The Soul Institute & Body Mind Spirit Journeys present

The Mary Magdalene Retreat
3rd Annual
Aromatic Spiritual Journey through Southern France
with Adora Winquist
THIS TOUR HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Do you hear a calling TO RISE deep within you?
 
 Are you drawn to the SACRED MYSTERIES of Mary Magdalene?
 
Are you seeking an ENCHANTING ADVENTURE to connect with the DIVINE FEMININE?
 

Join Adora on an alchemical journey in the beautiful South of France on a pilgrimage of Mary Magdalene to awaken the infinite source of love within you.

The quest?

To explore a greater connection to the Divine Feminine within and rise to your highest potential.

Through daily ceremony and healing meditations, Adora will guide us on journeys of the sacred human heart.

“Your love heals, transforms and creates all that is. It is infinite.”

By intertwining the alchemy of the oils with the ancient sites connected to Mary and the teachings of love, peace and forgiveness, you will experience profound personal transformation.

“Love is the universal language of the heart. It is the sacred essence of humanity, uniting us as One.”

Historical art depicts Mary Magdalene often with a vessel of aromatic essence for the holy practice of anointing.

These sacred oils hold the keys to awaken the ancient wisdom and divine knowledge held within us.

Spikenard. Galbanum. Cistus. Lotus. Champaca. Bakul. Buddhawood.

These aromatics offer an expansive pathway to the deep recesses of our soul where Divine truth and light dance in unity. 

This is a journey of spiritual awakening, of miracles and mysticism designed to draw you deeper into communion with The Beloved, the source of infinite love within you.

This program is deeply augmented by the depth of connection, insight and historical wealth of knowledge of Veronique Flayol, our highly esteemed partner and guide. Through Roni’s wisdom, you will be transported back in time to feel the passion and gifts of Mary and the potent presence of the Divine Feminine.

The special bond between Adora and Roni creates a depth of sacred community that you will hold in your hearts and memories for a lifetime.

We warmly welcome you to join us for the 2023 pilgrimage. Secure your place today as space is limited for this event.

What Adora’s Previous Travelers Had to Say…

This retreat was magical. Full not only of sacred places but sacred ceremonies, meditations and communion with the group. During my time in France with Adora, I experienced several awakenings that have already had a great positive impact on my life and being.
-Kay Francis

“Wow! Talk about good vibes only! I went on the Mary Magdalene retreat with Adora this past September. I did not know what to expect. I went with an open mind and open heart. My experience was truly amazing! Adora had a wonderful guide who’s love and passion for where she came from and for the mysteries of the life of Mary Magdalene were felt with her every word. Roni was very knowledgeable and I learned a lot about the places we visited, the life of Mary Magdalene, and the people that came in contact with her and her work. The beauty of the countryside of France, and the weather around the time of the year that we went made the trip that much more special. I can’t forget to mention the delicious meals that were included in our package. Wow! In this retreat I was able to tap into a deeper connection of myself and the universe with Adora’s guided meditations. Adora has a gift which allows us to travel to different places in our meditations. I was able to see colors, images of geometry, icons, and people that left me with an incredible feeling of what just occurred. When the tour was over and I was back home, I felt much lighter. There were things that I was carrying before the trip. I was able to release so much! I came home happy and with a new perspective on the things that were bothering me. They didn’t bother me anymore. The trip was a true transformational experience aside from visiting beautiful places full of history. We also got to have some free time to shop, eat, imbibe, and have fun! I met a great group of women who I’m still in touch with. I loved it! I would definitely go back!”  
-Karla Perez

Loving support on every level and in every aspect of the retreat! I have been on other retreats that were advertised as being “spiritual” and promising transformative experiences to hidden sources. Your retreat was the first one that actually provided all of that. I came away with the feeling that I had a life changing journey. Every detail of the trip was beautifully coordinated. I felt loving support by Adora, Patsy and Roni. All of my fellow travelers were amazing, supportive women as well. We all bonded on our Mary Magdalene quest. I am grateful and blessed to have participated in this journey.  
-Michelle Smith

Through the path of sisterhood, ritual, sacred oils and place, my heart cracked open toward myself. Each day brought a new level of cosmic complexity and sacred union with the Mary’s, Myself, the Sisterhood and the Scarab. There is an order, a sacred geometry to the design of the program flow, it takes you to your edge, equips you with what you need to take the leap and loves no matter what you decide to do next. I always felt held, safe and loved by the guides, the group and land. I’ve been all over the globe, led and attended all types of retreats, nothing has compared to my time in France with Adora, Patsy, Roni and my Sisters who journeyed with me. We danced, we dined, and dove deep but most of all we fell in love with each other and ourselves.  
-Tammy Marshall

