyday life and return to the beauty of living slowly, intentionally, and fully present. We're gathering women who long to trade busyness for presence, schedules for spaciousness, and constant doing for simply being.
Together, we'll embrace the French art of savoring life—the understanding that some of life's richest moments are found not in rushing ahead, but in lingering a little longer.
Rooted in the elegance and charm of the Bordeaux countryside, our time together invites us to slow down enough to truly experience what's in front of us. Through yoga, meaningful connection, local culture, extraordinary food and wine, and moments of stillness, we'll cultivate a deeper appreciation for life's simple pleasures.
Throughout our days, we'll move between reflection and adventure, solitude and sisterhood, discovery and rest. Together, we'll practice savoring—not just the vineyards, villages, and château that surround us, but the moments, memories, and conversations that make life feel beautifully full.
This is our intention: to create space to slow down, delight in life's simple pleasures, and return home feeling deeply nourished, inspired, and present.
Donna + Sarah xx
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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5 night's stay at the chateau, in your chosen room
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Delicious, locally sourced French cuisine- 3 daily meals with the exception of 1 lunch and 1 dinner where we will eat out (not included)
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Group airport transfer on first and last day of retreat
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All transfers for scheduled activities
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Daily yoga classes
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Tour of historic Château Ad Francos
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Wine tasting in Château Ad Francos 400-year-old cellar
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Guided tour of Monolithic Church and Bell Tower Tour in Saint-Emilion
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Premier wine tasting at Château Villemaurine
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Outdoor market visit in Castillon-la-Bataille
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Singing bowls + guided mediation w/ guest teacher
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Welcome goodies
WHAT'S Not INCLUDED
Airfare, personal add-on excursions/services, travel insurance, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, two meals, and any other expenses or items outside of "What's Included." Example of gratuities; any meals outside of the venue, massage, excursion tips, etc. Airport details & more in FAQ below.
feel at home
A SPACE TO UNWIND, GATHER + CONNECT.
From the moment you arrive at Château Ad Francos, you’ll feel transported into the timeless beauty of the French countryside. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and centuries of history, this enchanting château invites you to slow down, savor the present moment, and settle into a way of life where elegance and ease coexist effortlessly.
Steeped in character and charm, Château Ad Francos offers the perfect blend of old-world French grandeur and modern comfort. Sunlit spaces, beautifully appointed guest rooms, peaceful gardens, and expansive grounds create an atmosphere that feels both inspiring and deeply restorative. Every corner of the estate has been thoughtfully preserved to honor its history while providing a warm and welcoming retreat experience.
RETREAT accomodations
YOUR FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE SANCTUARY AT CHÂTEAU AD FRANCOS
Château Ad Francos offers a selection of shared and private accommodations, each thoughtfully designed to provide comfort, tranquility, and an authentic French countryside experience. Every room carries its own unique charm, blending historic character with modern comforts to create a welcoming space for rest and renewal.
Whether you choose a private room for quiet reflection or a shared room for connection and camaraderie, you'll be surrounded by the beauty, elegance, and timeless atmosphere of this extraordinary château.
A $500 Deposit (non-refundable) reserves your spot. Your deposit is applied to
your retreat rate experience.
hear from past clients
Donna plans the most fabulous retreats. I just returned from a transformative Portugal retreat in Olhão at Casa Fuzetta. The itinerary was well structured, yet relaxed. The food was spectacularly delicious and nourishing. The excursions were well planned and lots of fun. The yoga classes were just right, moderately challenging morning classes and relaxing evening classes. I love every single woman in the group of 20 we had, even though I walked into this retreat knowing less than half of them. I will definitely be back for another retreat and cannot recommend Dragonfly retreats highly enough.
ANNETTE
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
Airfare, personal add-on excursions/services, travel insurance, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, two meals, and any other expenses or items outside of "What's Included." Example of gratuities; any meals outside of the venue, massage, excursion tips, etc.
I'm so happy you’re here! Once early registration closes, all registered retreat friends will receive a welcome email with the first details you’ll need to begin planning our time together. This FAQ section is here to answer the most common questions as you consider booking and preparing for the retreat.
After you’ve registered, be sure to add Dragonfly Yoga Retreats to your email contacts so you don’t miss any important updates. As we get closer to our retreat date, you’ll also be invited to join a private Facebook group where we can connect, ask pre‑retreat questions, and start building community.
No worries though—you’ll receive plenty of thoughtful touch‑point communication along the way. I’m so excited you’re here and can’t wait to share this experience together.
