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French Dessert and Pastry Making Holiday

Highlights

  • Stay in a local 4 star hotel with swimming pool & daily breakfast buffet.
  • Master classic desserts including macarons, eclairs, tarte tatin & more.
  • All cooking lessons, culinary excursions & wonderful meals are included.
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7 Nights

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What you'll do

Overview

Calling all baking & French patisserie enthusiasts! Learn to master classic French desserts and pastry on this 7 night cooking course and return home with a range of new cookery skills and wonderful recipes that you’ll have no problem recreating for your friends and family back home.

2025 Dates

26th April
22nd November

If you are looking for an authentic French culinary experience that is hands on and full of variety, but you have more of a sweet tooth, look no further! This decadent 6 night pastry and dessert cookery course will cover everything from eclairs to croissants and everything in between.

With 36 hours of hands-on cooking and demonstration, this sweet adventure leaves nothing out. From sorbets and ice cream to chocolates and macarons, outdoor markets, regional wine and even a dinner at a Michelin Star restaurant, each day promises a new foodie experience.

You’ll be guided on your dessert adventure by two qualified and award winning chefs, Alison and Sidney, whose passion for creating incredible dishes using local, seasonal produce, will teach you not only how to cook, but how to fall in love with cooking, and all of the rewarding results that come with it.

This husband and wife team, who met in Swaziland, have worked all over the world as groundbreaking, innovative chefs. Sidney was Captain of The British Craft Guild Team for 2000/2001 when they achieved a record medal total, and both have been recognised for their medals obtained at international levels as well as having cooked for heads of State and celebrities. We figured if they’re good enough for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, they’re good enough for you!

You’ll enjoy 6 nights in one of two 4 star hotels located within walking distance of the cooking school, and each has been renovated to have every modern convenience while retaining its old French charm. Your hosts will be happy to pick you up before your lesson, although many guests find the walk enjoyable or use a bicycle throughout their stay. Located in the quiet hamlet, it’s lovely to explore on foot and each has a swimming pool to relax in during your free time.

Arrival Day

– Arrive in the afternoon, check in and get settled in to your accommodation
– 7pm: Enjoy a welcome champagne cocktail and the opportunity to meet fellow guests along with your hosts during a ‘Taste of the Loire Valley’ buffet

 

Chocolate Creations

08:30 – Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

9:00 – Today embark on a sweet culinary adventure entirely dedicated to Chocolate. We uncover the secrets of tempering chocolate, the art of filling and moulding chocolate bonbons, and how to enhance their presentation with coloured cocoa butter. Guided by our chefs, learn the techniques and recipes for creating bonbon fillings, ganache’s, marshmallows, caramel candies, snack bars and more.

13:00 – Enjoy a light French Lunch, providing a moment of relaxation and reflection amidst the day’s activities.

14:00 – After lunch, we’ll continue our chocolate adventure, diving deeper into the world of chocolate creations including.

Chocolate mousse Chocolate fondant Caramel foam Chocolate decoration Caramel filling

19:00 – Conclude your culinary journey with dinner, where you’ll savour the culmination of your chocolate creations for dessert.

Pastry Day

8:30 – Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

9:00 – Prepare for a Pastry Day inspired by the delicious elegance of the Vacherin, the airy delight of pavlova, and the sweet world of ice cream. From timeless favourites to modern interpretations, we’ll guide you through a variety of techniques and recipes to create fresh, seasonal, and contemporary desserts.

Meringue, classic and modern variations Genoise variations Basil, Fruit Crème, mousse, and jelly Compressed and compote fruits Vanilla and Lemon Cream

13:00 – Take a moment to enjoy a French Light Lunch, providing a delightful interlude amidst your pastry-filled day.

14:00 – After lunch, we’ll dive into the world of ice cream, exploring new techniques and flavours to compliment your desserts.

Frozen parfait Caramel ice cream Spicy chocolate ice cream lolly Coconut lemongrass ice cream

19:00 – For dinner tonight, we’ll experience the rich and diverse flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Embark on a culinary journey where vibrant spices and aromatic herbs transport you to distant lands.

A culinary discovery in Tours

08:00 – Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

08:30 – Depart for Tours

9:00 – This morning, embark on a culinary exploration of Tours, beginning with a visit to both the indoor ‘Les Halles Food Market’ and the bustling outdoor market. Wander through the charming old town clustered around Place Plumereau, where restored historic houses transport you back in time. Stroll along the narrow streets like rue Briconnet to experience the medieval city’s historic charm. Discover the Romanesque Basilica, the Cloitre de St-Martin, and the new Basilique de St-Martin, once part of the great pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.

In the cathedral quarter, marvel at the Cathédrale St-Gatien, a stunning example of flamboyant Gothic architecture adorned with 12th-century decorated stonework. Inside, admire the exquisite stained-glass windows and other architectural wonders.

