Inspiration

5 UNMISSABLE FOOD AND DRINK ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS

Designed to inspire your programme development, these five must-do food and drink activities highlight the key experiences. Easy to integrate into your itineraries, they add value to your stays and respond to your clients’ expectations in the food and drink sector.

©Repas à l'Espace du Sixième Sens / Les conteurs / Dordogne Périgord Tourisme

Table of contents

1. NOUVELLE AQUITAINE’S MARKETS;
THE BEATING HEART OF THE REGION’S FOOD AND DRINK SCENE

The markets in Nouvelle-Aquitaine are real social hubs that set your senses on fire. Duck markets in Brive-laGaillarde, truffle fairs in Sarlat, Bayonne ham and Espelette pepper festivals: every season has its own flavours and festivities. The Blaye asparagus is the star of spring whilst summer is all about Haut Poitou melons. Autumn sees Laruns celebrate cheese and Bayonne celebrate chocolate before the heady scent of truffle descends on the market in winter. The Tourist Offices can point your clients towards classic markets to taste, chat and be part of the action no matter the season.

2. STEP INSIDE MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS FOR
A FINE DINING EXPERIENCE YOU’LL NEVER FORGET

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a beacon of French gastronomy with over 50 Michelinstarred restaurants. The region takes visitors on a real gourmet adventure: from Bordeaux’s culinary creativity to lovingly-made dishes in the Périgord and Basque Country. Tradition meets innovation to take premium produce to another level: Aquitaine caviar, Arcachon Bay and Marennes-Oléron oysters, Landes poultry, Limousin beef and so much more. Most of the best chefs are fuelled by sustainability and host tailor-made experiences in their kitchens: classes, wine pairing meals and eco-friendly menus (with Michelin green stars).

3. INDULGE IN THE REGION’S FOOD AND
DRINK

Hit the road in Nouvelle-Aquitaine to meet producers and learn about their AOP cheese, iconic wine, prunes, walnuts, Espelette pepper and Île de Ré salt. They strive for the highest standards, stand by traditions and give visitors a real taste of the South West.
Even the museums celebrate local produce: the ham and chocolate museum in Bayonne, truffle ecomuseum, prune museum and walnut museum. Classes, tastings and sensory experiences put the spotlight on regional expertise and add a good helping of culture to every delicious stop.

4. FARM STAYS – REAL LIFE ON THE FARM

If you’re looking for an authentic experience, a farm stay is an unforgettable way to get to grips with France. Experience everyday life with farmers, cheesemakers, market gardeners and beekeepers recognised by Bienvenue à la Ferme or Accueil Paysan. Get involved in making the produce, enjoy tastings, set out on foodie hikes and sleep in cosy accommodation. Farm stays are great for getting to know the people behind the produce, understanding farming cycles and showcasing local sustainable food.
A farm stay is true to sustainable tourism and popular with both families and visitors who want to experience real country life.

5. THE JOYS OF COOKING TOGETHER

Connect with local specialities on a cookery class in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Your clients can join passionate chefs to learn how to elevate our iconic produce: fish from Arcachon Bay, organic vegetables, duck, AOP cheese and Périgord sweet treats. Everyone can get stuck into the classes as they learn traditional techniques and explore everything the region has to offer.
Cookery schools, farmhouses and producers host themed sessions, children’s workshops and foodie experiences celebrating the land everywhere from La Rochelle and Bordeaux to the Basque Country and Dordogne. Whether it be demonstrations, tastings or recipes to take home with you, this is the heart and soul of the region. It’s all about community, authenticity and the joy of cooking together.

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