Designing a Natural Swimming Pool

An Exclusive 3-Day Immersive Course in the South of France

21-23 June 2025

La Belle Eco, Montreal, France

Expert Guidance

Led by Gary McArthur, BSc

Eco-Luxury Retreat

From €1,395 – €2,100

Course Overview

Natural swimming pools unite pristine swimming experiences with living ecosystems. This bespoke 3-day, 2-night retreat serves discerning property owners and landscape professionals seeking to expand their expertise with personalised guidance in an exceptional setting.

What You'll Learn

Day 1: Vision & Design

Natural swimming pool principles and their benefits for distinguished properties
Site assessment techniques for varied landscapes
Design approaches that complement sophisticated aesthetics
Material selection for longevity, sustainability, and visual refinement
Creating a vision aligned with your property’s unique character

Day 2: From Concept to Reality

Understanding the construction process and realistic timelines
Strategic plant selection for both beauty and biological filtration
Filtration systems—from elegant simplicity to sophisticated solutions
Working effectively with specialists or overseeing your own project
Budget considerations across different scales and designs

Day 3: Enjoyment & Maintenance

Refined seasonal maintenance routines
Addressing common issues without chemicals
Elevating the pool experience with complementary features
Integration with broader landscape design
For professionals: Translating knowledge into premium client services

Your Expert Guide

Gary McArthur, BSc

With over four decades of horticultural expertise, Gary McArthur brings unparalleled knowledge and passion to our Natural Swimming Pool Course. His BSc in Amenity Horticulture and Landscape Management combines academic rigour with extensive hands-on experience.

As a former University Lecturer at Hadlow College (UK), Gary communicates complex ecological concepts in accessible, practical ways. His distinguished background includes founding successful garden centres, landscape design firms, and consultancy services through Gardening in France.

For the past decade, Gary has specialised exclusively in Natural Swimming Pool design and education, transitioning from construction to consultancy. This evolution allows him to share comprehensive knowledge with both enthusiasts and professionals.

The Perfect Learning Environment

Experience firsthand what living with a natural swimming pool is like at La Belle Eco. Our showcase pool demonstrates how beauty, sustainability, and functionality coexist perfectly. You’ll observe the ecosystem in action, understand water filtration processes, and experience the incomparable sensation of swimming in living water.

Set in the refined countryside of southern France, La Belle Eco presents the perfect harmony of sustainability and sophisticated comfort, with luxury accommodation, farm-to-table dining, and wellness amenities including a wood-fired hot tub and sauna.

For Property Owners

Gain knowledge to make informed decisions about your own natural pool
Learn to effectively communicate your vision to designers and contractors
Understand maintenance requirements before committing
Connect with qualified professionals and like-minded homeowners

For Landscape Professionals

Add a valuable, growing service to your business offerings
Understand client perspectives and expectations
Learn practical techniques from an established expert
Distinguish your services in the premium landscape market

What's Included

3 days of expert instruction tailored to your needs
2 nights accommodation of your choice
All meals and refreshments
Comprehensive reference materials
Site assessment framework
Access to our exclusive natural pool network
Post-course consultation session

Accommodation & Pricing

Accommodation Options

Eco Cabin

Single Occupancy: €1,550 (Early Bird: €1,395)
Extra person supplement €450

Standard Double

Single Occupancy: €1,750 (Early Bird: €1,575)
Extra person supplement €450

Luxury Double

Single Occupancy: €1,950 (Early Bird: €1,755)
Extra person supplement €450

Luxury Suite

Single Occupancy: €2,100 (Early Bird: €1,890)
Extra person supplement €450

Bring a Companion and Save

Enhance your learning retreat by sharing the experience with someone special. Our refined setting and luxurious accommodations are perfect for couples or friends:

Partner/Companion Package: Just €450 supplement

While you immerse yourself in the Natural Swimming Pool Course, your companion can:

Unwind in our tranquil woodland setting
Enjoy full access to the estate’s amenities including the natural swimming pool and wood-fired hot tub
Savour the same farm-to-table organic meals prepared by our in-house chef
Explore nearby medieval Carcassonne and the charming French countryside
Join you each evening to discuss the day’s inspirations over dinner

Most accommodations feature comfortable double beds, making this an ideal opportunity to elevate your professional development into a memorable retreat for two.

What Our Clients Say

“As a homeowner planning a significant landscape renovation, this course gave me the confidence to include a natural pool and effectively communicate with my design team.”

“The knowledge I gained has elevated my landscape design practice. I’ve already secured two natural pool projects from clients seeking sustainable luxury.”

“The perfect blend of technical information and aesthetic considerations. Whether you’re planning your own pool or designing for clients, this course delivers exceptional value.” – Thomas, Estate Manager

Limited Availability

To ensure a personalised experience with individual attention, this exclusive course has limited availability. Early registration is recommended as our specialised courses typically reach capacity quickly.