Yarn Dragon's Farm to Yarn Retreat
Carcassonne, France | June 21- 27, 2026
Explore the rich history of farm to yarn in Southern France
Unwind, knit, and explore with Yarn Dragon in the heart of Occitanie. Join us for a one-of-a-kind retreat in the stunning French countryside—crafted especially for the Yarn Dragon community. This week-long experience blends creative inspiration, regional discovery, and the joy of fiber arts in a setting full of color, history, and connection.
You’ll stay at the beautiful Garille Estate, set on the working vineyard of Château de Pennautier, just outside Carcassonne. Together, we’ll explore the wool heritage of the region, deepen our craft, and enjoy the kind of meaningful community that makes Yarn Dragon so beloved. With curated outings, local flavor, and time to knit, relax, and recharge—this is more than a retreat. It’s a journey from farm to yarn, woven with friendship and fiber.
Outings & Experiences
This retreat is as much about soaking in the soul of southern France as it is about yarn. From the historic cobbled streets of Carcassonne to the gentle currents of the Canal du Midi, each curated outing is a chance to connect with the land, its heritage, and the artisans who keep its traditions alive.
Our home base, the serene Garille Estate on the grounds of Château de Pennautier, sits at the heart of a region shaped by fiber, dye, and slow craft. You'll visit local producers, step inside working wool farms, and discover how threads of history are still woven into everyday life here.
Expect enriching experiences such as:
★ A visit to a working sheep farm, where you’ll see firsthand how raw wool is raised and learn how it is prepared
★ A gentle cruise along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and marvel of 17th-century engineering
★ The House of Wool and Cloth Museum, where the story of Occitanie's textile tradition comes alive
★ A guided tour of La Cité Médiévale in Carcassonne, a fairytale fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site
★ Time to wander a local French market, full of vibrant color, seasonal produce, and handmade goods
★ A special day trip to Toulouse, including a visit to Terre de Pastel, where the ancient art of indigo dyeing continues to thrive
Each outing is crafted to inspire—from the textures of old stone walls to the soft hush of vineyard paths. You'll return to your knitting with stories in your hands and a deeper connection to the journey of fiber from farm to yarn.
What to Expect
Each day at the retreat brings a blend of inspiration, ease, and delight—true to the Yarn Dragon spirit. Whether you're an adventurous beginner or lifelong knitter, you'll feel welcomed and creatively energized by the company and setting.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
★ Ample time to knit at your own pace—poolside or in the shade of the plantain trees, while soaking in the southern French light.
★ Community moments that matter: connecting over shared passions, learning new techniques, and celebrating each other’s work.
★ A chance to trace fiber’s story from farm to yarn through hands-on visits and curated cultural outings.
★ The deep joy of slowing down, breathing in the beauty of the landscape, and savoring meals, conversation, and craft together.
★ A renewed sense of creative energy to bring home with you—alongside new yarn, new ideas, and new friendships.
This retreat is less about following a schedule and more about finding your flow, surrounded by warmth, color, and camaraderie.