Summer Travel Series: France

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Sensory Escape: A Mindful Journey through the French Riviera

July 10 – July 18, 2025
Akilah Reynolds
$3,850 double occupancy / $5,100 single occupancy
14 participants minimum

Trip Description

Imagine a retreat where every moment brings you closer to serenity and mindfulness as you journey through the picturesque French Riviera. Sensory Escape: A Mindful Journey through the French Riviera invites you to indulge in a 9-day immersion into the beauty, culture, and tranquility of Southern France and Monaco. 

Each encounter—mindfulness walks, perfume-making workshops, French cuisine, and healing outdoor experiences—engages your senses and helps you reconnect with your inner calm, enhancing mental clarity and emotional well-being through intentional, sensory-rich activities.

From wandering through fields of lavender to tasting local delicacies and listening to the gentle waves of the Mediterranean, this retreat rejuvenates and grounds you, allowing you to appreciate the simple joys of the present moment. Included in the journey are comfortable accommodations, two meals daily, and a curated selection of experiences: a visit to the Monaco Palace, a perfume workshop at the renowned Fragonard Factory, a tour of the Jardin Exotique d’Eze, a confections tasting, beach luxuriating, and strolls down scenic gardens and magical city streets. Your transport between these delightful excursions is also included, ensuring a sensory engaging experience every step of the way. 

Join us for a mindful escape that celebrates the unique beauty of the Riviera and the power of presence.

Info Sessions

  • Monday February 3 at 6pm
  • Wednesday February 5 at 3pm 
  • Wednesday February 19 at 12pm 
  • Monday February 24 at 4pm
  • Wednesday March 5 at 3pm 
  • Thursday March 6 at 7pm
  • Monday March 17 at 10am 
  • Monday March 24 at 4pm

http://stmarys-ca.zoom.us/j/96760483197?pwd=dI9W0C8iJxGpABP71tnWWYMnhlUN2A.1 

Meeting ID: 967 6048 3197
Passcode: 719957

Key Dates

Deposits due: April 3
Final payments: April 28

(subject to change)

Day 1: Bienvenue! Thur July 10th

Arrive and Check in at Hotel Beau Rivage: Located a few steps away from the Promenade des Anglais and the Old Town.

Rest & Orientation: Settle in and take a leisurely stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. Enjoy an engaging welcome dinner with the group at a local restaurant to begin our mindfulness journey with a taste of Provençal cuisine.

 

Day 2: Explore Nice Fri July 11th

Définir une intention (Intention setting breakfast): Join us for an intention-setting breakfast where you’ll connect, reflect, and set meaningful intentions for the journey ahead, preparing to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Nice.

Begin your day at Place Masséna, an iconic square known for its striking tilework, grand fountain, and seven tall statues that create a memorable backdrop for photos. 

Morning visit in the Old Town (Vieux Nice): Set out on a stroll through the vibrant streets of Old Town, enjoy your choice of food and flower selection from Cours Saleya Market (a local market), and explore historic landmarks like the Cathedral of Sainte-Réparate.

Afternoon lunch and relaxation at Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Enjoy panoramic views of Nice and the Mediterranean, and participate in a series of mindfulness exercises including a mindful picnic together overlooking this wonderful view of the city. 

Evening dinner and unwind: Enjoy a beachfront dinner and unwind with the calming sound of the waves.

If you wish, circle back to Place Masséna after dark to appreciate the architecture in the evening glow and enjoy the Cours Saleya Market for the Marché artisanal nocturne (Night Craft Market).

 

Day 3 Day Trip to Monaco Sat July 12th

Enjoy breakfast on your own at the hotel. 

Travel 30 minutes by train from Nice to Monaco.

Spend the day on a walking tour of Monaco. Begin the day by taking a mindful morning walking tour through the Princess Grace Botanical Garden.  Engross yourself in the history and culture by exploring the Prince's Palace of Monaco.

Visit port Hercule, activating your senses experiencing the glamor of Monaco taking a water taxi from this port to the Monte Carlo Casino.

Wander through the stunning Japanese Garden, enjoying this  natural beauty. Stay for dinner or return to Nice in the evening to enjoy dinner at a local bistro of your choosing. 

 

Day 4: Day Trip to Èze Sun July 13th

Breakfast at the hotel. 

Take a 20 minute local bus from Nice to Èze.

Start your morning visit to the medieval hilltop village of Èze and explore its narrow streets, craft shops, and gardens.

Engage your sense of smell at the Fragonard Perfume Factory: Tour the perfume factory to learn how French perfumes are made and immerse yourself in the world of fragrance. Create your own Eau de Toilette (perfume).

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant together on the mountain top. 

Explore the natural wonders at the hilltop where you find the Jardin Exotique d'Èze, tantalizing both your sense of sight and smell. 

Hike the Nietzsche Path down from Èze to the sea for a stunning, mindful walk with breathtaking views.

Return to Nice to enjoy a quiet evening and dinner of your choosing.

 

Day 5: Arouse the Excitement with Bastille Celebrations in Nice (Mon July 14th)

Breakfast at the hotel. 

Feel the exuberance of the city during Bastille, France’s national holiday.

Take to the streets to enjoy the celebrations in accordance with French culture. Bask in the excitement of the day. 

