One Day at the Edens

I love my home!

It is comfortable, built with natural materials and completely self-sufficient.

I pay very few bills thanks to this autonomy, and the design is both pleasant and harmonious. The rent is unbeatable for such an exceptional environment.

Audrey and her team of habitologists have created a wonderful park for permanent members and also for visitors on shorter stays, which I am lucky enough to rent, as are four other permanent residents.

What I especially appreciate is the diversity of our community: different ages, backgrounds, and life stories blend and enrich each day.

A day at Edens begins at sunrise, wrapped in the gentle warmth of dawn. Being an early riser here means being the first to enjoy the natural pool, before heading to the retreat area for a revitalising yoga session or simply taking a moment to contemplate the beauty of the place, of what we have created together.

After freshening up in the comfort of my little house, I head to the café where Andrea welcomes us with a comforting breakfast, often accompanied by an artisan pastry prepared by a local baker.

The morning continues in freedom: there are many choices here, something for every taste, age and mood:

A walk around Lake Geneva, weekly participation in the garden (which allows for reduced rent), or simply strolling as inspiration strikes.

Today, the atmosphere is lively with a participatory construction site: volunteers are building a solar oven together, a symbol of our commitment and the pleasure of advancing a collective project.

Everyone finds their place and feels listened to, integrated into the group dynamic.

Here, cohesion and a sense of community are tangible: we support each other, encourage one another, and move forward together.

Lunchtime at the café is a highlight: dishes made with local produce or our own harvests are lovingly prepared and warmly served, a real feast for the palate and the heart!

The afternoon invites relaxation in the retreat area, outdoor activities or creativity in the workshop: pottery, woodworking, painting, making natural remedies, cooking, or repairs—everyone works on their current project.

The activities are always fun and enriching; we are constantly learning, whether through a new technique or a spontaneous exchange.

Whether it’s dancing to let off steam and share moments of madness and complicity with Audrey, or karaoke nights, it’s clear that throughout the year, weekends at Edens pulse with varied activities and cultural, artistic or festive events.

Live music, food trucks, jazz cellar, percussion improvisations depending on the visitors: every weekend brings surprises and opportunities to celebrate together, keeping the place lively and always inspiring.

On weekday evenings, everyone finds the peace and quiet of their personal space to recharge, facing a breathtaking view, or joins others around the fire to watch the sunset, depending on whether they feel like being alone or socialising. Here, being seen and heard really matters: everyone has their place, their words, their story.

Around the fire at the camping area, passing travellers tell us about their adventures and discoveries. These spontaneous exchanges, full of curiosity and generosity, nourish the community and open beautiful windows onto the world.

Tomorrow, we’ll prepare for the spring festival, an exceptional moment, which promises to be even more special this year: excitement is at its peak at the idea of taking part in the games organised for the festival; everyone has prepared their activity and can’t wait to share—moments of laughter, challenge and exchange that promise to further strengthen the bonds between all the residents, young and old.

Australians will be visiting us, and we’re eager to meet Audrey and Andrea’s long-standing friends, our managers.

The original outfits and inventive menus are already ready to share joyful moments and learn about new cultures.

Thinking back to last year's spring festival, I remember with emotion the pleasure of seeing all generations coming together and sharing a delightful moment. The radiant joy of the children, the kindness of the elders, all gathered around games and festivities: it was a living picture of collective happiness and mutual respect, which remains etched in our memories and inspires the upcoming festival.

What makes life at Edens even more precious is the richness of the encounters: here, people from all walks of life cross paths, share their culture and their story.

Swiss culture, with its art of living, traditions and flavours, is passed on and appreciated through exchanges, meals and celebrations. We learn from one another, discover languages, customs, and simply enrich ourselves.

To finish, I choose to relax in the retreat area, enjoying today the bee bed, a marvel of comfort. Perhaps I’ll be tempted by a magnesium bath, depending on what inspires me at the moment.

This morning, I met Maurizio for a coffee and to write about his experience here at Edens; he is finishing his three-month stay and seems delighted to have started this regenerative programme after his burnout. His smile radiates joy and satisfaction, reflecting what we all feel here: every day is a celebration of nature, sharing, creativity and the pleasure of being together.

A little paradise on earth where we return to the essentials, connect and find meaning again.