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Cooking in the Dordogne Valley
Souillac, Aquitaine
About the location: Once you visit the Dordogne, it will only be a matter of time until you return. This is a compelling area, full of languid beauty, charming medieval towns, wonderful food and wine. The area produces over 30 types of truffles and is equally well-known for its patés.
The Hotel Pavillon Saint Martin, a charming three star hotel from the 16th century, will be your home for five nights, located in the lovely town of Souillac. Souillac is located in the heart of the Dordogne valley, and prides itself on its authentic, welcoming atmosphere.
About the cooking lessons: Your hands on lessons will be held in the kitchen of La Vielle Auberge, and will be led by Robert Véril who is the owner of the hotel and the chef, and assisted by a translator. Robert has been preparing traditional French cooking for 45 years, and he is equally passionate about wine. His restaurant is very well known in the region. You will learn some of the basics of French cooking utilizing local products and other traditional French products. During the two lessons, you will go through the preparation of an entire meal.
- Arrival at the Souillac train station and transfer to your accommodations.
- Time to settle into your unique bedroom before your gastronomic welcome dinner.
- You will discover the village of Souillac and its typical open-air market. Your host will be with you to give precious explanations on the different local products.
- Free time for lunch in Souillac.
- You will spend the afternoon in the kitchen of the restaurant, learning the secrets of cooking some regional and France’s famous classic dishes.
- Dinner to follow based on your efforts.
- On the way to Bergerac, you will discover the medieval town of Sarlat and you will have impressive views on the castles and villages of the Dordogne valley.
- Free time for lunch in Bergerac.
- In the afternoon, you will visit two wineries with wine tasting.
- Dinner back at the hotel.
- On the way to Cahors, you will discover the breathtaking site of Rocamadour where traditional houses and churches are superimposed against the cliff.
- Free time for lunch in Cahors, a charming town known for its famous medieval bridge, the Pont Valentré.
- In the afternoon, you will visit two wineries with wine tasting.
- Dinner back at the hotel.
- In the morning you will visit a fois gras farm that breeds ducks for foie gras and other traditional products.
- Free time for lunch in Souillac
- Then you will go back to the restaurant for another cooking session.
- Farewell dinner to follow based on your efforts.
- Following breakfast, transfer back to the Souillac train station
