There are some foods which epitomise the essence of gastronomic greatness – truffles are one of them. And good wine is another.
The legendary “black diamonds” of Provence are revered as much top chefs as by local families. They’re added to artistic dishes by master chefs around the world and by keen cooks to enhance the taste of everything from olive oil to scrambled eggs.
The great French 20th century food writer Curnonsky, when asked how he liked his truffles replied “in great quantity Madame. In great quantity.”
These earthy, mysterious and savour delicacies can be found underground in several parts of Provence. And seeking them out is a special experience that you’ll always remember.
Truffle hunting in Provence
Unique, exclusive and utterly memorable, truffle hunting takes place in winter when the truffles can be found at their best in Provence. Your Private Provence’s unique Truffle and wine tours takes place in February. The weather in the Luberon, Provence is usually mild and dry and often warm enough to dine outdoors wearing a jumper.
Take a small group truffle tour of Provence and wine and dine like royalty. Indulge in truffle theme Gourmet dinners paired with fine wines and the finest food imaginable. Hunt for your own truffles, enjoy lunch with a professional truffle hunter and highly trained dogs in the hills of the Luberon and experience a famous truffle market. There’s nothing to beat the taste of fresh truffle in good company.
Visit the most beautiful medieval villages. Out of season, without the crowds and the cobbled streets lit by the wintry sun, they are truly magical. Enjoy a cookery lesson as well as a delicious oyster brunch, tour Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and lovely Cassis on the Mediterranean coast.
You’ll be based in a luxury hotel in Avignon, close to the monumental Pope’s Palace for part of the tour before moving to an elegant B&B at the foot of Mont Ventoux. And you’ll end your tour in fabulous Aix-en-Provence with a stay in a luxury boutique hotel. Emily Durand, your host and guide will organise everything including transport. Just sit back and enjoy the scenery, the exquisite wines and the delicious food.
Highlights of the Truffle & Wine Tour
To compliment your truffles, you’ll visit some of the best vineyards in Rhone Valley including top Chateauneuf du Pape estates. At this time of the year, you’ll be able to enjoy the wine and the area in tranquillity without the tourist crowds. You’ll enjoy VIP wine tastings and have lunch at a local wine maker’s house – he’s a superb chef too!
You’ll visit the famous Richerenches truffle market to see the professional sellers and buyers in action. It’s known as the Truffle capital of the world and is the biggest truffle market in France. Here you can shop for truffle everything – honey, olive oil, butter, cheese, even truffle escargots – what could be more French? And for a lasting memory, they even sell truffle trees you can take home. Though you will have to wait several years until your own truffles grow. Take a tour of this medieval village, once a Knights Templar command post, and discover Its pretty cobbled streets There’s even a truffle and wine museum.
At the end of your 7-day truffle tour, you’ll have immersed your yourself in the gastronomic and cultural heritage of Provence. And, you’ll get to know the Provence of the locals.
Details of the Truffle and Wine Tour here: YourPrivateProvence
