• Link to X
  • Link to Facebook
  • Link to Mail
  • Link to Youtube
Regional cookery courses and demonstrations in the Dordogne
Cookery course dordogne
  • Home
  • About
  • Cookery Courses
    • One Day Regional Cookery Course
    • Half Day Regional Cookery Course
    • Cookery Demonstrations
    • Events
  • Timetable & Tariffs
  • Stay
  • News
  • Contact
  • Book Online
  • Menu Menu

Why the Best Souvenir from France Isn’t Something You Can Pack

July 31, 2026/in News & Info

Best souvenir from France?

When people think about bringing home a souvenir from France, they often imagine bottles of wine, artisan cheeses or beautiful pottery.

They’re wonderful reminders of a holiday.

But the best souvenir is something you can’t fit into a suitcase.

It’s confidence.

At CookDordogne we regularly welcome guests who tell us, “I’m hopeless in the kitchen.”

By the end of the day they’re making silky sauces, cooking duck breast perfectly, preparing foie gras with confidence and discovering that French cooking isn’t complicated—it simply respects wonderful ingredients.

The Dordogne is one of Europe’s greatest food regions. Black truffles, walnuts, strawberries, duck, goose, mushrooms, tomatoes bursting with flavour and cheeses produced by families who have perfected their craft over generations.

Learning to cook here isn’t simply following a recipe.

It’s understanding why French food tastes so good.

We talk about seasonal produce, prepare a leisurely lunch together and, perhaps most importantly, guests sit around the table sharing food, wine and stories.

Long after the wine has been drunk and the cheese has disappeared, our guests tell us they’re still cooking the dishes at home.

That’s the best souvenir of all.

A little piece of the Dordogne that becomes part of everyday life.

https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/TheDordogne-82.jpg 731 1024 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2026-07-31 10:48:072026-07-31 10:50:36Why the Best Souvenir from France Isn’t Something You Can Pack

One Week Food & Wine experience in Sarlat, France

July 13, 2026/in Food & Wine Experiences, News & Info



The Ultimate Food & Wine experience, a Signature Collaboration Between CookDordogne & Les Cordeliers

Immerse yourself in the flavours, traditions, and craftsmanship that define French gastronomy with this exclusive week‑long Food & Wine Experience in the heart of the Dordogne. Created in partnership by CookDordogne and Les Cordeliers, this programme blends hands‑on culinary instruction with expert wine education, offering an unforgettable journey through one of France’s most celebrated food regions.

Seven Days of Culinary Discovery

Each morning begins in the kitchen at CookDordogne, where you’ll prepare classic and contemporary French dishes using seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets and artisan producers. Guided by Ian and Sara Fisk—founders of CookDordogne and inspiration for Martin Walker’s Bruno cookery school—you’ll learn essential French techniques while exploring the iconic flavours of southwest France: duck, foie gras, trout, caviar, walnuts, ceps, strawberries, cheeses, and more.

Market visits in Sarlat bring you into the rhythm of local life, offering the chance to meet producers, taste regional specialties, and gather ingredients for your daily menus.

Afternoons of Wine Education

In the afternoons, the experience continues at Les Cordeliers, an award‑winning boutique hotel owned by Stephen White and Susan Buchahan. Guests stay in elegant, beautifully appointed rooms in the centre of Sarlat, with one of France’s best‑preserved medieval towns just outside the door.

Stephen—drawing on 25 years of wine industry expertise—leads daily tastings, pairing sessions, and interactive workshops. You’ll explore the major French wine regions, grape varieties, terroir, and the principles of food and wine harmony. Tastings include exceptional bottles from Bordeaux, Bergerac, Cahors, Burgundy, Champagne, the Rhône Valley, the Loire, and local gems from the Dordogne.

A Programme for Food Lovers, Wine Enthusiasts & Curious Travellers

No previous experience is required—only a passion for great food, fine wine, and French culture. This week is designed to be enriching, enjoyable, and deeply immersive, offering:

  • Daily hands‑on cooking classes
  • Professional wine education and guided tastings
  • Market visits and producer encounters
  • Seasonal lunches and dinners showcasing Dordogne cuisine
  • Luxury accommodation in the centre of Sarlat
  • A warm, welcoming atmosphere created by two long‑established local businesses

A Partnership Rooted in Excellence

This collaboration brings together two respected names in the region:

  • CookDordogne, founded in 2012 and recognised with top TripAdvisor awards
  • Les Cordeliers, a luxury boutique hotel since 2003 known for its hospitality and charm

Together, they offer a unique, expertly curated experience celebrating the extraordinary bounty of the Dordogne—considered by many to be the culinary capital of France.

 

Programme Dates for 2027

  • 19th–25th July 2027
  • 23rd–29th August 2027

 

Leave With Skills, Knowledge & Lifelong Memories

By the end of the week, you’ll take home new culinary confidence, a deeper understanding of French wine, and unforgettable memories shared with fellow food and wine enthusiasts.

