Luxurious Loire
Saint-Georges-sur-Loire, Loire Valley

About the location: Known for its exquisite chateaux and intellectual and cultural heritage, the glorious regal valley of the Loire is now classified a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rich in both history and architecture, this vast region also embodies the heart of French life; outstanding cuisine and fine wine. All of the attributes of this stunning region make it a paradise to visit during your cooking vacation in France.

Located on the banks of the Loire, about 15 minutes from Angers, the Chateau de l’Epinay is a 15th century Renaissance property. It is an charming and elegant chateau, situated in a park of redwoods and cypresses in the heart of extremely romantic grounds washed by a branch of the Loire. You are guaranteed the warmest of welcome by the owners during your cookery holiday. All rooms are beautifully decorated and very spacious with a queen size bed, armchairs, desk and ensuite bathroom as well as spectacular views overlooking the chateau’s park or ponds. You can enjoy your breakfast in the dining room or in the garden in the summer. A swimming pool, tennis court, billiard table and piano are also available for guests enjoyment.

About the cooking lessons: Your lessons during your culinary vacation will be headed by Chef Frederic. His knowledge is the result of extensive culinary training and positions, serving as head chef in several Parisian restaurants. Frederic’s instruction is simple and practical! He will teach you how to choose the finest and freshest local produce, how to bring out the best flavor in food with slow cooking and how to present your creations by creatively arranging shape, color and texture. You will also improve your knowledge of sauces and juices that can be used, and learn to master the art of marrying flavors to create the most delicate and subtle tastes.

Your cooking classes will take place at a nearby French cooking school, where each participant/couple has his or her own fully equipped work station and all the equipment necessary to create gastronomic dishes with the finest seasonal products at the same time as the Chef. The class is followed by a 3-course meal based on your efforts, enhanced by carefully selected wines. Chef Frederic hopes you will become more adventurous as you learn how to combine contrasting textures while preserving the flavor of individual ingredients and selecting wines to compliment your cooking.