A unique initiative led by women has transformed a historic château in Béduer, France, into a summer camp designed for adult women. The vision, which originated from a simple online search, quickly developed into an ambitious project funded solely by women who wanted to create a welcoming and pressure-free environment.
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Leah Lykins, one of the co-founders, recalls the moment that sparked the idea. During a casual browsing session, she and her team stumbled upon the picturesque Château de Béduer. “We were just a little intoxicated by the building,” Lykins remarked, indicating how the property immediately captured their imagination. Although they initially lacked a clear plan for the estate, the allure of such a magnificent location prompted them to brainstorm possibilities.
What began as a whimsical thought soon evolved into an innovative summer camp experience tailored specifically for women. “It turned into something a lot more exciting… a camp that grown women could go to,” Lykins explained, highlighting how organic the development of the concept was.
To bring this vision to life, the founders sought an unconventional funding model. Rather than pursuing traditional investors, they opened the floor to other women, inviting them to co-own the project. This grassroots approach resulted in an impressive collective investment of approximately $2.3 million for the château purchase and an additional $325,000 for renovations and safety upgrades. Co-founder Lynda Coleman noted that they were able to unite over 300 women, some familiar and some newfound connections, to join them on this transformative journey.
Officially named Camp Château, the project operates between two historic venues: the Château de Béduer and L’Abbaye-Château de Camon. The camp offers six-day and five-night stays with all-inclusive packages covering accommodation, meals, wine, activities, and excursions. Lykins and Coleman have curated an eclectic mix of activities, ranging from creative workshops to adventurous kayaking trips, allowing each woman the liberty to select how to spend her time.
The flexibility of the camp’s schedule caters to a diverse range of preferences. As Coleman noted, some guests may wish to engage in every activity, while others may simply choose to bask by the pool. “It’s your vacation, fill it up or drain it out as much as you want,” she stated, underscoring the intentional design to accommodate individual needs.
Since its inception, Camp Château has experienced remarkable growth. Planned capacity is set to increase from 240 spots in 2023 to a projected 1,850 by 2026 and further to 2,100 expected in 2027. The interest has been fuelled in part by TikTok videos showcasing life at the château, with posts detailing everything from leisurely lunches to group activities sparking widespread curiosity. Lykins commented on how these videos captured the essence of the experience, leading to a surge in interest.
An element that resonated widely with viewers was not just the setting, but the ethos of camaraderie and support among women. Philippa Girling, the founder, expressed that the emotional responses they have received from viewers highlight the undeniable need for such a space. “It touches people in a way that just shows how desperately it’s needed,” Girling reflected.
Recognising that not everyone can travel to France, the founders extended their vision by creating Pocket Château, a digital community aimed at emulating the supportive atmosphere of the camp online. Lykins described it as “slow internet,” free from ads and spam, creating a non-pressurised environment where women can connect meaningfully. Since its launch, over 500 women from more than 20 countries have joined the online platform.
Ultimately, the mission of Camp Château extends beyond being a mere retreat; it has blossomed into a collaborative investment opportunity, fostering a global community network. The founders are reimagining the concepts of leisure and fellowship, driven by a desire to cultivate inclusivity and support among women. As the project continues to flourish, it represents a powerful testament to what can be achieved when women come together to create a nurturing space.