At the Belle Vie English Garden Retreat, days will unfold amid roses, ancient trees, and some of England’s most storied estates. You’ll discover celebrated gardens and picture-perfect villages, walk above the English Channel along its iconic white cliffs, and experience the art of the English garden through a private garden morning, floral workshop, and long alfresco lunch—all while enjoying exclusive access to the gardens of our manor home.
Join us for an unforgettable week of beauty, flowers, history, and inspiration in the English countryside, designed to stir the imagination and reawaken your joie de vivre—the joy of living.
Step into the romance of the English countryside for a once-in-a-lifetime retreat at a historic Palladian manor, where centuries of history, sweeping gardens, and the timeless beauty of the Garden of England come together in perfect harmony.
Curated by photographer, artist, and tastemaker Molly Carr, Belle Vie Retreats are immersive, intimate experiences designed around beauty, creativity, and a deep sense of place. Inspired by the world of Jane Austen, who once walked the grounds of Goodnestone, this weeklong escape invites guests to slow down, reconnect with their creativity, and experience the grace and romance of English country-house life.
The Romance of the English Countryside
the experience
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"The Belle Vie Retreat reconnected me to the profound joy of discovery and true hospitality designed with care."
- Laura L, Past Guest
The English countryside is a place where beauty feels woven into the landscape itself. In late spring, ancient hedgerows burst into bloom, meadows ripple beneath enormous skies, and gardens overflow with roses, foxgloves, wisteria, and climbing vines. Here in Kent—long celebrated as the Garden of England—orchards, rolling parkland, and centuries-old estates unfold across one of the country’s loveliest landscapes. Life seems to follow a gentler rhythm: afternoon tea, garden walks, village lanes, and long evenings lingering around the table.
For centuries, this corner of England has inspired writers, artists, gardeners, and romantics, perhaps none more famously than Jane Austen. Great houses rise beyond sweeping lawns, church spires punctuate the countryside, and picturesque villages feel almost untouched by time. Here, history is not confined to museums; it is present in ancient gardens, family estates, winding footpaths, and landscapes preserved for generations—a living portrait of the England that has captured imaginations for centuries.
At the heart of this idyllic landscape lies Goodnestone Manor, an extraordinary country estate dating to 1704 and intimately connected to Jane Austen, who was a frequent guest while visiting her brother Edward and his wife Elizabeth. Following a stay here in 1796, Austen began writing the novel that would become Pride and Prejudice. Today, its historic house, sweeping parkland, walled garden, terraces, wildflower meadows, and secluded garden rooms create our own private world for the week—a place to wander, gather, dream, and experience the enduring romance of English country life.
The English Countryside
May 22 - 28, 2027
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With decades of travel across Europe and beyond, she has curated an intimate knowledge of the destinations, hidden corners, and experiences that embody 'la belle vie'—the beautiful life.
Recognized as a travel tastemaker by Harper’s BAZAAR, Travel + Leisure, and Town & Country, Molly is passionate about guiding women to experience the transformative magic of travel. Through Belle Vie Retreats, she invites guests not only to see the world, but to live it—to slow down, savor beauty, and reconnect with their creativity and sense of wonder.
Molly Carr is an international photographer, Rizzoli author, and lifelong explorer, capturing couture, culture, & the world’s most elegant destinations through her lens.
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the Hostess
"Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living."
- miriam beard
Kathleen Terchek
"I had the pleasure of attending the Belle Vie Retreat, and what an unforgettable week it was! The beautiful villa, experiences, and food were surpassed only by the company of the other women and Molly’s warmth and generosity. Every detail was thoughtfully curated, from antiquing and exploring village markets to relaxing poolside, floral design, yoga, and a cooking class. Each day showcased the beauty of the region and ended with delicious dinners at tables adorned with beautiful linens, candlelight, and stunning florals. From the moment we arrived, we were treated like honored guests and could feel Molly’s passion for bringing kindred spirits together through intentional living. I came home with lasting friendships and so much inspiration. I’m incredibly grateful for such a unique experience and can't wait to attend another Belle Vie Retreat."
"I came home with lasting friendships and so much inspiration."
Lydia nichols
"I had the most incredible experience at the Provence Belle Vie Retreat hosted by Molly Carr—truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From start to finish, every detail was thoughtfully curated, and Molly was an exceptional host who went above and beyond to create meaningful, unforgettable experiences for our group.
