Frequently asked questions

GENERAL FAQ

  • For each of our retreats, there are several options for how to get there. Please reference the GETTING THERE section on each retreat page. If you don’t find your answers there, feel free to reach out!ere

  • Everything! Well, just about everything. Travel to and from the retreat city is not included, but we’ll come and pick you up from the nearest airport or train station (see the GETTING THERE section for each retreat).  Any “extras” that you should decide to purchase will be on you - such as snacks or trinkets at the open air markets, that extra bottle of wine for the table at our lunch or dinners out, and any other shopping you choose to do. We will take care of your meals, drinks, and any planned experiences for the week - tastings, winery tours, workshops, etc. 

    *During some day trips, you’ll have the option of a packed lunch or eating in the city we are visiting on your own.

  • If you’re like us, you might think that coming all the way to France, Ireland, or St. Lucia for just one week simply isn’t enough!  Please reach out to us for suggestions or help planning your travel.

    In France, we are delighted to partner with The French Travel , a locally owned and operated trip designer based in Paris. They are true experts who will help you perfectly plan your before and/or after Rêverie experience. Check them out if you plan to join us in France!

  • Cancellations at least 180+ days before the trip start date will receive a full refund minus a $300 service fee per reservation.

    Cancellations between 60 - 180 days before the start date will receive a refund at 50% of the full cost.

    Cancellations within 60 days from the start date will not receive a refund.

    We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover any reimbursement for cancellations due to illness (including testing positive for COVID-19) or other family matters as we cannot guarantee a refund in these cases.

    If any retreat does not reach the necessary number of attendees, we reserve the right to cancel a retreat - in this case, a full refund will be issued to any who have reserved.

  • Unless otherwise noted on your retreat page, all experience levels are welcome! Whether you’ve never cooked a meal on your own or you’ve started your own cooking channel, we would love to have you along. We are accustomed to teaching all levels, and if you’re an avid cook perhaps you can teach us a thing or two!

  • Great question! We have several reasons to plan so many of our trips in France. Foremost, it’s what we know best! Julie Belcher, one of Rêverie’s founders, spent a good part of her 20s traveling around France as a musician and working at a bakery in the Loire Valley when she wasn’t touring. Naturally, she fell in love, and had the opportunity to explore several different regions’ cuisines and wineries. Sharing the beauty of those discoveries with our guests is at the heart of what we do!

    Secondly, the core ingredients in France are undeniable. From local produce at the market to freshly milled flour from the baker down the street, it’s so easy to source inspiring ingredients that draw us into the kitchen and spark the desire to create!

TOULOUSE // FAQ

  • The Château de Labusquière is a 45-minute drive from the Toulouse city center. The nearest towns are Samatan and Lombez, both small villages but equipped with all the basic needs (grocery/post office/doctors/pharmacies). The nearest hospital is a local hospital in Lombez.

  • For our Toulouse retreats, we typically host between 12-16 people. The château and its grounds are vast, so it’s the perfect group size!

  • Toulouse, known as "La Ville Rose" for its pink terracotta buildings, offers a rich blend of history and culture. Start your visit at the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can admire its stunning Romanesque architecture. Wander through the vibrant Capitole de Toulouse, home to the city hall and the Théâtre du Capitole, where you can catch an opera or ballet performance. Explore the Musée des Augustins, which showcases a diverse collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Don't forget to stroll along the Garonne River, enjoying picturesque views and local cafés. For a taste of local cuisine, try the regional specialty, cassoulet, in one of the many charming restaurants scattered throughout the city.

    Rêverie will provide you with a Google Maps guide prior to your trip and some suggestions for how to spend your day there with us!

  • There are many good options for places to stay, but here are some of our favorites:

  • We understand! We’re all adults and we’re accustomed to having our own private spaces. But not to worry - the shared bathroom situation at the château has never received a complaint and always works out splendidly. Both shared bathrooms are spacious, with large walk-in showers, and there are separate toilets on every floor. By the end of the week, you’ll feel like you’re sharing with family and you might even miss brushing your teeth with your hallmates - who knows! ;)

  • The short answer is yes! There is wifi! It works best in the common rooms on the ground floor (the grand salon and the breakfast area). Because the château walls are thick, we cannot guarantee that the wifi will work in your room. So if you need to stay connected in your room, we recommend using your personal cell provider’s international plan. The service is typically great in most areas of the château!

  • The Château de Labusquière is a family château, meaning it does not act as a hotel and does not have a staff onsite. Your room will not be made during your 5-night stay, but if you need a fresh towel or extra towels or linens, we are more than happy to provide that for you!

loire valley // FAQ

  • The Château de Jalesnes is a 45 minute -1 hour drive from the Angers train station, our scheduled pickup point. The nearest city is Saumur, a 20-30 minute drive, where you can find everything you need (grocery/post office/doctors/pharmacies). If you would like to go to Saumur outside of a scheduled visit, the château can typically schedule transportation upon request for an additional fee.

    In the case of an emergency or medical needs, the Rêverie team is available to make sure you are taken care of!

  • For our Loire Valley retreats, we typically host between 15-20 people. The château and its grounds are vast, so it’s the perfect group size for the setting.

  • Explore the historical city of Angers by visiting the impressive Château d'Angers, which houses the famous Apocalypse Tapestry, a remarkable piece of 14th-century art. Stroll through the charming medieval streets, taking in the architecture and vibrant atmosphere of the town. For a taste of local culture, spend time at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, featuring an extensive collection of artwork from the Renaissance to contemporary pieces. Lastly, relax in one of the many cafés or parks, enjoying the serene ambiance of this picturesque city.

    Rêverie will provide you with a Google Maps guide prior to your trip and some suggestions for how to spend your day there with us!

  • There are many good options for places to stay, but here are some of our favorites:

  • The short answer is yes! There is wifi! It works best in the common rooms on the ground floor (the grand salons and the breakfast area). Because the château walls are thick, we cannot guarantee that the wifi will work in your room. So if you need to stay connected in your room, we recommend using your personal cell provider’s international plan. Service is typically great in most areas of the château!

  • Your room will be made up with new sheets and towels halfway through your stay. Should you need new or extra linens at any other point, just let one of our team members know and we’ll be happy to make that happen!