Sisterhood in the Sun: Our First-Ever Camp Joy Was Pure Magic

When we dreamed up Camp Joy, we imagined sunshine, laughter, meaningful moments, and a little sparkle.

What we didn’t expect was just how quickly a group of women—most of whom had never met before—would form a genuine, joyful sisterhood. Within two days, they were referring to one another as sisters. And by the end of the week, we had created something truly unforgettable: a women’s retreat that balanced rest, adventure, and connection in the most beautiful ways.

Set in the heart of Provence, our retreat in the French countryside just outside of Cotignac, brought together incredible women from across the globe. Some came with years of meditation and self-reflection behind them; others were brand new to these practices. But every single camper found meaning, laughter, and transformation in their own way.

A Journey Inward—and Outward

Each day started with optional yoga and meditation. Our Inner Joy program, led by co-founder Marea, offered gentle but powerful sessions to help us reconnect with ourselves. Even women who’ve been to countless spiritual retreats said they walked away with something deeper—unexpected clarity, emotional breakthroughs, and a renewed sense of purpose. This wasn’t just another retreat; it was a truly powerful experience that stayed with them long after the week ended.

For those newer to the journey, the experience was eye-opening. The power of simply being present—without obligation, without pressure—allowed for surprising insight and healing. This wasn’t your typical women's retreat; it was a space for women to feel held, seen, and supported.

As one camper put it: “I thought I was coming on a vacation. I had no idea I’d be part of something that felt like a soulful awakening.”

Moments That Spark Joy

Throughout the week, we balanced introspection with unforgettable shared experiences:

• A wild swim in natural pools and waterfalls fed by cold springs

• A guided tour of magical Cotignac, including its hidden corners and Troglodyte caves

• A long, laughter-filled lunch at a local winery

• Time to shop our hearts out in the Cotignac market before settling into a bistro lunch in town

• Long afternoons by the pool, mindful travel experiences with nowhere to be but together

We even pulled together an impromptu goddess ceremony, complete with our best flowing dresses, candles, and shared stories under the stars. On the final night, we made flower crowns for ourselves and one another—symbols of the joy and beauty we cultivated together.

Community, Not Just a Retreat

What set Camp Joy apart was not just the setting, but the spirit. This wasn’t just a luxury women’s retreat or a wellness retreat—it was a space where women empowered each other, where stories were shared without judgment, and where joy was not only found, but multiplied.

Camp Joy is for those seeking travel and self-discovery, and those who also crave community. It’s for women ready to exhale, explore, and expand—whether they’re seasoned seekers or simply feeling the pull of something more.

This experience showed that solo travel doesn’t have to mean going it alone—that you can find community, and if you come on your own or with a sister, niece, daughter, mother, or friend, Camp Joy offers a path to unexpected support, shared laughter, and the kind of grace we didn’t know we were missing.

Until Next Time...

As we pack up from our first-ever retreat, we’re already dreaming of what’s next. We’ve seen firsthand how powerful a wellness retreat can be—and we’re just getting started.

To all the incredible women who joined us: thank you for saying yes, for showing up as you are, and for building something so full of light. You reminded us that joy is a practice, a perspective, and above all, a shared experience.

Camp Joy isn’t just a place. It’s a feeling. And it’s one we can’t wait to share again.