Summer travels conjure thoughts of crowded airports, congested highways, and claustrophobic rentals. There are exceptions, but only if money is not an object, and you have the luxury of time and the ease of transportation; in which case boating may become an option.
But I did not have boating in mind when I began browsing the web for something enriching while entertaining and possibly even exotic. I came across a site that seemed to check all the boxes, plus one that sealed the deal. That is, a writers’ retreat located in the south of France. I became immediately enamored and upon further inquiry, decided to book an 8-day trip to Champagne House Condom, located in Armagnac in the Départment of Gers, in the heart of Gascony and southwest of Toulouse in southern France.
Getting there was a bit challenging but once I booked my ‘one-stop’ ticket, all I could think about was the adventure in store. There are no ‘non-stop’ flights to Toulouse, however, the hosts were there to pick us up at the airport. The rest shall go down in history as one of the most luxurious and memorable vacations I have ever enjoyed.
Dale and Martin Proctor had a vision to create an oasis to host writers and other specialty groups; or simply people interested in booking an unusual adventure in the south of France. No skills required if you’re simply looking for an out of the way, non-trendy, vacation spot free of crowds with champagne as the theme. The house has been lovingly restored to its original 19th century splendor, with great attention to maintaining its integrity – from linens to draperies, from toiletries to table wear. The list continues but the details are far too numerous to mention; one must experience this maison to believe its joyfulness.
Condom is in the heart of the Gascony region so this joint venture at renovation became a reality when they purchased an unassuming building on the Rue Buzon, turning it into one of the most unusual and creative maisons/ B&B’s. The attention to detail while adding a quirky nod to ‘champagne’ in many of the unique accessories became a playful and surprising game. Each day we noticed something new and whimsical while enjoying the generosity of Dale and Martin’s hospitality.
Meals were served in the second-floor kitchen with an adjoining terrace steps away. The delicacies always included crusty mouth -watering breads, cheeses, charcuteries, home-made pastries and granolas, fresh fruits; all with wine flowing. Dinners/ lunches alternated daily at local restaurants with fare from farm to table. Cocktails were served at 7 on the lower terrace overlooking the pool, with delicious nibbles while sipping Dale’s exotic concoctions.
The writing portion of this excursion was led by Claire Boot, a Welsh writer who coaxed us into the most creative exercises while evoking our most imaginative offerings. She led us down a path of serendipity and allowed us to explore our (wildest) fantasies. It was through her lead that I wrote a piece on Ratzo Rizzo meeting Donald Trump at a porn bar in the East Village; to give an example of what was revealed!
As for this wonderful (writers) week, I would not only recommend the Champagne House to those looking for an unusual get-away, a special occasion or celebration, but I would highly encourage another group of like-minded people to get to know one another in a fantastique setting.
Champagne House – 5 Rue Buzon – 32100 Condom, France
Martin & Dale Proctor – proprietors – ku.oc.oohay@1padpdm
+33 (0) 672347498
