Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage Review (Isabelle Doyen and Camille Goutal) + Mediterranean Giveaway

Voyages Imaginaires L'échappée Sauvage review

Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage by Karl.

“Memories are clear, ideas near birth. And yet. They come and go, mix, spin and turn around in a joyous dance. Then, one morning, the perfume reveals itself and extends its hand. The puzzle falls into place in a dazzling second.” – a note from the brand.

Isabelle Doyen

 Isabelle Doyen with Ermano Picco and Karl

I had the pleasure of meeting with Isabelle Doyen back in 2022 at the Magna Pars L’Hotel à Parfum in Milan. On the balcony, surrounded by gardenias, she talked me through the creative process of Voyages Imaginaires. In all honesty, I was truly star struck, so it was a task to focus all my attention on her poetic words and crystal-clear vision of developing perfumes and utlising natural ingredients in a methodical  and artistic way.

Mediterranean perfumes

Photo of the Mediterranean courtesy of the brand for use in this article.

Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage is a tribute to the Mediterranean. The presentation of the flacon reflects co-founder Camille Goutal’s keen eye for detail and design with its clean lines, photographic inner label and classic presence. Imagine if you will, walking through fields of aromatic lavender, the twigs of trees crackling underfoot, the wafts of pine intermingling with lemon. A sensory experience with the warmth of the evening sun on your neck and shoulders and a fig tree in the distance offering cover and solace.

Voyages Imaginaires L'échappée Sauvage Review

Image of a fig tree courtesy of the brand for use in this article

Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage is an interpretation of the verdant aspects of the fig tree as opposed to the milkier and lactonic variations which are more commonplace. This effect has been magnified with the use of cedar and gaiac wood. By utilising only natural ingredients the balance required is itself a fine art due to the volatility of naturals and one specific note overwhelming the rest. This was explained in depth by Isabelle Doyen, with us being able to sample each ingredient individually to further understand the process involved.

best all natural perfumes

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Bergamot and lemon create a warmth in combination with pink pepper which gives that initial zing to the scent. Galbanum is not listed, but I suspect it may have snuck its way into the composition as there is a slightly resinous quality and accentuated greenness to the perfume. Whilst I would not classify this scent as sweet the crispness is off set with the use of lemon and tonka bean which rounds it and provides a comforting aspect. These are absolutely essential to the relaxed vibe of Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage. For those asking for a classic approach with a modern edge created with sustainability at its heart then this could be the perfume for you.

Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage launched in 2020.

Notes: Fig, cedar, pink pepper, guaiac wood, bergamot, lemon, tonka bean.

Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage kindly sent to Karl for review purposes. Thoughts are my own.

Karl Topham, Senior Editor

Voyages Imaginaires Comme Un Gant was a best of 2024 for Michelyn and for Sandi; Michelyn & Ermano’s Best of 2021 where Voyages Imaginaires was voted best Natural Fragrance House.  Nicoleta’s review of Le Grand Jou, Ida Meister’s review of Tea & Rock N Roll

L'échappée Sauvage by Voyages Imaginaires

Karl’s photo of L’échappée Sauvage

Thanks to the generosity  of Voyages Imaginaires we have a 75 ml bottle of Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage for one registered reader in the EU or USA.  You must register or your entry will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what you find most interesting based on Karl’s review of L’échappée Sauvage and where you live. Draw closes 01/2025

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45 comments

  • Scentofme says:

    Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage sounds like a tribute to the Mediterranean. I like the focus on natural ingredients for this line. From EU.

  • Sybelle16 says:

    A tribute to the Mediterranean that is the biggest takeaway from the review. The region is one of my favorite places to vacation with its sunny, warm climate, whiffs of citrusy notes, fig trees and florals in the air, depending on where you are in the region, L’échappée Sauvage embodies all those elements. This scent focuses on the pairing of Bergamot and lemon for citrus twist and an emphasis on fig, guaiac wood and the cedar this scents level of sweet is subtle as the tonka is tempered by the lemon. Overall subtle yet classic and modern; would be perfect for everyday wear, the office or to an event.
    USA

  • Ramses Perez says:

    Whenever I see a fig note on a fragrance, immediately sign me up. Taking on different styles but creamy is my favorite, this one seems to balance it all with the other natural notes to perfection. Like Isabella explained the construction of the fragrance was rather difficult as they didn’t want one natural ingredient to overpower the next and had to carefully measure quantities of each. This is what masters worry about when they compose a fragrance, yielding their desired result (and whoever commissioned it). The fragrance does cream summer and we’re going through a brutal winter but once warmer days are here, this will bloom and you will imagine yourself in a Mediterranean coast. I’m located in the USA.

  • Brad Woolslayer says:

    I like fig fragrances, and this sounds like an interesting take on that particular note. I live in Maryland USA.

  • CalebZ says:

    I find most interesting the process in which is undertaken to capture the essence of a specific place like the Mediterranean and I appreciate the difficulty working with volatile ingredients. True artistry! Seattle

  • Scentlogue says:

    Based on Karl’s review, what really caught my attention about L’échappée Sauvage is its unique interpretation of the fig tree. I love how it focuses on the green, verdant side of fig instead of the usual creamy, milky vibe we see in so many other fig-based fragrances. The way Karl describes the interplay of cedar and guaiac wood creating a natural, fresh warmth makes it sound like a perfect Mediterranean escape in a bottle.

    Also, the thought of walking through lavender fields with hints of pine, lemon, and fig sounds absolutely dreamy. The emphasis on natural ingredients and the delicate balancing act that Isabelle Doyen mastered to avoid one note overpowering the others really makes this scent stand out. Definitely feels like a fragrance that’s as much about the artistry as it is about the experience!

    I am from the EU

  • Naomi says:

    This is amazing – I have been on the search on behalf of a friend lately for a fragrance with pink pepper, bergamot, cedarwood, and some richness or warmth. She and I are both passionate about natural fragrance, and I myself am a loyal fan of Camille’s mother, Annika, and her perfume legacy. This L’Ecole Sauvage could be the perfect “puzzle piece” for my friend who has been in search of something to fill the void left by a beloved discontinued fragrance. Thank you for this generous draw – if I win, it will be passed on to my friend! I live in the USA.

  • Jeremi says:

    The way Karl articulates how the fragrance plays with the senses is fascinating. He mentions that the scent is woody and fresh, almost salty, sensual, and very summery, which suggests a complex interplay of emotions and memories the perfume can evoke. This depth in emotional resonance makes the perfume stand out as more than just a scent but as a piece of olfactory art. I live in Poland, EU.

  • AleksCipri says:

    This review reminded me of my summer vacation last year. I was in Greece and for the first time I smelled a fig tree. It stopped me in my tracks. That is one my favorite notes in perfumes, but I’ve never smelled it in real life before. I was so mesmerized. I’m intrigued by L’échappée Sauvage because of the combination of figs with woods and tonka bean. I love the picture Karl was describing of walking through fields of lavender, pine and twigs of trees crackling underfoot. I’m from Illinois US.

  • Steve A says:

    What I found interesting was the fig aspect was described as verdant rather than milky or lactonic. US

  • Gregpt says:

    How I wish I could be in Tuscany under a green fig tree. Great review and I have never smelled a natural fig perfume so I would love to win L’Echappees Sauvage
    USA

  • akb says:

    I absolutely love the smell of figs and fig trees, but fig scents can often be too sweet/gourmand/fruity (I know figs are in fact a fruit!) for my particular taste. Karl’s review makes this fragrance sound like precisely the sort of fig I love: green and outdoorsy. I’m in NY, USA.

  • roxhas1cat says:

    How lovely to meet Isabelle surrounded by gardenias. This would be perfect for spring with the green aspects of the fig tree. I hadn’t heard of this fragrance and was surprised to see it is from 2020. Love the photos,
    I can totally imagine walking through the pines, near the sea with the scent of lemon! Thanks for the chance USA.

  • Teresa C says:

    I have struggled with Fig scents in the past because of those lactonic notes Karl speaks of but this sounds like a much better version to me with the woods and lemon to lift it. The natural crisp feel described here sounds amazing! I live in the US.

  • AromaDulce73 says:

    This sounds interesting. Don’t have any fig forward fragrances in my collection.

    I’ve been to the Mediterranean and if this fragrance can take me there through the scent I’m all in.

    Los Angeles Ca. USA

  • Svetlanafrance says:

    Karl’s review brings L’échappée Sauvage to life so vividly. The natural blend of fig, cedar, and pink pepper, paired with sustainable craftsmanship, makes this fragrance truly intriguing. I’m especially drawn to its ability to evoke the Mediterranean’s warmth and greenery in such a refined way.

    I live in France and would be delighted to experience this creation.

  • Sonbahia says:

    Nice review Karl! I also loved Isabel Doyen’s vision in Voyages Imaginaires: the use of natural ingredients in a methodical and artistic way. There must be hundreds of tributes to the Mediterranean in perfumary, but Mmes. Goutal and Doyen’s vision is lovely: a vision of a Mediterranean bay with its vegetation: that relaxing green walk through the pine forest and some citrus trees. I love fig but here it doesn’t have a leading role, greener than usual: a lemon-fig leaf/branch in a vase. A sustainable classic but edgy homage to the mare nostrum. I live in Spain, EU.

  • Leomag says:

    This fragrance captures the untamed spirit of nature. The fragrance opens with bright citrus notes of lemon and bergamot, spiced with pink pepper. In the heart, fig leaf and clary sage evoke the freshness of a forest, while the base of cedarwood, vetiver, and musk adds depth and warmth. Together, these elements create a vibrant, earthy scent that feels like a wild, invigorating escape into the outdoors.
    Greece, EU

  • JSO says:

    As I look out and see the snow falling in my backyard, Karl is describing a fragrance that sounds perfect for Spring. The idea that galbanum “may have snuck its way into the composition” makes it sound even more interesting based on the greenness that he describes. Very curious. Located in the USA.

  • wonderscent.mari says:

    This is the first time I’m reading about this house but everything from the bottle to the inspiration, I’m loving already. I am coming from a Mediterranean country so in summer months when I visit my homeland I love smelling the fig trees and enjoying all the aromas coming from this unique Mediterranean nature. I am excited to try this creamy fig scent, with the crispiness of lemons and bergamots warmed by the passion of cedar and gaiac woods! A perfect companion for a trip to the sea and carefree warm days.
    Thank you for your presentation and this generous giveaway.
    I am located in EU

  • Saverioud says:

    I love the fig note in perfumery, I’m obsessed with that green and fresh scent since I tried years ago “fico di Amalfi” by acqua di Parma.
    I like to wear these kind of perfumes in the hot summer days, maybe wearing a white linen shirt.
    really hope I try this, I’m from Italy.

  • tannina says:

    as a lover of figs and green scents, this would be a great scent to try. makes me wish to be on holidays in tuscany right now. i never tried this perfume line, so ths would be a great start. i am im the EU

  • Jackie Rosenfeld says:

    A scent that is comforting and relaxing sounds amazing right now. Let me at least dream of a moment of stillness by smelling it.

    Jackie in Texas
    instagram: jackierose618

  • Salem says:

    What a stunning creation! I love fig and I’m always excited to find it in all its shapes and colors. This one being more verdant, rather than lactonic, truly sounds like a leafy corner of Mediterranean flora. I am particularly interested about the citrus notes of lemon and bergamot and the fresh woodiness of cedar. Which I suppose also makes it a perfectly unisex perfume.
    Greetings from the EU!

  • Jules says:

    To be honest, the description of this perfume was so good and interesting that I wish it was longer. I would love to get the chance to smell this perfume
    From EU

  • Maestro says:

    Karl’s review of L’échappée Sauvage truly piqued my interest, especially his description of its distinctive take on the fig tree. Unlike the typical creamy, milky interpretations found in many fig-based fragrances, this one highlights the green, vibrant, and verdant side of fig—a refreshing twist that feels both modern and grounded. Karl’s depiction of cedar and guaiac wood working together to create a natural, fresh warmth conjures up images of a serene Mediterranean getaway encapsulated in a bottle.
    The idea of strolling through lavender fields accompanied by subtle hints of pine, lemon, and fig is utterly enchanting—like an olfactory escape to a sun-dappled countryside. What stands out most is the emphasis on natural ingredients and the remarkable skill Isabelle Doyen displayed in blending the notes so harmoniously. Her artistry shines in ensuring no single element overpowers the composition, achieving a perfect balance that feels both intentional and effortless. This fragrance seems to go beyond being just a scent—it’s an experience, a journey, and a celebration of creativity. Truly captivating! Good luck for all, Greetings from NY! ✨

  • tf2guycamp says:

    I like how Karl explains what he likes about L’echappe Savauge. I further like how he was able to identify what could have been Galbanum in the fragrance though it was not listed. It shows that he knows a lot about fragrance. I live in the US. Also, you forgot to put when the draw closes. Sorry about that.

  • mmerline says:

    Fig fragrances are often to sweet and lactonic for my liking, so I’m really intrigued by this greener take on the fig, centered in its Mediterranean context. The peppery citrus and tonka base are a lovely way to frame the fig tree. I also appreciated Doyen’s comments about the challenge of balancing each ingredient while using natural materials. I’d love to try L’échappée Sauvage.

    I’m in the USA.

