La Muse Writers' and Artists' retreat in Southern France is located in an ancient village perche called Labastide Esparbairenque, in the historic Aude department of Languedoc. We provide a space where artists and writers can work in a peaceful, isolated and inspiring setting. We have hosted poets, novelists, non-fiction writers, screenwriters, painters, visual artists, photographers, chefs, composers, directors, healers and more. Rooms are available to barters, recipients of fellowships and grants, and to individuals who apply directly through La Muse.

The house overlooks its own intimate valley and river. Enjoy magnificent views from every room as well as from our terrace and gardens. On breaks from work, go wine tasting, visit local markets, swim in the nearby lake or just enjoy nature. We are located in the midst of the French national walks system, where well-marked trails scribble the countryside.

What we offer is quite specific: time and space to create among peers, and access to nature, culture and good food. The retreats create a rewarding environment for attendees as well as our ever-growing artistic community. So come create and participate in a growing creative community, one that encourages artistic diversity as well as an exchange between cultures from all over the world. We believe art and its pursuit is a universal language and with this in mind we provide a bridge between the growing local arts community (many of our neighbors are artists and writers, and former attendees), the traditional local French community (many of whom are artists), and our attendees. La Muse organizes community cultural activities and welcomes participation from attendees (please check out our blog for more details) in language courses with village residents, organized hikes, art shows in the La Muse art studio, readings, and other less structured social gatherings whose purpose is to bring both communities together through art, and to celebrate the richness of the Cabardes region.