Retreat with the artisan
Immersion in the Artisan's Craft
Come experience a forest retreat on our site with privileged access to one of our local artisans through an immersive workshop lasting from a few hours to several days!
The artisans we collaborate with are talented and have considerable experience. What could be more inspiring than being in the presence of someone who has a long-learned expertise and shares it with us!
We are delighted to offer you our collaborations with a ceramic artisan and a cutler, both located in Piopolis on the same row as Aux Cinq Sens.
Happy retreat… in Art!
Our partner artisans
Suzie Duchesneau, ceramist － Au Grès de la Baie
Suzie welcomes you to her studio Au Grès de la Baie on the shores of Lake Mégantic, for a hands-on experience with earth and water through clay. What could be more fitting for your reconnection retreat!
Introduction to Wheel Throwing Pottery Course
This introductory pottery course is ideal for someone who has never worked with clay and wants to discover it. This 2.5-hour introductory workshop demystifies the many techniques that transform raw material into unique pieces. If you manage to complete your pieces, you may even take them home after the 4 to 6-week firing period.
Information : Price $95/person | Maximum 3 people | August 18 to October 25, 2026
Access to the pottery workshop over 2 days ⁓ 5 hours per day
For experienced, self-sufficient ceramicists, the Au Grès de la Baie workshop is offered to reconnect with inspiration and create in the heart of nature. A bright studio with a breathtaking view of Lake Mégantic and the border mountains of Maine awaits you to immerse yourself in your art.
Information : Price $220/person | bring your own clay | August 18 to October 25, 2026
Étienne Verreault, artisan knifemaker
Étienne welcomes you into his workshop, where the warmth comes not only from his forge but also from the passionate and warm-hearted person he is and radiates. In his training sessions, you can craft your own knife, from forging to finishing, and even make a sheath if you wish!
Experience: Introduction to Blacksmithing
A 3-hour initiation into the knowledge of forging and steelworking. You will have the opportunity to strike the metal while creating a small piece to take home.
Information : Price $135/person for 3h | June 5 to October 25, 2026
Workshop 1: The full-tang knife
At the forge, you will learn the entire process of transforming steel and making it strong. From a piece of steel, you will craft your knife in a simple and functional version.
Details : Price $300/person for 2 days from 9am to 5pm | June 5 to October 25, 2026
Workshop 2: The “stock removal”
Starting from a steel plate, you will craft your knife by removing material. You can forge your blade and choose the design and materials for creating the handle and sheath.
Details : Price $500/person for 2 ½ days from 9am to 5pm | June 5 to October 25, 2026
Workshop 3: Traditional Forging
This intensive workshop is the complete knife-making experience. It combines forging techniques for the blade, design and material choices for the handle and sheath, followed by their respective crafting. Étienne will guide you in creating your work from A to Z.
Information : Price $690/person for 3 days from 9 AM to 5 PM | June 5 to October 25, 2026
How to book my retreat with the artisan
Step 1 ⁓ Ask the artisan
Fill out the brief form below and we will forward your request to the artisan. They will contact you directly to confirm your dates.
Form for your experience with the artisan
Step 2 ⁓ Book your stay
Once your dates have been confirmed by the craftsman, go to the booking and reserve your lodging/camping for a minimum of 2 nights as well as any other desired option for your retreat.
Note : Give yourself time, it's a retreat! If you choose a multi-day workshop, consider adding an extra night. For example, for 2 full days with an artisan, book 3 nights. You'll have time to settle in upon arrival, experience your time with the artisan, and decompress afterward before leaving.
Other retreat options
To discover our other nature retreats, explore the page dedicated to them.
