"Life begins at the end of your comfort zone."
Neale Donald Walsch
Wim Hof Method Travel Experience | French Alps
Saturday 9th January – Thursday 14th January 2027
What if six days could change the way you experience the rest of your life?
Imagine standing high in the French Alps as the sun rises over snow-covered peaks. Your breath visible in the crisp mountain air. Your mind quiet. Your body alive. A deep sense of accomplishment flowing through every cell because you've just done something you never thought possible.
This isn't a holiday.
This isn't a retreat where you simply come to relax.
This is an experience designed to challenge you, inspire you and reconnect you with the part of yourself that knows there is more available in life.
For six days and five nights, we invite you to step away from the noise, distractions and demands of modern life and immerse yourself in a journey of breath, cold, nature, connection and transformation.
Guided by James, Advanced Certified Wim Hof Method Instructor, and Natalie, whose expertise lies in nervous system regulation, Yin Yoga, energy work and Traditional Chinese Medicine, you'll learn powerful tools to help you navigate stress, strengthen resilience and unlock a deeper relationship with yourself.
Together, we'll explore the profound connection between mind and body through daily Wim Hof Method practices, advanced breathing techniques, cold exposure, mountain adventures and deeply restorative sessions designed to help you integrate and embody your experience.
But what makes this week truly special isn't just what you'll do.
It's who you'll become.
Because something extraordinary happens when you share challenge, vulnerability, laughter and adventure with a group of like-minded people.
Strangers become friends.
Self-doubt becomes confidence.
Limitations become possibilities.
And somewhere between the ice baths, mountain refuge, breathwork sessions, sunrise hikes and fireside conversations, many people discover that the thing they came looking for wasn't what they expected at all.
They leave with something far greater.
A renewed belief in themselves.
Why Join This Experience?
This experience is for those who feel called to something more.
Perhaps you're feeling stuck.
Perhaps life has become comfortable but uninspiring.
Perhaps you've been through a difficult chapter and want to reconnect with your strength.
Or perhaps you're simply someone who knows that growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone.
Whatever your reason, this week offers an opportunity to challenge yourself safely, supported by experienced facilitators and surrounded by a community that wants to see you succeed.
Expect moments of exhilaration.
Moments of discomfort.
Moments of laughter.
Moments of stillness.
And moments that stay with you long after you've returned home.
What You'll Experience
Daily Wim Hof Method Breathwork, including Advanced Techniques
Daily Cold Exposure Experiences including Ice Baths, Rivers and Alpine Waters
A challenging and rewarding Snowshoe Expedition
Overnight Mountain Refuge Stay at 2080m
Sunrise in the magnificent peaks
Yin Yoga, Nepalese Singing Bowls and Reiki Drumming
Ceremonial Cacao and Drum Journey
Nourishing Vegetarian and Plant-Based Meals
Connection with an incredible community of like-minded people
Time to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself
The Question Is...
Eight months from now, will you wish you had said yes?
Because the people who join us often arrive feeling nervous, uncertain and questioning whether they're capable.
Yet time and time again, they leave with memories, friendships and a level of confidence they never expected.
This is your invitation to step beyond what you think is possible.
The mountains are waiting.
The cold is waiting.
The adventure is waiting.
The only question is...
Are you?
Saturday 9th January – Thursday 14th January 2027
Limited to just 15 participants to preserve the intimacy and quality of the experience.
OFFERINGS…
WIM HOF METHOD
During your Wim Hof Method Travel Experience you will put yourself in the expert hands James, of a certified Level 2 WHM Instructor to go deeper into the 3 pillars of the Wim Hof Method: Breathing Technique, Cold Exposure & Commitment.
Lets tune into our new skills and power of the mind to snow hike from 1560m to Refuge du Nante du Beurre at 2080m where we will stay the night in shared dormitories where we can take in the dramatic sunset and stunning sunrise at altitude.
