World Dance

Cup of Bliss

Circle Dance Holiday in Southern France with Bethan & Stefan freedman

3rd - 10th September 2010

In unspoiled rural southern France, near to Montpellier, there is a spectacular country residence surrounded by hills, woodlands and rivers. In the complex is a large swimming pool and a purpose built dance hall, spacious and light, with wooden floors and stunning mountain views. You have to see it to believe it!
TO SEE 2009 PHOTOS taken by Kevin Meyer and To view a Youtube video of our Montpellier holiday 2009 trip, click here
[www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDV8v_2mpVE]

Accommodation is in comfortable, attractive bedrooms (single, twin or 3 to 4 sharing ) while an alternative is a single or twin wood cabin (slightly cheaper) or camping (economy option).

The Programme

We envisage a relaxed and festive atmosphere with plenty of circle dancing. Dances will be taught in English (with French translation whenever required). The price includes a coach outing to a beautiful swimming lake and a mediaeval village. There will be a chance to sing or to play music, walks in nature, visit an onsite cave with ancient formations, enjoy spontaneous entertainments and a variety of workshops. The afternoons will give us time to unwind in the sun, and by the poolside (private and optionally naturist).

Transport Many airports offer flights to nearby Montpellier. Also Eurostar (train) takes you on a swift direct line to Montpellier via Lille (Approx 5 hours). Participants are responsible for organising and paying for their own journey, however we are happy to advise eg for taxi-sharing. (Another option is to fly to Nimes and then train to Montpellier.) From Montpellier, taxi direct to the centre. Alternatively a bus service to St Martin de Londres (2 miles from the centre) gives a cheaper option.

The building is a visual feast! Traditional country style, superbly maintained, with archways, hanging flowers, architectural nuances and irresistible charm. Every area has its own features and distinct atmosphere, and we were particularly impressed by the indoor and outdoor dining areas, and the dance hall with mountain views.

Weather in early September is expected to be consistently warm and sunny.

What’s Around?

The residence is called Le Hameau de L’Étoile (the dwelling of the star) and is close to the picturesque ancient village of Saint Guillem du Desert. Nearby Montpellier is a celebrated international centre for the arts. Galleries, opera, ballet, museums, and folklore abound in the old town. South of the centre is the beautiful Mediterranean coast with miles of sandy beaches as well as butterfly reserves and two impressive mediaeval towns. A short drive away is the “Pic de St Loup” which last offers the intrepid a great afternoon’s climb with stunning views.

Catering

Meals are a total treat for the palate, stylishly presented, ingenious and freshly prepared in Provencal fashion, with lots of fresh vegetables and salads, and plenty for seconds! (Vegetarian and vegan options will be available). Unlimited coffee, tea, tisanes, soft drinks and free wine!

Prices

2010 course fee is held the same as last year and includes a coach trip = £252 (non–dancing partners = £152)

SAVE £20 if booked with deposit by end of May.

Payment for Meals and Accomodation is directly paid to the centre reception on arrival. Contact Jill Hope for this year’s lodging rates: This year’s daily rate per person includes all meals and house wine: Camping (Euros) €58 / Shared cabin €61 / Single cabin €66 / Shared bedroon €75 / Single bedroom €95 + everyone pays standard high–season supplement of €15 for the whole week

Jill Hope, 22 Longfields, Ongar, Essex. CM5 9BZ. UK

01277 363 085 (Considerate hours please).

E-mail: jrhope@onetel.com