Being here means arriving, immersing, perceiving, and for once focusing on entirely different things than we do in our everyday life. It doesn’t take long for the “Vitamin Green” and the clear air of the nearby Pyrenees to make our daily worries fade away. The gentle immersion in nature puts us in a state of relaxation that is a source of deep recovery, inspiration, and new strength. Our mind and senses are sharpened, our zest for life is enhanced.
In this coexistence, everyone contributes: the chirping of a rare bird, the scent of wildflowers, the buzzing of diligent wild bees. The whinnying of horses, the chirping of crickets, and the croaking of frogs in the distance. All contribute to a unique atmosphere. The brightly twinkling stars in the black night invite conversations, shared laughter, and enjoyment—wine by the crackling fire. And those waiting to fall asleep are gently accompanied by the wind rustling through the leaves into the land of dreams.
We feel comfortable, safe, and secure, and it seems as if something within us remembers the desire to feel whole again as a human being, to be one—with oneself and with nature.
This is how we dreamed it, and this is how we experience and share it with our guests. It quickly becomes clear: Our vision is already our reality at “La Bastide.”
Nothing is more beautiful than sharing happiness, and for this reason, we live our passion as hosts and warmly welcome guests from all over the world!
With rich experience gained about 25 years ago as an event manager and in hosting guests at her family-owned vineyard, Michaela Oertli’s diverse expertise forms the foundation for her role as a hostess at “La Bastide.”
With her keen sense for guests’ needs and her warmth, she creates an atmosphere where everyone feels immediately welcome and at home. Additionally, she has a special flair for design and creates a comfortable ambiance that highlights the charm and beauty of “La Bastide.”
Michaela is particularly fascinated by the connection to nature, especially to horses, which have played a very important role in her life since childhood. At “La Bastide,” she finds the perfect place to realize her long-cherished dream of a natural and original approach to horsekeeping.
In addition to hospitality, she leverages her knowledge and experience as a coach and trainer to create another pillar: a place for retreats and workshops. The offerings developed on-site allow seminar guests to take a break and find peace and time for self-care amidst undisturbed nature, or to pursue training – optionally with horses.
Together with her life partner Peter Escher, she forms a power team that dedicates itself to the entire management of “La Bastide” and everything that entails.
Peter Escher is a passionate hotelier with over three decades of experience in the hospitality industry. His journey began more than thirty years ago with a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management from the renowned Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne. This solid education laid the foundation for his career, leading him to Spain for nearly a decade, where he found success as a restaurateur.
In Spain, he also discovered his deep love for Mediterranean culture and lifestyle. This time abroad shaped him personally and broadened his horizons in many ways.
With the opening of “La Bastide,” Peter Escher is fulfilling his personal life’s dream. In this idyllic retreat, he combines his passion for hosting with his deep connection to nature and a visionary approach to life. Together with his partner Michaela, he creates an atmosphere that warmly welcomes guests from around the world, offering them an unforgettable experience.
In addition to his work as a host, Peter has made a name for himself as an Integral and Business Coach. His joy in supporting people in both private and professional matters is reflected in his empathetic and professional coaching style. He offers his wealth of experience and guidance to seminar guests and is a valued advisor and sparring partner, particularly in matters of career redirection, values development, and leadership skills.