YOGA
Experience our Signature Yin Yoga, Singing Bowl Therapy and Reiki Drumming sessions which are inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory as we move energy through the meridian channels as we aim to shift, nourish and rebalance our energetic, physical and mental self by stressing the connective tissue and calming the nervous system
There will be a focus on lung health and the nervous system during this Wim Hof Method Weekend Retreat
SOUND HEALING
Sound Healing helps the body generate a positive flow of energy and offers vibrations ion a cellular level into the body which stimulates the blood vessels, lymph, nerves, veins and muscles to open up blockages and loosening tension in the body, relaxing the body and releasing pain. Sound can helps with stress, depression, insomnia, menstrual pain, ear problems, sinusitis etc and offer a sense of peace and calm. On retreat you will experience a gong bath, singing bowl therapy and reiki drumming
CACAO
Ceremonial Grade Cacao has been used for centuries by the indigenous as a plant medicine for nutritional and healing purposes. Nutritionally, ceremonial grade cacao has 20 times more disease fighting antioxidants than blueberries and offers magnesium, riboflavin along with essential fatty acids making it a huge help to lower cholesterol, improve heart function and reduce the risk of cancer. It is also a mood enhancer through increasing dopamine and serotonin whilst also stimulating endorphins amongst other benefits
A LITTLE PIECE OF MOUNTAIN HEAVEN
LOCATION
Chalet Chez Milo is a beautiful 1900s farmhouse in the tranquil village of Fontaine Naves, in the heart of the French Alps which has been transformed by Nikki & Hugh into a luxury & bespoke accommodation.
The main house provides accommodation for up to 8 people, with a beautiful open-plan living area, vaulted dining hall and walled terrace with views across the valley. Luxury bathrooms with gorgeous toiletries, flat screen televisions in every room and a cosy open fireplace make it a perfect retreat.
Across the road we have the beautiful Gite which offers an accommodation in 5 basic but spacious and comfy bedrooms with own living space, kitchen and terrace outside.
Fontaines Naves is a picturesque mountain village, with stunning views across the valley. It is situated at 1300 altitude and is perfect for escaping from the main ski resorts to enjoy the peace and tranquility in the comfort of Chalet Savoie Faire and Gite.
If you did want to extent your stay, the nearby market town of Moutiers is only 25 mins away and 30 minutes from the main ski resorts of Meribel/ Courchevel or Val Morel. There are plenty of other beauty spots to further explore including Annecy, many stunning drives and even the medieval town of Conflans.
We only have 15 spots available to join us on this adventure
PROPOSED ITINERARY
Timings are flexible apart from Arrival Time and Closing Time. Everything is optional and activities are weather dependant.
The nearest airport is Geneva and we have access to a reduced rate transfer minibus [€400 for 7 people] door to door.
Or you can take a train to Moutiers-Salins and arrange a collection directly with Hugh and Nikki at €35
Saturday 9th January 2027
16:00 – Arrival & Welcome
Arrive, settle into your accommodation and take a moment to exhale. Enjoy a warming tea by the fire as you meet your fellow adventurers and begin to leave the outside world behind.
17:00 – 19:00 Breathwork Journey at Bailey's Barn
A gentle 1km walk takes us to the magical setting of Bailey's Barn, where we will officially open our retreat. James will guide you through your first Wim Hof Method Breathwork session, accompanied by Singing Bowl Therapy and Gong Meditation, creating a powerful opportunity to arrive fully in the present moment, calm the nervous system and set intentions for the days ahead.
19:30 – 21:00 Nourishing Evening Meal
Return to Chalet for a delicious home-cooked meal lovingly prepared by Nikki. Enjoy wholesome, nourishing food while getting to know the wonderful group of people who will share this journey with you.
21:00 – Late Fireside Connection
As the evening draws in, gather around the fire with a herbal infusion in hand. Share stories, laughter and conversation with like-minded souls before retreating for a restful night's sleep, ready for the adventure ahead.
Sunday 10th January 2027
08:00 – 11:00 Morning Breathwork & Cold Exposure
We begin the day with a walk to Bailey's Barn, where James will guide you through a powerful Wim Hof Method Breathwork session to energise the body, sharpen the mind and prepare you for the day ahead. We will then explore the science behind cold exposure before experiencing our first guided cold water immersion, learning how breath, mindset and physiology work together to help us remain calm under stress.
11:00 – 13:00 Nourishing Brunch & Integration
Return to Chalet Savoie Faire for a delicious brunch prepared by Nikki. Enjoy time to refuel, share experiences and allow your body to integrate the morning's practices.
13:00 – 15:00 Rest, Reflect & Digest
Free time to relax, journal, explore the surroundings or simply rest. The retreat is designed with plenty of space for integration, allowing the body and mind to absorb the benefits of the practices.
15:00 – 16:00 Advanced Wim Hof Method Breathing
Dive deeper into the Wim Hof Method with advanced breathing techniques designed to expand awareness, deepen your practice and further explore the connection between breath, body and mind.
16:00 – 18:00 Yin Yoga, Singing Bowl Therapy & Reiki Drumming
Natalie will guide a deeply restorative Yin Yoga practice inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine, focusing on the Lung meridian pathways to support expansion, vitality and healthy energy flow. Accompanied by Nepalese Singing Bowls and Reiki Drumming, this session offers an opportunity to slow down, release tension and bring balance to the physical, emotional and energetic body.
