Rustic adventure in southern France at an ancient Templar Knight's fortress

Join us for a time travel to the 12th century at a Templar Knghts' fortress located inbetween Ardeche and Provence.

As you walk into the inner ward you are entering a different era. Leave nowadays' hectic and stress behind.

Back to the essence!

Experience the french Savoir-vivre and learn the preparation of the delicious substantial-regional cuisine with simple appliances and still with french finesse.

The fortress is located between Ardêche and the Cevennes in a beautiful hillside situation with a wonderful view to the south, all across the valley.

You are staying in substantial chambers, whereof 4 are equipped with a fireplace. In addition the fortress possesses a dining room,  a meditation chapel and a reading room. The kitchen is about 200 years old, with a large fireplace and a  historic cable winch for barbecue or broiling.

The inner ward displays an astonishing view to the south and appeals a comfortable get-together. In the secondary court yard is a blacksmithy as well as a fireplace. The rooms are partially equipped with electric light (solar), therefore we suggest to bring a flashlight. 2 showers and WC are located in the building.

In the nearby village you can find a bakershop and two bistros, only a short walking distance away.

Journey itenerary

Day 1: Bienvenue - Welcome to the south of France

Upon arrival enjoy a welcome aperitif in the inner ward before the allocation of chambers. After dining collectively let the day round out in the courtyard.

Day 2: Nature and culture

After a hefty breakfast take a ride to La-Roque-sur-Cèze. Visit the cascades of Sautadet, where the Cèze creates impressive rapids over limestone terraces. There you may take a refreshing bath in the Cèze in multiple small natural pools within the limestone scenery. Afterwards we will be hiking to the mountain village La Roque-sur-Cèze, which is not accessible by car. Then you can begin to detect the delectable French products while shopping at Bagnols-sur-Cèze. In the afternoon stop in Lussan. The midieval village is situated on top of a hill which offers astonishing views across the countryside. Back to the fortress your first cooking lesson in midieval ambience will begin. Launch out your culinary course with Hugues Darroman.

Day 3: Liquid gold

Following the visit of the market in a village nearby, hike to the romantic fortress' chapel. There you will be served a typical French picnic. In the afternoon degustation of good local wines at the old town Saint-Sauveur-de-Cruzières followed by a visit at one of the five remaining oil mills, also in town. In the evening Hugues Darroman will help improve your barbecue skills before you can let the day seize jointly, in the fortress' courtyard.

Day 4:  The flair of southern France

After breakfast drive to St. Ambroix. Experience the scents and colours of a typical market in southern France , and stroll through the lively trade. Then you decide what you would like to do. For instance have lunch at a fine bistro, take a walk around the city, or play Boule...

In the late afternoon the fresh products from the market will be prepared to create a menu typical for the southern part of France. You will again be shown the tricks and ruse from the repertoire of a professional.

Day 5: Adventurous

You should enjoy a rousing breakfast because today is activity day: either Canoe ride (under own supervision), Bath in the Ardêche or climb/ hike along the Ardêche. In the afternoon visit of one of the region's famous stalactite caves e.g. Aven d’Orgnac. Be enchanted by the colours, shapes, and sounds of the cavern.

Look forward to the comprehensive meal of the knightly kind to wind up your time travel.

Day 6: Au Revoir and Good bye

One last time enjoy the athmosphere during breakfast in the fortress' court; then unfortunately it is time to say goodbye and to return home or continue your journey, certainly with a lot of new impressions.  

(Changes to itenerary are subject to change )

Included: 

 * 5 Overnight stays in double-chamber incl. breakfast

 * 3x co-cooking with Hugues Darroman incl. all ingredients and beverages

 * 2x dinner incl. beverages

 * 1 picnic incl. beverages

 * All excursions according to itenerary (w/o admission fees)

Preise:

Low season (13. Sept. - 13. June)

€ 1.309,-  per person/ double room

€ 1.190,- per person/ shared room

Peak season (14. June - 12. Sept.)

€ 1.482,- per person/ double room

€ 1.392,- per person/ shared room

You are making own travel arrangements or you may join the crew in their Van, one day ahead. (Upon availability from Heidelberg 100 € per person)

Maximum capacity: 8 persons