WELCOME AT LES MASADES
Les Masades is a living, hosting, and learning ecosite, whose core purpose is “to cultivate together, in our daily lives, a harmonious way of being — within ourselves, between each other, and with the world around us.”
It is founded on three pillars:
Meditation: The practice of Vipassana offers a path toward a more peaceful and harmonious life by cultivating awareness and mental balance. The place supports residents in grounding themselves in this practice through daily meditation opportunities, a vegetarian and alcohol-free lifestyle, and each person's commitment to developing presence and loving-kindness.
Compassionate Communication: Inspired by the principles of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), we strive to create a safe, authentic, and caring relational space. We regularly hold sharing circles that foster sincere communication and deep listening. We also enjoy moments of togetherness, such as shared meals or group activities.
Permaculture: Permaculture is both a science and an art that designs regenerative ecosystems by drawing inspiration from nature. Its ethics rest on three core values: care for the earth, care for people, and fair sharing. We follow its guiding principles and design approach to create a resilient and abundant way of life.
A PLACE OF NATURE AND REJUVENATION
Les Masades is nestled in the heart of nature, at the crossroads of Gard, Ardèche, and Lozère. The ecosite is located within a small hamlet of about fifty residents, accessible via a winding mountain road.
Nearby, Lake Villefort, the Chassezac river, and numerous hiking trails offer a wide range of outdoor activities. The towns of Les Vans (Ardèche) and Villefort (Lozère) provide access to essential amenities: farmers' markets, grocery stores, public transport, and more.
The property includes several buildings: four stone houses, three yurts, and two wooden cabins. It also features shared outdoor spaces such as a vegetable garden, fruit trees, and a natural pond.
The site is water self-sufficient thanks to two freshwater springs, and part of its electricity is supplied by solar panels, supporting an ecological way of life.
A PURPOSE DRIVEN COMMUNITY
RÉMY
Walking the path of permaculture for over 10 years, Rémy is dedicated to caring for the land and his family on a daily basis.
MARIANE
Co-founder of an international solidarity organization, Mariane brings a dynamic energy to the project and to the life of the collective.
SOPHIE
Parental guide and rebozo practitioner, Sophie embodies the values of care and kindness that lie at the heart of our collective project.
NAÉ
Born in October 2024, Naé loves being carried in her parents’ arms and often takes part in collective workdays snug in her baby wrap.
DOUNIA
Currently training to become a therapist, Dounia radiates joyful and positive energy, caring for both the place and its inhabitants.
CINDY
Living in the hamlet for 15 years, Cindy has witnessed the succession of different collectives and remains a pillar of the place thanks to her many skills.