Aandachtsacademie
Make room to meet yourself
Winter in the Queyras offers a quieter backdrop for Aandachtsacademie’s work: breath, body awareness, mindfulness and systemic approaches explored through shared practice rather than a promise to fix yourself. Founded by Belgian psychologist Mathieu Devies, the retreat program brings people together to slow down, notice what is happening within, and connect with one another in a warm, professionally guided setting. Days unfold between the mountain landscape and a simple chalet in Arvieux, where group sessions and evening circles share space with communal meals and time to rest. The chalet is a mountain home, not a luxury hotel, with shared bedrooms and views of snow-covered peaks close by. Meals are organic, with vegetarian, vegan-friendly and gluten-free options available on request. Retreats are paid, with prices starting at EUR 1,795. The approach may suit people who feel worn down by constant busyness and want an experiential, nature-connected pause.
Highlights
- Breathwork, mindfulness, body-oriented approaches and systemic work in one retreat program
- Founded by Belgian psychologist Mathieu Devies
- Evening circles in a shared mountain-chalet living space
- Organic meals, with vegetarian, vegan-friendly and gluten-free options on request
Good for
Setting
Arvieux sits in the Parc naturel régional du Queyras, where mountain views and winter quiet are part of the retreat’s everyday surroundings. Time outdoors and guided group work offer a change of pace from the demands of constant availability.
The practice
The retreats bring together breathwork, mindfulness, body-oriented approaches and systemic work rather than following a named meditation tradition. Sessions are experiential, using attention to the breath and body, guided group processes and connection with others. Beginners can arrive without a background in meditation; ask the center about the focus of a particular retreat.
A typical day
The daily schedule varies by retreat, so confirm it with the center. Group sessions take place in the chalet, with the surrounding winter landscape as part of the experience; evenings may include a circle in the shared living space.
Accommodation
Guests stay in a cozy, simple mountain chalet with shared bedrooms, a communal living and dining area, and space for group sessions and evening circles. It is a welcoming mountain home rather than a luxury hotel.
What to bring
Pack warm layers, a waterproof outer layer and sturdy shoes suitable for winter conditions in the mountains. The retreat includes breathwork and body-based practices, so bring comfortable clothing you can move in.
How to get there
The chalet is in Arvieux in the Parc naturel régional du Queyras. Carpooling from Briançon is an option; contact the center to coordinate.
Nearest airport: Cuneo International Airport (CUF) (74 km)
Cuneo International Airport (CUF), near Levaldigi, is approximately 74 km from the center. Arrange onward transport and ask the center about travel options.
Nearest city: Levaldigi (CN)
Contact Aandachtsacademie directly to confirm dates and reserve your place.
Retreat prices start at EUR 1,795. Confirm current dates and what the fee includes with the center.
Climate
Climate Zone: Temperate
Best Months: Feb, Jun, Aug
Avoid: Jan, Apr, Oct
The area has a cool mountain climate, with an annual average temperature of 6.8°C and the coldest months typically January, February and December. Winter visitors should be ready for low temperatures and mountain weather.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What does a typical day at Aandachtsacademie involve?
Retreats include group sessions and may have evening circles, but the daily timetable varies. Ask the center about the schedule for your chosen retreat.
Is this retreat suitable for someone new to mindfulness?
The program includes mindfulness alongside breathwork and body-oriented practices. Ask the center whether a particular retreat is suitable for your experience level.
What food is served, and can dietary needs be accommodated?
Meals are organic. Vegetarian, vegan-friendly and gluten-free options are available on request, so contact the center about your needs before booking.
How do I get to the chalet?
The retreat is in Arvieux, and carpooling from Briançon is noted as an option. Contact the center to coordinate travel details.
How can I reserve a place?
Contact Aandachtsacademie directly to ask about dates and reservations.
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