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.

