A guilt-free gastronomic getaway

For a cookery course with a difference, self-catering accommodation specialists, Mallorca Farmhouses has introduced a series of Guilt-Free Gastronomic Getaways to Mallorca next spring and autumn.

With the solo traveller in mind, it is aimed at those wishing to know the secrets of cooking impressive dishes for little effort. Under the instruction of master chef Bruno Canillac, who is also responsible for organising Mallorca Farmhouses’ private chef service, the four Gastronomic Getaways will include instruction in cooking local and international dishes. Lasting three days, they will take place on 25 April, 29 April, 26 September and 30 September 2009.

Guests take part in the two, three-hour-long cooking workshops and also get to sample their creations at a group dinner. For a guilt-free conscience, activities such as walking, horse-riding, golf and cycling can be mixed in between courses for a small supplement.

The programme also includes an escorted trip to the local food market in Pollenca with tips on how to buy the freshest of fish, meat and vegetables and a visit to Can Vidalet Bodega with a wine tasting and tour of wines available exclusively to Mallorca Farmhouses. There will also be an organised lunch to a traditional Mallorcan restaurant to sample the local cuisine.

The courses are based at the luxurious La Rafal del Roser Vell, a magnificent new farmhouse enjoying a countryside ambience just outside of the old town of Pollenca. There are four bedrooms -each with an en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning and heating, offering ample comfort, space and privacy. The farmhouse offers a private infinity pool, table tennis and is just a short drive to the beautiful sandy coves of Cala San Vicente and the long stretch of beach at Puerto Pollenca.

The Guilt-Free Gastronomic Getaway is priced at £715 per person in April or £745 per person in September (based on single-occupancy) and includes three nights’ accommodation on a full-board basis, cooking workshops and escorted food and wine tours.

Should guests wish to extend their stay, and be joined by family for friends, they can choose from a selection of properties that are available for flexidate bookings of three nights or longer. These include the popular Burgues and Sa Casita in the north of the island or Es Serral and Finca Es Fasser, which can be found in the south.

For further information and reservations, log on to Mallorca.co.uk.