Retreat with an Artisan
Immersion in the artisan's expertise
Come and experience a retreat in the forest with lodging on our site and 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 possess considerable experience. What could be more inspiring than being in the presence of someone who has acquired long-standing expertise and shares it with us!
We are pleased to offer you our collaborations with a ceramic artisan and a cutler artisan, both located in Piopolis on the same road asAux Cinq Sens.
Happy retreat… in Art!
Our partner artisans
Suzie Duchesneau, ceramicist – Au Grès de la Baie
Suzie welcomes you to her studio, Au Grès de la Baie, located on the shores of Lake Mégantic, to experience a connection with the earth and water through clay. What could be more fitting for your reconnection retreat!
Introductory course to pottery on the wheel
This introductory pottery course is ideal for anyone who has never worked with clay and wants to discover its properties. This 2.5-hour workshop demystifies the many techniques that transform the material into unique works of art. If you manage to complete your pieces, you can 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 for 2 days, 5 hours per day
For experienced and independent ceramicists, the Au Grès de la Baie studio offers a chance to reconnect with inspiration and create amidst nature. A bright studio with breathtaking views of Lake Mégantic and the border mountains of Maine awaits you, inviting you to immerse yourself in your art.
Information : Price $220/person | Bring your own clay | August 18 to October 25, 2026
Étienne Verreault, cutler
Étienne welcomes you to his workshop, where the warmth comes not only from his forge but also from his passionate and welcoming personality. In his workshops, 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 introductory course on blacksmithing and steelworking. You will have the opportunity to hammer metal and create a small piece to take home.
Information : Price $135/person for 3 hours | June 5 to October 25, 2026
Training 1: The Integral 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 own knife in a simple and functional design.
Information : Price $300/person for 2 days from 9am to 5pm | June 5 to October 25, 2026
Training 2: “Stock removal”
Starting with a sheet of steel, you will craft your knife by removing material. You will be able to forge your blade and choose the design and materials for the handle and sheath.
Information : Price $500/person for 2.5 days from 9am to 5pm | June 5 to October 25, 2026
Training 3: Traditional Blacksmithing
This intensive course offers a complete knife-making experience. It combines forging techniques for the blade, design and material choices for the handle and sheath, followed by their respective construction. Étienne will guide you through creating your masterpiece from start to finish.
Information : Price $690/person for 3 days from 9am to 5pm | June 5 to October 25, 2026
How to book my retreat with the artisan
Step 1 ⁓ Ask the artisan
Fill out the short form below and we will forward your request to the artisan. They will then contact you directly to confirm your dates.
Form for your experience with the artisan/craftsperson
Step 2 ⁓ Book your stay
Once your dates have been confirmed by the artisan, go to the booking and reserve your lodging/campsite for a minimum of 2 nights as well as any other desired option for your retreat.
Note : Give yourself time; this is a retreat! If you opt for a multi-day workshop, consider booking an extra night's stay. For example, for two full days with a craftsperson, book three nights. This will give you time to settle in upon arrival, experience the workshop with the craftsperson, and reflect afterward before leaving.
Other retreat options
To discover our other nature retreat, explore the page dedicated to them.