12:00 – Enjoy a truly French lunch in Tours before we head back

15:00 – Upon your return a free afternoon to explore the picturesque Loire Valley, stroll through the quaint La Roche Posay, or embark on a cycling adventure through the enchanting French countryside with bicycles provided by Les Sorels.

19:00 – At dinner we enjoy a relaxed evening indulging in French Cheeses and Charcuterie, savouring the flavours of the region in the comfort of our culinary haven with a few of Chef Sidney’s favourite wines.

Creating Viennoiserie

8:30 – Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

9:00 – Embark on a journey of Modern Viennoiserie using classical techniques, recipes, and “Tourages” to create and bake modern and contemporary pastries that are crisp, buttery, and simply delicious.

Brioche Brioche Caramel Vanille Lemon Meringue Cruffin Brioche Feuilletée au Chocolat Camembert brioche

13:00 – Enjoy a French Light Lunch, providing a moment of relaxation and reflection amidst the morning’s pastry creations.

14:00 – After lunch, our lamination adventures continue.

19:00 – Enjoy a delightful dinner in great company!

Tartes, Meringues and Macarons

8:30 – Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

9:00 – Tarts take centre stage this morning, as we explore the art of crafting some of Chef Alison’s favourite Tarts.

Salted caramel and Jiavara ®chocolate tart Raspberry and mascarpone tart

13:00 – Take a well-deserved break and indulge in a French Light Lunch, offering a moment of tranquillity amidst the morning’s pastry creations.

14:00 – we begin our journey to the captivating world of the “Macaron,” a quintessential symbol of French pâtisserie popularized by Ladurée in the early 20th century.
Explore:

Techniques for creating perfect macaron shells The significance of using Italian meringue Tips for achieving flawless egg whites. The importance of resting before baking Various filling options Creative macaron decoration ideas Strategies for maturing, storing, and freezing macarons

19:00 – End your day with another delicious dinner

Departure Day

– Enjoy breakfast before your departure by 11am

Choux Pastry and Souffles

 

8:30 – Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

9:00 – We start the day with the introduction of Choux Pastry, a versatile dough that forms the basis of many beloved French pastries.

Classic Éclair Contemporary Paris Brest Profiterole au Chocolat Craqueline Hazelnut Crème

13:00 – Enjoy a French Light Lunch, providing a delightful interlude amidst your pastry-filled day.

14:00 – This afternoon, we learn the art of making soufflés, a culinary skill that combines elegance with a touch of excitement. Learn the secrets to creating perfectly risen soufflés.

Chocolate soufflé Passion fruit soufflé

19:30 – Conclude your culinary journey with a certificate presentation ceremony, enhanced by gin and tonic sundowners. Then, relish a flavourful dinner experience with a ‘Fire and Spice’ dinner featuring some of the creations made during the afternoon.

What's included

Included

  • 7 nights 4-star hotel accommodation in a private ensuite room
  • 36 hours of cooking and instruction throughout the week with two professional chefs
  • Welcome “Taste of Loire Valley” buffet and glass of Champagne
  • A chocolate and wine tasting
  • Dinner at a Michelin star restaurant
  • Daily breakfast and meals as outlined in the itinerary including 2 glasses of wine during meals
  • Transport for all excursions and activities in the itinerary
  • Personalised apron and recipe folder
  • Return transfers from Chatellerault train station after 2pm on arrival day and before 11am on departure day

Accommodation

Accommodation is either in Les Sorels or Les Loges Du Parc

Depending on availability, you will be staying in one of two 4 star hotels located just a few minutes walk from the cooking school (transfers are provided if needed)
The hotels are set in a tranquil hamlet with access to lovely cafes, historical buildings, a spa, and great rural walks
Each hotel offers single, twin or double ensuite rooms, with air conditioning, TV and WIFI
All bedrooms are fully air conditioned and have an ensuite bathroom with a shower
Both hotels have swimming pools for you to enjoy, along with delicious buffet breakfasts every morning
and have a bar and restaurant on site as well as lovely common areas inside and out.
Check in is after 2pm on day 1 and check out is by 11am on day 7
If you would like to stay for extra days in the accommodation or even add an additional day cooking class this can also be added, just let us know we’ll be happy to help

Set in the quaint hamlet of Fromenteau along the River Creuse, Les Sorels offers an enchanting escape in the heart of the French countryside.
Seamlessly blending its traditional charm with modern comforts, each room at Les Sorels provides pure linen, smart flat-screen TVs, an in-room coffee and tea station, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and turn-down service for ultimate relaxation. With a private terrace in every room, guests can immerse themselves in the peace and calm of the picturesque French country side.

There are hammocks nestled beneath beautiful trees, inviting guests to sway gently in the breeze amidst the fragrant lavender. Guests can also explore the surrounding countryside with ease, using Les Sorels bicycles and the provided walking and cycling map, carefully crafted to guide them along perfectly designed trails.

