Services at the retreat don’t consist of bricks and mortar shops.
Up in the mountains we are served by trucks and delivery cars.
Generally writers and artists who come on retreat buy most of their groceries in Carcassonne before coming up the mountain and then supplement with the delivery trucks and vans.
There is a bread truck/car that comes to the village three days a week in the summer.
A grocery truck comes once a week, and sells everything from potatoes to toothpaste.
A butcher comes once a week, and a green grocer, once a week too.
The quality of the products sold by these trucks is very good if a little more expensive than Carcasssonne.
They announce their arrival by blasting their horn through the village, and then return to the main parking lot or nearby to park and open for business.
It’s the social highlight of any day in Labastide Esparbairenque, so come with a smile and a “Bonjour” for our neighbors.
Mas Cabardes, a nearby village, has a small shop that’s open for two hours every morning and every evening.
The nearest restaurant, the Sire de Cabaret in Roquefere (the next village) is really good.
It’s a five-minute drive, or a 20-minute walk downhill… longer on the way home.
There is also a cafe, Le Fenial, with a lovely terrace that sells artisanal products as well as ice creams and coffees and has hosted many La Muse readings.
What is the Local Transportation to the Retreat?
Where Are the Nearest Medical Facilities?
Do I have to Write or Paint 8 hours a Day?
What Will My Expenses Be On Retreat?
Can I Bring My Spouse or Partner?
What Art Supplies Do You Have In Your Studio?
Is the Retreat Wheelchair Accessible or Accessible to People With Disabilities?
Should I Bring Yoga Mats, Sheets, Towels, Toilet Paper, Kitchen Roll?
Can I Bring Pets and What Clothes Should I Bring?
Do You Accept Everyone For a Retreat?