Fall Equinox Pilgrimage with Mary Magdalene

Awaken the Infinite Love Within You in the South of France

September 16-25, 2024

 
 


Do you hear a calling to rise deep within you?

Are you drawn to the sacred mysteries of Mary Magdalene?

Join Adora on an alchemical journey through the beautiful landscapes of Southern France, following in the footsteps of Mary Magdalene to ignite the divine feminine essence within.

This is a quest to explore your connection to the Divine Feminine and rise to your highest potential. Through daily aromatic ceremonies, high frequency healing meditations and activations at ancient sacred sites, you will experience a profound personal transformation. 


 

A Personal Invitation...

For Women: 

If you've felt disempowered, unheard, or disconnected from your truth, this retreat will reconnect you to your innate wisdom and power. Heal the wounds of the feminine within, from this life and beyond, to reclaim your voice and sacred sensuality. In sisterhood, we rise together.


For Men:

If you've felt the burden of needing to be strong, stoic, and always in control, this is an opportunity to access your vulnerability, emotions, and intuition. By healing the wounds with the feminine, within and without, you'll create space for greater intimacy, expression and freedom.


For Couples: 

Relationships are the crucible for our greatest healing and evolution. Ignite your sacred union by diving deep into the teachings of Mary Magdalene and the alchemy of divine partnership. Deepen your love, passion and shared purpose as you journey together on this holy land.


 
 
 

Highlights of the Journey:

  • Immerse yourself in the mystical area of the Camargue and Saintes Maries de la Mer where Mary Magdalene and her companions came ashore 

  • Visit the crypt of Sara, the Black Madonna and Patron saint of the Gypsies, at the Church of St Marys of the Sea

  • Receive an Akashic Record healing in the ancient Druid forest leading to Magdalene's grotto  

  • Celebrate the Fall Equinox with a special ceremony at Abbaye de Valsaintes

  • Create your own sacred anointing oil to connect to the memories and magic of this pilgrimage

  • Experience the palpable presence of Mary at St. Maximin Basilica housing her relics

  • Go wine tasting at Domaine de Château Bas

  • Participate in ceremony and Isis activation at 2,000 year old “Seat of Isis” in Rennes les Bains


 
 

 

The Alchemy of Aromatics

Historical art depicts Mary Magdalene with a vessel of aromatic essence used for the holy practice of anointing. These sacred oils hold the keys to awaken ancient wisdom and divine knowledge within us. Rare aromatics like spikenard, myrrh, bakul, champaca, cistus and lotus will be our allies to access an expansive pathway to the to the deep recesses of the soul. 

 

 The Magdalene is calling you to France for a journey of miracles and mysticism. She invites you into deeper communion with The Beloved - the infinite source of love within you. Join our sacred circle this September and experience the magic and transformation that awaits!

 

 

A Unique Transformative Experience

This intimate journey, guided by Adora Winquist and Veronique Flayol, weaves together history, myth and direct experience of the Divine Feminine through the lands and legacy of Mary Magdalene. The special alchemy and sacred community created between Adora and Roni allows for a potent container for healing and awakening.

Whether you join as an individual or couple, the presence of Mary Magdalene and these sacred places will heal your inner feminine and masculine, igniting greater love, trust and empowerment within you. 

 
 
 

We warmly welcome you to join us for the 2024 pilgrimage.
Secure your place today as space is limited for this event and is already booking quickly.

Payment plans are currently available, please inquire for specifics: adora@adorawinquist.com


About Adora winquist

Adora Winquist is an Internationally recognized author, healer, teacher, and expert in aromatherapy and energy medicine. She specializes co-creating sacred spaces and high vibrational essential oil formulations that uplift others to find, live and thrive in sacred purpose. Through the 5 Pillars of Modern Alchemy and the Love Frequency, Adora facilitates personal and group experiences foster quantum leaps within their mind-heart-body-soul connection. She is known for creating one of the first brands to combine aromatherapy and energy healing on a national scale, evolving it into a world-renowned, award-winning company, known as ADORAtherapy. She has worked with thousands of individuals globally with a full range of clients - from seekers of holistic wellness, veterans, trauma survivors, hospice, and HIV patients to men and women looking to empower their sacred self-leadership and a life thriving with passion and meaningful purpose.

