Yoga chic

•  
•  
•  

Published 19 February 2013

Hidden away in the hills of the French landscape, surrounded by a lavender and fig orchard is Le Grand Banc, a renovated 400-acre property frequented by Fashionistas, Mario Testino and Jasper Conran. This is no ordinary yoga retreat; this is something a little special.

With a timeless style and stunning views, the private hamlet is nestled in the Luberon Hills in the south of France – you can’t get more chic than this! On arrival you feel as though you have walked onto the set of a movie, quite literally, as the famous French dramas, Jean de Florette and Manon des Sources were shot in its very hills.

The once-abandoned property was rescued and renovated by eccentric English inventor and philanthropist, Jeremy Fry, a close friend of Princess Margaret in the ‘60s. His intention was to create a community where intellectuals can work away distractions – the idyllic setting for a Kaliyoga retreat.

Accommodation is spread throughout several houses, each decorated in an individual, simple and eclectic style, with cool artwork and classic furniture.

Yoga is at the core of the retreat at Kaliyoga, and devoted teachers are on hand to guide you though the practice at any level. Each Kaliyoga programme lasts a week and includes two classes of yoga; four guided walks through the hills and gorges where the finest French lavender is harvested and distilled; and breakfast, lunch and dinner in the Provençale style.  Every evening you can take-in the day with a champagne cocktail around the cypress-studded pool and the last day of the retreat concludes with a finale party.

The retreat is available from the 5 May to 6 July only. Visit www.kaliyoga.com/france/home for more information.