Walking Through Nature

Walk deeply, arrive fully.

France Le Puy paid

Step onto a path of profound self-discovery with Walking Through Nature, a contemplative walking retreat that invites you to shed the urgency of daily life and embrace clarity. This unique experience, rooted in the ancient tradition of pilgrimage, guides you along the historic Le Puy Camino (Via Podiensis, GR 65) through the serene rural landscapes of France. Over approximately 90 miles in seven days, you'll engage in walking as a meditative practice, transforming each step into an invitation for presence and connection with yourself and the natural world. It's an opportunity for modern pilgrims, curious seekers, and those in transition to find renewal and deep listening amidst the beauty of the French countryside. This isn't just a hike; it's a journey inward, designed to help you arrive deeply into stillness.

Highlights

Walk 90 miles over 7 days on the historic Le Puy Camino
Walking as a meditative practice for deep presence
Experience rural France and regional specialties
Guidance for travel planning to and from the route

Good for

nature loversbeginnersexperienced meditatorsspiritual seekersthose in transition

Setting

This retreat unfolds amidst the picturesque rural landscapes of France, following the ancient Le Puy Camino. The journey from Le Puy to Conques offers a serene backdrop of rolling hills, charming villages, and natural beauty, providing an ideal environment for quiet contemplation and connection with the more-than-human world.

The practice

This retreat focuses on walking as a meditative practice, where each step becomes an invitation to presence and mindfulness. It's not about speed, but about deep engagement with the journey, allowing the rhythm of walking and breathing to foster clarity and renewal. Participants are encouraged to listen, release, and reconnect with themselves and the surrounding natural world.

A typical day

A typical day involves walking approximately 90 miles over 7 days along the Le Puy Camino. The focus is on contemplative movement, with time for personal reflection and connection with nature. Days will include walking segments, interspersed with opportunities to rest and enjoy the French countryside. Evenings will likely feature communal dinners.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not specified, but the retreat covers 8 breakfasts and 6 dinners, suggesting stays in various locations along the route.

What to bring

Given the walking nature of the retreat, comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are essential. Pack layers suitable for rural France, considering varying weather conditions, and bring a small backpack for daily essentials.

Website walkingthroughnature.com

How to get there

The retreat begins in Le Puy, France, and concludes in Conques, France. Participants typically fly into Paris and then take a train to Le Puy. From Conques, a taxi and train can be arranged for the return journey.

Nearest airport: Bergerac Dordogne-Périgord airport (EGC) (40 km)

The nearest airport is Bergerac Dordogne-Périgord airport (EGC), approximately 40 km from Bergerac. However, for this specific retreat, most participants fly into Paris and then take a train to Le Puy, which is the starting point.

Nearest city: Bergerac

Public transport: Trains are a primary mode of transport for reaching Le Puy from Paris and for returning from Conques.

Languages

English

Pricing

Pricing for the retreat starts from EUR400.

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

Visit Walking Through Nature website

Location

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the retreat cost?

The retreat cost includes 8 breakfasts and 6 dinners, featuring local produce and regional specialties. Assistance with travel planning to and from the starting and ending points of the walk is also provided.

What is the duration and distance of the walking retreat?

The contemplative walking retreat spans 7 days, during which participants will walk approximately 90 miles along the first section of the ancient Le Puy Camino (Via Podiensis, GR 65).

What kind of food can I expect?

Meals include 8 breakfasts and 6 dinners, which feature local produce and regional specialties. Vegetarian options are available, and the menu also includes meat.

How do I get to the starting point in Le Puy, France?

Most participants fly into Paris and then take a train to Le Puy. Assistance will be provided to help with this travel planning. The retreat concludes in Conques, from where you can take a taxi and trains back to Paris.

Is this retreat suitable for beginners to walking meditation?

Yes, walking as meditation is for anyone, including modern pilgrims, curious seekers, and those in transition. The emphasis is on presence and connection, making it accessible for those new to the practice.