With gratitude,
FREQUENTLY ASKED
Questions
DO I NEED TRAVEL/MEDICAL
INSURANCE?
Dragonfly Yoga Retreats cannot emphasize more the importance of travel insurance. As we all know, especially as travelers, “life happens.” Whether it’s family, work, mother nature, or a change of heart, it is important to be prepared in case you need to unexpectedly change your travel plans. Often for less than $150, you can purchase a travel insurance policy and be protected in the event that you need to make a change or need to be covered financially prior to or during your trip. Travel and medical insurance are both highly recommended. Most health insurance companies will not cover out of country expenses.
Check out our Terms and Conditions page for some insurance options.
Donna xx
WHAT IF I'M TRAVELING SOLO?
If you are booking as a solo traveler and would like to share a room, please let us know. We will do our best to match you with another guest who has similar retreat goals.
Important: Shared room rates are available only when both spots in the room are filled. While we will make every effort to pair solo travelers, the double occupancy rate is not guaranteed if a roommate cannot be found.
If the second spot is not filled, you will have the option to upgrade to a private room for an additional fee. If you choose not to upgrade, you may forfeit your reservation. Please review our Terms & Conditions here or at checkout for complete details.
BOOKING YOUR FLIGHTS
Book your flight to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport in Bordeaux, France.
Airport code is BOD.
Group shuttle details from BOD to the chateau will be shared with retreat guests. We will have a set time for booking arrivals and departures.
Chateau Ad Francos is approximately 45-60 minutes from the Bordeaux airport. You may choose to book private transfer too.
Note: Before booking tickets, please be sure you have received your official confirmation note that the retreat has met its minimums.
CAN I BOOK WITH A FRIEND?
Absolutely! We have shared room accommodations that can sleep 2 people per room. Please add your friends name when booking in the comments and I will make sure you are placed in the same accommodation!
WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT TERMS & CANCELLATION POLICY?
A NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT OF $500 (+ $35 processing fee) SAVES YOUR SPOT. $500 is applied to your retreat cost.
There are 2 payment dates, after the initial deposit, for our France retreat.
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$500 reserves your spot- applied to your retreat total.
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50 % of remaining balance due by April 1, 2027.
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Final payment, payment in full, due by September 1, 2027.
If booking after one or both payment dates, payment due within 5 days of booking. Payment amount will depend on retreat start date. Payments can be check, cash, Zelle or Venmo.
Credit card payments are available. A 4% fee will be applied to US transactions. If paying internationally fees may differ.
All payments are final due to our commitment to the property and their policies, we cannot offer any refunds, transfers, or credits for cancellations for any reason (including legitimate ones like illness, injury, family deaths, weather, or other emergencies. Full guidelines under terms and conditions.
Need payment flexibility? Flexible payment option includes making smaller more frequent payments. Email Donna at dragonflyretreatsgb@gmail.com
WHAT ARE CHECK IN + OUT TIMES?
Check in and check out times will be shared with registered guests.
ANY THOUGHTS ON JOINING A RETREAT BY MYSELF IF I'VE NEVER DONE IT BEFORE?
I went on my first ever retreat knowing no one except for the retreat leader and had the most incredible experience. I loved having the space to meet new people and also spend quality time with myself in whatever way felt nourishing moment to moment. I was placed in a shared room with another woman who started as a kind stranger and quickly became a close friend by the end of the retreat. If you’re feeling called, I can’t recommend a solo experience enough!
Since I started leading retreats in 2021, the number of women who have made new best friends is countless and so beautiful to see.
HOW DO I BOOK A MASSAGE?
Donna will share details of how to book spa services in the weeks leading up to our retreat if they are available.
Please note, that spa treatments or any add-on treatments are not included in the retreat pricing and will be at an additional cost.
HOW DO I GET AROUND IF I WANT TO EXPLORE?
If you wish to explore in your free time, chateau staff can assist with booking transportation at an additional cost.
WHAT IF I HAVE DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
Our chefs can accommodate most diets, including gluten-free, Vegetarian, Vegan, and other food-related allergies.
You can share restrictions on the intake form that will be sent in the month leading out to our retreat together and we will make sure you are taken care of!
If you have any questions before booking, I'm here! Email Donna at dragonflyretreatsgb@gmail.com
WILL THERE BE FREE TIME?
Absolutely. While we’ll gather for two intentional practices each day, the remaining time is yours to enjoy however you feel called. Rest by the pool, curl up with a book, explore the area, receive bodywork, or simply be. There is always freedom to participate or not in the included retreat activities.
