Experience

The French Countryside

with Michael’s English Muffins

From Raleigh to the Dordogne

A Gourmet Adventure with Michael’s English Muffins at Domaine du Haut Baran

July 20–25, 2027 | Lot Valley, France

Join us for five unforgettable nights of wine, food, and French country charm at Domaine du Haut Baran, the private estate owned by William and Rosalie Haas, the parents of Michael’s English Muffins’ founder, Annabelle. Together, we’re blending the spirit of Raleigh’s favorite bakery with the flavors of southwest France for a trip filled with laughter, adventure, and indulgence.

Picture this: golden vineyards, morning croissants, river picnics, castle views, and a toast each evening with a Kir Royale in hand. This is your invitation to slow down, savor, and celebrate — French style.

Map of southwestern France showing cities Bordeaux, Limoges, Cahors, Montauban, Toulouse, Puy l'Évêque, and Domaine du Haut Baran, with roads A62, E72, E09, and N20.

Step into a wonderland known as the Perigord, Dordogne, and Quercy regions of France. Millennia of history unfold along the banks of the Dordogne and Lot rivers, where charming villages and small cities whisper tales of a bygone era. This haven of preserved beauty invites you to embrace a slower pace, a world away from the everyday. Within the heart of this idyllic escape, Domaine du Haut Baran awaits. Your welcoming hosts, Rosalie and William, are eager to introduce you to the region's many treasures.

Michaels English Mottling logo in blue and light blue letters.
Domain du Haut Baran, a unique B&B in the Dordogne region of France

Your 5-Night French Escape

Five unforgettable nights immersed in the food, wine, villages, and laid-back rhythm of the French countryside. Your days will be a mix of adventure and indulgence—exploring vineyard-lined roads by e-bike, wandering bustling village markets, tasting the celebrated wines of the Cahors region, and paddling the beautiful Dordogne River.

Along the way, expect incredible meals, local wines, charming villages, and plenty of time around the table. There’s also time to slow down, relax at Haut Baran, and simply enjoy being in one of the most beautiful corners of France.

Think less tour bus, more experiencing France like a local—good food, great wine, beautiful scenery, new friends, and experiences you’d be hard-pressed to find on your own.

Day 1 – Tuesday, July 20: Arrival & Welcome

  • Arrive at Toulouse Airport or Cahors train station and transfer to the hillside estate of Haut Baran.

  • Settle into your room, stretch out on the terrace, and breathe in that vineyard air.

  • Welcome Dinner: regional specialties and Cahors wine served al fresco as the sun sets — your first taste of France.

Day 2 – Wednesday, July 21: Vineyards by E-Bike

  • Breakfast on the terrace, then glide through vineyard country on an e-bike adventure (or enjoy a relaxed vineyard visit if you prefer).

  • Lunch at Famaey Vineyard — rustic French cooking and sweeping views.

  • Dinner out at a local restaurant (not included).

Day 3 – Thursday, July 22: French Market Magic

  • Morning trip to Monpazier Market, a 13th-century town buzzing with bakers, farmers, and florists. Wander the stalls, taste samples, and find treasures to bring home.

  • Lunch in Monpazier (not included).

  • Afternoon relaxation, then join the locals at the Loubejac Night Market for an evening of food, wine and music. (not included).

Day 4 – Friday, July 23: Canoeing the Dordogne & La Roque-Gageac

  • Take to the water for a leisurely canoe trip along the Dordogne River, drifting beneath limestone cliffs, past châteaux, and through some of the most beautiful scenery in the PĂ©rigord.

  • Come ashore in La Roque-Gageac, a storybook village tucked between the river and dramatic cliffs. Enjoy a picnic lunch wtih wine, then explore its winding streets, little shops, and historic surroundings.

  • Return to Haut Baran for an afternoon by the pool before heading out for dinner at RĂ©crĂ©ation, the village restaurant made famous by the book From Here, You Can’t See Paris. (Dinner not included.)

Day 5 – Saturday, July 24: The Wines of Cahors & a Farewell to France

  • After breakfast, visit Clos Triguedina for a private tasting and tour at one of Cahors’ legendary wine estates, accompanied by delicious bites and local specialties.

  • Return to Haut Baran for a casual outdoor lunch for anyone still hungry, followed by one last leisurely afternoon at the estate.

  • As the sun begins to set, gather at Haut Baran for champagne and a farewell toast, then head to Le Caillou, a chic winery-turned-restaurant, for your final dinner together. (Dinner not included.)