 

About Veronique Flayol

“Roni” is a lecturer certified by the French Ministry of Culture, specializing in pilgrimages and spiritual journeys. She lives in Provence at the foot of the mountain where Mary Magdalene spent the last 30 years of her life. She became close to Mary Magdalene from a young age when with a group of friends, she created the Association Santo Madaleno (from the Provençal, our local language, means St Mary Magdalene) whose purpose is to defend and uphold the traditions. She also has a certification in aromatherapy. She loves to work with the energy and the spirit of the plants. She prepares her own meditation oils and organizes workshops to make concoctions to pay tribute to Mary Magdalene.

 

WHAT PARTICIPANTS HAVE EXPERIENCED:

 

SOME TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Commune with your inner Divine Feminine with daily high vibrational attunements in the Love Frequency, the ancient art of anointing with rare aromatics, crystals and other alchemical gifts

  • Experience the mystical area of the Camargue and Saintes de la Mar where Mary Magdalene and her companions came ashore

  • Optional boat ride on the Petite Rhone river in Saintes Maries de la Mer with incredible wildlife

  • Visit to the Church of St Marys of the Sea and the crypt of Sara, the Black Madonna, Patron saint of the Gypsies

  • Akashic Record Healing alchemy in the ancient Druid forest leading to Magdalene’s grotto

  • A stop in Limoux for a church visit of a beautiful Black Madonna

  • Wine tasting at Domaine de Château Bas

  • Ceremony and Isis activation at 2,000 year old “Seat of Isis” in Rennes les Bains

  • Celebration of the Fall Equinox at a special location infused with miracles and ceremony, Gregorian chants and lunch

  • Creation of your own sacred anointing oil to connect to the wonderful memories and magic once you return home

What Makes This Retreat Unique:

  • A powerful synthesis of aromatherapy, crystal alchemy, and energy healing to accelerate your awakening

  • Intimate group size allowing for personalized attention and a potent group field

  • Adora's 30 years experience as an aromatherapist, healer and teacher of ancient wisdom and vibrational medicine

  • Roni's extensive knowledge as a historian specializing in the life of Mary Magdalene and the local Provencal culture

  • Channeled messages and healings from Mary Magdalene and the Divine Feminine 

 
 
 
 

THIS 10-DAY MARY MAGDALENE FRANCE TOUR INCLUDES

  • Nine nights - hotels accommodations in delightful boutique hotels

  • Hotel service charges and taxes

  • Breakfast every day

  • Five lunches

  • Six dinners

  • Services of English-speaking local tour guides throughout

  • Sightseeing as per itinerary

  • Sightseeing entrance fees

  • All sacred ceremonies, frequency activation, spiritual healing work

  • Gift bag of modern alchemy tools and journal

 

Itinerary

Day 1: September 16 – Arrive Marseilles – To Saintes Maries de la Mer

Arrive at Marseilles Airport by noon for pick up. Drive to the legendary village of Saintes Maries de la Mer. Enjoy the beach and our first sacred ceremony. Welcome dinner and overnight at hotel.

  • Arrival day in Marseilles. Arrive/meet at Marseilles Airport by noon for our pick up. We head to our beachfront hotel in the legendary village of Saintes Maries de la Mer, the place on the Mediterranean Sea where Mary Magdalene came ashore, together with some other members of the Holy Family and friends. We drive through and into the marshlands known as “The Camargue” where wild white horses and black bulls roam, and pink flamingos migrate from Africa – it is a truly mythical landscape. The town is named after “the Marys” who accompanied Mary Magdalene, Mary Jacobe and Mary Salome – relatives of the Mother of Jesus. 

