At lunch time, we visit a wide range of tried and tested restaurants. Most of these are hidden away, and have slowly but surely been added to the repertoire. They range from farmhouses serving delicious home made charcuterie, to local seafood restaurants, to creperies, to smart modern establishments and, of course, workmens' cafes.
Roger has a great knowledge of food and wine gained during his long career as a food photographer, and speaks French fluently.
This is also a great opportunity to learn about the wines of the Pays de Loire. This area is often ignored in the UK, Australia and the USA, where Bordeaux and Burgundy rule. The Pays de Loire produces a huge range of glorious wines including Chinon, Sancerre, Pouilly Fumé, Vouvray, Reuilly, Menetou Salon, Bourgueil, Montlouis, Saumur Champigny and of course Muscadet.
We'll be making regular visits to local markets. Not only village markets, but also the great Halles of Niort and La Rochelle.
Apart from photography, the course offers a solid introduction to French food and wine.