La Muse Writers’ & Artists’ Retreat in Southern France is located in an ancient village perché called Labastide Esparbairenque, in the historic Aude department of Languedoc. 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.

Come create and participate in a growing creative community. La Muse 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. 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. Join the conversational language courses with village residents, organized hikes, art shows and films 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.

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, and more. Rooms are available to barters, recipients of fellowships and grants, and to individuals who apply directly through La Muse.

What we offer is quite specific: time and space to create among peers, and access to nature, culture and good food. The retreats each month create a rewarding environment for attendees as well as our ever-growing artistic community. We do what we can to introduce past and present attendees to each other both here and by internet, as well as to local artists when we think their work would be of interest or help to one another.