    The maritime village is charming and known for its connections to gypsy culture. Although we will not be there during the chaos of the festivals (this is a good thing), there is still a flavor of the “gitane” here, where the traditions feel both Spanish and French. This is a village of Flamenco and Paella. We will have two days to explore the history of this special village and learn more about the amazing women who made history here. Enjoy the beach, a sea immersion and our first sacred ceremony to open our sacred alchemical container and align intentions for our pilgrimage. Free time to relax on the beach or a full sea immersion before a walk through the heart of the village takes us to our welcome meal. Overnight and dinner at our hotel.

 

Marseilles France

 
 

Day 2: In Saintes Maries de la Mer

Visit the Church of the Sainte Marys of the Sea. Free time to enjoy the Mediterranean, shop, or take a boat excursion. Dinner and last night in the Camargue.

  • After waking up in our gorgeous beachfront hotel, we will take a morning walk to the landing beach for the Love Code ceremony. The sacred waters of the Mediterranean will be among our allies to cleanse and consecrate from our soul to our cells and bloodlines through Release, Forgiveness and Gratitude, activating the code of love deep within our DNA. Through the ancient aromatics, crystals and depth of connection, you will increase your receptivity for the mystical journey ahead. Then on to the Extraordinary Church of Saint Marys of the Sea. The crypt is where the bones of St. Sarah and two “other” Marys were discovered in the 15th century. There is also a first century stone altar on display, which may be the first Christian altar in the world used entirely by female disciples.

    The church is indescribable as a treasure trove of history – and perhaps heresy, as the crypt also contains one of the most spectacular black Madonna statues in the world – the nearly life-sized image of Sainte Sarah. The rest of the day is free to choose how best to enjoy this special village. Time to enjoy the Mediterranean, where you may choose a boat excursion along the Petite Rhone River and along the shoreline to experience the feeling of arriving on the beaches here (not included, but inexpensive and easily arranged).

    This church had such a profound effect on me. As soon as we entered I was moved to tears with an expansive energy of remembrance. Others in our group also experienced an aspect of this sacred mysticism in their own way.

    This will set the stage for a profound experience of transformation and DNA level healing in a beautiful backdrop of majestic Provence. I will anoint us with initiation into our lineage to awaken our memories of connecting with Mary Magdalene and the goddess within us.

Wild White Horses of The Camargue

The Black Madonna at Church of Saint Marys of the Sea

 
 
 

Day 3: To Aix en Provence

Visit the first church of Aix en Provence. Free time to explore the vibrant city, known for its thermal baths. Optional spa experience. 

  • After breakfast, we leave the magical Saintes Maries de la Mer and head for Aix en Provence. As we journey in our luxurious motor coach, aka the Traveling Temple, I will lead us in an aromatic experience of healing for our inner masculine and feminine aspects. Roni will share some of the rich Provencal history of Aix and the connection to Mary. This charming and vibrant city is sure to capture your heart. We will also visit the first church of Aix en Provence, built on the site of the preaching of Maximin and Magdalene. That’s why everywhere in the cathedral, Mary Magdalene’s presence is found. We’ll end the visit at the 17th century chapel where a Black Madonna, Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance, stands. Free time to stroll around the colorful Provencal market and have lunch on your own in the historical city center. Traditional fare of tapenade and bouillabaisse is a must while here.

    Referred to as the cultural and artistic center of Provence, Aix is also well known for its therapeutic mineral baths. This year, we have added an optional hydrotherapy experience at a wonderful spa with sauna, hammam, whirlpool and cold plunge. This is a wonderful way to restore and rejuvenate body, mind and spirit and to assimilate the deep levels of awakening and transformation that is part of this pilgrimage.

 

Day 4: Aix en Provence

Special ceremony and sound bath at the Temple of Diana at Chateau Bas. Organic wine tasting at the historic castle.

