Les sequoias

Evening meals

For many visitors to the area, eating and drinking well is part of the pleasure of discovering this lovely part of central France. The famous cheeses of Selles-sur-Cher and Valencay are well matched by local wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc whites of AOP Valencay and the Touraine. Meat often comes from the farms surrounding the village. Just across the river, the Sologne region is well known for strawberries, asparagus and game.

Marie-Chantal's meals utilise fresh regional products whenever possible and we have a network of excellent local producers and suppliers. These include bakers, butchers and growers from weekly markets at Chabris, Valencay and Selles-sur-Cher. A selection of herbs and vegetables are grown in the garden and regularly used in dishes.

Meals are served in the dining room, with its original marble fireplace and comfortable furniture. On warm evenings the option of eating in the garden is taken up by many guests. Meals are convivial, communal affairs allowing guests to exchange experiences, swap tips and plan excursions. Colin and Chantal are at hand to offer advice and suggestions based on their local knowledge.

Chantal's cooking reflects her passion for the subject and her cuisine mixes dishes from France, Italy and the UK, served up in her own style. She loves discussing food and wine and often swaps receipes with guests. Chantal is generally busy in the kitchen and home- made jams are always available at breakfast, using seasonal fruits harvested from local gardens and orchards.