SACRED FRANCE

Celebrating the Mysteries of the Magdalene
and Secrets of the Cathars

The All New Sacred France
Immersive Experience

Hosted by Kathleen McGowan & Veronique Flayol
May 30-June 12, 2022
 

Kathleen is so excited to unveil this new, unprecedented Sacred France itinerary for 2022. For the first time ever, we will spend a full week in an immersive, French village experience. After almost 30 years of visits to France, Kathleen has made her home in the historic, mystical and picturesque medieval village of Alet-les-Bains. Alet means “the Chosen Place” and throughout history it has been just that. Historical characters from Charlemagne to Nostradamus have all come to Alet to experience its healing energies and the “magical elixir water” which flows freely. We will stay in historic private homes, with full access to kitchens, laundry facilities and swimming pools to make your stay more comfortable. You are at home here in Alet-les-Bains and we are thrilled to make you part of our community

In addition, we will be spending three nights in an historical chateau near Carcassonne, related to one of the most fascinating Cathar characters, the woman who inspired troubadours and fought for Cathar liberation, Etienette du Pennautier (nicknamed The She Wolf!) It is also a spectacular award winning vineyard, for the wine lovers!

This itinerary gives an immersive, unparalleled experience of the history of the Cathars, the Black Madonna, and the legacy of Mary Magdalene in this area. It is designed for your maximum comfort and memorable experiences. And as always, Kathleen has prepared gastronomic surprises at every turn!

Because of the special nature of this itinerary, rooms are very limited!

Note: Due to the Limited availability, Reservations are on “First Come/First Served basis

Your Hosts 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.

Veronique Flayol
Veronique 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.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Monday, May 30: Arrival in Toulouse. Continue to Cahors and Rocamadour (L/D)
Our journey starts in Toulouse and please be at the Toulouse Airport by 11 AM ** for our pick up. We then head to Cahors, where we visit the majestic 12th century Cahors Cathedral. Built on the site of an ancient Merovingian church and bloodline stronghold, the cathedral is a mix of Romanesque, Byzantine and Gothic architecture. The Holy Cap, believed to be one of the linen cloths which covered the head of Jesus at his burial, was brought here in secret in 1113. For centuries it was not available to be viewed by the public, but its reliquary is now on display and many feel a profound energy from it. Lunch and wine tasting in the region called La Noire Madeleine. Cahors is a famous wine region known for its wonderful Malbec (yup, it first appeared here in France, not Argentina). Afterwards, continue to our hotel in the spectacular, magical ancient site of Rocamadour, built high in the mountains. French legend says it is named for St Amador, the husband of St Veronica, and the pair settled here after the crucifixion. Did they arrive with Mary Magdalene and her entourage? Dinner and overnight at our hotel with the gorgeous view over the valley.

** 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 you prefer to do this, we can help with Reservations at the Radisson Blu. Kathleen and Veronique will be available at the hotel to assist those who arrive early and get them to the airport the next day.

Day 2: Tuesday, May 31: In Rocamandour: (B)
After breakfast, we will have a full day in Rocamadour starting with a walking tour of the ancient site including the sanctuary of Our Lady of Rocamadour, considered by many to be the high Queen of Black Madonnas. She has been revered here for 2000 years, by royalty and populace from all over Europe. The current statue dates to the early 1100s and has been credited with countless miracles, including the healing of King Henry II. Balance of the day free to explore the ancient site and/or the medieval village and have lunch and dinner on your own at one of the many charming restaurants or in our beautifully located hotel with a view!

Day 3: Wednesday, June 1: To Carcassonne (B/D)
After breakfast, we depart for the stunning walled city of Carcassonne where we will learn about the formidable Dame Carcas for whom the town is named and later view the alchemist window and some special Madonnas in the Cathedral of St. Nazaire. Free time to roam, have lunch on your own, explore the ramparts, do some fabulous medieval souvenir shopping or enjoy lunch on our own at one of the many atmospheric restaurants. We then arrive at our spectacular Chateau Hotel for dinner and our overnight

Day 4: Thursday, June 2: In Carcassonne. Excursion to Mas Cabardes (B/D)
We head into the Montaigne Noir, the Black Mountains, which were a haven for the Cathars to hide during the crusades. We arrive at the stunning Cathar site of Lastours, a place of four castles dating to the 13th century. Kathleen will tell stories of what transpired here – of the troubadours and a femme fatale called the She Wolf – from the viewing platform. Veronique will give us a talk on the troubadours, made more powerful as we overlook the castle of Cabaret, where the movement was at its peak during the Cathar period.
After lunch in an unspoiled nearby medieval village, we view the Weaver’s Cross in the Cathar “bandit town” of Mas Cabardes (a place where Cathars were hidden from persecution) and visit the very special church which sits over a vortex. Dinner at the Chateau this evening. 

Day 5: Friday, June 3: In Carcassonne. 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 Cathar Camelot. Minerve is a spectacular, fortified medieval town which is one of the landmarks of The Way of Love. On July 22, 1210, almost 200 Cathar leaders were burned alive here for their “heretical” beliefs by the corrupt, misogynist and materialistic Catholic Church, which lusted for wealth and power. 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. Lunch at a village restaurant followed by a visit the rural site of 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, beneath which is found a cave containing a dolmen/Druidic stone. 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 possible connections with The Book of Love. Dinner at the Chateau.

