Late Spring Cookery Retreat

£1,400.00

Date: 14–18 May 2026 (4 nights)

A four-night, hands-on cookery retreat in the South of France from Thursday 14 May to Monday 18 May 2026. Cook with Chef Jack at Remparts House, explore late spring markets bursting with asparagus, artichokes and early strawberries, visit a local vineyard for tasting, and share relaxed communal meals on our terraces. Stay in our renovated 12th century village home with ensuite rooms. All ingredients and meals included.

Limited to 6 to 8 guests.

From £1,400 per person.

Date: 14–18 May 2026 (4 nights)

A four-night, hands-on cookery retreat in the South of France from Thursday 14 May to Monday 18 May 2026. Cook with Chef Jack at Remparts House, explore late spring markets bursting with asparagus, artichokes and early strawberries, visit a local vineyard for tasting, and share relaxed communal meals on our terraces. Stay in our renovated 12th century village home with ensuite rooms. All ingredients and meals included.

Limited to 6 to 8 guests.

From £1,400 per person.


What you will experience

This May retreat blends practical, confidence building cooking with the rhythm of village life. You will cook each day with Chef Jack, visit a traditional market, taste regional wines at a nearby domaine, and sit down to generous meals you helped create. The focus is on simple, well executed dishes that celebrate late spring produce you can source at home.


Who it is for

Enthusiastic home cooks, couples or friends who enjoy great food and conversation. Clear teaching, no fuss plating, and plenty of time to unwind.


What you will learn

  • Knife skills and efficient kitchen workflow

  • Stocks, sauces, roasting and braising fundamentals

  • Bread and pasta basics plus a few French classics

  • How to shop seasonally and plan a balanced menu

  • Rustic presentation for shared table dining


Sample itinerary

Thursday 14 May Arrival from 15:00. Welcome at 17:00. Kitchen orientation and light supper.
Friday 15 May Market visit and produce selection. Morning lesson. Lunch together. Afternoon class. Vineyard tour and tasting.
Saturday 16 May Skills workshop. Free time for a walk or wild swim. Dinner cooked as a group.
Sunday 17 May Regional menu day using late spring ingredients. Longer cook, leisurely lunch, recipe pack to take home.
Monday 18 May Breakfast and goodbyes. Depart by late morning.

Timings may shift to suit market days and weather.


Late spring menu highlights

  • Asparagus with sauce gribiche

  • Roast chicken with wild herb stuffing and pan juices

  • Handmade tagliatelle with artichokes and lemon

  • Country pâté and pickles

  • Strawberry tart with crème pâtissière


What is included

  • Four nights accommodation in our renovated 12th century village property

  • Daily cookery lessons with Chef Jack

  • All meals and ingredients

  • Coffee, teas and soft drinks

  • Local wines with meals

  • Vineyard tour and tasting

  • Market excursions

  • Optional hiking and wild swimming

  • Return transfers from local airports or railway stations


What is not included

  • Flights or long distance travel to the region

  • Travel insurance

  • Extra alcoholic drinks outside the programme


Group size and rooms

Small groups of 6 to 8 guests. Five double rooms, all ensuite. Solo travellers are welcome. We can pair guests of the same gender on request.


Dietary needs

Most dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Please share allergies and preferences when you book.


Travel and transfers

Nearest hubs include Béziers, Carcassonne and Narbonne. Return transfers from local airports or railway stations are included by arrangement.


Price and booking

£1,400 per person for the full programme. Reserve your place online. A confirmation email will follow with packing notes and the detailed schedule.


Cancellation policy

Free cancellation within 48 hours of booking. Up to 30 days before arrival, a refund is available minus any non refundable deposit and bank fees. Within 30 days, places are transferable and we will try to refill your spot. We recommend travel insurance.