18:30 – 20:00 Nourishing Evening Meal
Gather together once more to enjoy a wholesome evening meal, lovingly prepared by Nikki, while sharing stories and reflections from the day.
20:00 – 21:00 Fireside Tea & Mountain Briefing
Relax with a herbal infusion as we gather for an informal briefing on the upcoming mountain adventure. We'll discuss the snowshoe hike, overnight refuge stay and what to expect over the next stage of our journey, leaving you feeling informed, prepared and excited for the days ahead.
Monday 11th January 2027
08:00 – 10:00 Morning Breathwork & Cold Exposure
Wake to the crisp mountain air and begin the day with a powerful Wim Hof Method Breathwork session designed to energise the body, sharpen focus and prepare you for the adventure ahead. We will then continue our cold exposure journey with a second guided immersion, building confidence, resilience and trust in your body's remarkable capabilities.
10:00 – 11:00 Breakfast & Integration
Enjoy a nourishing breakfast and take time to reflect, connect and fuel your body before we venture deeper into the mountains.
11:00 – 12:00 Expedition Briefing & Preparation
We'll gather for a comprehensive mountain briefing before collecting snowshoes and preparing our packed lunches. This is your opportunity to ask questions, check equipment and get excited for one of the most memorable experiences of the week.
12:00 – 17:00 Snowshoe Adventure to the Mountain Refuge
The real adventure begins.
Together, we set off on an all-weather snowshoe expedition through the breathtaking alpine landscape. For those who wish to embrace the full Wim Hof Method spirit, there will be the option to hike sections in shorts. Along the way we'll stop for a picnic lunch surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery before continuing our ascent towards the refuge.
As we leave the distractions of modern life further behind, you'll experience the simplicity, challenge and beauty that comes from travelling through nature under your own power.
Our destination is a remote mountain refuge at 2080 metres, where spectacular views and a true sense of accomplishment await.
18:00 – 21:00 Mountain Refuge Experience
After settling into our shared mountain refuge, we'll gather for a hearty evening meal and enjoy a truly authentic alpine experience.
With no distractions and nowhere else to be, the evening offers a wonderful opportunity to share stories, play cards, laugh together and soak up the unique atmosphere of mountain life.
As darkness falls over the Alps, we'll retire to our shared bunk accommodation, ready to rest deeply and wake to an unforgettable mountain sunrise.
Tuesday 12th January 2027
07:00 – 13:00 Sunrise, Descent & Cold Exposure
Wake high in the mountains and experience one of the most magical moments of the retreat as we witness sunrise over the French Alps. We'll begin with a period of quiet reflection and meditation before starting our journey back down the mountain.
Along the way, we'll pause for a Wim Hof Method Breathwork session and our third cold exposure experience, allowing you to appreciate just how far you've come since arriving. Surrounded by nature and supported by the group, you'll continue to strengthen your relationship with discomfort whilst deepening your trust in both mind and body.
The descent offers time for conversation, contemplation and appreciation of the breathtaking alpine scenery that has become home for the past few days.
13:00 – 14:00 Nourishing Lunch
Return to Chalet Savoie Faire for a well-earned lunch and an opportunity to refuel after your mountain adventure.
14:00 – 17:00 Rest, Restore & Integrate
A free afternoon to relax, journal, nap, explore the local surroundings or simply enjoy some quiet time. For those wishing to indulge further, massages will be available to book for an additional fee.
The retreat is intentionally designed with spaciousness, allowing your body and mind time to integrate the experiences, insights and transformation of the previous days.
17:30 – 19:15 Yin Yoga, Singing Bowl Therapy & Reiki Drumming
After the challenge and exhilaration of the mountains, we invite you into deep rest.
Natalie will guide a nourishing Yin Yoga practice to release tension, restore balance and support recovery throughout the body. Accompanied by the healing vibrations of Nepalese Singing Bowls and Reiki Drumming, this session provides an opportunity to slow down, soften and reconnect with yourself on a deeper level.
19:30 – 21:00 Nourishing Evening Meal
Gather together once again for a delicious evening meal prepared by Nikki, sharing reflections, stories and laughter from the incredible journey you've undertaken together.
21:00 – Evening at Leisure
Enjoy a peaceful evening however you choose. Curl up with a book, relax with a herbal tea by the fire, or spend time chatting with the wonderful community that has formed throughout the week.