  • Annika says:

    I love figs in fragrance in all its forms. I’m more familiar with the fleshy, fruity fig scents but I do enjoy the green fig tree versions as well. L’echappee Sauvage seems to amp up the greenery with the addition of woods, citrus and a spicy pink pepper note. MD, USA

  • opalbear says:

    Well I love my fig notes. I dont think I’ll ever tire of it as a note, it’s so versatile but my favorite fig notes are the ones with woods and citrus, like this. Or a creamy green soliflore. This sounds wonderful! I love Le Grands Jeu by this house and I’ve tried this one and loved it too. A full bottle would be a treasure.
    I am located in the USA
    ps. The photo you have listed as “Image of a fig tree courtesy of the brand for use in this article” is definitely not a fig tree, but it is a coniferous.

  • ElenaChiss says:

    L’Echappee Sauvage seems interesting and has many notes I like. ‘For those asking for a classic approach with a modern edge created with sustainability at its heart then this could be the perfume for you.’ Yes, it seems like I would love this one. Thanks! EU

  • Eris.can.swatch.kaos says:

    Fig, yes. Cedar, yes. Tonka, yes. This sounds like an unusual fragrance that aside from being beautiful, is addictive. I’d love to get my hands on this perfume, as a lover of all things fig, this one could have my heart. Thank you for piquing my interest. I live in Oregon.

  • YitzyR says:

    Voyages Imaginaires L’échappée Sauvage. Has the woods, fig, lemon tonka and pink pepper! Wow sounds like a pure gem and a great tribute to the mediterranean, I’ve been there to visit and one of my favorite places from the vibes the food to the people made it a wonderful experience!

  • Cynthia says:

    I like that Karl mentions a whisper of resinous note in this new citrus ode to the Mediterranean. I see also there is fig, a note I really love in perfume. I would love to try Voyages Imaginaires. Thank you for the draw and story. I live in USA.

  • peppermoon says:

    What a beautiful bottle – I love the shot that Karl took that showed the inside’s photo of trees, and the slightly tarnished metal cap. Great design.

    As for the scent, though I love a lactonic fig note, I really enjoy greener takes on figs in the summer, when they feel refreshing and naturalistic. My summer green fig scents include Hermes Un Jardin en Méditerranée, which also pairs fig tree with bergamot and lemon topnotes, and the Zoo Fig My Love (introduced to me by Cafleurbon), which is an almost aggressively green and sappy fig tree. I think fig and cedar would smell great together as well, so I’m curious about L’échappée Sauvage.

    After the recent review of Comme un Gant and Karl’s review, I think I’ll have to look into Voyages Imaginaires. What a special thing to get to talk to Isabelle Doyen herself.

    I’m in the US. Thank you.

    (Also, sorry, that is not a fig tree in the picture!)

  • Timea says:

    I very like Mediterranean fragrances. The notes sounds very good. And the review is very nice. Thank you for the draw. I live in Europe.

  • foreverscents says:

    Who wouldn’t want to spend time near the Mediterranean, walking through lavender tress, surrounded by pine trees? The interpretation of the fig tree by using cedar and guaiac wood sounds very creative. The bergamot and lemon add zest to the composition. Karl’s review makes me want to seek out this fragrance.
    I live in the USA.

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the lovely writeup.
    Love the presentation.

    The scent makes me think of the movie Call me by Your name, set in the beautiful Mediterranean, with the citrus, herbal and woody notes.

    Sounds like a wonderful all year round fragrance.

    Cheers from WI, USA

  • Sherin Thomas says:

    I love how it focuses on the green, verdant side of fig instead of the usual creamy, milky vibe we see in so many other fig-based fragrances, from PA,USA

  • absurdnose says:

    What a fantastic article and the photos really capture the green meditative nature of the scent. I love the idea of a verdant fig with woods and citrus. I’m so used to a milky fig note that bringing out the green aromatic side of this fruit sounds very appealing. Thanks! I live in the USA.

  • zibbyz says:

    The pine trees pictured in the article remind me of the stone pine trees that we saw during our summer trip to Italy, which are not common where I live. I appreciate the effort that is required to use natural ingredients in scent, and would love to experience L’échappée Sauvage as a reminder of my wonderful summer vacation with family. What a lovely review ands generous draw. I’m in the us.

  • Jenny says:

    This composition sounds so fresh and great to me. I love the note of fig. I can already smell the mediterranean style in my imagination. I live in the USA.

  • amanna says:

    I’ve yet to try any of Voyages Imaginaires’ fragrances but every time I read one of the reviews for their perfumes here I want to rectify that! I really appreciate the focus on sustainability and natural materials, along with the strong sense of place in the composition of each perfume. The Mediterranean-inspired L’échappée Sauvage sounds like a perfect winter pick-me-up with its green aspects rounded with with mood-boosting lemon and tonka. I’m quite curious about the idea of a fig fragrance that focuses more on the green aspects instead of the fruit notes!
    Best wishes from the US!