DO I HAVE TO PARTICIPATE IN SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES?
All practices and activities during the retreat are completely optional. While we lovingly encourage joining the daily movement sessions to experience the full arc of the retreat, this time is ultimately about honoring your own rhythm. Rest, participate, pause, or opt out as needed—this experience is designed to support your return to yourself in whatever way feels most nourishing.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE?
Early to mid-October in the Bordeaux countryside brings mild, autumnal weather with daytime highs averaging 63°F to 70°F.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR/PACK?
Mornings and evenings are crisp, making long sleeves and trousers necessary. The autumn season turns the vineyards into beautiful golden hues, but you should also prepare for light breezes and occasional drizzle.
Pack layers. Bring a mix of lighter clothing for sunny afternoons, a cozy sweater or light fleece for cooler countryside evenings, and a waterproof jacket or compact umbrella.
A suggested packing list will be sent to retreat guests 3-4 weeks prior to our time together.
HAVE MORE QUESTONS?
We are here to help answer anything you might be wondering about. Hearing from you helps keep our FAQ section as informational as we can make it.
Email Donna at
dragonflyretreatsgb@gmail.com to set up a call!
We cannot wait to share this experience with you!
MANY MORE DETAILS WILL BE SHARED WITH BOOKED GUESTS IN LEADING UP TO OUR RETREAT TOGETHER.
deepen friendships
REFER A FRIEND
Have a friend sign up to retreat with you in 2027 and receive a $50 Visa gift card. Send me an email with your friend's full name. It’s that easy!
*Valid for new registrants only
*Only one promo may be used per participant
*Friend name to be send day of booking. Gift card will be mailed to you within 30 days of completion of the retreat.
*Promo can be cancelled at any time.
DONNA MAHONEY
meet your host
E-RYT200 | YACEP | REIKI MASTER | ASTROLOGER
Founder + Owner Dragonfly Yoga Retreats & The Yoga Loft
Hi, I’m Donna—yoga teacher, retreat curator + guide, studio owner, and a lifelong student.
My yoga journey began two decades ago as a personal inward exploration—one that gently reshaped how I live, lead, and listen. That path eventually guided me to teaching and to opening a yoga studio, with the intention of creating spaces where others could experience the same sense of connection, clarity, and coming home to themselves.
With over 2,000 hours of teaching and retreat experience, I guide Vinyasa, Restorative/Yin, and Meditation practices that are accessible, grounding, and deeply supportive. My greatest joy lies in bringing women together—creating environments where friendship unfolds naturally, laughter is welcome, and authenticity is celebrated.
In a world that often asks us to move faster and do more, I believe yoga and mindfulness offer a powerful invitation to pause, pay attention, and return to the present moment—the only place life truly happens. Throughout our time together, reflective journaling and intentional workshops are gently woven in, offering space to gain clarity, reconnect with your inner wisdom, and align with what you’re ready to create next.
In addition to hosting retreats both in the U.S. and internationally, I own a yoga studio in Wisconsin, am a Reiki Master and trained Astrologer, and lead private and corporate wellness experiences. Community—building it, nurturing it, and staying connected to it—is at the heart of everything I do.
Curating this retreat is a true labor of love. These experiences are immersive, transformative, and meaningful in the most beautiful ways—and being part of your journey is an absolute gift to me.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at dragonflyretreatsgb@gmail.com.
I can’t wait to share this experience with you.
With love, kindness, and gratitude,
Donna
meet
Sarah has been teaching yoga across the country since 2001. She is certified in yoga, mat pilates, and Stand Up Paddleboard. She loves a yoga practice that is flowy, intentional, fun, and free. Sarah is a mom of 3, wife, friend, sister, daughter, yogini, chooser of happiness, celebrator of the beautiful simple moments, and always a student! She loves mindful movement, being outdoors, cooking, laughing, spending time with family & friends, reading, and being on or near the water. Sarah is passionate about creating opportunities for students to cultivate peace for themselves, tap into their own strength, and discover their magic both on and off their mat. Sarah is excited and honored to help create this beautiful and profound experience of coming together, moving and breathing, and connecting with our own hearts and the hearts of those around us!
Sarah
RYT500 + YACEP | Founder of Shine Vinyasa Yoga School
About Us...
What you'll quickly discover about us: we take the practice seriously, but not ourselves. We believe retreats should be meaningful, transformative, and yes—a whole lot of fun. Expect deep conversations, genuine connection, plenty of laughter, and a few unforgettable adventures along the way.
