Moth Magic: a writing and ritual retreat for women at midlife

Over five days and six nights, this retreat offers women a clear, steady space to explore writing and embodiment at midlife not as a crisis, but as a powerful turning point. Guided by the moth, a shapeshifting creature of metamorphosis, we’ll embrace this transition as an expansion, a celebration of wisdom, maturity, and growth that will sustain us as we move into the next stage of our lives.

Each day brings a mix of focused morning writing workshops, yoga that meets the body where it is, and wild swimming for those who want the cold-water jolt. Together, we’ll shape words that honour the body’s insight, give voice to untold stories, and celebrate luminous resilience. Two ceramics workshops during the week will add a hands-on, elemental counterpoint: clay, heat, form, and the satisfaction of making something real. There will be opportunities to explore the local area, including at least one group walk and guidance on getting transportation to the market.

Set within the quiet grounds of The Mill and its surrounding landscape, the retreat is designed to help you pay attention - to your body, your stories, your thresholds - and to be nourished by your own creativity and that of the gathered women.

The week follows a simple, intentional arc: arriving and settling; working with water and release; tending heat and myth; walking the hills in community; and gathering what you want to carry forward. Evenings offer low-key rituals - readings, candlelight, shared reflection, or silence - that mark the shift from everyday life into something slower and more deliberate.

You’ll leave with something tangible - new writing and a ceramic piece to cherish - and, more importantly, a clearer sense of direction, continuity, and what’s emerging next

- Dates: Thursday 25th June 14 February 16:00 - Wednesday 1st July 2026, 11:30
- Location: The Mill, Aveyron, France
- Theme / Focus: Women’s Midlife: Writing, Ritual, Yoga
- Who it’s for: Women how are curious about transitioning into mid life- peri/ menopause
- Group size: 6-10
- Your hosts: Juliette Morton Poet & Writer, Nathalie Edwards, founder of The Mill France. Yoga by Netty Chapman
- What to expect: The week follows a simple, intentional arc: arriving and settling; working with water and release; tending heat and myth; walking the hills in community; and gathering what you want to carry forward. Evenings offer low-key rituals - readings, candlelight, shared reflection, or silence - that mark the shift from everyday life into something slower and more deliberate.
- Accommodation at The Mill choose from one of our 7 private bedrooms
- Workshops led by Juliette. Pottery session led by Nathalie. Optional morning yoga led by Netty Chapman
- Daily breakfast, lunch and 5 of your evening meals ( option to eat out or use the kitchen)
- Tea & coffee are available throughout your stay - serve yourself
- Use of all communal spaces, including gardens, terraces our salon with projector facilities for film nights, and our quiet wifi free Library, with plenty of books to inspire you during your stay
- There are local buses to if you want to visit Town of Millau - Market day is Friday Mornings
- Free Wifi
- Free on site parking
- Flights / travel to and from France
- Travel insurance (required)
- Optional excursions or meals out
- Materials beyond the basic supplies provided
- Alcohol other than wine with meals as included
- Our nearest airports are: Rodez 1hr 15, Beziers 1hr 20, Montpellier 1hr 30
- For trains & buses and more in-depth travel information, check out our How to get here page
- Arrival : 3pm - 6pm
  Depart: 10.30 am
- Unfortunately, due to the historic nature of the property built across four floors, we are unable to accommodate persons with mobility issues.
- Check our FAQ’s for all other information contact us.
Fees: starting at £1320.00 for 5 days (6 nights), including meals, accomodation, all tutored sessions and optional yoga. Please note that flexible payment options, such as Klarna, are available at checkout.
Book directly via Dialect Writers