  • Today we will journey to Vernègues for a special ceremony and sound bath at the Temple of Diana at Chateau Bas. These ancient Roman ruins date back to 1 B.C.. and offer a serene sanctuary amidst the lush greenery of the estate. The temple, dedicated to the Roman goddess of the hunt and moon, exudes a sense of ancient mystique and reverence and will set the backdrop for our immersion into the womb chakra through sound, aromatics and frequency. Our ceremony today will be one of initiation, calling in the many aspects of the Goddess that we are connected to, awakening news levels of your sacred magic and Holy power held within the womb center. Note: Even if you do not have a physical womb, you have an etheric womb chakra.

    Later, we will enjoy an organic wine tasting at Chateau Bas, a historic castle turned chateau dates back to the 18th century and is a prime example of classical French architecture. Surrounded by lush vineyards and rolling hills, Chateau Bas Vernegues exudes charm and elegance. The estate boasts beautifully manicured gardens, a grand courtyard, and impressive stone facade, showcasing the opulence and grandeur of a bygone era. You will enjoy exploring the grounds, soaking in the breathtaking views of the countryside, and immersing yourself in the rich history of the castle.

 
 
 

Day 5: St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume

Visit St. Maximin Basilica housing Mary Magdalene's relics. Gourmet lunch and afternoon to create your own sacred anointing oil.

  • After breakfast, we drive to St. Maximin where we will visit the holy and impressive St. Maximin Basilica, which holds some of the remains of Mary Magdalene in the crypt as well as the stone coffin in which her body resided for many centuries. Her skull is enshrined and on display in the crypt in a golden reliquary, which is paraded through the town every year for her feast day, July 22nd. It has been authenticated as a skull from the first century of a petite woman who likely died in her late 50s or 60s. There are still strands of red-gold hair on the skull, although they are not visible through the reliquary. Viewing these remains can be a very moving experience for Magadalene devotees.

    This church was one of the main pilgrimage destinations in medieval France and its size and glamour continue to testify to its glorious past. As we explore this gorgeous Basilica in depth, it will reveal to us some true jewels of Medieval and Renaissance art pertaining to Our Lady.

    Inside the Basilica, we will have the opportunity to sit in the receptive energy above her crypt. Sitting with bare feet to the cement, you can feel the tangible energies of spiritual awakening which move through the floor. We will invoke her presence with spikenard, an ancient aromatic of profound transfiguration opening to new levels of faith, trust and surrender.

    Sitting in this very place last fall, I was moved to tears by this awesome energy, by Her presence, connecting and communing with me at the soul level. Orbs of energy and light danced through the vast basilica and were caught on a few of the group's cameras to further anchor this mystical experience. ⁠

    You will also enjoy strolling on the quaint cobblestone streets at the town center as we visit the Hotel de France for delicious gourmet lunch.

    In the afternoon, you will be creating your own sacred anointing oil, with rare, high vibrational aromatics from my personal collection. I will guide you to anchor specific frequencies into your oil so that you will continue to accelerate and assimilate the profound awakenings from this journey.

 

Day 6: St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume

Akashic Records healing in the ancient Druid forest. Hike to Magdalene's grotto for ceremony. Picnic lunch in nature.

  • After breakfast, we drive to St. Maximin to Ste. Baume, to the ancient Druid forest and the astonishing cavern cathedral carved into the top of a mountain. Roni will guide us with a beautiful prayer and salt offering at the entrance of the forest. Then after a short walk, we will nestle ourselves in the woods for the Akashic Records group healing transmission. In this potent alchemical journey, each one of you will receive two scrolls from your Book of Life, along with a deep clearing and activation before we journey up the mountain.

    Enduring local legends indicate that Mary Magdalene lived here after she came to France. In medieval times, royals and nobles came here to visit this remote cliff sanctuary and make the pilgrimage up the hill. So popular was this act of devotion to Mary Magdalene that a “Royal Road” was created to make the ascent easier. The walk is slightly challenging, but if you take your time, it is also beautiful and well worth it. It takes about 45 minutes to make the ascent. After immersing ourselves in this incredibly sacred space, we will journey back down the mountain, we will have a picnic lunch.

    I still remember how the nature intelligence danced in the trees and fertile woods. In a short time, I found a clearing perfect for our ceremony. It was the first of its kind that I had led. My guidance was clear: access the Akashic Record of the group and have each individual call forth one lifetime to clear, and one to assimilate and bring forward the gifts from their soul level.

    It was profound. At one or more moments, it felt as if the group was vibrating high in the trees in between worlds. There were visions, activations and insights too numerous and personal to share, yet this was just the beginning of our trek up to the Grotto where more mysticism called us. ⁠

 
 

Day 7: Abbaye de Valsainte - Fall Equinox Celebration

Celebrate Fall Equinox at the mystical Abbaye de Valsaintes. Visit prehistoric Fertilite rock formations. Special equinox ceremony and lunch.

  • One of the most remarkable evenings of our Mary Magdalene Retreat is our celebration of the Fall Equinox.

    The Fall Equinox marks a rare intersection of the Sun and the celestial realms creating a potent planetary alignment, heightening the alchemical frequencies for intentional creation. This is the time of bountiful harvest and to experience the fullness of abundance in our life in all of its glorious forms and facets. It will deepen our skills of manifestation as ‘dream creators.’

    We will travel to Abbaye de Valsaintes for this sacred celebration, perched at a height of 1,800 feet in the middle of a vast natural bowl, watching over a land which has been sacred since Prehistoric times.

    We will visit the Dragon rock, the guardian of the promontory of Boulinette and often referred to as “Mother Goddess,” which watches over the valley of Valsaintes. The quality of the rock and its siliceous soil make this unique site in Provence a place for going back to one’s roots and regaining vitality. Here you will witness the remarkable Fertilite rock formations, dating back to neolithic times. Beautiful roses, cistus, herbs and flowers adorn the gardens which guide us to the chapel for a very special treat.

    At the miraculous Fertilitie rock formations we will have our Fall Equinox ceremony to open to miracle consciousness with golden champaca oil to receive the Infinite Abundance Activation. From this state of high frequency, I will then guide you to bless your personal sacred synergies and anchor these beautiful energies into your oils. We will have lunch at an exceptional local restaurant here. Overnight at our hotel.

 
 

Day 8: The Medieval City of Carcassonne

Explore the charming medieval city of Carcassonne, renowned for its preserved walls and watchtowers. Visit the chapel and enjoy free time.

  • After breakfast, we will board our bus to the enchanting Carcassonne, a medieval fortified city renowned for its well-preserved double walls and 53 watchtowers, which give it a distinctive and picturesque appearance. Our ceremony today will be one of remembrance as you open to the depth of wisdom, sensuality, and mystical gifts that long awaited your call to awaken.

    The city's history dates back to Roman times, and its strategic location made it a significant stronghold for various rulers throughout the centuries. The narrow cobblestone streets and Gothic-style buildings add to the inviting charm of this city. This is a favorite for shopping and strolling in an atmosphere that transcends the passage of time. A must visit is the Chapel within the walls mystique lies in its ability to connect visitors with an ancient, spiritual presence that feels both grounding and uplifting.

    You will be captivated by the intricate architecture, from the delicate stained glass windows to the imposing stone pillars that seem to hold the weight of time itself.

 
 

Day 9: Minerve-Limoux-Carcassonne

Journey to the ancient village of Minerve. Stop in Limoux to see the Black Madonna at Notre Dame de Marceille. Visit Rennes les Bains thermal baths and hike to the Seat of Isis for a Goddess activation. Farewell dinner in Carcassonne.

  • After breakfast, we will board our bus to join the village of Minerve. Taking its name from the Goddess Minerva, this medieval village is known for its illustrious wines and vineyards planted by the Romans thousands of years ago.

    Located on a rocky promontory surrounded by two rivers, Minerve is the historic capital of the Minervois and a former stronghold of Catharism, destroyed in July 1210 by Simon de Montfort. Bombarded by catapults, the Parfaits, the name given to the Cathars, refused to renounce their faith and were condemned to be burned alive in a collective pyre at the foot of the fortified village. The siege of Minerve marks a culmination in the struggle waged throughout the Cathar country. As we journey through this ancient town, we will visit the stele erected to commemorate the Cathar pyre.

    We will spend the day exploring the village with its numerous art galleries and local artisan’s workshops. In the evening, we will enjoy a delicious meal of local cuisine in the old medieval city.

    After lunch, on the way back to our hotel, we will visit one of the most beautiful Black Madonna in the gilded gold basilica, Notre Dame de Marceille. Upon the serene and beautiful grounds, I will anoint each of you with lotus as you invite in the miracle you wish to bring to Her. After lunch in a local restaurant, we will travel to Rennes les Bains. This village is well known for its thermal baths. We will stop at the old Roman baths and at the Bains Doux, with its hot spring (almost 100ºF). This area is full of energies and there is a reminiscence of Celtic/Druid history here. Then we will hike/walk to the Seat of Isis, where strange signs, said to be 2000 years old, are engraved in the rock. Here I will guide us in a Goddess Isis Activation as you each experience the ancient throne. You could refresh yourself in the nearby Magdalene Spring. Back to the hotel. In the evening, we will enjoy a farewell dinner in the charming city of Carcassonne.

 
 

Day 10: Carcassonne to Toulouse

Depart for Toulouse airport after a farewell breakfast and blessing.

  • After a delightful breakfast and farewell blessing for your joyous integration, we will depart for Toulouse airport for all those homeward bound. Please try to schedule your return journeys in the afternoon to allow yourself sufficient time. Some passengers choose to stay in an airport hotel in Toulouse and take morning flights the next day. We can help with the recommendation of an airport hotel for you if this is necessary to accommodate your schedule.

After a delightful breakfast and farewell blessing, we will depart for Toulouse airport for all those homeward bound. Please try to schedule your return journeys in the afternoon to allow yourself sufficient time. Some passengers choose to stay in an airport hotel in Toulouse and take morning flights the next day. We can help with the recommendation of an airport hotel for you if this is necessary to accommodate your schedule.


Hotels

Hotel Casa Marina – Saintes Maries de la Mer (2 nights)

On the shores of the Mediterranean in the vibrant village of Saintes Maries de la Mer is the charming Hotel Casa Marina, facing “the landing beach” where Mary Magdalene and her entourage arrived in France 2000 years ago. It is a fresh and comfortable ocean front hotel in a natural and authentic setting. Its Camargue architecture offers comfort and inspirational views.

 

Aix en Provence – AIX-EN-PROVENCE ESCALETTO (5 nights)

Ideally located in the heart of Aix en Provence, the Hotel Escaletto is a beautifully renovated hotel with boutique finishes amidst the elegant architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and flourishing gardens. The city's radiant sunlight illuminates the pastel facades of its buildings, creating a picturesque scene filled with vibrancy that you can enjoy from the rooftop bar.

As the birthplace of the renowned post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, Aix-en-Provence also holds a special place in the art world. You may choose to explore Cézanne's studio and the landscapes that inspired his iconic works, gaining insight into the artist's creative process.

 

Carcassonne – Hotel Aragon (2 nights)

The Hotel Aragon in Carcassonne offers a harmonious blend of modern comfort and historic charm. Nestled in the heart of the ancient city, this boutique hotel provides guests with a serene retreat steeped in the rich culture of Southern France. With exquisite views of the iconic medieval walls and the tranquil Aude River, visitors can immerse themselves in the unique ambiance of Carcassonne just steps from the medieval city.


Join us on this one of a kind Aromatic Spiritual Journey through Southern France!