February always has us dreaming of warm-weather getaways—and eating all the pastries. Now comes the ultimate exploration of both, thanks to the launch of Reverie, a culinary travel company. Founded by Lisa Donovan (James Beard Award-winning food writer and pastry chef, formerly of Husk) and expert bread baker Julie Saunders (Crumb Nashville), Reverie is organizing its first intimate getaway this summer, June 14 to 20, at the stunning 16th century Montjoi Chateau in Southwestern France.
Abby Saunders Photography
During the week-long adventure, Lisa and Julie will be your guides, both in the kitchen and on the ground. The week is full of workshops, hands-on cooking, festive meals, exploratory tours of the region, local farmer and flea market shopping, and plenty of downtime, too. The cooking workshops include topics like “simple French treats,” making the perfect apple tart, baking sourdough bread, and more. Guests are also welcome to join in and help prep the meals—or not, if they choose to relax and unwind for an afternoon, instead. And, whether you hardly ever pick up a knife or you’ve been a home cook for years, the hosts ensure an experience that will suit all skill levels. Rest assured: You’ll learn something, eat well, and live fully along the way.
“Julie and I are, at our collective core, focused on hospitality. All are welcome,” Lisa says. The two have hosted tours together previously—Reverie is their own unique spin. “We are so glad (and lucky!) to keep creating opportunities for small groups. Lifelong friendships have been forged during these trips and it has been a beautiful thing to watch and to also be a part of.”
Abby Saunders Photography
“The simple experience of going to a market in France awakens culinary creativity, and we want to share this appreciation—from the market to the big, fat meal on the dinner table,” Julie adds.
Having spent several years living in France, Julie will also teach a few basics on the language and act as a cultural guide along the way.
Pricing depends on accommodation: There are 10 bedrooms available (double occupancy is allowed) with each room requiring a 25% deposit by mid-March; rates range from $1,875 (for shared rooms) to $2,675 with all meals, classes, beverages, and tours included. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to the Toulouse Blagnac airport.
For additional inquiries, email Reverie Forever: reverieretreats@gmail.com