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
reserve your seat
"The France Retreat was truly a life-changing experience and what I know will be a pivotal moment in my story."
- Kristen, Past Attendee
Known for its bucolic landscapes, charming towns, exquisite gastronomy, & world-renowned wines, Provence stands as one of Europe’s most luxurious and inspiring destinations.
This region of France, steeped in timeless elegance, beckons with sun-drenched flower fields, rolling vineyards, and idyllic hilltop villages. Provence has long been a muse for artists, poets, and filmmakers such as Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh, who immortalized its luminous light and tranquil scenery in their masterpieces.
Every corner of this enchanting landscape offers a refined escape, where opulence is woven into the very fabric of its being—from the gourmet cuisine to the artisanal treasures of local markets. In Provence, the ‘art de vivre’—the art of living—is not just a concept but a way of life. Here, the pace slows to match the rhythm of the countryside, and every moment is savored with intention.
Our stay will be in an exquisite 18th-century villa, where we will revel in the richness of both its history and the land. Each day will be spent embracing the region’s sophistication and serene beauty—visiting vibrant markets, antique shopping, sipping rosé by the pool, exploring charming villages, touring châteaux, and indulging in meals prepared by our private chef.
Provence, France
April 26 - May 2, 2025
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Join us in France
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 host. Like you, she wears many hats.
Learn more ⟶
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."
Our home for the week will be an elegant and meticulously restored 12,000 sq ft. historic villa in the heart of Provence's exquisite Luberon Valley. Built in the 18th-century and featuring eight private bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and two luxurious kitchens, the villa is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, a pool, an intimate courtyard, and multiple alfresco dining areas.
The villa has been meticulously designed to reflect the relaxed Provencal region with a neutral, Nancy Meyers-esque palette. The home is built around a lovely courtyard joining the two wings of the villa. All eight bedrooms are privately spaced with many lounges and salons located throughout allowing for plenty of space to relax and enjoy the Provençal lifestyle.
Designed by two of France’s top landscape designers, the grounds are dotted with idyllic gardens and secret hideaways. The villa is uniquely situated in and amongst apple orchards, and the landscaping strikes a tasteful balance of precision and relaxed simplicity.
18th-Century Provençal Villa
our home
Join us in France
"Molly will leave you prepared to set out on your dream journey with joy!"
- Kim Wiseley | Flutter magazine
Imagine a place where time slows down, where every breath feels lighter, and every moment is bathed in the golden glow of the Provençal 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 Provence, surrounded by rolling fields 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 france!
Designed for the Dreamers
The attendees
"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
- 7 days & 6 nights private accommodations in a luxury villa complete with private en suite bathrooms, a Nancy Meyers-worthy pool, & exquisite gardens (Traveling with a friend? Email us for a special double occupancy rate!)
- Breakfasts, dinners, and select lunches and alcoholic beverages
- Visits to the enchanting villages of Provence including the breathtaking hill town of Gordes and the picturesque L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known for the finest antique shopping in France
- Authentic French market experiences
- Wine tasting in a historic château
- Time to leisurely explore and soak in the unique atmosphere of each town we visit at your own rhythm
- Ground transportation for all excursions
- Creative discussions including photography, styling, and learning about the French 'Art de Vivre'—art of living
- Portraits with Molly
- Travel planning assistance for pre/post France stays with our Luxury Travel Advisor
*Airfare, ground transportation to/from Retreat, additional alcoholic beverages, and lunches on solo time during excursions not included
What's Included
See you in france!
The details
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 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!
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 France!
Q: When should I book my travel?
A: Due to the nature of Retreats, we suggest booking refundable travel or waiting to finalize your travel plans until after January 15, 2025. This will allow us to confirm we’ve met the minimum number of attendees to deliver the luxury experience you deserve. While we're very confident this will happen, if it does not you will have the option to either 1) be fully refunded to your original payment method or 2) apply your payments to the Retreat’s rescheduled date.
Frequently Asked Questions
i'm ready
questions
Join us for the Provence Retreat April 26-May 2, 2025!
Dreaming of la belle vie?
Policy
Payments are non-refundable and non-transferrable, but attendee has the option of selling the seat to another attendee if they are unable to attend. If attendee is unable to attend, they are fully responsible for finding someone to sell their seat to by the date March 1, 2024, with confirmation of the sale sent to Molly Carr by said due date, otherwise payments will be forfeited. If an attendee sells their seat to another attendee, all terms and conditions will apply to the new purchaser.
The purchase of a seat is for one attendee. No assistants or guests should accompany any attendees unless approved by Molly Carr.
Due to the nature of retreats, there is always a small chance the Retreat will need to be cancelled or rescheduled. If this happens, all attendees will have the option to either transfer their ticket to the rescheduled date OR will be fully refunded to their original payment method.
We recommend travel insurance in the case of unforseen eventss.