About Adora Winquist
Adora Winquist is an Internationally recognized author, healer, teacher, speaker, and aromatherapy pioneer. She specializes in personal growth programs and products, including expertly formulated essential oil formulations that help others create personal harmony using the mind-heart-body-soul connection.  She is known for establishing one of the first brands to combine aromatherapy and energy healing on a national scale, evolving it into a world-renowned, award-winning company. She has worked with thousands of individuals globally with a full range of clients, from seekers of holistic wellness, veterans, trauma survivors, hospice, and HIV patients to men and women looking to empower their best lives. To read more about Adora and her vision, vision and The Soul Institute please visit her website: TheSoulInstitute.co

About Veronique Flayol
“Roni” is a lecturer certified by the French Ministry of Culture specializing in pilgrimages and spiritual journeys. She lives in Provence at the foot of the mountain where Mary Magdalene spent the last 30 years of her life. She became close to Mary Magdalene from a young age when with a group of friends, she created the Association Santo Madaleno (from the Provençal, our local language, means St Mary Magdalene) whose purpose is to defend and uphold the traditions. She also has a certification in aromatherapy. She loves to work with the energy and the spirit of the plants, she prepares her own meditation oils and organizes workshops to make onctions to pay tribute to Mary Magdalene.

SOME TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Celebration of the Fall Equinox in Provence
• Staying in Saintes de la Mar where Mary Magdalene and her companions came ashore when they left Palestine
• Optional “Riding the White Horses” and boat ride on the Rhone river in Saintes Maries de la Mer
• Visit to the Church of St Marys of the Sea and the crypt of Sara, the Black Madonna, Patron saint of the Gypsies
• Walk the “Royal Road” leading to Magdalene’s grotto through the sacred forest
• Visit to historic Minerve
• Visit to Gorge of Galamus where Mary once taught and preached
• Walk to the 2,000 year old “Seat of Isis” in Rennes les Bains
• A stop in Limoux for a church visit of a beautiful Black Madonna
• Special Fall Equinox dinner

TOUR INCLUDES

• 8-nights hotels accommodations in delightful boutique hotels and a Chateau
• Hotel service charges and taxes
• Breakfast every day
• 4 lunches
• 6 dinners
• Services of English-speaking local tour guides throughout
• Sightseeing as per itinerary
• Sightseeing entrance fees
• Plus: Inclusion in BMSJ’s $1,000,000 Per Person Errors & omission insurance protection

ITINERARY

Day 1: Tuesday, September 19 – Arrive Marseilles – To Saintes Maries de la Mer (D)

Arrival day in Marseilles.  Arrive/meet at Marseilles Airport by 12 noon for our pick up. We head to our beachfront hotel in the legendary village of Saintes Maries de la Mer, the place on the Mediterranean Sea where Mary Magdalene came ashore, together with some other members of the Holy Family and friends. We drive through and into the marshlands known as “The Camargue” where wild white horses and black bulls roam, and pink flamingos migrate from Africa – it is a truly mythical landscape. The town is named after “the Marys” who accompanied Mary Magdalene, Mary Jacobe and Mary Salome – relatives of the Mother of Jesus. The maritime village is charming and known for its connections to gypsy culture. Although we will not be there during the chaos of the festivals (this is a good thing) there is still a flavor of the “gitane” here, where the traditions feel both Spanish and French. This is a village of Flamenco and Paella. We will have two days to explore the history of this special village, and learn more about the amazing women who made history here.  Free time to relax on the beach before a walk through the heart of the village takes us to our welcome meal.  Overnight and dinner at our hotel.

Day 2: Wednesday, September 20 – In Saintes Maries de la Mer (B/D)
Morning walk to the landing beach (directly across from our hotel!) and then on to the extraordinary Church of the Sainte Marys of the Sea.  The crypt is where the bones of Sainte Sarah and the two “other” Marys were discovered by Good King Rene d’Anjou during his excavations in the 15th century, and there is a first century stone altar on display which may be the first Christian altar in the world – used entirely by female disciples. The church is indescribable as a treasure trove of history – and perhaps heresy, as the crypt also contains one of the most spectacular black Madonna statues in the world – the nearly life sized image of Sainte Sarah.Balance of the day is free to choose how best to enjoy this special village.  Time to enjoy the Mediterranean, where you may choose a boat excursion along the Petite Rhone River and along the shoreline to experience the feeling of arriving on the beaches here (not included, but inexpensive and easily arranged). There is very tempting shopping here for traditional gifts from Provence. Optional excursions can be arranged for riding the white horses (let us know in advance if this is something you want to do).  Relax, enjoy the plentiful gypsy music and a pitcher of Sangria! Dinner and overnight at our hotel.