Often, it is these simple moments of connection that become some of the most treasured memories of the retreat.
Wednesday 13th January 2027
07:00 – 09:30 Advanced Breathwork & Cold Exposure
We make our way to Bailey's Barn for one of the most powerful sessions of the retreat.
James will guide you through advanced Wim Hof Method breathing techniques, allowing you to go deeper into the practice and further explore the profound connection between mind, body and breath. We will then embrace our fourth cold exposure experience, continuing to build resilience, presence and confidence through conscious challenge.
For many participants, this session becomes one of the most memorable and transformative moments of the entire week.
09:30 – 10:30 Breakfast on the Move
Enjoy a nourishing breakfast as we prepare for the day's adventure, taking in the mountain views and reflecting on the experiences of the week so far.
10:30 – 15:00 Annecy Adventure & Cold Exposure
Our journey takes us to the stunning Lac d'Annecy, often described as one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe.
Here, participants will have the opportunity to experience a fifth cold exposure in crystal-clear alpine waters before enjoying free time to explore the charming Old Town of Annecy, with its colourful canals, historic streets and vibrant atmosphere.
We'll gather for a delicious Buddha Bowl lunch before taking time to soak up the beauty and culture of this magical lakeside town.
17:30 – 19:30 Ceremonial Cacao, Breathwork & Drumming Circle
As our retreat begins to draw towards its conclusion, we come together for a powerful evening of connection and reflection.
Working with ceremonial cacao, breathwork and the rhythm of the drum, we create space to honour the journey, celebrate personal breakthroughs and deepen the sense of community that has formed throughout the week.
This heart-opening experience often becomes one of the most meaningful moments of the retreat.
20:00 – 21:30 Farewell Supper
Our final evening meal together will be lovingly prepared by the wonderful Nikki.
Gather around the fire to share stories, laughter and reflections from the week. As we enjoy our last evening together, there is an opportunity to acknowledge how far each person has travelled not just through the Alps, but within themselves.
A beautiful way to celebrate an unforgettable week of adventure, growth, connection and transformation.
Thursday 14th January 2027
07:00 – 07:30 Morning Meditation & Gentle Stretch
As our final day begins, we'll gather for a gentle morning meditation and stretching practice, creating space to reflect on the journey we've shared and the transformation that has taken place throughout the week.
Take a moment to appreciate the mountains, the friendships, the challenges you've overcome and the memories you've created together.
07:30 – 10:00 Final Breathwork & Cold Exposure
Our retreat concludes with one final Wim Hof Method Breathwork session and a sixth cold exposure experience.
This is an opportunity to fully appreciate how far you've come since day one. What may have once felt intimidating now feels familiar. What once seemed impossible may now feel achievable.
Together, we'll celebrate the strength, resilience and confidence that has been cultivated throughout the week whilst anchoring the practices that you can continue to take into everyday life long after returning home.
10:00 – 11:00 Breakfast
Enjoy a final nourishing breakfast together as we savour the last moments of this incredible experience and share reflections on the week.
11:00 – 12:00 Closing Circle
Before we part ways, we'll gather for a heartfelt closing circle.
This is an opportunity to celebrate personal breakthroughs, share insights, express gratitude and reflect on what you'll be taking home from the experience.
Many arrive as strangers and leave as friends. This final gathering honours the connections formed, the challenges overcome and the journey that continues beyond the retreat itself.
12:00 – Departure or Continue Your Winter Adventure
As our Wim Hof Method Travel Experience comes to an end, it's time to say farewell or perhaps not quite yet.
For those heading home, we hope you leave feeling stronger, clearer, more resilient and deeply inspired.
For those wishing to extend their stay, why not continue your winter adventure by exploring the nearby ski resorts of Valmorel, Méribel, Courchevel or Val Thorens, making the most of everything this spectacular alpine region has to offer.
Whatever comes next, our hope is that you return home with more than memories armed with practical tools, renewed confidence and a deeper understanding of what becomes possible when you step beyond your comfort zone.