Price:

  • 5,900 € per person (based on two‑guest accommodation)
  • 6,500 € per person (based on single‑guest accommodation)

Reservation:

Contact:

  • Ian & Sara at CookDordogne on info@lechevrefeuille.com
  • Stephen & Susan at Les Cordeliers at info@lescordeliers-sarlat.com

to reserve your places.

https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/chateau-feely.jpg 480 640 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2026-07-13 19:09:312026-07-14 11:11:25One Week Food & Wine experience in Sarlat, France

The Bruno Périgord Experience Returns in 2027

July 4, 2026/in Food & Wine Experiences, News & Info

 

Following the outstanding success of our sold-out 2026 event, we are delighted to announce that the Bruno Périgord Experience will return in 2027.

Created in collaboration with bestselling author Martin Walker, this unique three-day gastronomic experience brings the world of Bruno, Chief of Police to life in the heart of the beautiful Périgord Noir.

Over three unforgettable days, guests will immerse themselves in the food, wine, traditions and landscapes that have inspired Martin’s much-loved novels. From hands-on regional cookery with Chef Ian to visits to local producers, wine tastings and memorable conversations with Martin himself, this is an experience that celebrates everything that makes the Dordogne so special.

The inaugural event in 2026 exceeded all expectations, receiving wonderful feedback from guests who enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, exceptional food, fascinating stories and the opportunity to discover the real Périgord through the eyes of Bruno.

The 2027 programme will once again include:

  • Three nights’ accommodation at the award-winning Le Chèvrefeuille.
  • Full board with regional cuisine prepared by Chef Ian.
  • A hands-on CookDordogne regional cookery experience.
  • Visits to carefully selected local artisan producers.
  • Wine tasting and gastronomic experiences.
  • Exclusive time with Martin Walker, sharing the inspiration behind the Bruno novels and his love of the Périgord.

As places are limited to ensure an intimate and personal experience, we expect this event to sell out quickly once bookings open.

If you would like to be among the first to receive dates, pricing and booking information for the 2027 Bruno Périgord Experience, please contact us or follow our social media channels for updates.

We look forward to welcoming both returning guests and newcomers for another unforgettable celebration of gastronomy, friendship and the unique spirit of the Périgord.

https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_1761-scaled.jpeg 2560 1920 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2026-07-04 13:08:272026-07-14 09:49:02The Bruno Périgord Experience Returns in 2027

Truffle Festival in Sarlat SW France

February 11, 2026/in News & Info
Read more
https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/truffe-weeken.jpg 792 960 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2026-02-11 11:10:452026-02-11 11:10:54Truffle Festival in Sarlat SW France

Where to Stay in the Dordogne – Holiday Accommodation in South West France

February 9, 2026/in News & Info
Read more
https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Dordogne-4.jpg 1434 1024 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2026-02-09 14:13:432026-02-09 14:34:01Where to Stay in the Dordogne – Holiday Accommodation in South West France

Very special 3-day gastronomic experience

January 15, 2026/in Food & Wine Experiences, News & Info

18th May to 21st May 2026

We are delighted to invite you to a very special 3-day gastronomic experience at our cookery school in the beautiful Dordogne – a celebration of regional food, wine, and French art de vivre.

Designed to be small, personal, and immersive, this event is limited to just eight guests, allowing plenty of hands-on cooking, relaxed conversation, and time to savour every moment.

What’s included in this unforgettable very special 3-day gastronomic experience experience:

  • Full board with meals prepared by Chef Ian
  • Three nights accommodation at the property in Le Chevrefeuilles lovely cottages
  •  A full day of regional cookery at Cook Dordogne with Chef Ian. Discover the classic flavours of the Dordogne as you cook, learn, and enjoy a delicious meal together using the very best local ingredients.
  •  A visit to a vibrant local market. Stroll through one of the region’s much-loved markets, meeting producers and selecting seasonal ingredients that define Dordogne cuisine.
  • Visit to local artisan producer. Go behind the scenes with passionate producers of foie gras, black truffles, walnuts, and other iconic Dordogne specialities, learning about their craft and traditions.
  • Lunch at a good local restaurant
  • An afternoon wine tasting at Le Chèvrefeuille. Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring beautiful wines in an elegant setting, perfectly paired with local gastronomy.

This is more than a cookery course – it’s a chance to slow down, indulge your senses, and experience the Dordogne as insiders, in wonderful company.

The price is all inclusive at:

  • 1,500€ per person (single rate based on accommodation in a two bedroom cottage, private bedroom with shared bathroom)
  • 1,250 per person as part of a couple (based on private accommodation with private bathroom)

Places are extremely limited, and we expect this event to fill quickly. If you’d like to join us or would like further details, we’d be delighted to hear from you.

We very much hope you can join us for this intimate and delicious very special 3-day gastronomic experience

The Cook Dordogne Team

https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/TheDordogne-25.jpg 1434 1024 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2026-01-15 11:27:082026-07-14 09:38:32Very special 3-day gastronomic experience

Three-day immersive event inspired by Martin Walker’s Bruno, Chief of Police series — blending gastronomy, storytelling from the author himself, and the charm of the Perigord Noir

October 28, 2025/in News & Info

NOW FULLY BOOKED. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR SIMILAR UPCOMING EVENTS

Ian, chef at cookdordogne is excited to announce an exclusive event from 20th to 23rd April 2026 with collaboration with Martin Walker, the brillant author of the Bruno chief of police series. Our relationship with Martin has been ongoing since his kind acknowledgement of our work in his 2018 novel “The Taste of Vengeance”. Since then, Martin has been an amazing champion of our passion for the products and ingredients of the region as he is for all things of the Perigord. He has kindly agreed to join us on this amazing 3 day Perigord adventure..