Day 3: Thursday, September 21 – To Aix en Provence and St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume (B/D)
After breakfast, we leave the magical Saintes Maries de la Mer, and head for Aix en Provence. The first church of Aix en Provence was built on the site of the preaching of Maximin and Magdalene. That’s why, everywhere in the cathedral, Mary Magdalene’s presence is found. We’ll end the visit at the 17th century chapel where a Black Madonna, Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance, stands. She is carrying the Infant Jesus on her knees. Moreover, a dog, which some liken to the devil, is lying at her feet. Free time to stroll around the colorful Provencal market and have lunch on your own in the historical city center. In the afternoon, we make our way to St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume, in the region where Mary Magdalene spent many years of her life, living in hiding high up in the protection of the jagged mountains. There are conflicting legends regarding the time periods in which she lived here, all of which will be discussed in detail over the course of our journey. Upon her death, she was buried on the site that would later become the Basilica of St Maximin, skeleton intact, but her bones have been the reason for wars between Provence and Burgundy. Thus they are now scattered throughout France.

After arriving at our hotel  we visit the impressive St. Maximin Basilica, which holds some of Mary Magdalene’s bones in the crypt, as well as the stone coffin in where her body resided for many centuries. Her skull is enshrined and on display in the crypt in a golden reliquary, which is paraded through the town every year for her feast day, July 22nd. It has been authenticated as a skull from the first century of a petite woman who likely died in her late 50s or early 60s. There are still strands of red-gold hair on the skull (although they are not visible through the reliquary). Viewing it can be a very emotional experience for Magdalene devotees. Exploring the Basilica in depth reveals some true jewels of medieval and Renaissance art pertaining to Our Lady – for those with eyes to see! Dinner and overnight at our hotel in St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume.

Day 4: Friday, September 22 – In St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume (B/L)
After breakfast we drive up the mountains to Ste. Baume, the astonishing cavern cathedral carved into the top of a mountain. Enduring local legends indicate that Mary Magdalene lived here after she came to France. In medieval times, royals and nobles came here to visit this remote cliff sanctuary and make the pilgrimage up the hill. So popular was this act of devotion to Mary Magdalene that a “Royal Road” was created to make the ascent easier. The walk is slightly challenging, but if you take your time it is also beautiful and well worth it. It takes about 45 minutes to make the ascent. After our descent, we visit the small church and convent at the foot of the cliff face, which has some beautiful displays as well as the breathtaking Magdalene murals painted here in the early 1900s. This was the main site welcoming pilgrims – it still is! We will have a picnic lunch before returning to our hotel. Dinner this evening is on your own, and Roni has made reservations at a local restaurant for those who want to join her.

Day 5: Saturday, September 23 – In St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume – Celebrate the Fall Equinox (B/L/D)
Today we will drive to Abbaye de Valsaintes to celebrate the Fall Equinox. The autumn equinox, with its day and night in equal parts, announces that the hour of the assessment and the harvest has come. Clearly, this is a time of the year for great insights into the decisions that guide our whole lives. Perched at a height of 1,800 feet in the middle of a vast natural bowl, the abbey of Valsaintes watches over a land which has been sacred since prehistoric times. The Dragon rock, guardian of the promontory of Boulinette, watches over the valley of Valsaintes. The quality of the rock and its siliceous soil make this unique site in Provence a place for going back to one’s roots and regaining vitality. We will have lunch at the gourmet restaurant here. Diner and overnight at our hotel.

Day 6: Sunday, September 24– To Minerve and Carcassonne  (B/D)
After breakfast, we will board our bus to join the village of Minerve. Located on a rocky promontory surrounded by two rivers, Minerve is the historic capital of the Minervois and a former stronghold of Catharism, destroyed in July 1210 by Simon de Montfort. Bombarded by catapults, thirsty, the Parfaits, the name given to the Cathars, refused to renounce their faith and were condemned to be burned alive in a collective pyre at the foot of the fortified village. The siege of Minerve marks a culmination in the struggle waged throughout the Cathar country. A stele was erected to commemorate this Cathar pyre. Free time for you to enjoy lunch on your own and discover the numerous art galleries and local artisan’s workshops throughout the village. In the late afternoon, we’ll continue to our hotel in Carcassonne. Dinner included in the old medieval city tonight.

Day 7: Monday, September 25– In Carcassonne  (B/L)
This morning we will visit the Gorge of Galamus, a moderate hike through a stunning canyon to a cavern where it is believed locally that Mary Magdalene once taught and preached.  It was converted to a chapel in ancient times and has connections to the Knights Templar.  A hermitage was built around it in 1395, and ancient legend says there were once blue mammoths which lived under the ground here! After lunch in a local restaurant,  we will travel to Rennes les Bains.  This village is well known for its thermal baths. We will stop at the old Roman baths and at the Bains Doux, with its hot spring (almost 100º F). This area is full of energies and there is a reminiscence of Celtic/Druid history here. Then we will hike/walk to the Seat of Isis, where strange signs, said to be 2000 years old, are engraved in the rock. They seem to want to send us a message. You could refresh yourself in the nearby Magdalene Spring. Back to the hotel. In the evening, we will be able to enjoy dinner on our own at one of the charming local restaurants.