Your Facilitators
MORE ABOUT US
Sound | Reiki | Wim Hof Method Level 2
JAMES BRADSHAW
Working in the fire and rescue service was my dream job and after making the difficult decision to leave after 10 years service I lost my way a little. I missed helping other people and felt something was missing. I proceeded to spend another 10 years building up my own renovations and maintenance company and whilst really enjoying meeting new people, the practical side of working with my hands and being creative I still felt I had more to offer. In 2011 I injured my spine in a car accident and the doctors said that I would need to start saving for a £20k operation to remove some of my spine which would manage the pain. The injury was affecting my life and somedays I couldn’t walk – this is where my journey started in looking for alternative ways to heal. I started regular yoga classes and very soon I regained strength, mobility and reduced pain. It was actually in the yoga studio that I saw a leaflet for Reiki and became very curious in how I could tap into my own healing potential. In the back of my mind I knew this was the tool I could use to help myself and others. It has been quite a journey working towards my Reiki master degree and digging deeper into the potentials of Sound Therapy. My journey continued to the Wim Hof Method and after very quickly seeing the huge shift in my mental health and physical strength especially through my cancer recovery in 2020, I knew I had to become a certified Wim Hof Instructor and take this method out to help people gain tools to put YOU in control and therefore Rise and Thrive. We continue to research, experience and explore ways to help ourselves and others live at optimal health in this modern world.
And guess what… I no longer need the spinal operation!
Yin Yoga | Sound Therapy | Cacao | Reiki
NATALIE BRADSHAW
Ancient Wisdom has changed my life. For years I suffered with Adrenal Fatigue and an Autoimmune Disease, that combined with being a workaholic in the corporate world often meant choosing to work 13-hour days and using all my energy up at work that often meant that I had nothing left for me, let alone time for my family or friends. After becoming dependent on steroid injections, western medication and coffee just to get through the day I decided to come back to Yoga and explore a more holistic lifestyle. Rather than continue to book holidays in a desperate attempt to recharge, I started to go on Healing retreats which inspired me to train to become a Yoga teacher and this soon became a huge turning point in my life because it gave me the space to rest, spend time with like minded people and also learn tools that I needed to make changes in my life. Very quickly I found that a more regular practice offered me much more than the physical benefits and as I continued to dig deeper, not only did I become stronger and more mobile in my body but I had reduced pain, raised energy levels, improved mental health and my whole perspective significantly changed. I said goodbye to my corporate life and set out on a new path find a solution other than a lifetime on western medication and guess what - I haven't taken western medication for over 7 years and have managed to keep my autoimmune issues at bay (unless I fall into old habits!) Even now with over 1000 study hours with many global master teachers and reading hundreds of books, I continue to search for and experience alternative ways to live at optimal health in this modern world. Going deeper into the layers is my passion, specifically in conjunction with traditional Chinese medicine, organ health, the energetic body and breath work. Sound and Reiki has also been a huge influence in my healing path which is why James (my husband) and I love to work together and create healing and transformational experiences which we can offer on a private basis, group classes, workshops or retreats.
Your Hosts | Your Nourishment
Nikki & Hugh
Chalet Savoie Faire is the brainchild of Nikki Shields Quinn and her husband, Hugh. With more than 30 years experience of cooking and offering retreats, Nikki and Hugh have transformed an abandoned barn in the beautiful village of Fontaines Naves, into a stunning luxury mountain lodge and cookery school.
Nikki and Hugh will welcome you into their home and introduce you to life in the Tarantaise. Fontaines Naves is a picturesque mountain village, with stunning views across the valley, it’s situated at 1300 altitude, so perfect for the cyclists, cross country skiiers and those who love to hike through the forests. Only 15 minutes from the nearby market town of Moutiers, 30 minutess from the ski resorts of Valmorel and Meribel/ Courchevel.
BOOK YOUR WIM HOF METHOD TRAVEL EXPERIENCE
From £999 - £1500 [Sunday 12th - January - Friday 17th January 2025]
In shared room in the luxury of Chalet Savoie Faire
Room 1 - Madelene King/Twin with access to shared balcony and master bathroom
Room 2 - Princess Cave Suite Double with ensuite shower room
Room 3 - Savoyard Bunk Room with access to shared balcony and master bathroom
Room 4 - Cow Room Twin with access to private shower room
All Rooms in the Gite are spacious, warm and comfortable (photo gallery below)
In Gite across the road
Room 1 - Twin (shared bathroom)
Room 2 - Twin (shared bathroom)
Room 3 - Double (Shared Bathroom)
Room 4 Double/Twin/Treble (Private Bathroom)
Room 5 Double/Twin/Treble (Private Bathroom)
Travel, transfers and additional food or treatments outside of the programme are not included in the price
PLEASE NOTE THAT ONE NIGHT WILL BE A STOPOVER IN SHARED REFUGE WHERE WE WILL EXPERIENCE MOUNTAIN LIFE AT 2080METRES
CLICK HERE TO READ THE TERMS & CONDITIONS
We hope you can join us!
Namaste x
Gite Gallery Below
Refuge Gallery
