ReCreatioN
Return to the village
Childhood was different. Maybe you remember it—running free in the neighbourhood until the sun set, maybe building dens, being bored, chasing dreams, and discovering the world around you without limits. There were fewer rules, fewer screens, and more time spent outside, making adventures out of nothing but imagination.
But now, it’s different. Childhood is changing. Our children’s lives are filled with schedules, expectations, and pressures that seem to leave little space for the magic of discovery. Their world feels more structured, more controlled, and less like the freedom we once knew.
Our Mission
Return the child to the 'village'
Once Upon a Time…
Beyond the Ordinary
Kids Nature Club
Empowering WorkShops
Naturally Delicious Food
Screen Free Zones
Festival Inspired Evenings
Co-working Space
Full or half-day nature club, led by experienced, award-winning educationalists with a creative child-centred approach.
Enjoy workshops with talented educators, artists and chefs. From natural cooking classes, permaculture projects to yoga and music. We have workshops for all ages and sizes.
Whole food that delights parents and children alike, cooked by our natural chefs with clean ingredients, available communally or in your private space.
We are committed to our shared mission that the village beats the screen! Don’t worry, our cafe space has wifi for those who really need it!
Family-friendly gatherings - theatre, live music, campfire feasts, wood fired pizza nights and lots more!
Co-working Space - Dedicated areas equipped for digital nomads to work efficiently.
An immersive experience for the whole family
Ikigai Teen Camp
Teens stay in their bell tent village and through the day shadow resident artisan makers in our Ikigai apprenticeship programme.
Recreation isn’t just another 'retreat'—it’s a bold step forward. A former silk factory transformed into a hip, boho-inspired haven—a slice of Berlin teleported to a serene river valley in the wild Ardèche mountains of southern France. Recreation is a carefully curated celebration of the family experience—how it used to be. With cool food, ethical, vintage-inspired interiors, children’s club, festival-style gatherings, and empowering workshops, it captures the essence of the village we all long for. Here, luxury means bare feet on the grass, phone turned off and the joy of rediscovering the child in us all.
Shiny Happy People
Read about the experiences of the families and caregivers whose children have spent time with us
"“An amazing team, fantastically creative, eternally patient and daringly adventurous, making these magic days and evenings, filled with activities from which dreams are made of!”
Samantha Iaccobacci, mum of 2 France
“Giulia loved the experiences! The market on the last day had such delicious food and all the kids were so excited to show what they had been doing. Next thing we'll need a first hand experiences cookbook so we can get Giulia as excited about food at home!”
- Ciro Chiappini , Gulia’s Dad, Italy
“The staff working with Justin have an innate ability for working with young children. Their maturity and empathetic style were incredible. Every activity seemed to be led by a true specialist.
And the food – wow! The chef clearly cooks with love and creativity. She made the children feel comfortable trying new dishes, and her meals were a huge part of the experience. Not only has this given our children memories that will last forever, but it’s left a lasting impression on the adults too."
Scott Bennett, Teacher from Paris
“Justin and his team excelled in everything they did — from getting them settled in and exploring the site, to encouraging them to try new foods. The activities were well thought out and delivered to perfection. The children not only experienced new things but gained knowledge that will stay with them forever.
- Beautiful Minds School Leader, Paris
Applications Are Now Open
STARTING MAY 2025
Empowering, slow living adventures for the whole family
Playground Tales
Subscribe to our weekly newsletters from the Mill and beyond!
