Regional Cooking and Food
in Southwest France
Acerca de
Led by local chefs and purveyors
Sponsored by Chateau de Balsac
Liven your taste buds and hone your culinary talents with a journey to Aveyron and enjoy a week of cooking, exploring and learning in a small group setting (no more than 7 particpants)
All-inclusive pricing for four nights, five days; includes lodging, outings, courses and more
from 2800 €
Shared rooms are 2800€ and private rooms are 3270€/per person
September 28 - October 2, 2026
This untouristed region of Southwest France has beautiful and diverse landscapes and a unique culinary history. For the food enthusiast, Aveyron is a must; it offers a range of dining options from the small, traditional auberge to Michelin star restaurants featured in international guides.
The Experience
Whether you want to learn new culinary skills or just enjoy trying new cuisine, this journey through the villages, markets, farms, wineries, cafes and gourmet restaurants will give you the opportunity to expand your cooking skills and enjoy new tastes. The 5-day all-inclusive* workshop is a chance to explore, be inspired and tickle your tastebuds.
“The itinerary was both gastronomically over-the-top and culturally immersive. Local, renowned chefs worked with us in the chateau's large, modern kitchen and in restaurant kitchens, as well. We even shopped at the Rodez Farmers Market with a chef before joining him in his kitchen for a class and lunch from our creation.” — Catherine — May 2024 workshop participant
During the cooking sessions you will make every dish from scratch. You will be working side-by side with local chefs and the host, preparing desserts, making sauces, vegetables and sides, and finally, cooking and plating every single one of your creations.
And you won't be stuck in a kitchen! You will get a real taste of life in France as we take you to local villages, meet the producers, visit the farms, taste the products and immerse yourself in southwest France! If the harvest allows, you will cook using our homegrown organic fruit and vegetables and pick herbs from among the plants we grow. You will get a glimpse of this beautiful region and make the best of the local seasonal produce.
The Experts
Marc Cordy – Chef and owner of L'Auberge du Château; Marc has won numerous awards including most recently, Maître Cuisinier.
Christophe Chaillou - Chef at Café Bras; Christophe has over 15 years of teaching experience
Laurence Marie a local nature facilitator and art therapist, who has over 20 years experience leading walks focused on identifying common wild edible plants.
*Includes breakfast, lunch, 5-course evening meals, all restaurant dining, elegant accommodation, excursions and transportation during the workshop.