A Christmas Season in France

08:30 - Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

9:00 - Discover some of our cherished Family Christmas favourites, brimming with warmth and comfort, alongside a selection of side dishes.

13:00 - For lunch, enjoy the dishes of your morning's cookery session.

14:00 - Prepare to create one of Le Calabash's most beloved dishes:

• Beef Wellington with a Light Truffle Jus
• Truffle Infused Potatoes
• Medley of Seasonal Side Vegetables

19:00 - As the day draws to a close, enjoy dinner amidst the festive ambiance and holiday cheer.

08:30 - Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

9:00 - Learn the art of creating a stunning 'Buche de Noel,' adorned with shards of chocolate. This exquisite dessert is a true showstopper and a wonderful way to end your Christmas dinner.

Chocolate and Caramel Buche de Noel

Did you know? The traditional dessert served near Christmas in France, named Bûche de Noël, originally referred to the Yule log itself, and was transferred to the dessert only after this custom had fallen out of use, presumably during the first half of the 20th century.

13:00 - Enjoy a French Lunch

14:00 - Begin on your salmon journey as you learn the art of smoking, curing, and baking salmon fit for a festive table.

• Salmon en Croute
• Hot Smoked Salmon
• Festive Cured Salmon

17:30 - Enjoy some leisure time until dinner.

19:00 - As the day draws to a close, enjoy dinner amidst the festive ambiance and holiday cheer.

08:00 - Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

08:30 - Depart for Tours

• We begin our day by visiting Tours' finest bakery to handpick our breakfast pastries, which we'll savor in a cozy market coffee shop. As we enjoy in our morning treats, we embrace the festive spirit that permeates the air.
• Our morning unfolds with a journey through the bustling Les Halles Food Market, where the vibrant colors and enticing scents of seasonal delights captivate our senses. Here, amidst the festive atmosphere, we explore both the indoor market and the bustling outdoor stalls, experiencing the bustling atmosphere and flavors of the region during the festive season.
• After our market adventure, we meander through the historic streets of the old town, where centuries of Christmas traditions blend seamlessly with the rich tapestry of history. Along the way, we discover the enchanting sights of the Romanesque Basilica, the Cloitre de St-Martin, and the magnificent Basilique de St-Martin, each infused with the magic of the season.
• At Christmas Tours comes alive with Christmas trees lighting up the area and streets adorned with festive decorations. As we stroll through the charming cobblestone lanes we're transported into a world of holiday cheer and timeless beauty, making memories to cherish for years to come.

13:00 - For lunch enjoy a traditional French lunch at le Calabash, tasting the flavours of the region during the festive season.

14:00 - Step into the world of desserts and chocolate, as we share the secrets of creating festive entremets and charming edible gifts, perfect for spreading holiday cheer.

• Dark and White Chocolate Delice with Spiced Pear and Speculoos
• Chocolate Christmas Bon Bons
• Caramels selections

19:00 - Join the Bonds as they welcome you to a Le Calabash-inspired festive table, where the spirit of Christmas infuses every dish with warmth and joy.

08:30 - Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

9:00 - Learn how to create a contemporary Gingerbread House, an ideal gift for friends and family. Fill it with the chocolate bon bons and caramels that you have mastered during your culinary adventure.

12:00 - Enjoy a French Lunch

13:00 - Venture to Chateau Chenonceau to experience the festive aura of this historical marvel. As you step into its grandeur, be prepared to be transported to a winter wonderland adorned with the magic of the season. Imagine the scene: Chenonceau Chateau, its turrets and towers dusted with a delicate layer of snow, creating a stunning backdrop for your holiday adventure.

• Enjoy the early afternoon at your leisure, exploring the enchanting Chenonceau Chateau. Steeped in history and adorned with magnificent decor, Chenonceau holds a special place in the annals of time. Built in 1513 by Katherine Briçonnet and further embellished by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici, it is a testament to the resilience and influence of women throughout history.
• Protected through the ages, Chenonceau stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of its former residents. As you wander through its halls and gardens, you'll feel the echoes of centuries past mingling with the festive spirit of the present.

19:00 - Tonight, we dine in the town of Amboise.

