Cooking classes: 6 hotels where you can get your hands dirty

What if your next getaway combined relaxation and culinary passion? Some Gault&Millau-referenced hotels offer cooking classes orchestrated by their talented chefs. These experiences, often immersive, allow epicureans to discover the secrets of fine dining while getting their hands dirty. From the vegetable garden to the plate, via cooking on an old-fashioned wood-burning stove, each workshop is an invitation to rediscover the art of cooking with exceptional local produce.

Whether in rustic or luxurious settings, these hotels offer much more than just a stay: they are a veritable gourmet immersion. Here's a selection of addresses where cooking becomes an unforgettable experience, between the transmission of know-how and moments of sharing with passionate chefs.

Lunch in the kitchen garden with Simone Zanoni at the Four Seasons George V, Paris

Immerse yourself in an exclusive culinary experience with Simone Zanoni, chef at Le George restaurant (2 toques). Depart from the prestigious Four Seasons George V in Paris for the Domaine de Madame Élisabeth in Versailles, where you'll discover the chef's eco-responsible kitchen garden. On 1800 m² of sustainable cultivation, harvest seasonal fruits and vegetables before sublimating them in an open-air kitchen, equipped with a pizza oven and barbecue. Prepare simple, tasty dishes such as homemade taglioni or a burrata tomato salad, and share this country-style meal in a convivial atmosphere. Extend the experience with a food and wine pairing, guided by sommelier Francesco Cosci, or opt for a lantern-lit dinner under the stars. An unforgettable getaway, ideal from mid-June to mid-September.

• Where to find us Four Seasons George V, 31 avenue George V, 75008 Paris
• www.fourseasons.com

Wood-fired cooking and pastry classes at La Mirande, Avignon

In the majestic surroundings of the Hotel La Mirande in Avignon, where chef Florent Pietravalle (4 toques) officiates, cooking and pastry classes invite you to immerse yourself in the culinary art of Provence. In the hotel's old kitchen, equipped with a wood-burning stove dating back to 1860, some of the region's top chefs share their know-how, from traditional recipes to pastry creations. There's something for young and old alike: adults can perfect their culinary techniques, while children aged 7 and over can discover patisserie through playful workshops. An authentic, immersive experience, where the love of the terroir and local produce is at the heart of every plate.

• Where? La Mirande, 4 place de l'Amirande, 84000 Avignon, France
• www.la-mirande.fr

Excellence in an enchanting setting at Château de Berne, Flayosc

In the elegant, authentic atmosphere of the Château de Berne, a 5-star hotel in Provence, the École de cuisine invites you to discover the secrets of chef Louis Rameau (3 Gault&Millau toques). Every Thursday at 10 a.m., immerse yourself in the timeless charm of an old-fashioned kitchen, with its glazed tiles, gleaming copper and waxed wood. Prepare a menu inspired by seasonal produce from the estate's kitchen garden, in an atmosphere where excellence and pleasure blend harmoniously. After the class, savor your creations accompanied by the estate's prestigious wines, for a complete gastronomic experience.

• Where to find us Château de Berne, Chemin des Imberts, 83780 Flayosc
• www.chateauberne.com

Detox or vegetarian cuisine at Prés d'Eugénie, Eugénie-les-Bains

In the large greenhouse nestled among the bamboo trees of the Prés d'Eugénie park, discover a cooking school where amateurs and enthusiasts alike can perfect their talents. Several formats are offered: 4-day courses including 14 hours of instruction, themed half-days with the creation of three dishes followed by a tasting lunch, or 1h30 workshops focusing on a particular product such as lobster or seasonal vegetables. Families are also catered for, with pastry-making classes for adults and children. Each participant has his or her own workstation in a modern, friendly laboratory, conducive to learning. With a variety of themes, from detox cooking to vegetarian menus, lessons combine education and pleasure for a memorable culinary experience. A stay in the region is also an opportunity to discover the cuisine of Les Prés d'Eugénie, rated 5 toques by Gault&Millau.

• Where to eat? Les Prés d'Eugénie, Place de l'Impératrice, 40320 Eugénie-les-Bains
• www.lespresdeugenie.com

Themed courses at La Côte Saint-Jacques, Joigny

At Jean-Michel Lorain's 5-star hotel and 4-toque Gault&Millau restaurant, La Côte Saint-Jacques, immerse yourself in the world of gastronomy with our "Découverte" cooking classes. Held one Monday afternoon a month (except in summer), these workshops introduce you to the secrets of great chefs in a friendly atmosphere. After a welcome coffee, don your apron and discover the recipes to be prepared under the attentive guidance of the brigade. As a real kitchen team, prepare refined dishes, then taste your creations in mini-portions, accompanied by wines commented by a sommelier. Each participant takes home a recipe book as a souvenir. Courses vary according to monthly themes, including a special foie gras course. A unique experience combining learning and pleasure in a prestigious setting.

• Where to find us La Côte Saint-Jacques, 14 Faubourg de Paris, 89300 Joigny
• www.cotesaintjacques.com

Classes in an intimate setting at Château de Boisgelin, Pléhédel

At Château de Boisgelin, a 3-star hotel in Brittany, immerse yourself in the culinary world of Mathieu Kergourlay, chef of the 2-toque Gault&Millau restaurant. These intimate classes, limited to six participants, invite you to discover the secrets of gastronomy in a convivial atmosphere. Start the morning with a welcome coffee and pastries in the company of the chef, before taking part in the elaboration of a refined menu. Guided by Mathieu Kergourlay, learn technical gestures, tips and fascinating anecdotes, then enjoy your creations around a convivial table with aperitif, wine and drinks included.

• Where? Château de Boisgelin, Domaine de Boisgelin, 22290 Pléhédel, France
• www.mathieu-kergourlay.com