Mary Magdalene’s Way of Love
Intensive Teachings of the Magdalene through the Cathars
Hosted by Kathleen McGowan
June 14-24, 2025
Designed for those who have traveled to France with Kathleen previously, and have already visited the most important monuments to Catharism, this is a deeper dive into the teachings of Magdalene and the Cathars. This retreat is also appropriate for our friends with limited mobility who prefer a gentler teaching environment without the long walks.
We stay in the gorgeous retreat houses of Alet les Bains, where we are treated not as tourists but as members of a beloved community. Here you will begin to truly experience what it means to participate in a modern community that celebrates the Way of Love as a Way of Life, and as always you will be treated to exquisite local cuisine and wine.
We will work in sessions with Kathleen on the teachings of the six-petal-rose in our private secret garden temple, we will study from the Gospels of Mary Magdalene and Phillip, the Pistis Sophia, and for the first time ever Kathleen will teach from the Book of Love. We will visit favorite local places, like the Garden in Rennes le Chateau, the Chateau in Arques, meditation and prayer in the ancient site of St Salvayre. We will experience private concerts from exquisite musicians, harpist Ani Williams and pianist Devayani and participate in some beautiful spiritual rituals, including a sound bath, a cacao ceremony, and several meditations opportunities in gorgeous, ancient spaces.
Please note that the workshop and class schedule will be provided in advance, along with a suggested reading list. Zoom calls with Kathleen will take place prior to the retreat as well. We will be using Kathleen’s book, The Source of Miracles, as a primary text – the path to creating a more fulfilling and connected life through the Lord’s Prayer as taught by the Cathars. She will also provide you with some special materials created just for this event.
We are strictly limited to 15 participants in this retreat to ensure personalized experiences and attention.
Note: Due to the Limited accommodation availability, Reservations are on “First Come/First Served basis.
Your Host on the Journey
Kathleen McGowan
International bestselling author of The Magdalene Line series, including The Expected One and The Book of Love, both inspired by her own adventures and experiences in this region for almost twenty years. An expert on the early Christian traditions of Southwestern France and the legends of Mary Magdalene and her family, Kathleen will take you to many of the locations which have inspired her current and future books.
Special Escort Tori Milner
Tori has been living on this land since she was 11. Fluent in both French and English she will be our translator and logistics co-ordinator during our time in this beautiful part of France. Deeply connected to feminine wisdom and honored to be in service to groups of powerful women. She is here to ensure everything runs smoothly so that Kathleen can focus her energy on sharing her magic with you all!
FRANCE TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1- Saturday, June 14: Arrival in Toulouse. Continue Alet-les-Bains (D)
Please be at the Toulouse Airport Arrivals Area by 1 pm** for our pick up and board our coach for our journey to the magical medieval village of Alet-les-Bains, known to the ancients as “The Chosen Place.” Afternoon to settle in to your beautiful homes for the next week, the grand and gracious “sister” houses known as Les Marguerites and the riverside Villa du Parc. Perhaps go for a relaxing swim in the pool, which is filled with the healing waters for which Alet les Bains has been known for centuries, or dip your toes in the magical, story-filled River Aude? Meet at 6 pm for “aperos” – appetizers and drinks – where Kathleen will give an introduction talk about the forthcoming week. This will be followed by a welcome dinner with wine. Please note that you will be assigned your rooms on arrival based on the two stunning properties we are using (which are directly across from each other). However all lunches, dinners and talks will be at the Les Marguerites.
** Please note that some prefer, and it is highly recommended, to fly in a day early to ensure there are no issues with late flights. If the pick-up time at 1 pm is missed due to a late flight, the cost of a private transfer to our region is approximately $300. If you prefer to arrive a day early, you will book your own accommodations for that night. We recommend the Toulouse Airport Radisson Blu or the NH Hotel in the airport terminal.
Day 2- Sunday, June 15: In Alet les Bains. (B/L/D)
After breakfast we gather for a special opening ceremony. Lunch at the Villa du Parc, followed by a walking tour of Alet les Bains, home of ancient ruins and many legends – and discover why its name means “the Chosen Place.” Nazi officers believed the Ark of the Covenant was buried in these hills, one of the reasons they occupied this area, and part of the inspiration for the original Indiana Jones movie. The overcoming of darkness by the light is a theme in this landscape which we will explore. We will visit the ancient chapel of St Salvayre, an ancient holy place which was once a temple to Mithras in ancient times, for prayer and meditation. The layers of legend in this area are thousands of years deep and those ancient spiritual strata are part of our discussion this evening before we dine together at Les Marguerites.