The retreat felt seamless and beautifully considered. The food was exquisite, and the accommodations were perfect—comfortable, elegant, and full of charm. Not a single detail was overlooked.
It was a deeply memorable experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend a Belle Vie Retreat and absolutely plan to attend again in the future."
"The Retreat was a truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
Christine davidson
“I’ve had the pleasure of attending two Belle Vie Retreats, and each has been nothing short of magical. From the breathtaking settings to the beautifully curated excursions, every detail felt thoughtful, inspiring, and flawlessly considered. Molly has a true gift for creating beauty and an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and genuinely welcoming. Sharing one of the retreats with my daughter made the experience even more special. I also loved having the opportunity to offer restorative facial treatments for the guests, creating moments of relaxation and self-care in such a beautiful setting. I’m so grateful for the unforgettable memories and the wonderful women I’ve met along the way. I would do it all over again—and will be attending another Belle Vie Retreat this autumn.”
"Two magical retreats—and I’m already returning for another.”
laura lindekugel
"From the moment I arrived, it was clear that Molly had poured care into planning and curating every detail. Our itinerary invited us into both rest and exploration, and the evenings brought with them a particular kind of magic—dinners lit by candlelight, the most beautiful flowers and table settings, and laughter-filled conversation with kindred spirits quickly becoming new friends as we enjoyed wine pairings and elevated French cooking. Our accommodation was as inviting as it was refined and offered true respite for each of us. In every way, the retreat was a celebration of pleasure and an invitation to living fully. It reconnected me to the profound joy of beautiful meals, nature, wandering at your own pace, discovery, the warmth of genuine company, and true hospitality designed with care."
"The Retreat reconnected me to the profound joy of discovery."
laura price
“I will always value my Belle Vie Retreats as some of the most memorable experiences of my life. From staying in beautiful villas and châteaux to exploring charming villages, taking cooking classes, and sharing these experiences with like-minded women, each retreat has felt like a dream come true. I especially loved that every detail was thoughtfully planned while still allowing us the freedom to relax and enjoy the experience at our own pace. The evenings were truly exceptional, with exquisite food, beautiful linens and china, stunning florals, and tables that created such a wonderful sense of warmth, camaraderie, and shared joy. Molly's care, attention to detail, and ability to make everyone feel so welcome and relaxed made each week incredibly special. After my second Belle Vie Retreat, I somehow came away even more impressed than after my first. These are experiences I will never forget.”
"Two Retreats, both among the most memorable experiences of my life."
Kristen Bowen
"The France Retreat was truly a life-changing experience and what I know will be a pivotal moment in my story.
I've been to many retreats, and this one stood above them all in so many ways. Having an intimate group of attendees made a huge difference. The experience was relaxing, joyful, personal, and stress-free. It was without a doubt the most peaceful and happy retreat I've ever been to! Molly sets a tone of abundance that is thoughtful and generous and I would sign up for another Belle Vie Retreat in a heartbeat.
In sum, this is THE Retreat you want to attend!"
"The France Retreat was truly a life-changing experience."
Alexandria walker
"Molly's taste for everything luxury travel and lifestyle is absolutely impeccable. The France Retreat she created for us was without a doubt a dream come true. The thought and care Molly brings to every detail of the guest experience is truly above and beyond.
From the incredible multi-course French dinners by candlelight and wine pairings to the fabulous fashion moments Molly created for us, every minute of the Belle Vie Retreat was spectacular. The experience was made even richer when complemented by Molly's deep knowledge and passion for French culture and history. It was truly the trip of a lifetime and the start of many friendships with amazing like-minded women!"
"Molly's taste for everything luxury travel & lifestyle is impeccable."
Heather Howell
"Molly planned the most perfect week, going above and beyond to create the most magical experience I will never forget. Every detail felt so thoughtful and intentional, and her hospitality, thoughtfulness, and kindness are truly unmatched.
My time at the Belle Vie Retreat left me feeling deeply inspired and grateful for such a special experience. I will carry with me the beauty of the week, the memories we made, and the art of slow living that I discovered during this incredibly special time.”
"I will carry with me the art of slow living I discovered."
Katie trauffer
"My expectations for retreats will never be the same after experiencing this week in France with Molly! The Retreat was a much-needed source of inspiration and a beautiful reset for my heart. I decided to let go of expectations and simply let the experience unfold. A week later, I felt refreshed, energized, and deeply inspired.
