French Sweetness, a Baking Retreat with Saha Nary

Dates: 5th to 10th October, 2026

Location: Aix En Provence, South Of France

Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of Provence, this intimate pâtisserie retreat invites you to slow down, savour the rhythm of the countryside, and explore the refined world of French baking alongside celebrated pastry chef Sasha Nary.

Across six serene days in a charming farmhouse near Aix-en-Provence, you'll immerse yourself in the art of French desserts. From delicate tart shells to cloud-like meringues and beautifully composed seasonal creations, Sasha will guide you through hands-on workshops that celebrate technique, precision, and pleasure.

Think crisp lavender in the air, golden vineyards just beyond the kitchen window, and the aroma of butter and sugar dancing through the villa. Whether you're looking to finesse your skills or simply treat yourself to a delicious escape, this retreat offers a thoughtful blend of creativity, connection, and indulgence, all in the heart of Provence.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation: Enjoy a 6-day, 5-night stay in the Provençal countryside, just 20 minutes from Aix-en-Provence. This charming estate offers up to 11 bedrooms, two kitchens, and beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for a retreat. With modular accommodation, a large 55m² kitchen, and an entertainment barn, a swimming pool, it’s an ideal setting for cooking, relaxing, and connecting.
• Room Options: Choose between a private single room or a shared room, each thoughtfully appointed to ensure a comfortable stay. A special welcome gift awaits you upon arrival.
• Host: A dedicated Madame Voyage host will be on hand throughout the week to coordinate activities, answer questions, and ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
• Airport Transfer: Private transfer to and from Marseille Airport for your convenience.
• On-Site Transportation: Chauffeur-driven transport for all scheduled activities.
• All meals and drinks are included — and every bite is a taste of Provence: Start your day with buttery croissants and sun-ripened fruit, and end it with generous, home-style dinners under the Provençal sky. Our private chef prepares every meal with fresh, local ingredients: think fragrant herbs, just-picked vegetables, creamy goat cheese, and the rich flavours of the South. Wine? Absolutely. From crisp rosés to bold reds, every glass is thoughtfully paired. And to kick things off, a glass of Champagne on arrival. Vegetarian or gluten-free? We’ve got you, with flavour, care, and flair.

Activities (yes, also included!):

• Refine Your Baking Skills: Enjoy 15 hours of hands-on baking sessions with Sasha, guided step-by-step in an intimate small-group setting designed for personal attention and creativity.
• Sip and Savour Local Wines: Take part in two wine tastings at stunning Provençal estates, sip crisp rosés at Domaine Bargemone and explore elegant reds and whites at Château de Beaupré.
• Aix-en-Provence & Sweet Discoveries: Wander the charming streets of Aix, visit the Calisson Museum, and treat yourself to afternoon tea at the beautiful Café Caumont. Enjoy free time to shop, explore, or simply soak up the Provençal atmosphere.
• Olive Oil Mill Experience: Uncover the secrets of Provence’s famed olive oils during an engaging visit and tasting workshop. Sample a variety of local oils and learn what makes each one unique.

What you will learn and discover

Bake Boldly, Create Beautifully

Join the talented Sasha of Sasha Cakes Chicago for an unforgettable baking retreat where creativity meets craftsmanship. With her warm guidance and artistic flair, you'll dive deep into the world of French desserts, from elegant mousse cakes to playful pâtisserie creations, building skills, confidence, and a serious love for sugar along the way.

A Taste of Provence in Every Bite

This retreat is about more than just baking, it’s about flavour, terroir, and tradition. You’ll be introduced to Provence’s most iconic ingredients: sun-ripened fruits, fragrant herbs, fresh dairy, and more. Paired with wine tastings at local estates, you’ll discover how regional products can elevate every dish, sweet or savoury.

Learn by Doing, in a Setting That Inspires

With over 15 hours of hands-on workshops, you’ll shape, whip, glaze, and decorate alongside Sasha in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Whether you’re a passionate home baker or just starting out, you’ll head home with new techniques, reliable recipes, and the confidence to tackle any dessert.

Soak Up Provence, Slice by Slice

Between baking sessions, you’ll get to explore the picturesque side of Provence: think morning strolls through the Lourmarin market, lunch in storybook villages, and discovering hidden food artisans.

By the end of the week, you’ll leave with not just beautifully crafted desserts, but unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deep connection to the rich flavours and culture of southern France.

A few snaps of our stunning Provincial Villa:

Meet Sasha: A Passion for Pastry, From Chicago to Provence

Sasha is a self-taught baker, cake decorator, and confectionery artist based just outside Chicago, Illinois. Originally from Ukraine, Sasha brings not only a love for pastry but a deep heritage of home baking passed down from her mother and grandmother. What started as a childhood spent doing homework in the kitchen just to stay close to the action, blossomed into a full-blown passion, and eventually, "Sasha Cakes Chicago".

Inspired by a life-changing trip to Paris in 2015 and fueled by her unstoppable sweet tooth, Sasha taught herself to master classic French desserts like macarons, mille-feuille, pâte à choux, and mousse cakes. Her talent, warmth, and creativity have since earned her a loyal community of followers who love her for both her artistry and authenticity.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve baked a few cakes of your own, Sasha’s contagious enthusiasm will inspire you to roll up your sleeves and dive into the sweet world of French pâtisserie.