Day 8: Tuesday, September 26– In Carcassonne. To Limoux (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we board our coach and drive to Limoux, a place well known to produce a white sparkling wine called “Blanquette.” Roni will tell you the incredible story about the discovery and the recipe of this famous wine produced since the Middle Ages. You could appreciate it with a tasting before a visit to the Church housing a beautiful Black Madonna, Notre Dame de Marceille. The basilica, built on the heights of Limoux, has been frequented since the 13th century by pilgrims coming to give thanks to the Black Virgin.

Day 9: Wednesday, September 27: Tour Ends (B)
Morning departure as our coach will transport us to arrive at Toulouse airport by 10 am. Please try to schedule your return journeys in the afternoon to allow yourself sufficient time. Some passengers choose to stay in an airport hotel in Toulouse and take morning flights the next day. We can help with the recommendation of an airport hotel for you if this is necessary to accommodate your schedule.

Hotels or similar

Hotel Thala Cap – Saintes Maries de la Mer (2 nights)

On the shores of the Mediterranean in the vibrant village of Saintes Maries de la Mer is the charming Hotel Thala Cap facing “the landing beach” where Mary Magdalene and her entourage arrived in France 2000 years ago. It is a fresh and comfortable ocean front hotel in a natural and authentic setting. Its Camargue architecture offers comfort with a view of the sea or gardens.

St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume – Hotel De France (3 nights)

Ideally located in the heart of the village of Saint Maximin La Sainte Baume, the Hotel de France is a stone’s throw from the Sainte Marie-Madeleine basilica, overlooked by the Sainte Victoire. The Hotel de France has been completely renovated to welcome you in a setting reflecting the spirit of Provence. The Hotel de France has 20 rooms in the main house and annex with an intimate and warm atmosphere.

Carcassonne – Hotel  Mercure La Cité (3 nights)The Hotel Mercure La Cité is located at the gates of the medieval city and the center of town. The hotel is surrounded by a magnificent private garden. Full of Mediterranean color, it is planted with oleanders and olive trees and provides a unique view over the ramparts of the old town. Thanks to its warm, elegant decoration, its outdoor pool (open seasonally) and its wooded terrace you will feel at home in this charming hotel.

Please read the Terms and Conditions for this tour.

TOUR PRICES

Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

*Special No Interest + No Payments for 6 Months Plan Now Available!
Body Mind Spirit Journeys now offers the “PayPal Credit” Plan (Click here for details)

All prices are in US dollars

Tour – Land Only Costs Per Person, double occupancy:
$3,999 payments via check or money order $4,199  via credit card

Tour – Land Only Costs Per Person, Single occupancy
$4,499 payments via check or money order $4,739  via credit card

Pre-Paid Gratuities:
$100 payments via check or money order, $105 via credit card

Deposit Schedule
Deposit Payment – due as soon as possible in order to ensure a place on the tour
Per Person Double or Single accommodations: $750 by check or money order, $800 by credit card
Final Payment (final installment due on or before July 19, 2023

NOTE: The Single Room Supplement applies for those who would like to secure a private room throughout the tour.

ROOMMATES: We will be happy to try to find a suitable roommate for those who are traveling alone and would like to share a room. Per our Terms and Conditions, registration for the tour will be held open until four weeks before the departure date in order to try to match everyone with a roommate. If, by that date, we have not been able to match you with a suitable roommate, you will be responsible to pay for the single supplement. An early registration will facilitate this process.

THIS TOUR HAS BEEN CANCELLED

If you have already registered and would like to go to the payment page, Click Here.

Travel Insurance
As travel professionals, Body Mind Spirit Journeys highly recommends travel insurance. Sometimes unexpected circumstances can arise. A sudden emergency just before or during your trip could spoil your vacation and deplete your resources.

We have recently seen some of our valued travelers lose not only their non-refundable deposits, but also their entire tour payments because they hoped they would not need trip cancellation insurance.

You should protect your trip investment and yourself in regards to health, property and trip payments. That is why we provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider for U.S. residents, Allianz Global Assistance. If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 1-800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323.

BMSJ will be sending you additional details and a brochure with your confirmation on trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

*No Payments + No Interest if paid in full in 6 months. Click here for details.

Photo credit:
Château de Montségur – vue aérienne:MDanis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons