The Mary magdalene retreat
ANNUAL aromatic spiritual journey through SOUTHern FRANCE
WITH ADORA WINQUIST
September 16-26, 2024
Do you hear a calling TO RISE deep within you?
Are you drawn to the SACRED MYSTERIES of Mary Magdalene?
Are you seeking an ENCHANTING ADVENTURE to connect with the DIVINE FEMININE?
Join Adora on an alchemical journey in the beautiful South of France on a pilgrimage of Mary Magdalene to awaken the infinite source of love within you.
The quest?
To explore a greater connection to the Divine Feminine within and rise to your highest potential.
Through daily ceremony and healing meditations, Adora will guide us on journeys of the sacred human heart.
By intertwining the alchemy of the oils with the ancient sites connected to Mary and the teachings of love, peace, and forgiveness, you will experience profound personal transformation.
Maries de la Mer Opening Anointing Ceremony
Historical art depicts Mary Magdalene often with a vessel of aromatic essence for the holy practice of anointing.
These sacred oils hold the keys to awaken the ancient wisdom and divine knowledge held within us.
Bakul. Buddhawood. Champaca. Cistus. Galbanum. Lotus. Spikenard.
These aromatics offer an expansive pathway to the deep recesses of our soul where Divine truth and light dance in unity.
“The ancient art of anointing honors and awakens the Holy wisdom, truth and love held deep within you.” Adora
This is a journey of spiritual awakening, of miracles and mysticism
designed to draw you deeper into communion with The Beloved,
the source of infinite love within you.
This program is deeply augmented by the depth of connection, insight, and historical wealth of knowledge of Veronique Flayol, our highly esteemed partner and guide. Through Roni's wisdom, you will be transported back in time to feel the passion and gifts of Mary and the potent presence of the Divine Feminine.
The special bond between Adora and Roni creates a depth of sacred community that you will hold in your hearts and memories for a lifetime.
We warmly welcome you to join us for the 2023 pilgrimage.
Secure your place today as space is limited for this event.
about Adora winquist
Adora Winquist is an Internationally recognized author, healer, teacher, speaker, and aromatherapy pioneer. She specializes in personal growth programs and products, including expertly formulated essential oil formulations that help others create personal harmony using the mind-heart-body-soul connection. She is known for establishing one of the first brands to combine aromatherapy and energy healing on a national scale, evolving it into a world-renowned, award-winning company. 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 best lives.
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 OF Past RETREATs 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 Chateaubas
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 with ceremony, Gregorian chants and lunch
Creation of your own sacred anointing oil to connect to the wonderful memories and magic once you return home
THIS 10 DAY 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
Marseilles
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.
The Camargue-Maries de la Mer
Morning beach ceremony to open, clear and bless your channel of connection, communion and co-creation with sacred anointing and a crystal meditation journey. Then on to the extraordinary Church of the Sainte Marys of the Sea. The crypt is where the bones of Sainte Sarah and the two “other” Marys were discovered by Good King Rene d’Anjou during his excavations in the 15th century, and there is 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).
Enjoy shopping for local favorites like Herbs de Provence, aromatic soaps, world renowned salt here and other traditional gifts from Provence. Relax, enjoy invigorating sea air, a wonderful dinner in town and our last night in the Camargue.
Day 2: In Saintes Maries de la Mer
Morning walk to the landing beach (directly across from our hotel!) and then on to the extraordinary Church of the Sainte Marys of the Sea. The crypt is where the bones of Sainte Sarah and the two “other” Marys were discovered by Good King Rene d’Anjou during his excavations in the 15th century, and there is 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).
There is very tempting shopping here for traditional gifts from Provence. Optional excursions can be arranged for riding the white horses (let us know in advance if this is something you want to do). Relax, enjoy the plentiful gypsy music and a pitcher of Sangria! Dinner and overnight at our hotel.
Day 3: To Aix en Provence
After breakfast, we leave the magical Saintes Maries de la Mer and head for Aix en Provence. 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 know for it’s therapeutic mineral baths. This year, we have an 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
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 ceremony to activate the Love Code, held within your DNA.
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
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.
You will 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 form this journey.
Day 6: St. Maximin-la-Ste. Baume
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.
Day 7: Valsaintes-Fall Equinox
Today, we will drive to Abbaye de Valsaintes to celebrate the Fall Equinox. The autumn equinox, with its day and night in equal parts, announces that the hour of the assessment and the harvest has come. Clearly, this is a time of the year for great insights into the decisions that guide our whole lives. Perched at a height of 1,800 feet in the middle of a vast natural bowl, the abbey of Valsaintes watches over a land which has been sacred since Prehistoric times. The Dragon rock, guardian of the promontory of Boulinette, 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. Here we will have our Fall Equinox ceremony and Infinite Abundance Activation where you will charge your personal sacred synergies. We will have lunch at an exceptional local restaurant here. Overnight at our hotel.
Day 8: Carcassonne
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. The city's history dates back to the 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
After breakfast, we will board our bus to join the village of Minerve. 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, thirsty, 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. A stele was erected to commemorate this Cathar pyre. After lunch, on the way back to our hotel, we will stop at Limoux for a visit to the Church housing a beautiful Black Madonna, Notre Dame de Marceille. 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 You could refresh yourself in the nearby Magdalene Spring. Back to the hotel. In the evening, we will be able to enjoy a farewell city in the charming city of Carcassonne.
Day 10-Depart for Toulouse
Toulouse
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 is located at the gates of the medieval city and the center of town. The hotel is surrounded by a magnificent private garden. Full of Mediterranean color, it is planted with oleanders and olive trees and provides a unique view over the ramparts of the old town. Thanks to its warm, elegant decoration, outdoor pool (open seasonally) and wooded terrace, you will feel at home in this charming hotel.