Day 6: Saturday, June 4: To Alet les Bains (B/D)
We continue our journey to the magical medieval village of Alet-les-Bains, known to the ancients as “The Chosen Place.”Tonight, we will hear the legend of how sparkling wine was invented – and how the recipe was stolen by a crafty monk from Champagne – with a pre dinner tasting, of course! Afterwards we meet for dinner and overnight. Note: Over her three decades of visiting this region, Kathleen has fallen in love with the ancient village of Alet les Bains. In a special partnership with village residents, they have created a completely unique experience for our time here. The group will be accommodated in several small, historic and very charming chambre d’hotes (bed and breakfasts) in the village. Each location will serve its own breakfast each day, and all meals will be taken together at the restaurant of Les Marguerites. The village is small and we will all have easy walking access to each of the locations. Your comfort has been deeply considered by our hosts, and each location will provide access to kitchens, refrigerators, and a selection of snacks and drinks available 24/7.

Day 7: Sunday, June 5: In Alet les Bains, Excursion to St Selvayre B/L/D)
Walking tour today of Alet les Bains, including the Nostradamus House. After a light lunch we will journey up the winding mountain behind Alet, home of many legends – and a place where the Nazis believe that the Ark of the Covenant was buried, one of the reasons they occupied this area. We will visit the ancient chapel of St Salvyre, which was once a Temple to the Mithras. The layers of legend in this area are thousands of years deep and those ancient spiritual layers are part of our discussion while we dine together at Les Marguerites.

Day 8: Monday, June 6: In Alet les Bains, Excursion to Arques (B/D)
After breakfast we will visit the medieval chateau of Arques, where Kathleen received much of her inspiration for The Expected One. She will tell stories about this onsite, with free time to explore this beautiful and well preserved medieval landmark. Lunch at a local restaurant followed by a very special private concert in a local community.

Day 9: Tuesday, June 7: In Alet les Bains, Excursion to Rennes la Chateau (B/L/D)
Our focus today is the mystery of Rennes-le-Château. This small village, the domain of the mysterious priest of Rennes le Chateau, Berenger Sauniere and his beloved partner, Marie Denarnaud, is at the origin of so many mysteries and has been the inspiration for so many books, including The Expected One, that it takes a full day to digest it all! We explore the tiny but oh-so-powerful village to understand the perspective of the treasure hunters. What were they looking for? What is the configuration of the underground tunnels and crypts? We will visit the famously encoded church dedicated to Mary Magdalene – a true temple of knowledge. But that is just one aspect of this multi-faceted place. After our included lunch, we see the village in a different perspective: this was a “doorway to heaven,” a magical place, a portal to a new world – and to personal and universal transformation. As a special treat, our friends Tobi and Gerda Dobler* will welcome us into their private garden where Tobi will present his observations as a regional leader of the European Knights Templar, someone who has lived in the village for many years and is intimately acquainted with the mysteries. TV viewers of “The Curse of Oak Island” may have seen Tobi on the show with Kathleen. Free time to explore the village before having dinner at our hotel.

Day 10: Wednesday, June 8: In Alet les Bains, Excursion to Galamus (B/L/D)
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! Picnic lunch before returning to our hotel for a leisurely afternoon to swim, relax, or drink local wines beneath the ancient trees of our Chosen Place!

Day 11: Thursday, June 9: In Alet les Bains, Excursion to Montsegur (B/L/D)
Today we are officially Pilgrims as we travel to the holy mountain of Montségur, the eternal symbol of Catharism. 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. It will be a crowning achievement for an unforgettable adventure in France. After time on the Holy Mountain, we will descend to the village of Montsegur for lunch provided by a popular, local female chef, followed briefly (if permission is granted) by a visit the two Black Madonnas that reside in the very special village church. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 12: Friday, June 10: To Notre Dame de Marceille & St Hilaire Toulouse (B/L/D)
This morning we visit the medieval church of Notre Dame de Marceille, another encoded and incredible place, with a famous black Madonna who is known for her healing properties. There are two extraordinary portraits of Kathleen’s ancestors here from the 1700s, both giving thanks to the Madonna for their healing miracles! Outside we visit the sacred well, where the water is believe to heal eye maladies and bring “clear vision” This was once the place of female oracles, similar to those of Delphi in Greece.
After a local lunch, we will continue to the historic Abbey of St Hilaire, where sparkling wine was invented, and where there are extraordinary images of women in power from ancient times. Wine tasting is a must in this village, and we will indulge in it!

Day 13: Saturday, June 11: To Toulouse (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we depart for Toulouse. After dropping off our luggage at our hotel, we will have lunch in Toulouse at the brasserie Opera to be followed by a city tour which includes one of the most spectacular black madonnas in the world! Ochre rooftops and blushing brick churches earned Toulouse the nickname ‘La Ville Rose’ (The Pink City). Its enchanting Vieux Quartier (Old Quarter) is a dreamy jumble of coral-colored shop-fronts and churches. Return to our hotel to rest and then our farewell dinner.