What truly struck me was how Molly fostered such a community of kindness, generosity, and encouragement among the women. I left with wonderful new friendships and have been so encouraged by the bonds we formed. She has the rare ability to create extraordinary beauty while making everyone feel genuinely welcomed and cared for. My Retreat experience was nothing short of transformative."
"My time with Molly has been nothing short of transformative."
Colleen Lennehan
"Molly is so kind and gracious. From booking and planning to sending me thoughtful videos with packing details before the trip, she gave me such genuine, personal attention every step of the way. I so admire her talent and the care she brings to creating every part of the experience.
I appreciate everything Molly did to make the Retreat feel so peaceful, welcoming, and beautiful. Her attention to detail is truly unmatched, and every element felt considered with such warmth and intention. Thank you for the stay of a lifetime, for making me feel so cared for, and for all the inspiration I carried home with me.”
"Molly's attention to detail is unmatched—the stay of a lifetime."
Monica Francis
"I still can't believe what an incredible experience you created at the Retreat, and the privilege I had in being part of it. You poured so much into the creation of the Belle Vie Retreat and it undeniably came through in all of the moments that we all shared.
I left feeling full of connection, inspiration, and insight! I'll be processing it all for a while, and cherishing the memories for much longer."
"I left the Retreat full of connection, inspiration, and insight!"
Our retreat home, Goodnestone Park, is one of England’s most enchanting historic country estates—a Grade II listed mansion dating to 1704, set within nearly 2,000 acres of parkland, woodland, meadows, and farmland. For more than three centuries, the estate has been shaped by generations of the same family, its elegant façade and Palladian portico rising beyond sweeping lawns in a landscape that feels almost suspended in time.
Step inside, and centuries of English country-house history unfold room by room. Original architectural details mingle with richly layered interiors, from a rococo marble fireplace and rare editions of Jane Austen to de Gournay silk walls, antique porcelain, and an exquisite 18th-century Ince & Mayhew cabinet made for the house. Elegant drawing rooms, fireside corners, and light-filled spaces create a home that feels at once grand, intimate, and wonderfully lived-in.
Beyond the house lie fifteen acres of celebrated historic gardens—formal terraces, clipped yews, wildflower meadows, woodland walks, arboreta, and a magnificent walled garden composed of a succession of intimate garden rooms. Recognized by Country Life among England’s notable country gardens and protected at Grade II for their special historic interest, they will become our own world during the retreat: a place for quiet morning walks, afternoons among the roses, and long evenings overlooking the parkland.
Goodnestone’s story is inseparable from that of Jane Austen. Her brother Edward married Elizabeth Bridges, whose family owned the estate, and Austen became a regular guest; after staying at Goodnestone in 1796, she began writing the novel that would become Pride and Prejudice. More than two centuries later, we will follow the same garden paths and wander the same parkland that she knew—making Goodnestone far more than a beautiful place to stay, but a living piece of English literary and garden history.
Goodnestone Manor
Our home
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"I will always value the Belle Vie Retreat as one of the most memorable experiences of my life."
- Laura p, Past Guest
At our historic country estate, you’ll join an intimate group of like-minded women—aesthetes, dreamers, and seekers of a more beautiful and inspired way of living. Together, we’ll wander extraordinary gardens, explore storied houses and picturesque villages, linger over elegant lunches, gather for candlelit dinners, and make time for the simple pleasures of country life: flowers, books, conversation, and unhurried afternoons.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure abroad, Belle Vie welcomes women of all ages and walks of life. From the moment you arrive, everything—from your private accommodations to chef-prepared meals, private garden access, and thoughtfully curated experiences—has been designed to create a sense of home, ease, discovery, and beauty.
We believe that travel can awaken something within us. The memories made, friendships formed, and inspiration stirred among English roses and centuries-old landscapes will linger long after you return home. If you’ve been dreaming of a slower pace, deeper beauty, and a week that feels lifted from the pages of a beloved novel, this is your invitation to wander, dream, and live beautifully.
Designed for the Dreamers
The attendees
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Jane Austen's England
The aesthetic
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"The Belle Vie Retreat was nothing short of magical."
