This immersive Fantasy Photoshoot Retreat invites you into the dreamlike world of photographer Vanessa Bussoletti, whose imagery feels like a fairytale—where the rawness of the earth, the pull of the wild, and the romance of old stone beckon you.
In the golden September light of Château de Puy Vidal, you’ll step into three dreamlike versions of yourself:
the Soft Maiden, the Gilded Heroine, and the Haunted Romantic.
This retreat is not about posing or pretending. It’s about remembering the parts of you the world rarely makes space for—the ancient-hearted dreamer, the playful wild spirit, the woman who feels the call of the elements in her bones. Through gentle inner exploration, self-styling, and the intimacy of being seen through an artist’s lens, you may discover those inner heroines were never lost—only waiting.
Because this unfolding happens in the company of a small circle of kindred spirits, everything deepens. There is something truly meaningful about being witnessed by other women reclaiming their beauty, their wildness, their softness. Evenings become warm, glowing sanctuaries—candlelit dinners, atmospheric gatherings, and quiet moments of magic. Here, cradled by nature and old stone, you come home to yourself.
You leave not only with luminous portraits, but with a deeper knowing:
that you can be gentle and fierce, romantic and untamed, soft and sovereign;
that all of these selves belong;
that your inner heroines are ready to rise.
Step into a world where you are allowed to hold multitudes and the woman you’ve sensed within you finally comes into view.
• Accommodations at Château de Puy Vidal
Seven nights in one of the château’s historic bedrooms, each with its own atmosphere, charm, and story.
• All Meals & Drinks
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks included each day—featuring coffee, tea, soft drinks, French wines, and 24/7 access to the château’s coffee and snack bar.
• Three Fine Art Photoshoot Sessions
Step into your three archetypes—Soft Maiden, Gilded Heroine, and Haunted Romantic—guided gently and intimately by photographer Vanessa Bussoletti.
• Ten Final Edited Fine Art Images
A curated selection of 10 luminous portraits from Vanessa, capturing your transformation and the mood of the week.
(Additional images available for purchase.)
• Styling Guidance & Creative Support
This is a self-styling adventure. Bring your own fantasy outfits, dresses, accessories, and makeup; the château team and Vanessa will be there to offer ideas, direction, and encouragement.
• Full Access to the Château
Enjoy the salons, gardens, pool, and hot tub—spaces designed for rest, beauty, and creative exploration.
• Shuttle Pick-Up & Drop-Off
Complimentary transportation to and from Angoulême Train Station, 18 minutes from the château.
• A Small Circle of Kindred Spirits
A warm, collaborative environment where softness, creativity, and shared transformation are welcomed.
• Behind-the-Scenes Event Photography
Candid, atmospheric photos captured throughout the retreat by The Lady of the Château team.
