Indulgence -sample Itinerary
This is an example of the Vin de Tarn's Wine and Food Indulgence week staying at Studio France. It is a general guide and remains flexible so that we can include local happenings or special interests during your visit.
Saturday - You will be met at Toulouse Airport by your tour organiser and mentor Margaret Lewis. The onward journey will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Tarn featuring vineyards, wheat fields, sunflowers and surprisingly green, rolling hillsides. The tiny hamlet of Labarthe-Bleys, cradled in the Cerou valley, is your home for the week. Lavender scented and oozing French countryside charm it is an ideal spot to unwind and re-charge batteries. In the afternoon, a chance to un-pack and settle in, or take a closer look at the 13th Century Hilltop village of Cordes sur Ciel. Dinner at home will afford the opportunity to relax and meet your fellow travellers. Stephane Loubatieres your French wine Sommelier for the week will join us for dinner.
Sunday - Friday - These are the full days and some of the activities will include
- a visit to the busy morning market at Saint Antonin where we can buy local and seasonal specialties of the region,
- wine tasting with Stephane, our sommelier as well as talks with him and Margaret introducing the wines, history and geography of the Gaillac region.
- On the cultural side our local historian Pierre will take you on a guided tour revealing some of the area's ancient secrets.
- a vineyard tour meeting with one of the well known wine making personalities of the region.
- Lunch and dinners in a variety of places - restaurants, a 14th Century Chateau Fort, alfresco amongst the vines.
- visits to Cordes sur Ciel, Albi
- a visit to a distillery to uncover Eau-de-Vie, a local treasure
- visit to a well known chef to discover regional cooking styles and secrets.
Amongst these activities there will be ample time to talk, to relax, partake of a little retail therapy or explore some of the historic buildings. And finally Saturday – Departure Day. We will take you back to the airport and on your flight you can reflect on the memories and experiences you take back with you. Namely:-
- Meeting interesting people
- Learning the C12th history and gourmet culture of France
- Relaxing and at the same time learning
- Escaping from the maddening crowds
- Enjoying fine wines and foods you just can't get elsewhere.
Au revoir et bonne journée!
Please do not hesitate to contact Margaret for more information.
