Creating memories
Every season, Lou Calen transforms into a true hub of discovery. In the stunning cliff-side setting of Cotignac, a delightful collection of visual artists, writers, musicians, chefs, and wellness practitioners come together to share their expertise and offer visitors exceptional experiences. There are workshops, concerts, exhibitions, literary events, and gastronomy events: each moment can become a sensory journey to discovery, shaped by the authentic soul of Provence and the unique energy of those who guide it.
Upcoming workshops & events
Past workshops & events
Saturday 7 December
A passionate author and book editor, Axel Graisely joins us to look back on his inspiring journey as a committed globetrotter, and to discuss four of his literary creations (Histoires et légendes, Traditions et symbolismes en Provence...) which he will be happy to sign for visitors.
Thursday 28 November
Thanksgiving is a great start for the festive season, offering sharing moments and a friendly atmosphere. Chef Benoit Witz invites you to savour the traditional meal: turkey stuffed with chestnuts, Brussels sprouts with cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie and pecan pie.
Saturday 23 November
A Franco-British author of gothic novels, Phoebe Wynne set our literary encounters off to a flyings start at Lou Calen. We have the honour of hosting a discussion of her two acclaimed novels in English, Madam and The Ruins, before a book signing session.
Thursday 21 November
Come celebrate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau at Bistrot de Lou Calen! Every year, this primeur wine announces with freshness and lightness the flavors of a new harvest. To accompany this festive tradition, our chef offers you a gourmet menu with regional accents.
Friday 18 October
The Jardin Secret restaurant celebrates the 11th edition of the Fascinant Weekend. Every 3rd weekend in October, the vineyards of France come alive for this food and wine celebration festival. For the occasion, Chef Benoit Witz designed a gourmet menu around the flavors of autumn.
From 15 Oct. To 6 Nov.
Nestled in the midst of the restanques a unique spice grows naturally. In our region, flowering begins in October and lasts for a month while the harvest reaps rich rewards. Sabine and Jean will guide you to ensure you fully understand the culture and nature of organic saffron growing.
Saturday 28 September
Hear ye, hear ye! There’s a huge dollop of fun on the way with the return of the soap box race. The race will barrel down the Notre-Dame de Grâces road across two timed runs, with a refreshment bar and DJ set at lunchtime, prize giving ceremony at the stadium and after party at La TUF.
Saturday 14 September
Ceramics artist in Cotignac, Inès Ciccone practices throwing pottery with the aim of giving life to stoneware pieces, always drawing her inspiration from natural plants and minerals. During her workshop, Inès will share three modelling techniques to make a cup, a plate or a bowl.
Saturday 7 September
Solange Battarra’s true creative self is anchored in the Upcycling movement. A local artist and a specialist in the creation of objects made from paper pulp, she will teach an artisanal moulding technique by crafting a unique decorative object to set on a piece of furniture or to hang on the wall.
Wednesday 31 July
Did you know that you can make ink from tinctorial plants? Anna Piquardt is here to show you how. Come and learn how to transform well-known plants into watercolour paints, and then decorate your very own postcard with them. A wonderfully creative gift for a loved one!
Wednesday 26 June
A special opportunity to free your mind and express yourself in writing. French literature teacher, Jéromine Dalmasso, will guide you towards this creative escape with two thematic ideas: “Describe a place using sensory language” and “Write a description while observing a photograph”.
