Reconnecting with the Divine Feminine: A Journey to Mary Magdalene's Caves in France

Inside the caves of Mary Magdalene, located in La Sainte-Baume, France

As a travel advisor specializing in meaningful European experiences, I recently had the privilege of hosting a small group of women on a profound journey to the sacred caves of Mary Magdalene in southern France.

The Sacred Landscape of Provence

The rugged hills of Provence hold secrets that have attracted spiritual seekers for centuries. According to local tradition, Mary Magdalene spent her final years in contemplation and devotion here. My group came with a desire to see historical sites, build relationships with other women, and reconnect with the divine feminine energy that resonates through the mountain grotto. Our retreat was focused on visiting the sacred site, but it was also about connecting with the land, enjoying exceptional dining experiences, making new friends, and having fun. I share more about our experience in Provence, places to see, and the transformations that we experienced here.

Our Path to Empowerment

Our journey centered around three pillars of the divine feminine:

• Empowerment - Reclaiming our inner authority and wisdom

• Healing - Bringing awareness to old wounds in a supportive circle

• Grace - Embracing self-love without judgment and tapping into our intuition

  
  

The small group format created an intimate container for transformation impossible in larger tours or solo travel. For this particular group, I opted for a villa located in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. The home was built in the 1300s and felt both luxurious and ancient. We spent an evening in the main room, with its curved cathedral-like ceilings and stone walls, discussing what the home may have looked like when it was first built. Being so close to Avignon, we couldn’t help but wonder if there had been dignitaries or those related to the Pope who may have lived or stayed in this home. The Pope resided in Avignon from the early 1300s until 1377. We let our imaginations run wild with what life may have been like during that time period.  

Sacred Sites We Visited

• La Sainte-Baume - The mountain grotto where Mary Magdalene reportedly spent her final years in meditation and prayer

• Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume - Home to the basilica housing what many believe to be Mary Magdalene's remains

• Les-Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer - Where tradition says Mary Magdalene first arrived in France 

The view outside the cave of Mary Magdalene

The Experience

We had a healthy lunch prepared by the Dominican Monks, currently the Cave's caretakers. Lunch consisted of warm bread, salad, and your choice of a main course that changed daily. We can't forget the wine! Of course, we also had lots of red wine before our long hike.

After hiking for over 45 minutes up the Sainte-Baume mountain, we were happy to see the steps leading to the cave. Still a little giggly from all the stops we needed to take our way up, I think our guide was happy to get us dispersed into the cave for a break.

As I prepared to enter the cave, I felt a flutter in my chest with excitement and apprehension. What if I didn't feel anything? What if it was just a tourist spot? Then I walked inside.

Standing in the same space where Mary Magdalene sought refuge and wisdom, I could sense an embrace of energy. I could also feel the dampness of the cave, see the darkness in every crack and crevasse, and smell the earth. It was like walking into a different world. We spent an hour wandering from place to place within the cave with tears and awe over being inside such a sacred space. The reminder of a mother's love that lives within us and that the women in our lives give us was overwhelming. We sat in silence with tears rolling down our cheeks and soaking up all of the energy that we could.

The contrast of the cold, damp darkness was the views from atop the mountain. I could sense her courage and feel the power in my solar plexus start to burst. She honored her spiritual path despite the immense challenges she faced. 

Statue outside the Caves of Mary Magdalene

Transformations Witnessed

The most beautiful aspect of hosting this journey was witnessing the subtle transformations in each woman.

Quiet tears at the cave entrance.

Breakthrough conversations over long dinners of local Provençal cuisine.

Renewed clarity about life direction after time spent exploring.

Sisterhood bonds formed through shared experience.

Wine, full moon ceremonies, and goals for the future.

Creating Your Divine Feminine Journey

For women seeking a similar reconnection:

• Travel during spring or fall for fewer crowds at these sacred sites

• Allow at least 3-4 days in the region to immerse yourself in the experience fully

• Create time each day for reflection

• Bring a journal to capture insights that arise

• Consider joining a small group (like mine!) for shared wisdom and support

Are you feeling called to reconnect with your divine feminine through travel? Join the waitlist for updates on future travel experiences specifically designed for women. 

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