My wife and I have just returned from a memorable, quite unique holiday in The Dordogne. It was with Sylph Baier at her watermill ‘Le Moulin de Leymonie du Maupas’. There we had a week’s vacation surrounded by five acres of fabulous woodland and meadows, staying in a wonderful 250 year old gite (two bedrooms, shower, well equipped kitchen, friendly sofa and plenty of reading and writing space).
I cannot thank Sylph too much for thoroughly spoiling us. Every day we were taken to a different local cafe or restaurant for a hand-prepared three course luncheon. The meals were exquisite — all part of the holiday package on offer. Warning! Be prepared to return a few kilos heavier … but what an opportunity for excellent French cuisine. Mornings and afternoons we worked with the clay in the two pottery studios. Full advantages was taken of her knowledge and experience gained from a lifetime of successful commercial ceramic-making.
Frankly it’s rare to find such expertise on offer. I grabbed it with both hands. That means vouching for the teaching, throwing and modelling vases and bowls under her guidance. A more skilled and experienced mentor one couldn’t wish for. Fresh mountain bikes were available to tour the surrounding forests and villages but we simply ran out of time. Instead we returned with numerous pottery pieces made, decorated and fired … quietly proud of our efforts. My advice: go, it’s a wonderful experience.”
Dexter & Liz.