Les Loges du Parc is a delightful hotel nestled in the heart of La Roche Posay. With its elegant ‘Belle Epoque’ facade, surrounded by rose gardens and a thermal pool, it offers a unique retreat. Recently renovated with a chic country style and a touch of British flair, the hotel boasts spacious rooms and suites, each with its own distinct character inspired by nature.

The Art Nouveau charm of the exterior blends seamlessly with modern amenities, including a relaxing pool area for guests to enjoy. Inside, the ambiance exudes tranquility and authenticity, with solid wood floors and a cozy fireplace in the lobby. As part of the prestigious Châteaux & Hôtels Collection under the Alain Ducasse Group, Les Loges du Parc promises a comfortable and charming stay.

Your local host

Alison & Sidney

Join professional yet fun & friendly chefs Alison and Sidney, a dynamic kitchen duo who have cooked for the likes of Queen Elizabeth II & the royal family, Richard Attenborough, Mick Jagger, Madonna, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton (to just name a few), and can’t wait to show you their secrets and recipes while you’re their guest in their converted French farmhouse.

Their cookery school is located in a charming hamlet in the Loire Valley and when you’re not in the kitchen you will find it easy to relax and make the most of your time whether you’re walking by the river, people watching at the cafes, or booking yourself in for a spa treatment.

Your hosts also have bicycles on hand for you to get out and ex... Read All

Join professional yet fun & friendly chefs Alison and Sidney, a dynamic kitchen duo who have cooked for the likes of Queen Elizabeth II & the royal family, Richard Attenborough, Mick Jagger, Madonna, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton (to just name a few), and can’t wait to show you their secrets and recipes while you’re their guest in their converted French farmhouse.

Their cookery school is located in a charming hamlet in the Loire Valley and when you’re not in the kitchen you will find it easy to relax and make the most of your time whether you’re walking by the river, people watching at the cafes, or booking yourself in for a spa treatment.

Your hosts also have bicycles on hand for you to get out and explore the countryside, and perhaps work up an appetite for the amazing dinners you will be having every evening. Make sure to hit the pool in your free time and soak up some sun while you’re on holiday. You can even enjoy the local, laid back lifestyle and play boules in the village square.

Alison & Sidney image

Location

This French cookery school is located in a small French hamlet on the river Creuse in the stunning Loire Valley. The region is home to the European Renaissance which brought with it a rich and diverse culinary history and depth.

When you’re not cooking with your professional chefs, you’ll be enjoying some river walks, cycling or time out by the pool in your relaxing 4 star accommodation.

Nearest airports:
Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airports (1.5 hours by train to Châtellerault)

Tours Airport ( 45 mins by train to Chatellerault)

Transfers to and from Châtellerault train station on arrival and departure day are included.

 

What our travellers are saying...

We arrived a group of 12 people some of us where professional cooks, other amateur cooks in order to enjoy a culinary study abroad program, to learn about local h as habits, classic French cooking and more. We all heard about this venture but did not expect such an amazing experience led by two outstanding chefs Alison and Sydney Bond. We have experienced master classes, tours in a Truffels Farm, duck farm, fantastic local restaurant and much m

Michael

A week full of on the job learning from highly qualified experts who provided not only guidance on food preparation but multiple foundational tips for succeeding in the kitchen. Always of good humour, highly professional, gracious, and client focused. Very well thought out program with excursions to the famous Tours market and also Chenonceau chateau. Kitchen supply shopping in Paris, the food tour in Montmartre were outstanding.

Dorra

FAQs

Who is it suitable for?

- Suitable for all levels from beginner to advanced cooks
- Minimum age 18 (under 18s accepted if accompanied by an adult)
- All classes are taught in English
- Please note that although your hosts can cater to vegetarians, they unfortunately cannot accept vegans, celiac or lactose intolerant guests

Restricted mobility access

Please find below some information regarding the accommodation and location of the holiday which may be useful when deciding if this is the right holiday for you; should you have an further questions, please contact us and we will be happy to help
- We generally do not recommend this location for those with restricted mobility, as the hotels aren't equipped
- The holiday is based in a village with cobbled, uneven streets

Are meals included?

All meals are included on your holiday, as well as wine with dinner

Breakfast
- Breakfast is inclusive of freshly baked pastries, home-made confitures, local artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, muesli, cereals, yogurts, freshly squeezed juices, seasonal fruits, eggs to order, coffee and tea

Lunch and dinner
- Some meals may be in restaurants, such as a meal at a Michelin star restaurant during the week, however, when dining at the cooking school, the menu is adjusted according to season and the best available locally sourced products will only be used
- Please note that vegetarians will follow the normal cooking classes but your hosts ensure they are catered for at meal times
- This holiday isn’t the right match for vegans, celiac and lactose intolerant guests

What can I do in my free time?

- The countryside is a great place to get out an explore; whether you hit a cafe, people watch, or take a dip in the pool or river
- Feel free to borrow a bicycle, walk the riverside, or book yourself a treatment at the local spa

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