The Riverside Journals - JL

Rejuvenate this spring at Body Tonic, the exclusive five-day luxury fitness
retreat at Chateau Lou Casteou in the beautiful French Cote D’Azur
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hateau Lou Casteou’s new luxury fitness retreat Body Tonic, in
the South of France, is perfectly designed for those looking to
have fun, feel good and get fit. The stunning chateau, in the Côte
d’Azur’s Esterel Mountains, provides an ideal setting for the fiveday break – beautifully furnished and irresistibly luxurious.
The programme delivers a balance of energetic workouts,
nutritious food, relaxation and fun. Designed to accommodate
all ages and fitness levels, activities are led by a team of skilled personal
trainers, keen to help improve fitness, boost confidence and build strength.
Body Tonic’s fitness sessions are challenging, satisfying and enjoyable – a
variety of intense stretching, challenging cardio classes, swimming and yoga.
Kickboxing, TRX training, watersports and mountain treks are also encouraged.
Classes make the most of the chateau’s scenic location with, for example,
stretching taking place by the swimming pool, circuits in the cloisters and TRX
training amidst the chateau’s surrounding woodlands.
Meals are also taken in Lou Casteou’s gardens, which overlook the sea. Though
all food served is nutritionally balanced and low in carbohydrate, flavour is by no
means compromised – chef Jonathan Levy produces mouthwatering gourmet
meals every day, designed to fuel Body Tonic’s intense exercise programme and
promote general well-being. Guests can enjoy a well-deserved three-course dinner
every evening, with exquisite French wine, while they socialise and relax.
Lou Casteou has a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, ideal for boosting
confidence and providing a supportive environment in which to challenge yourself
to work harder and get the most out of your body. The Body Tonic fitness instructors
David and Dan take part in all activities and evening merriment, so by the end of
the week there is a genuine sense of team spirit and encouragement among the
whole group. This luxurious fitness retreat is the perfect way to combine physical
training, socialising and relaxation. It is both a challenge and a holiday – a most
luxurious way to get fit.
By Hannah Mills
Recent Body Tonic guests explain more:
“I just had to “put pen to paper” to thank you, once
again, for the wonderful time I had at Lou Casteou. I’ve
been back less than 24 hours and already I’m missing the
company, the energy, the sun, the blue sky, the laughter,
the beautiful view from my balcony, the delicious
food and the wonderful atmosphere created by such
interesting, vibrant people. It was a fantastic, heady mix.
My only regret is that I didn’t join you at the Cuban bar,
dancing and margaritas.”
Ruth Ashworth
“I experienced an incredible few days at Body Tonic and
was made to feel at home with every comfort. Perfect
for solo guests or groups of friends, the retreat attracts
like-minded individuals wanting to improve their general
well-being. Any initial concern I may have had about
being fit enough soon disappeared with Lou Casteou’s
relaxed atmosphere, where everyone was encouraged to
support each other. Chef Johnathan Levy catered for my
special dietary requirements without any issue, making
me feel special rather than a nuisance.
“And even though we were all so exhausted as the retreat
went on, we all kept going, spurring each other on.
Some mornings I didn’t think I would be able to get up,
but actually found I wanted to jump out of bed and get
going again! I laughed and smiled the whole five days
and haven’t stopped telling people since I got back, just
how much fun I had. They can’t believe we actually did 6
hours’ exercise a day and really enjoyed it. Body Tonic has
inspired me to keep fit and healthy for life.”
Jacqui George
“I just wanted to thank you. Body Tonic was absolutely
brilliant and so well organised.
“Trainers David and Dan were so inspiring and I feel
thoroughly worked out. I am already missing the sunshine,
the pool and the people – what a fabulous crowd.
I would definitely be interested to come to another Body Tonic
event, so rest assured, I’ll spread the word! Once again, thank
you and I hope to see you again soon, at Lou Casteou.”
Wendy Powell
“My girlfriend and I absolutely loved the Lou Casteou
fitness retreat. The programme was packed with fun and
challenging activities, and the fitness instructors were
inspiring and very professional. We loved the kayaking and
gruelling TRX training, almost as much as the delicious
dinners by the pool! The classes were tailored to suit all
ages and fitness levels, and the group dynamic was really
friendly and supportive. What a brilliant holiday!”
George Baxter Chateau Lou Casteou also runs regular five-day
tennis academies, with professional coaches,
daily coaching sessions and weekly tournaments.
Please contact Morag McLaren, director of Lou Casteou
for reservations and information at
[email protected]
57 the riverside journals
Slim and Tonic,
with a Luxury Twist