Amboise streets host an array of quaint shops and restaurants with in its beautiful town where the royal Château that once confiscated by the monarchy and extensively rebuilt, this historic gem served as a favoured royal residence including the chapel where Leonardo de Vinci rests.

08:00 - Start your day with a traditional French breakfast.

09:00 - Enjoy the process of learning and creating a trio of festive Macarons, each bursting with seasonal flavours:

• Praline
• Caramel Beurre Salé
• Chocoholic

Channel your inner pastry chef as you create these delectable treats, perfect for gifting your loved ones during the holiday season.

12:00 - Enjoy a French Lunch

13:00 - Bid farewell to the charming ambiance of Le Calabash as we journey onward to the merry streets of Paris. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and settle into your cosy room, where comfort and relaxation await.

19:00 - Adventure to one of Alison and Sidney’s favourite restaurants in Paris, Le Train Bleu.

Step into a world of elegance and tradition as you dine amidst the opulent surroundings of this iconic establishment. Let the festive atmosphere enhance the exquisite cuisine with a touch of holiday magic.

8:30 - Enjoy a traditional French breakfast, setting the stage for a festive exploration of Paris.

• Today we explore Rue Montmartre, a haven for Paris's kitchen and chef shops, where you can procure small pastry and kitchen equipment to better your holiday cooking experience back home on Christmas Day.
• Lunch at Au Pied de Cochon, in the Les Halles area, an esteemed Parisian institution renowned for its culinary excellence. Settle into its charming ambiance, reminiscent of traditional Parisian brasseries, and savour flavourful meal.
• This afternoon, enjoy the festive spirit at one of Paris's magical Christmas markets. Wander through quaint chalets adorned with artisanal Christmas gifts and decorations, soaking in the joyful atmosphere. Delight in street food and sip on a glass of Mulled Wine as you take in the sights and sounds of the season.
• Enjoy dinner at your leisure tonight or join Alison and Sidney at one of their favourite places to dine during the festive season, at your own expense.
• End your festive evening with a scenic drive down the Champs D’Elysee, adorned with dazzling holiday lights. Marvel at the majestic Arc de Triomphe before continuing to the iconic Eiffel Tower, aglow with its golden covering. Here, raise a glass of Champagne and await its unique sparkle, a mesmerising display that illuminates the City of Lights every hour on the hour.

8:30 - Enjoy a traditional French breakfast, setting the stage for a festive exploration of Paris.

• After breakfast, we depart to Galeries Lafayette, where you'll be captivated by the mesmerizing decorations and captivating window displays.
• Since 1976, Galeries Lafayette in Paris has been a beacon of holiday magic, dazzling shoppers with its captivating Christmas decorations and the iconic giant Christmas Tree beneath the magnificent neo-Byzantine glass dome. Each year, the tree boasts a different theme, drawing people to Galeries just to see its latest enchanting design. Marvel at the festive splendor as you explore the food halls, a gastronomic paradise offering a tantalizing array of delights. Enjoy some leisure time for last-minute Christmas shopping, immersing yourself in the festive spirit of the season.
• Lunch is at your leisure, offering you the opportunity to experience a Parisian lunch on your own.
• This afternoon, we invite you to uncover the hidden gems of Paris as we explore its secret shopping streets and charming boutique shops. Wander through the chic and intellectual neighbourhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to French literary legends, quaint cafes, and stylish boutiques. Here, you'll have the freedom to shop and explore at your leisure, soaking in the charm and elegance of this beautiful Parisian quarter.
• Le Paradis Latin is the destination tonight, where we bid farewell in the most enchanting style. Step into a world of Christmas magic as we embark on a magical dinner featuring Champagne and a show at the oldest of Parisian cabarets. Experience an unforgettable evening of glamour and poetry amidst the festive ambiance of Le Paradis Latin. Joy in the light-hearted and burlesque spirit of this iconic venue, where modernity meets tradition in a spectacular display of entertainment. Celebrate the spirit of the season in grand style, creating cherished memories to carry with you long after the night has ended.

Enjoy a traditional French breakfast before bidding farewell to Paris carrying with you the warmth of Christmas cheer and treasured memories.