You give to those around you. Your family. Your partner. Your children. Your colleagues. Your community.
It's time to give back to yourself. To nurture yourself and your creativity. To seek out moments of profound peace and deep inspiration. To be pampered. To fill your cup and invest in the life changing gift that is travel.
You dream of traveling the world, of connecting with likeminded women, of cultivating a belle vie—'beautiful life'.
Belle Vie Retreats
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Together, we will share in soul-filling cultural experiences through engaging travel, exquisite art, gourmet dining, wine, photography, thoughtful discussions, and captivating destinations, all with an intimate group of like-minded friends.
These retreats offer a chance to reignite your sense of wanderlust and re-inspire your 'joie de vivre'—joy of living.
The Belle Vie Retreats are thoughtfully crafted creative getaways and bespoke experiences that embrace the essence of the 'belle vie'—the French art of living a beautiful life.
Conceived by photographer, artist, and tastemaker Molly Carr, the Belle Vie Retreats blend luxurious leisure travel with enriched creative experiences, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the life-changing magic of Europe as true travelers rather than mere tourists.
Curated Travel for the Dreamers
the experience
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"The France Retreat was truly a life-changing experience and what I know will be a pivotal moment in my story."
- Kristen, Past Attendee
As a lifelong explorer, Molly has spent decades traveling the globe, cultivating her ever expanding list of the luxury destinations while curating exactly how to live 'la belle vie'—the beautiful life.
Having been looked to as a travel tastemaker by top publications such as Harper's BAZAAR, Travel + Leisure, and Town & Country, sharing her love of European art and lifestyle and encouraging women to have the courage to travel internationally is Molly's greatest passion.
Molly Carr is an artist, tastemaker, international photographer, business owner, wife, writer, and retreat hostess. Like you, she wears many hats.
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the Hostess
"Molly's taste for everything luxury travel & lifestyle is impeccable—the France Retreat was the trip of a lifetime."
- Alexandria, past attendee
Katie trauffer
"My expectations for retreats will never be the same after experiencing this week in France with Molly! The Retreat was a much needed artistic reinvigoration and a creative outlet for my heart. I decided to let go of any expectations and let inspiration lead the way. A week later, I felt refreshed, energized, capable, and in possession of the tools to build the life of my dreams.
What truly struck me was how Molly fostered such a community of kindness, generosity, and encouragement among the attendees. I truly left with a dozen new friends and have been so encouraged by the bonds we formed. She has the most rare ability to create beauty while being uplifting and instructive at the same time. My Retreat experience was nothing short of transformative."
"My time with Molly has been nothing short of transformative."
Kristen Bowen
"The France Retreat was truly a life-changing experience and what I know will be a pivotal moment in my story.
I've been to many retreats, and this one stood above them all in so many ways. Having an intimate group of attendees made a huge difference. The experience was relaxing, joyful, personal, and stress-free. It was without a doubt the most peaceful and happy retreat I've ever been to! Molly sets a tone of abundance that is thoughtful and generous and I would sign up for another Belle Vie Retreat in a heartbeat.
In sum, this is THE Retreat you want to attend!"
"The France Retreat was truly a life-changing experience."
Sharelle Knight
"Thank you so much for providing such an amazing experience and opportunity to meet some beautifully talented women. This was my first retreat, and I felt so blessed and utterly spoilt to have been a part of it.
Molly created such a supportive space for everyone to share their journey without ego or restraint. All of the details and experiences she curated were pure luxury—the rooms were absolutely divine and little treats given to us were incredible.
Thank you again, Molly, I absolutely cannot wait to attend the next Belle Vie Retreat!"
"I feel so blessed and utterly spoilt to have been a part of this Retreat."
Alexandria walker
"Molly's taste for everything luxury travel and lifestyle is absolutely impeccable. The France Retreat she created for us was without a doubt a dream come true. The thought and care Molly brings to every detail of the guest experience is truly above and beyond.
From the incredible multi-course French dinners by candlelight and wine pairings to the fabulous fashion moments Molly created for us, every minute of the Belle Vie Retreat was spectacular. The experience was made even richer when complemented by Molly's deep knowledge and passion for French culture and history. It was truly the trip of a lifetime and the start of many friendships with amazing like-minded women!"
"Molly's taste for everything luxury travel & lifestyle is impeccable."
Monica Francis
"I still can't believe what an incredible experience you created at the Retreat, and the privilege I had in being part of it. You poured so much into the creation of the Belle Vie Retreat and it undeniably came through in all of the moments that we all shared.
I left feeling full of connection, inspiration, and insight! I'll be processing it all for a while, and cherishing the memories for much longer."