- Christine D, Past Guest
Accommodations
The rooms
Private Room - $9,850
Designed for one guest, our Private Rooms offer a peaceful retreat within Goodnestone Manor, each individually decorated with the layered charm and character of this historic country estate. Rooms vary in layout and architectural detail, with either a private ensuite or dedicated private bathroom, and views overlooking the gardens or surrounding parkland. Thoughtful comforts and daily housekeeping ensure that each space feels both elegant and welcoming—a private haven to return to at the end of each day.
Private Room - Shared Bath - $8,950
Perfect for guests who prefer a bedroom entirely their own, this category pairs personal privacy with the character of life in a historic English country house. Each guest will have exclusive use of an individually decorated bedroom overlooking Goodnestone’s gardens or parkland, while a nearby full bathroom is shared with just one other retreat guest. It is a comfortable and thoughtfully priced option for those who value their own space and do not require a private ensuite.
Double Room - $7,950
Designed for friends or family traveling together, our Shared Rooms offer the same beauty and comfort of Goodnestone Manor with accommodations for two guests sharing one bed and either a private ensuite or dedicated private bathroom. Each bedroom is individually appointed, with its own distinctive character, furnishings, and views across the gardens or parkland. Shared Rooms must be booked with a traveling companion; after booking, please email Belle Vie Retreats with the name of the guest you will be sharing with.
reserve your room
"The Belle Vie Retreat was a truly life-changing experience."
- kristen b, Past Guest
- 7 days & 6 nights of private or shared accommodations at historic Goodnestone Manor
- Daily breakfasts, select lunches, elegant private chef-prepared dinners, and thoughtfully paired wines
- Curated visit to Sissinghurst Castle Garden, named England’s most beautiful garden by Country Living
- Unforgettable excursion to the iconic White Cliffs of Dover
- Private morning with Goodnestone’s head gardener, followed by a floral workshop and long alfresco garden lunch
- Curated visits to historic estates, romantic gardens, and picture-perfect English villages
- Traditional English afternoon tea in an unforgettable setting
- Ample free time to wander the estate, read in the gardens, rest, and enjoy the quiet rhythms of English country life
- Ground transportation for all scheduled excursions
- Creative conversations around photography, styling, beauty, and the art of living beautifully
- Travel planning assistance to/from England
- Optional add-on for Swedish massage
Not included: Airfare, ground transportation to/from the estate, lunches on excursion days, additional alcoholic beverages, gratuities for chef, driver, and house manager, and personal incidentals.
What's Included
The details
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Dreaming of being photographed among English roses, sweeping lawns, and the storied gardens of a historic country estate?
Capture the beauty of your time at Goodnestone with exquisite film portraits by Molly Carr, named one of the Best Photographers in the World. Portrait sessions are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and may be added to your Belle Vie Retreat experience at checkout.
Sunrise Portrait Shoot with Molly
optional add-on
30 Minute Film Portrait Session | $850
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Indulge in a private 60-minute massage at Goodnestone Manor, with your choice of Swedish or deep tissue massage.
Appointments are limited, offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and may be added to your Belle Vie Retreat experience at checkout.
Swedish Massage
optional add-on
30 Minute Film Portrait Session | $850
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Join us in the English Countryside, May 22-28, 2027
Dreaming of la belle vie?
Join the list to be the first to receive private invitations and early access to upcoming journeys.
Voyager avec Belle Vie
Policy
Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable, but attendees who are unable to attend may sell their seat to another qualified participant. The original attendee is solely responsible for finding a replacement, and the replacement must be approved by Belle Vie Retreats and confirmed in writing by March 27, 2027. Belle Vie Retreats cannot guarantee that a replacement will be found. If no approved replacement is confirmed by the deadline, all payments will be forfeited. All retreat terms, conditions, and payment obligations will apply to the new attendee.
The purchase of a seat is for one attendee only. No assistants, spouses, partners, children, or other guests may accompany attendees or participate in retreat activities unless approved in advance by Belle Vie Retreats.
While rare, a Retreat may need to be cancelled or rescheduled due to circumstances beyond our control. In that event, attendees may either transfer their payments to the rescheduled retreat dates or receive a refund of payments made directly to Belle Vie Retreats. Belle Vie Retreats is not responsible for airfare, accommodations, transportation, or any other travel expenses booked independently by an attendee.
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, including appropriate trip cancellation and interruption coverage, to protect against unforeseen circumstances such as illness, personal emergencies, travel delays, cancellations, or other disruptions.
