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Workshops

Join us on an Art Weekend Workshop

In addition to comfortable accommodation, Les Jonquilles also offers a variety of creative workshops throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in painting, writing, photography, or simply looking to try something new, our workshops are designed to be welcoming and enjoyable for all abilities.

Led by experienced tutors in a relaxed, supportive setting, these sessions provide a wonderful opportunity to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and make the most of your time in this inspiring part of France.

Art Weekend

Maximum of 4 guests

Escape to the French countryside for a beautifully curated weekend of art, relaxation, and delicious food!

This beginner-friendly, acrylic painting retreat blends gentle creativity with the warmth and wonderful hospitality at Les Jonquilles, Chef Boutonne, France. It’s the perfect way to unwind and discover your artistic flair.

  • Price: 365,00€ per person
  • Dates: 6 – 8  March; 3 – 5 April; 17 – 19 April; 8 – 10 May; 15 – 18 May; 29 – 31 May

Art Weekend Itinerary:

Friday Evening – Settle in and savour the moment and warm hospitality

Arrive to welcome drinks and an introduction to the weekend ahead. As the evening unfolds, enjoy a lovingly prepared three-course dinner featuring local flavours and a touch of indulgence.

Saturday – Creativity, Comfort & A Private Cultural Treat

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast before joining Laura from Flo Art for a full, beginner-friendly acrylic painting workshop. Laura’s calm, supportive approach makes the experience enjoyable for everyone, regardless of skill level.

Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to:
  • Morning coffee in the garden
  • A leisurely lunch hopefully served in the grounds of the beautiful Château de Jazarvay
  • Afternoon tea to keep you inspired and fuel that creativity
  • Later in the afternoon, you’ll enjoy something truly special: a private viewing at Galerie 16, hosted by Mela McQueen. The Galerie will be open exclusively to our guests, offering a relaxed, intimate opportunity to explore the work of Laura and other talented artists.
  • Afterwards, you’re welcome to explore the town, enjoy an apéro in one of the nearby bars before returning to Les Jonquilles for another elegant three-course dinner with drinks.

Sunday – Finishing Touches and Farewell Lunch

After breakfast, you’ll have an hour to add the final details and perfect your artwork with Laura. Gather for a relaxed farewell lunch to conclude the weekend with good food and warm company before guests’ departure.

​What’s Included:

  • Welcome drinks
  • Two nights’ accommodation at Les Jonquilles
  • All meals from Friday dinner through to Sunday lunch
  • Full Saturday and Sunday morning painting workshop hosted by Flo Art
  • A finished artwork to take home

​If you’ve ever wanted to explore your creative side, even if you’ve never held a brush, this weekend offers you the chance to experience it for real. Your creative journey starts here!


photography weekend workshop

Photographic Weekend

Maximum of 6 guests

A creative escape for anyone who loves taking pictures – no fancy equipment required.

Whether you use a camera, a mobile, or a tablet, this immersive weekend with local photographer Edward Brown will help you see the world differently and capture it beautifully. It’s relaxed, inspiring, and designed for all levels – from complete beginners to enthusiastic hobbyists.

  • Price: 345,00€ per person
  • Dates: 13 – 15 March; 19 – 22 March; 9 – 12 April;

Photographic Weekend Itinerary:

Friday – Arrive, Unwind & Meet Your Mentor

Guests arrive late afternoon to settle in and soak up the ambience and calm of Les Jonquilles. Over a delicious home-cooked three-course dinner, Edward will share stories from his career and chat with you about what you’d like to learn and achieve during the weekend. It’s friendly, informal, and the perfect way to begin.

​Saturday –  Markets, Château & Creative Exploration

After breakfast, Edward will guide you on a gentle stroll to Chef-Boutonne morning market, helping you capture the colours, characters, and textures of authentic French local life. He’ll offer tips and hands-on guidance as you meander around the stalls.

When the market closes around midday, enjoy a leisurely stroll back – either to Les Jonquilles or, weather permitting, to the beautiful grounds of the Chateau de Javarzay, where a relaxed lunch awaits.

Saturday afternoon continues with:
  • Free entry to the château, offering a glimpse into its history and the people who lived there.
  • Quiet walk around the lake with Edward, exploring composition, light, and storytelling through your lens.
  • Back at Les Jonquilles, gather around the big screen to review your photos. Edward will offer gentle, constructive advice on how to enhance your images and develop your eye.
  • The day concludes with another delicious evening meal, shared in good company.

​Sunday – Practice, Explore & Capture More

After breakfast, you can choose to return to the château with Edward or explore another nearby location. It’s an opportunity to put everything you’ve learned into practice with his full support. The weekend concludes with a relaxed Sunday lunch before you head home, inspired and equipped with new skills.

​What’s Included:

  • Welcome drinks
  • Two nights’ accommodation at Les Jonquilles chambre d’hôte
  • All meals from Friday dinner through to Sunday lunch
  • Full photographic workshop with Edward Brown, including guided photo walks
  • Private image review session on the big screen
  • Free entry to Château de Javarzay
  • Support from Edward for one month following the workshop regarding any photos taken during the weekend workshop.

Enjoy a weekend filled with creativity, exploration, and the chance to capture fleeting moments through your own lens – memories and images to treasure long after your visit.


Your Workshop Hosts

Karen Cousins, Les Jonquilles, Siret: 990 656 05 00013

Laura Drury, Flo Art, Siret: 909 060 956 00010

Edward Brown, Photographic services, Siret: 988 244 281 00016

It is in your best interests to ensure you have read, understand and agree to the Booking Terms and Conditions relating specifically to Workshop bookings. It is important you understand the cancellation clauses in the policy before committing to a reservation.