"I left the Retreat full of connection, inspiration, and insight!"
carol lake
"Thank you so much for providing such an amazing experience and opportunity to meet some beautifully talented women. This was my first retreat, and I felt so blessed and utterly spoilt to have been a part of it.
Molly created such a supportive space for everyone to share their journey without ego or restraint. All of the details and experiences she curated were pure luxury—the rooms were absolutely divine and little treats given to us were incredible.
Thank you again, Molly, I absolutely cannot wait to attend the next Belle Vie Retreat!"
"Without a doubt, the France Retreat changed my life."
Known for its cypress-lined roads, medieval villages, and some of the finest food and wine in the world, Tuscany is a place where time slows and beauty lingers in every detail.
We’ll stay in a storied Tuscan villa, rich with history, nestled among vineyards and olive groves. Our days will be spent soaking in the golden light, exploring ancient villages, enjoying long alfresco lunches, sipping wine in the garden, and being nourished—body and soul—by the magic of the land and our private chef’s creations.
Tuscany, Italy
For la dolce vita
April 2026
the Retreats
Nowhere on Earth captures the imagination quite as Paris, and for this once-in-a-lifetime retreat we will be exploring all of the City of Light and the surrounding châteaux of the Loire Valley.
From champagne under the Eiffel Tower to a cake decorating workshor Parisian home to afternoon tea at Versailles to staying in our very own château, this intimate retreat is sure to delight and inspire your inner Marie Antoinette.
Paris & Châteaux
For the queen inside
June 2026
Known for its bucolic landscapes, ancient stone hill towns, incredible gastronomy, and world-renowned wines, Provence is one of the most luxurious and inspiring destinations in all of Europe.
We will stay in an exquisite 18th-century villa where we will share in the spoils of the richness of the building and the land. Our days will be spent painting, antique shop sipping rosé poolside, and being pampered by our private chef.
The South of France
For pastoral Pleasures
September 2026
"Molly will leave you prepared to set out on your dream journey with joy!"
- Kim Wiseley | Flutter magazine
Join the retreat
The Art of Living
Past Retreats
From ivy-clad châteaux in the Loire Valley to lavender-laced hillsides in Provence, the Belle Vie Retreats have brought women together in the most enchanting corners of Europe. Each gathering is a tapestry of beauty and belonging—where slow mornings, golden light, and soul-stirring landscapes create space for creativity, connection, and joy, all set against the most exquisite backdrops imaginable.
Imagine a place where time slows down, where every breath feels lighter, and every moment is bathed in the golden glow of morning sun. The Belle Vie Retreats are more than just a getaway; they are a sanctuary for women who seek to rediscover their true selves, away from the rush of everyday life. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or stepping out on your first adventure, our retreats are designed to celebrate women of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life.
In the heart of Europe, surrounded by palatial châteaux, world-renowned art, and charming villages that whisper stories of a bygone era, you’ll join an intimate group of like-minded women—fellow dreamers, doers, and seekers of beauty. Together, you’ll embark on a journey that nourishes the soul, ignites creativity, and inspires a renewed sense of purpose.
We believe that travel is more than just an escape—it’s an investment in yourself, the gift that keeps giving long after you’ve returned home. We believe in experiences that are not only luxurious but deeply transformative. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enveloped in a world where every detail is designed to make you feel cherished and cared for.
Expect an environment where you can be yourself, where you’re encouraged to dream big, and where you’re surrounded by a community that lifts you up. This is your time to shine, to celebrate your unique journey, and to embrace the joy of living fully.
See you in Europe!
Designed for the Dreamers
The Guests
"Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living."
- miriam beard
A: Yes! We offer a discounted rate for attendees sharing a room with a friend—email us for details info@mollycarrphotography.com.
Q: Is the workshop specifically for photographers?
A: The workshop is not photography related and is open to women of all walks of life—no photography experience required!
Q: Will I be able to learn photography from you?
A: Although this is structured to be a Retreat instead of a Workshop (with an emphasis on time for restoration & creative exploration) we will have time to learn about photography, if you desire!
Q: What if I have to cancel?
A: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferrable, but you have the option of selling the seat to another attendee. You are fully responsible for finding someone to sell your seat.
Q: How many attendees will there be?
A: We are anticipating seven attendees with a cap at ten if a few share a room.
Q: How should I book my travel?
A: Upon reserving your place at the Retreat, Molly will connect you with Lauren, our Luxury Travel Advisor, who will be able to assist you with airfare recommendations, transportation to/from the Retreat, & help you coordinate your pre/post Retreat stays in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
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