Arriving on Sunday afternoon, you will be welcomed to Les Charmes by Mairi and your hosts, Kerry and Tomas, and given time to explore and relax in the house, gardens and pool (visit site) before meeting and getting to know your other group members over evening drinks on the terrace followed by dinner. Each day will begin with a sumptuous buffet breakfast in the wonderful dining room overlooking the pool and gardens. After breakfast, join Mairi in the studio where she will provide expert guidance on taking photographs relevant to the theme of the day, regardless of whether you have professional level equipment and skills or a compact camera and enthusiasm! Each day, the group will be led into the field on practical and enjoyable outings around the glorious countryside, gardens, chateaux, villages, towns and markets of the famous Dordogne region, including Sarlat, Le Roque Gageac, Domme, and the gardens of Eyrignac and Marqeysasac (visit site). Transport will be in Les Charmes’ own comfortable mini bus though you are welcome to use your own transport or even opt out of the trips as you wish.
After a wonderful morning of photography and socializing (and perhaps practising your French!), you will return to Les Charmes for lunch or have a picnic lunch 'en plein air' to maximize your French experience. On the day you visit the medieval town and ancient market of Sarlat, we can meet up for lunch at the famous ‘L’Adresse’ restaurant (visit site) though you are welcome to make your own discoveries. The afternoon programme allows you to continue to take photos and discover new vistas with Mairi; wandering ancient streets, taking a boat trip on the Dordogne river, lazing around beautiful gardens or just having some free time at Les Charmes to chat and practice your art.
Mairi will always be available for late afternoon 'Open Workshops' to help you download, edit, review and provide friendly advice, professional tips for your own portfolio of photos for your friends and family back home. Or else you can walk, swim, read, chat or snooze till drinks on the terrace and another wonderful dinner at Les Charmes or at the Black Duck (visit site) for an arranged set menu. On the final evening , dining will be at the charming Lescaleyrou restaurant (visit site) just 15 minutes away where you and your new friends can relive the highlights and experiences of the past week. Departure will be on Saturday after breakfast.
Residential course fees start from 1220 euros, including accommodation, most meals, full use of facilities and all tuition. For detailed information regarding accommodation (e.g. range of rooms available), pricing or specific requests please email Kerry directly at Les Charmes. For more details on course content or general enquiries please contact me through the contact page. Non course participants are welcome.
Location: Les Charmes de Carlucet
