Art Retreats at l'Ancienne Poste Avajan

Inspirational Panoramas, Exceptional Food, Expert Art Tuition

Inspiring Location

The seasons in the pyrenees mountains are simply stunning.

With the constantly changing light and colours, and with the autumn being no exception, we have chosen to run our art retreats during this beautiful time of the year.

We believe that everyone should experience the incredible and truly majestic explosions of autumnal colour. The golds and browns of the leaves, coupled with the lush green valley floor all set against a back drop of snow covered peaks and deep blue skies.

We are confident that whatever your level you will be inspired and uplifted by the sheer beauty of our natural surroundings.

The Finer Details

Our art retreats are open to all ages and levels...

With instruction and guidance from our in-house art teacher Jacqueline Williams enabling you to get the most out of your stay with us.

We like to include some light walking during your stay so you can experience some of the most breathtaking views and subjects instantly available to you. What could be better after a days painting in the mountains than a trip to our local Spa (Balnea) before returning to the roaring fires of the lodge?

Lodge owner and mountain guide James Dealtry will be your host during your stay and will be on hand to guide or advise on some of the best views and subjects in the surrounding valley.

Gourmet Food

Enjoy the famous Pyrenean food and wine...

A one week retreat includes 7 nights half board accommodation, based on two sharing (en-suite rooms).

The package includes a hearty breakfast and a sumptious four course fine dining evening meal, lovingly prepared by our in-house chef, including wine.

Jacqueline Williams Gallery

A selection of some of Jacqueline's work.

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Expert Art Tuition

Jacqueline Williams will be your painting guide who has over 27 years experience.

Having studied fine art for 3 years and gaining a first class honours degree in Cheltenham I went on to complete a post graduate course at the Royal Academy School in London graduating in 1988. I have had many solo exhibitions in London (New Grafton gallery, Russell Gallery), the Cotswolds (Brian Sinfield Gallery,) Hampshire (Alresford Gallery) and Bath (Adam Gallery) as well as being included in mixed exhibitions home and abroad.

I am a member of a prestigious London art group NEAC (New English Art Club) which has its base in the Mall Galleries London.

During your stay I will run a relaxed painting course and will go at a pace you dictate. We will visit beautiful locations close to our base where I will help and guide you at what ever level you are at.

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Relax and Pamper Yourself

It's not just about the Art!

Indulge yourself at the ultra-modern Balnea Spa situated on our doorstep.

Featuring a labyrinth of jacuzzis, waterfalls, plunge pools, saunas and hamams, all topped off with a soak in the incredible outdoor Japanese hot pools, it's the perfect way to relax after a day painting.

We can also arrange massage and other specialist treatments for you.

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Feel at home at our Cosy Lodge

Natural Pyrenean Charm in a Homely Style.

We've worked hard to renovate the Ancienne Poste creating a homely ambiance.

The Lodge maintains it's natural Pyrenean charm yet provides the perfect place to relax and unwind. With a maximum of 12 guests, you're guaranteed a personal service and a 'make yourself at home' atmosphere.

Find out more...
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Tripadvisor

Ancienne Poste Avajan has a 5 Star Tripadvisor Rating and is Ranked #1 for Speciality Lodging in Avajan

  • schenewerk - Washington DC. July 9, 2018.

    Perfection in the Pyrenees

    We enjoyed the perfect Pyrenees summer vacation at L'Ancienne Poste thanks to James' genuine hospitality, beautiful accommodations, delicious food, ever-flowing wine and Bode. The inn was an excellent home base for exploring mountain hikes and local villages.

  • Nick W. February 19, 2018

    Superb!!

    Just amazing! Superb chalet with beautiful main room complete with roaring wood burner! Incredible hosts with superb food offering. James, the owner is the most hospitable and friendly guy you could wish to meet. Nothing is too much trouble and you will immediately feel at home.

  • Robert W. February 19, 2018

    Perfection

    James and his team make you welcome from the outset. Great food and hospitality all round. From the immaculately cleaned wood-burner to the eagle-eyed team who can spot your glass needs a top up from 100 yards, you couldn't ask for more from your mountain break! I'll certainly be returning.

  • vivandleo. January 11, 2018

    Holiday of a lifetime!

    Our family had always dreamed of travelling from Australia to share a white Christmas and while we were confident we would have a lovely time in Avajan, none of us could have begun to imagine what a magical experience we would have staying with James at L'Ancienne Poste.

  • bairstow_boys - Nottingham, UK. July 31, 2017

    Well exceeded our highest expectations

    James, Dan and Zoe made us feel amazingly welcome. They were fantastic company and helped us get the most from our summer activity experiences whilst going the extra mile to make us feel pampered. There is so much to do in the area, and James certainly ensures you get the most out of your time

Art Retreats at l'Ancienne Poste Avajan

Art retreats run on the following dates:

  • 8th - 15th of June 2024
  • 15th - 22nd of June 2024

The package includes:

  • 7 Nights Accommodation
  • Half Board
  • Hearty Breakfast
  • Four Course Evening Meal with Wine
  • Based on Two Sharing
  • En-Suite Rooms
  • All Art Materials Included

For

1,149.00

per person

We're Taking Bookings for Winter 2023/24 and Summer 2024