The truffle market in Lalbenque, the largest in Southwest France hardly needs introducing: it's a veritable ceremony to which the initiated flock to buy the "Black Diamond" at the price of gold. The Official opening of the truffle market in Lalbenque is 15th December 2006. Market days take place every Tuesday until Mid-March 2007.

Day 1: Arrive in Toulouse

Meet in Toulouse, transfer to the Quercy and check in at your hotel. Welcome cocktail with the Director and the chef de cuisine. Gourmet dinner where you will discover a range of typical dishes. Overnight in the chateau. (D,O)

Day 2: Foie Gras cooking lesson

After breakfast Guy Herault, the chef cuisenaire, welcomes you into his kitchen for a hand-on session all about the preparation and service of foie gras. At lunch time you will eat the fruit of your own labors (wine included). In the afternoon a visit to the foie gras farm museum in nearby Frespech. In the evening, before dinner, a visiting oenologist will reveal the particularities of the Cahors wines in a wine-tasting session. Dinner and overnight in chateau. (B,D,O)

Day 3: Truffle market in Lalbenque

Today is dedicated to the "Black Diamond" the truffle of the Quercy. Arrive in Lalbenque the Truffle capital and experience an initiation of "cavage" that will show the technique of finding the truffles with a dog or a pig. You will have lunch in a traditional restaurant and in the afternoon stroll through the truffle market of Lalbenque, one of the most important in France. Dinner and overnight in chateau. (B,L,D,O)

Day 4: Toulouse

Breakfast. Transfer to Toulouse. End of Tour. (B)

B=Breakfast; D=Dinner; O=Overnight                                        fitsac8