Bruno’s Périgord Experience: 20TH APRIL TO 23RD APRIL 2026

Location: Le Chèvrefeuille, Dordogne, France
Duration: 3 Days / 3 Nights
Includes: Full board, accommodation, wine tasting, cooking class, author events

Day 1: Arrival & Welcome to Le Chèvrefeuille

  • Afternoon Check-In: Settle into your charming countryside accommodation
  • Welcome Apéritif & Dinner: Enjoy a rustic meal inspired by Bruno’s favorite dishes — think duck confit, cabecou and walnut salad, and tarte Tatin

Day 2: Literary Immersion & Wine Discovery

  • Morning: Guided walking tour of St. Denis (fictional), exploring real-life inspirations behind the novels guided by the author Martin Walker himself
    • Lunch  with Martin Walker: A gourmet lunch with storytelling and regional specialties
  • Afternoon:
    • Author Encounter: Book reading and Q&A with Martin Walker
    • Book Signing Session
  • Evening:
    • Wine Tasting: Curated selection from Bergerac and Pécharmant vineyards with Dordogne Wine Tours
    • Dinner: A convivial evening with a light meal of  regional specialties with pairing wines chosen by Vincent of Dordogne wine tours

Day 3: Bruno’s Kitchen & Farewell

  • All day Cooking Class with cookdordogne and Chef Ian: Hands-on workshop featuring recipes from the books. Enjoy the fruits of your labour with fellow guests throughout the day
  • Evening Farewell Dinner: A celebratory light supper with local cheese, charcuterie, and wines over shared memories

Accommodation & Inclusions

  • 3 Nights Lodging: At the award winning Le Chèvrefeuille accommodation
  • Full Board: All meals included, with wine pairings prepared by Chef Ian
  • All Activities: Tours, tastings, cooking class, and author events

Price

  • 1410€ for a single person based on two sharing a two bedroom accommodation
  •  1250€ per person when reserving as part of a couple.
 

 

https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MixCollage-27-Oct-2025-06-44-PM-8584-scaled.jpg 1280 2560 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2025-10-28 21:10:412026-01-15 10:39:20Three-day immersive event inspired by Martin Walker’s Bruno, Chief of Police series — blending gastronomy, storytelling from the author himself, and the charm of the Perigord Noir

Wines of Bergerac, a hidden gem of Southwest France

March 26, 2025/in News & Info
Read more
https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/le-chevrefeuille-cookery-course-prices.jpg 1155 1732 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2025-03-26 10:05:562025-03-26 13:37:28Wines of Bergerac, a hidden gem of Southwest France

Menus for 2023

December 12, 2022/in News & Info

Check out the delicious regional menu set for 2023 for our cookery courses

Read more
https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Menu-Graphic-for-web10241024_1-1.jpg 827 583 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2022-12-12 11:08:252022-12-12 13:08:43Menus for 2023

Menu 2022

September 28, 2021/in News & Info

Latest menu applicable to the courses offered by CookDordogne

Menu one day 2022

Menu half day 2022

https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Menu-Graphic-for-web10241024_1-1.jpg 827 583 sara https://www.cookerycoursedordogne.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CookDordogne-at-Le-Chevrefeuille-e1517758184272.jpg sara2021-09-28 16:00:512021-10-02 11:29:29Menu 2022
Page 1 of 3123

Follow us on Facebook

Interesting Posts

  • Why the Best Souvenir from France Isn’t Something You Can PackJuly 31, 2026 - 10:48 am
  • One Week Food & Wine experience in Sarlat, FranceJuly 13, 2026 - 7:09 pm
  • The Bruno Périgord Experience Returns in 2027July 4, 2026 - 1:08 pm
  • Truffle Festival in Sarlat SW FranceFebruary 11, 2026 - 11:10 am
  • Where to Stay in the Dordogne – Holiday Accommodation in South West FranceFebruary 9, 2026 - 2:13 pm
  • Very special 3-day gastronomic experienceJanuary 15, 2026 - 11:27 am
  • Three-day immersive event inspired by Martin Walker’s Bruno, Chief of Police series — blending gastronomy, storytelling from the author himself, and the charm of the Perigord NoirOctober 28, 2025 - 9:10 pm
  • Wines of Bergerac, a hidden gem of Southwest FranceMarch 26, 2025 - 10:05 am
  • Menus for 2023December 12, 2022 - 11:08 am
  • Menu 2022September 28, 2021 - 4:00 pm
  • TripAdvisor

© Cookery Course Dordogne - Designed by Dordogne Design
  • Link to X
  • Link to Facebook
  • Link to Mail
  • Link to Youtube
Scroll to top Scroll to top Scroll to top
7ads6x98y