June 12th to 19th 2026 Art retreat, Ariége, France
Relax in six acres of space, cool off in our saltwater swimming pool or grab a drink and snack in The Cow Shed. Pick organic fruit and vegetables and enjoy uninterrupted views of the Pyrénées. Listen out for nightingales and golden orioles and watch raptors circling high above the garden. Snooze in a hammock, watch kingfishers on the river, read a book on a lounger. Switch. Off.
❋ Relax
Our retreats at Zero Neuf are a wonderful respite from everyday worries and true holidays, with nurturing conversations, laughter and Joss’ excellent food in the company of other creative people.
❋ Engage
I’ll share my ways of engaging with the landscape and recording a personal response using mixed media to fill your own concertina sketchbook, which can be used to develop new work later, or simply as a gorgeous memento of your time at Zero Neuf
❋ Gain confidence
whether you are a complete beginner, or a seasoned professional, you’ll develop confidence to draw and paint outside and record your travels in a fun and gentle way that I hope will see you through future travels as well
❋ A Supportive Space
we’re here to create a place of kindness, safety, and warmth—so you can show up as you are, wherever you are in your art journey, and fully engage in the process.
“Had a brilliant time at your workshop Anji. I never thought I could paint anything! The gouache paints were glorious and with your guidance I found how to mix the colours perfectly as well as use your clever techniques. Thankyou. We'll be back for more!” Lucy
Zero Neuf is not one but many things to different people; a guesthouse, a home from home, a trailhead for running and hiking, a base camp for cycling, inspiration for creatives, a sanctuary for your wellbeing.
It’s a place that’s deeply connected to nature, far away from urban noise. A rural community hub where thoughtful, seasonal food and drink is enjoyed together at a long table; conversation meanders and flows, connections are made, friendships are formed.
Nestled in a quiet corner of southern France, a beautiful river flows past the bottom of our garden and we have uninterrupted views of the Pyrénées; an ever changing natural canvas that engages and inspires the mind.
Zero Neuf is situated in Gaudiès (09700), a picturesque hamlet on the banks of L’Hers. Our south-facing garden has uninterrupted views to the Pyrénées and we are surrounded by pasture, woodland and wildlife. It’s the perfect place to switch off and immerse yourself in nature
A Sample Itinerary
Fly into Carcassonne or Toulouse, each airport is an hour away from Zero Neuf.
From Manchester we usually fly into Carcassonne.
It’s a gorgeous drive through the rolling countryside to Gaudiés, perfect for relaxing into your new reality for the week!
Friday 12th June
Arrive and unpack, unwind, relax and explore if you wish, we can have a wander in village to orient ourselves. then we’ll have dinner and prepare our concertina books with acrylic paint.
Saturday 13th June
Visit to a brocante then home for drawing and still life, what interests you? in the garden at Zero Neuf
Sunday 14th June
Day at Gaudies drawing on the Path, in the woods, at the river, village, church and chateau
Monday 15th June
Day out Mirepoix market shopping wandering the brocantes, photos drawing, lunch out
Tuesday 16th June
Day out trip to La Penne apiary honey shop, and Vals to visit church with frescos and paint. picnic lunch
Thursday 18th June
Wednesday 17th June
Day out at Prat D'Albis, drawing in the mountains, earlish start. Lunch in Foix or a picnic
Day at Gaudies and Zero Neuf and in the evening, round up, look at each others books, celebratory last evening
Friday 19th June
Leisurely breakfast and packing to leave Zero Neuf around 11.30 for your flight at 14.50
How The Day Unfolds…
8.30 Totally optional meditation in the garden with me
9ish -10ish Breakfast
10.30-13.30 Lesson/activity/trip out
13.30ish Lunch
15.00 to dinner time Free time, exploring own ideas, the materials will be available but you are free to relax as you choose
Group options: swimming in the river, walk up to high line for views horses and butterflies, walk along to see fields
Dinner Evening drawing if wished talking singing drinking reading resting sleeping
Pricing
The retreat price includes:
7 nights full board accommodation, with amazing food and local wines
Individual and group art tuition for all levels and abilities
All art materials, though if you have favourites please do bring them along!
Airport transfers (from Carcassonne)
All transport during the retreat
Price £1,350 per person in a shared twin room
Single Occupancy price £1650
The price does not include:
Additional drinks from the bar in the evening, alcohol at lunchtime, and purchases made off-site.
Your travel to and from the airport in the UK.
Your return flights to Carcassonne