Day 14: Sunday, June 12: Tour ends (B)
After breakfast the tour ends as you independently make your way to the airport for your onward flights.

Your Homes for the Journey (or similar)

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 Bain,s there will be a variety of accommodation options allocated on a “first-come/first served” basis as reservations are received.

Hotel Beau Site (2 nights)
An elegant hotel nestled in the heart of the Medieval City of Rocamadour, in the Dordogne Valley. Warm and welcoming, it is located in an old renovated house and offers a modern environment. Our establishment has a renowned restaurant, terraces overlooking the valley, a bar, a reception area, as well as a small vaulted lounge and an interior terrace in the historic building with a view of the Site

Chateau Pennautier – Carcassonne (3 nights)
The Château de Pennautier was built in 1620 and then enlarged during the following century. Today, it is called the Little Versailles of the South thanks to the work of architects Le Vau, for its facade and wings, and Nôtre, for its gardens. In the same family for 400 years, this Historic Monument has always known how to remain a living place, in its time but respecting its roots. Here you will find all modern comforts but in a unique historical setting. 

B & Bs – Alet –  (7 nights)
Our Alet Les Bains B & B Accommodations (7 nights)

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, pastel coloured walls.

Numero Quatre and Maison Pigeonnier
Located a  few short steps down from Porte Cadene gate you will find the house Numero 4 and Maison Pigeonnier, as you enter into an oasis of serenity, highlighted by a gorgeous swimming pool filled with the natural spring waters of Alet. The breath-taking walled garden is a picture-perfect backdrop for the entirely beautiful house that is Numero Quatre and her charming cottage Maison Pigeonnier. Rooms are quite simply sumptuous, decorated using the highest quality paints, fabrics, furniture and furnishings, all skilfully sourced with an emphasis on extreme comfort and beauty. 

Maison Aleteia
Maison Aleteiais a charming stone manor house with a great story. Built around 1750, during the time of the King Louis the 15th. The house was used until 1792 by the 35th Bishop of Alet Charles de la Cropte de Chanterac. It has always been a house of love, peace and culture, nestled in the old city walls of the medieval city of Alet les Bains. The spacious sitting room with garden view is a space where you can unwind or simply engage in mindful contemplation. The house offers an ambiance of discovery where you can immerse into the history of this very special region, the Golden Triangle.  The secluded walled garden provides you a slice of nature and a chance to smell the roses and to hear the bees, surrounded by mountains. 

NOTE: Above  based on twin-bedded or single  rooms with 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 in Alet, accommodations will be allotted on a “First Reservation/First Confirmed” basis.

Radisson Blu – Toulouse (1 night)
Radisson Blu prides itself on attention to detail and personalized service, so your unforgettable guest experience begins the moment you walk through the door. When you’re not relaxing in your comfortable 4-star accommodations, you can connect with colleagues or prepare for meetings in our inviting, multipurpose work spaces, which feature thoughtful touches like free Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and device chargers and adapters. Dis

Tour Includes:  

• Hotel accommodations as per itinerary
• Daily buffet breakfasts
• Additional lunches and dinners as indicated
• Wine at 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 FOR 14 DAYS (LAND ONLY)

Price Per Person staying with private bath throughout (limited number of rooms)
Per Person Double Occupancy: $5,899 by check or money order, $6,199 by credit card – THREE PLACES AVAILABLE
Per Person Single Occupancy: $6,999 by check or money order, $7,389 by credit card –  SOLD OUT

Price Per Person staying in Rocamadour, Carcassonne, Toulouse in accommodations with private bath and in Alet Les Bains in en-suite shared bathroom
Per Person Double Occupancy: $5,699 by check or money order, $5,999 by credit card
Person Single Occupancy: $6,499 by check or money order, $6,799 by credit card

Special Discounts:
Alumni (those who have taken one of Kathleen’s International Tours in the past) $150 per person
Couples or Family: $300 per family/couple ($150 pp)
Couples or Family Alumni: $400 per family/couple ($200 pp)

There are 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. We will create a private Facebook group for retreat attendees where we can all begin to get acquainted in advance and remain in contact afterward.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

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
BALANCE for payments is due in full by April 1, 2022

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.

Air Reservations
BMSJ is pleased to announce that it has opened an expanded Air Reservation Desk headed by Jeannifer Brady. Jen can be reached at 1-800-545-1300 or travelbyjeannifer@gmail.com. Jen will be happy to answer your questions and assist you in making your airline reservations to join your BMSJ Spiritual Journey

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, 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:

Cahors cathedrale: Eric Gaba (Sting – fr:Sting), CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Carcassonne Castle: BrianRS1, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lastours Chateau Cabaret Interieur: Pethrus, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Caunes Minervois L’Abbaye: Aubry Françon, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Alet-les-Bains (France) Encorbellements: Serbus, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Galamus 2 Ermitage: Jcb-caz-11, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Basilique Notre-Dame de Marceille: Chris06, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons