Bonfire Collective

Reignite your career, reset your mind.

France Vescours paid

Bonfire Collective offers a unique "Soft Reset" sabbatical designed for creative knowledge workers seeking to re-evaluate their career paths and find sustainable inspiration. Located at the picturesque Château de Montsymond in Vescours, France, this retreat provides a blend of structured sessions, hands-on experimentation, and ample unstructured time for deep thought. It's an opportunity to step away from the daily grind and engage in mindful rituals, creative exercises, and stimulating conversations with like-minded individuals. The setting itself, surrounded by forests, fields, and a private lake, encourages relaxation and introspection, complemented by modern comforts like a heated pool, steam room, and sauna. Expect delicious, authentic French cuisine prepared daily by an onsite chef, making this more than just a retreat, but a holistic experience for professional and personal renewal.

Highlights

A creative sabbatical specifically for career redesign
Mindful rituals for sustainable inspiration
Château de Montsymond with heated pool, steam room, and sauna
Authentic French cuisine by an onsite private chef
Unstructured time for deep thinking and exploration

Good for

creative professionalscareer changersentrepreneursthose seeking inspirationnature lovers

Setting

The retreat unfolds at Château de Montsymond, a serene estate set in the rolling hills of Burgundy, France. The property is surrounded by tranquil forests, open fields, and features a private lake, creating an atmosphere that encourages deep relaxation and introspection. It's a place where rustic charm meets modern comfort, inviting guests to truly unwind and connect with their surroundings.

The practice

While not tied to a specific meditation tradition, Bonfire Collective focuses on mindful rituals and practices designed to foster sustainable inspiration and clarity for career and personal growth. Sessions involve creative exercises and conversations that challenge conventional professional paths, encouraging participants to explore new possibilities and deepen their self-awareness. Beginners to mindfulness will find a supportive environment to engage with these practices.

A typical day

The daily rhythm at Bonfire Collective blends structured sessions with ample unstructured time. Expect engaging conversations, creative exercises, and opportunities for hands-on experimentation. There's also plenty of time for personal reflection, exploring the château grounds, and enjoying long, delicious meals with fellow participants. The schedule is designed to provide space for both focused work and spontaneous inspiration.

Accommodation

Guests stay in beautifully restored bedrooms within the Château de Montsymond. The estate offers cozy common areas and amenities such as a heated pool, steam room, and sauna, all designed to ensure a comfortable and unwinding experience.

What to bring

Pack comfortable clothing suitable for creative work and relaxation. Given the climate in Burgundy, layers are recommended, especially during cooler months. Don't forget swimwear for the heated pool and sauna, and a notebook for your reflections.

Website bonfirecollective.org

Address Vescours, France

How to get there

Château de Montsymond is located on Route de Mont Simon, Vescours, France 01560. You can reach the area from major cities like Paris, Lyon, or Geneva by train. The center will arrange group transport from specific local train stations once your booking is confirmed.

Nearest airport: Dole Tavaux Airport (DLE) (70 km)

The nearest airport is Dole Tavaux Airport (DLE), approximately 70 km from the center. Transport from this airport is not explicitly mentioned as included; guests should arrange their own transfer or inquire with the center.

Nearest city: Dole

Public transport: High-speed TGV INOUI trains from Paris (Gare de Lyon) go to Mâcon Loché, and regional TER trains from Paris (Gare de Bercy) or Lyon (Gare de Lyon Part Dieu) go to Tournus. Group transport from these stations is included.

Languages

English

How to book

Please visit the Bonfire Collective website to inquire about booking and availability.

Pricing

Pricing for the retreat starts from EUR500. Specific details on what this includes (e.g., accommodation, meals, program) should be confirmed directly with the center.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Bonfire Collective website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Feb, Jul, Dec

Avoid: Oct, Jan, Nov

Vescours experiences an annual average temperature of 12.3°C. The warmest months are typically June, July, and August, while December, January, and February are the coolest. Rainfall is generally lower in February, July, and December, with October, January, and November being wetter. Packing layers is advisable to accommodate varying conditions.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food can I expect during the retreat?

You can look forward to authentic French cuisine, prepared fresh daily by Maëva Chiappe, the onsite private chef. The menu includes vegetarian and nut-free options.

Is this retreat suitable for someone new to creative sabbaticals or career reflection?

Yes, this retreat is designed for anyone who is creative and looking for space to think deeply about their work and career. It's an opportunity to step outside predetermined paths, regardless of prior experience with such programs.

How do I get to Château de Montsymond?

The château is located in Vescours, France. The most convenient starting points are Paris, Lyon, or Geneva. Once your booking is confirmed, the center will help coordinate transport from designated local train stations like Mâcon Loché or Tournus, which is included in the retreat cost.

What amenities are available at the château?

The Château de Montsymond offers a range of amenities including free WiFi, a spa, sauna, heated pool, towels, free parking, a kitchen, fitness center, and housekeeping, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay.

What should I bring for the retreat?

Given the location in Burgundy, France, with average temperatures around 12.3°C, it's advisable to pack layers. Consider comfortable clothing for creative sessions and walks, swimwear for the pool/sauna, and perhaps a notebook for reflections. The climate can be cooler in winter months (Jan, Feb, Dec) and warmer in summer (Jun, Jul, Aug).