Whether wandering through the village lanes, sharing a meal or exploring the trails of Provence Verte, opportunities to be inspired are never far away. Among the many things to do in Cotignac, some offer the chance to meet the people who bring this corner of Provence to life. Just a short walk from Hôtel La Falaise, eco-resort Lou Calen hosts a programme of workshops led by artists, craftspeople and passionate locals. Drawing, sculpture, botany, writing and traditional crafts all offer different ways to discover Provence through the eyes, skills and stories of those who call it home.
Observe, Gather, Weave
The plants that shape the landscapes of Provence are at the heart of several workshops hosted at Lou Calen. During her botanical walks, Vera opens the gates of the estate’s gardens to reveal the wild plants that grow all around us, often unnoticed. Trained in herbal medicine and phytotherapy, she shares her knowledge of their uses, properties and place in Provençal culture. With Alice, lavender wands become an opportunity to discover a delicate craft closely associated with Provence. From harvesting to weaving, participants learn how to create their own lavender wand while enjoying the distinctive fragrance of one of the region’s most emblematic plants. Wild basketry offers a fascinating introduction to coiled basket weaving, a traditional technique once used in Provence to make the famous *paillassous*. Guided by Julia, participants create their own piece using carefully selected wild plant materials.
Write, Read, Draw
These workshops share a common thread: they invite participants to observe, reflect and express what nature inspires. The landscapes of Provence have long inspired artists. During his drawing and watercolour workshops, Gilles encourages participants to look closely at their surroundings and capture their colours, shapes and emotions in a sketchbook. Writing and reading also find their place in the gardens of Lou Calen. Beneath the olive trees, Fabienne creates moments of connection through words, whether reading inspiring texts aloud or exploring creativity through writing exercises open to all.
Shape, Sculpt
Clay and wood become mediums for expression, learning and creativity. Under Sandra’s guidance, participants shape Provençal clay into unique creations. An opportunity to discover the fundamentals of clay modelling and sculpture while giving free rein to the imagination. Wood, too, becomes a medium for exploration through Mathieu’s workshops. Whether learning woodcarving techniques or approaching the practice as a form of mindful reflection, each creation bears the mark of the time and attention devoted to it.
Beyond learning new skills, these workshops offer a chance to meet people whose work is deeply connected to their craft, their surroundings and the place they call home. If you are wondering what to do in Cotignac during your stay, these workshops provide a wonderful way to discover Provence from a different perspective, through the people who shape it, share it and bring it to life.