Day 3-Monday, June 16: Excursion to Minerve (B/L/D)
Today we make our way to the Cathar’s sacred city of Minerve, the place Kathleen refers to as the Catha Camelot. Minerve is a spectacular, fortified medieval town which is one of the landmarks of The Way of Love and was once the site of the most extensive teachings in Cathar Country. On July 22, 1210, almost 200 Cathar leaders were burned alive here for their “heretical” beliefs – in love, community, faith and gender equality! Minerve stands as a monument to the Way and how these extraordinary people lived. It holds a special atmosphere which some have found to be life-changing. After lunch in the Cathar “snail village” – it is built in a spiral- we will visit Notre Dame du Cros, in an outlying gorge and river basin of the medieval town of Caunes Minervois. This ancient sacred valley encloses a medieval chapel where a ‘Black Madonna’ resides within. This sanctuary, with a healing, sacred spring, offers a sunlit/light filled, natural, green oasis of freshness and delight. Said to be linked with the 19th century mystery of Rennes le Chateau and Notre Dame de Marceille, Kathleen will also tell a story of its legendary connections with Mary Magdalene and The Book of Love. Dinner at Les Marguerites.
Day 4-Tuesday, June 17: Excursion to Limoux (B/L/D)
After breakfast we are back in our magical Temple of the Six Petal Rose at Les Marguerites, today to work through the third and fourth petals, SERVICE and ABUNDANCE! Lunch in Limoux at the Grand Café plus a visit to the gorgeous, encoded stained glass windows in the Church of St Martin. Balance of the day is at leisure in Alet for swimming, journaling or relaxing. Light dinner this evening at Les Marguerites, with a magical candlelight Cacao ceremony afterwards!
Day 5-Wednesday, June 18: In Alet-les-Bains – Full Day of Teachings and Workshops (B/L/D)
After breakfast we gather for an introduction to the teachings of the Cathars as brought to this land originally by Mary Magdalene, starting with our first lesson from the rose – the essence of FAITH: what it means to us, how it has evolved in our lives, how we experience it as our foundation. Passages from Gospel of MM about her own faith will be part of our process.
We will have lunch at les Marguerites, followed by additional afternoon workshops and teachings. Dinner this evening at les Marguerites.
Day 6-Thursday, June 19: Excursion to Montesegur (B/L/D)
Today we are officially pilgrims as we travel to the holy mountain of Montségur, the eternal symbol of Catharism. We begin at the foot of the mountain with a ceremony of appreciation for those “who came before us and paid the price.” Though Montségur’s ascent might seem difficult, it is a hike worth attempting for those who are physically able. Anyone with physical disabilities can stay in the lovely village if they choose not to make the climb. (Due to a foot injury, Kathleen will not be climbing this time but there will be a guide to take the hikers up if she cannot). After time on the Holy Mountain, we will descend to the village of Montsegur for a legendary duck lunch provided by a popular, local female chef, followed (pending special permission) by a visit the two Black Madonnas that reside in the very special village church. Dinner at Les Marguerities.
Day 7-Friday, June 20: Excursion to Arques and Brenak (B/L/D)
After breakfast we first are off to Arques. Located in the heart of southwestern France, nestled in the hollow of the Corbières, on the border of the Razès and the Termenès, it’s on the route of the Cathar castles. The village offers visitors the richness of its history as well as the beauty of the nature that surrounds it. Its castle classified Site Pôle du Pays Cathare, make this small commune one of the privileged sites. Then to Couiza for lunch before we continue to Brenak, one of the most beautiful villages in France, for an afternoon concert. We return with time to rest before dinner.
Day 8-Saturday, June 21: SUMMER SOLSTICE. Excursion to Rennes le Chateau- (B/L/D)
After breakfast we depart for the “Village of Mystery” – Rennes le Chateau, dedicated to Mary Magdalene. Although the full-time population of this village averages about 20 people, hundreds of thousands of words have been written about it. Kathleen considers this her second home in France, and she’ll introduce you to some of its mysteries, with the help of her local friends. Lunch in the beautiful Garden of Marie restaurant, followed by some time for meditation. Return to Alet for dinner at Les Marguerities.
Day 9- Sunday, June 22: Morning Excursion to Esperaza. Afternoon in Alet (B/D)
After breakfast, we visit the colorful, charming local market in Esperaza, always a favorite with our visitors. Lunch is on our own to sample the amazing offerings there. Or “Cooking with Antoinette.” For those who are inclined, you can join us in the kitchen to prepare a community style feast! We will meet together to buy local organic ingredients for tonight’s dinner. Others can relax for the rest of the day. Dinner at Les Marguerites.