Stroll through Promenade du Paillon where you will enjoy a French inspired picnic.  

Throughout the day, delight in a sensory immersive experience indulging in traditional French cuisines. From crepes, croissants, and macaroons, to wine, cheese, and charcuterie, savor the tastes of the region. 

If you’re wanting to engage multiple senses at a high level, watch the parade through Promendae des Anglais.

Select dinner at a location that matches your sensory needs! 

Enjoy an electric nightcap with fireworks to commemorate the day. 

 

Day 6: Luxe Leisure Day Trip to Cannes Tue July 15th

Breakfast at the hotel. 

Travel 40 minutes by train from Nice to Cannes.

Take a morning stroll along La Croisette, Cannes' famous boulevard, lined with luxury shops, cafes, and beaches. Enjoy the local cuisine at a cafe together. 

Visit the Marché Forville, a bustling local market perfect for tasting fresh produce and local specialties.

Luxuriate on the beach in Cannes activating all of your senses. Enjoy the beauty of the ocean, the melody of the waves, and the fresh scent of the ocean. Feel the kiss of the sun, the grain of the sand on your feet, and the spray of the ocean breeze. Enjoy the refreshing taste of small bites or quench your thirst with water or a tasty liquid delight of your choice. 

Enjoy the dinner in Cannes or return to Nice for an evening of leisure.

 

Day 7:  Exploring History, Art, and Local Flair in Nice  (Wed July 16th)

After you enjoy breakfast at the hotel, begin your adventure with a visit to Palais Lascaris, a stunning 17th-century noble townhouse located in Old Town (Vieille Ville). Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Nice's aristocratic past as you explore its ornate interiors and historical exhibits.

Continue your cultural exploration at Notre-Dame-de-Cimiez, a Franciscan monastery with origins dating back to the 8th century. Take a peaceful stroll through the serene Garden of the Cimiez Monastery, and wander through the Jardin des Arènes de Cimiez, a historic site featuring a Roman amphitheater.

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along Avenue Jean Médecin, a bustling street known for shopping and people-watching. This vibrant area features a mix of international brands like Levi's and Mango, iconic French boutiques, and local cafes where you can enjoy lunch and a coffee or pastry. Stop by the Galeries Lafayette department store or browse the Nice Etoile shopping mall for souvenirs. Even a casual window-shopping experience along this dynamic avenue will stimulate your senses. 

If you missed it earlier on the trip, be sure to revisit Place Masséna after dark to appreciate the architecture in the evening glow and enjoy the Cours Saleya Market for the Marché artisanal nocturne (Night Craft Market). 

 

Day 8: Recharge in Nice(Thur July 17th)

Breakfast at the hotel. 

Start your day with a luxurious confection tasting experience at Confiserie Florian. You’ll be able to sample various fine chocolates and candies, and explore their artisanal methods of crafting each piece.

Head to the famous beach along the Promenade des Anglais. Relax by the Mediterranean Sea or take a refreshing dip. 

Further your attention to physical wellness through your own choice of activities for the day. Enjoy a local spa, massage, or continue to enjoy the healing properties of water through the beach or pool. Whatever you decide, center your own wellness needs. 

After a relaxing day, activate your body and auditory senses with an evening of music, conversation, and dancing. You can choose to attend a local jazz bar, live music bar, rooftop, lounge, or stay back at the hotel. Have fun and be sure to save time for sleep so that you are rested with your bags packed for our next adventure.

 

Day 9 Bon Adieu & Setting Intentions for a Well Life  (Fri July 18th)

Enjoy savory bites at a goodbye breakfast where you will set intentions for mindful living. 

 

Travel Fees

Expenses the fee will include:

  • Lodging
  • In-country transportation to planned group activities (chartered bus, public bus, taxi, trains, walking)
  • Two meals a day
  • Planned Group Activities:
    • Promenade des Anglais
    • Old Town Walk
    • Castle Hill and Picnics
    • Parc de la Colline du Château and picnic
    • Port Hercule
    • Japanese and Princess Grace Botanical Gardens
    • Monte Carlo Casinos Large hall
    • Palace visit 
    • Fragonard Perfume Factory
    • Jardin Exotique d’Eze 
    • Promenade du Paillon
    • La Croisette, Cannes' famous boulevard
    • Marché Forville walk in Cannes
    • Palais Lascaris
    • Notre-Dame-de-Cimiez (Cimiez Monastery)
    • Confections tour and tasting 
    • Beach visits

Faculty Bio

Image
portrait of Akilah Reynolds

Akilah Reynolds

Akilah Reynolds, PhD, is a psychologist and assistant professor of counseling at St. Mary’s College of California. A wellness and travel enthusiast, she has curated multiple wellness retreats, believing deeply in the transformative power of mindfulness, cultural immersion, and community. With extensive experience in creating wellness experiences that foster both personal growth and cultural learning, Dr. Akilah is passionate about how travel and cultural exchange contribute to self-discovery and well-being. Her approach integrates sensory engagement, community connection, and cross-cultural exploration, creating an environment where participants can expand their horizons and deepen their sense of belonging. As a wellness guide, she combines academic expertise with hands-on wellness experience to lead a journey that inspires personal development, strengthens community bonds, and encourages cultural exploration.

Email: aar25@999lsm.net