My 19-year-old daughter and I took Marlene’s 5-night patisserie course at La Gargantua. The experience delightfully exceeded our expectations. We were shown how to create some of the most complex French pastries, like croissants, millefeuille and éclairs, among others. We created everything from scratch, under the watchful eye and exceptional instruction of Marlene. Her passion for baking is infectious. She's clearly talented and dedicated to her business and family. She provides just the right amount of instruction, so you truly feel like you’re learning – she celebrates with you as you succeed and laughs with you when you don’t. Marlene’s courses are taught in a beautiful home environment, with a state-of-the-art kitchen, spacious dining and sitting area, as well as sleeping rooms that are both superbly decorated and comfortable. La Gargantua is also located in a gorgeous area of southern France, nestled alongside rolling hills, wheat fields and an ancient village. My daughter and I feel very lucky to have experienced one of Marlene’s courses, as we can now savor memories that will last a lifetime.

Since the minute Marlene picked us up from the train station I felt comfortable and happy. Every bit pf those 6 days was perfect- the accommodation, the food, the landscape surrounding the nice house, the teaching and tastimg of french pattiserie. At first I thought the actual time in the kitchen wouldn't be enough but we had plenty of time to learn a lot and also enjoy ourselves. Thank you very much! I'll recommend anyone to come as well!

The course was about learning about the ingredients and their interactions with each other as well as with the environment. It was very educational. Actually creating the treats and having them come out looking and tasting good gave me a boost of confidence in my own abilities. I'm so excited to try them in my own kitchen.