Day 10- Sunday, June 23: In Alet les Bains. Full Day Teaching (B/L/D)
A unique day which we spend on the discussion of the spirituality of Catharism with Kathleen and an introduction to the magical Temple of the Six Petal Rose at Les Marguerites! Farewell barbecue dinner at the Villa du Parc this evening.
Day 11-Tuesday June 24: Tour Ends (B)
Our tour ends after breakfast with a transfer to Toulouse Airport and be sure to book your flight AFTER 1 pm.
Your Homes for the Journey in Alet les Bains
We have chosen very special locations as our bases for this journey, so you will be immersed in the flavor of the region from the moment you arrive. Additionally, with the new arrangements for Alet les Bains there will be a variety of accommodation options allocated on a “first-come/first served” basis as reservations are received.
Les Marguerites
Les Marguerites is a truly elegant villa on the sunny side of the wide avenue of Nicolas Pavillon, just outside the old city walls of the medieval village of Alet les Bains, and has had the honour of welcoming guests for over 100 years. The property is devotedly restored and tastefully decorated with care and attention that gives you the feeling of both ease and grace, the interiors are bright and crisp, with warm wooden floors and pastel colored walls.
Both properties offer Wi-Fi throughout.
Villa Du Parc
Located directly opposite Les Marguerites you will find Villa Du Parc. She is the sister house of Les Marguerites. Both houses were built by the same architect and share the same magical energy. The house and gardens sit right on the banks of the river Aude. Its rooms offer you every possible comfort and each is equipped with a private bathroom, original features and well-appointed bathrooms. You can also enjoy their hot tub filled with the source waters of Alet les Bains, the perfect place to rest and relax after the days adventures.
NOTE: Above based on twin-bedded or single rooms with private bath or shower or shared en-suite as indicated. You are assigned accommodations as the guest of the facility selected. The tour operator reserves the right to substitute hotels of similar category.
As there is limited room availability for en-suite bathrooms, accommodations will be allotted on a “First Reservation/First Confirmed” basis.
Tour Includes:
- Round-trip scheduled transfers from Toulouse Airport to Alet
- Hotel accommodations as per itinerary
- Daily buffet breakfasts
- Additional lunches and dinners as indicated
- Wine with many meals
- Group transportation within France by coach
- Sightseeing as per itinerary
- All activities described in the itinerary
- PLUS Group ceremonies and workshops
Please read the Terms and Conditions for this program.
** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. These discounted prices are noted 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)
PRICING
ALL INCLUSIVE PRICES (LAND ONLY)
Per Person Double Occupancy with shared En-Suite $5,299 by check, $5,579 credit card
Per Person Double Occupancy with En-Suite bathroom: $5,599 by check, $5,899 credit card
Per Person Single Occupancy with shared $6,099 by check, $6,419 credit card
Per Person Single Occupancy with En-Suite $6,599 by check, $6,999 credit card
Note: There are limited single rooms available and reserved on a “first-come/first-served” basis.
SPECIAL DISCOUNTS
ALUMNI DISCOUNT
$250 Per Person
COUPLES & FAMILY SPECIAL DISCOUNT
Price Per Couple – Please note that this refers to two people sharing ONE bed in en-suite accommodations
Per Couple or FAMILY Double Occupancy: $10,898 by check, $11,479 by credit card
ALUMNI COUPLES & FAMILY SPECIAL DISCOUNT
Price Per Couple – Please note that this refers to two people sharing ONE bed in en-suite accommodations
Per Couple or FAMILY Double Occupancy: $10,598 by check, $11,159 by credit card
FIRST NON-REFUNDABLE PAYMENT
(Due as soon as possible in order to ensure a place on the tour)
Per Person: $1,500 by check or money order, $1,579 by credit card
FINAL PAYMENT Due on or before April 14, 2025
There is a limited number of rooms and configurations available. If you are willing to share a room, please let us know and we will do our best to match you up with a roommate with advanced introductions.
After you register online you will automatically be re-directed for payment by mail-in check or securely online by credit or debit card.
If you have already registered and would like access to the Payment Page, please 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 with regard to health, property and trip payments. That is why we provide you with an easy way to contact BMSJ’s preferred insurance provider, 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 travel insurance.
Photo credits:
Alet-les-Bains: Chris06, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Pont Minerve: TouN, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Château d’Arques: No machine-readable author provided. Corent1~commonswiki assumed (based on copyright claims)., CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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