Truffle hunting and cooking, gourmet food winter trip in the Lot Valley, France.

Enjoy gourmet food, fine wines, convivial company, accommodation for up to eight people in a converted barn in Ambeyrac, South – West France and an exclusive truffle hunting excursion. This illusive ‘black gold’ can only be found between early Dec and early Feb – so book now to experience this historical pastime first hand before the season closes.

Staying in the grounds of the wonderful Maison Dyson, a beautifully restored 19th century French villa, guests arrive on Friday to a welcoming evening meal and will meet fellow guests.

On Saturday morning you will be taken to Villefranche de Rouergue where there is a wonderful truly French market. After lunch back at Maison Dyson guests will join Mike and Nicci and their Dalmatians for an afternoon hunting truffles in the surrounding woodlands - the exact whereabouts is a closely guarded secret - even your host Anne will not be allowed to accompany the guests! Return to Maison Dyson where the evening meal awaits.

Sunday morning you will be taken to the Truffle market at Limogne where you can take in the action as well as buy truffles if you so wish. After lunch at Maison Dyson you will enjoy an afternoon cooking in the professional kitchen with the truffles they have found on Thursday. Amongst other delights you will make a truffled foie gras pate – which you will also be able to take home with you.

Monday is a free day to laze in front of the log fire, go for a walk, visit one of the many medieval towns and villages in the area etc.

Tuesday you are welcome to leave either in the morning or later in the afternoon depending on travel arrangements.

This is a four night winter break packed full of interesting things to do with the added delights of excellent food and accommodation.

Choose from three different accommodation packages – The barn for 600Euros. The classic rooms for 650Euros or the private apartment for 700 Euros

This 600 Euro package includes:

Four night stay in a classic converted barn. With four small double bedrooms, one with a double bed and the others with twin beds (can be pushed together to create a king size double). There are two bedrooms on the ground floor and two on the first, two shower rooms, two sitting areas, a dining area and kitchen. So there is plenty of space for a confortable and relaxing stay.

All meals with wine and coffee and a jar of your own home made truffle pate.

Described excursions including the truffle hunting trip and transport to Villefranche de Rouergue and Limogne.

Please note: Transfers to Maison Dyson are not included

There is a 20% discount applicable pp where two people are sharing a room.

Host and cookery school teacher Anne Dyson has spent thirty years cooking for friends, family and business dignitaries. A master educator she began Greedy Goose cooking holidays to pass on her skills and love of food whilst sharing her gorgeous French villa.

Anna has authored several cookery books including: Greedy Goose Entertains and Greedy Goose Cooks with Children.