Day 6 – Sunday, July 25: Departure

  • Early breakfast before your group transfer to Toulouse Airport or Cahors Train Station.

  • Au revoir to France — and a suitcase full of memories (and maybe some wine).

Stone cottage with small balconies, potted plants, and a cobblestone path under a blue sky with wispy clouds. Domain du Haut Baran, a unique B&B in the Dordogne region of France
An outdoor stone patio with a round table and three chairs, one with a large blue umbrella, surrounded by potted plants and a rustic stone building under a clear blue sky. Domain du Haut Baran, a unique B&B in the Dordogne region of France

What’s included

  • 5 nights casual luxury accommodations at Domaine du Haut Baran

  • Daily French breakfasts of croissants, cheeses, charcuterie, fruit, coffee, and tea

  • Welcome dinner at the estate with Cahors wines and champagne

  • Three leisurely French lunches with wine — a vineyard table at Famaey, a riverside picnic along the Dordogne, and an al fresco spread on the terrace at Haut Baran.

  • Private transportation & guided excursions throughout the week

  • Personal hosting & translation by William and Rosalie Haas, with their daughter Annabelle, founder of Michael’s English Muffins.

Evenings at Haut Baran

Additional local wines, champagne, and regional beers are also available for purchase at the estate — a convenient way to enjoy a glass on the terrace or by the pool whenever you wish.

Select Room Pricing

Prices based on double occupancy and includes accommodations, daily breakfast, 3 lunches, 1 welcome dinner, excursions, transfers, english/french-speaking guides, and wine with included meals. Airfare, personal purchases, travel insurance, and select meals not included. Single supplement surcharge of $2000 per room. Sharing encouraged. Singles will not be paired.

Balcony Room $3,300 Per Person

Wheat Room $3,100 per person

Calla Room $3,100 per person

Pine Room $2,900 per person

Wisteria Room $2,950 per person

Lavendar Room $2,900 per person

Exclusive: Just 10 travelers —
a private, boutique experience.

Choose your accommodations

$1400 deposit now secures the room for you and a guest. Final payment will be required by April 21st, 2027.*

*Double Occupancy encouraged. Single supplements will be assessed a $2000 surcharge to secure the entire room to yourself and will be collected at final payment. Please read important information section further below for more travel info.

Balcony Room – $3,300 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room Balcony Room – $3,300 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
Balcony Room – $3,300 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
$1,400.00

This room features its own private balcony with views of the Lilly ponds and hills. A California King bed. Rich earthy tones, elegant linens, and a full bath complete the space. Ideal for those who love waking up to morning light and a lovely outdoor vantage point. Overall cost for this room is $3300/per person. $1400 deposit reserves the room for both you and a guest. Final Payment of $5200 is due April 21st. Room is not wheelchair accessible.

Wheat Room – $3,100 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room Wheat Room – $3,100 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
Wheat Room – $3,100 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
$1,400.00

A light-filled retreat with soft golden accents and windows overlooking the garden terraces. The suite includes a comfortable main sleeping chamber with a king bed, a daybed in the entry alcove, and a luxurious en-suite bathroom. The entry opens directly to the main terrace. Overall cost for this room is $3100/per person. $1400 deposit reserves the room for both you and a guest. Final Payment of $4800 is due April 21st. Room is not wheelchair accessible.

Calla Room – $3,100 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room Calla Room – $3,100 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
Calla Room – $3,100 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
$1,400.00

A serene, softly decorated room named for the local calla lilies. Vintage touches and a full bath add old-world charm. With either a king or two twin beds, the door opens conveniently to the terrace level (no stairs), combining accessibility with character. Overall cost for this room is $3100/per person. $1400 deposit reserves the room for both you and a guest. Final Payment of $4800 is due April 21st.

Pine Room – $2,900 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room Pine Room – $2,900 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
Pine Room – $2,900 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
$1,400.00

Wood accents and a fresh, airy feel define this room. Stair access off the main dining room with your choice of king or twin beds with full bath. It offers a restful ambiance — an excellent choice for guests who prefer a timeless style in a peaceful corner of the estate. Overall cost for this room is $2900/per person. $1400 deposit reserves the room for both you and a guest. Final Payment of $4400 is due April 21st. Room is not wheelchair accessible.

Wisteria Room – $2,950 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room Wisteria Room – $2,950 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
Wisteria Room – $2,950 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
$1,400.00

Drenched in soft floral elegance, this room evokes the romance of wisteria vines in bloom. It features classic décor, king or twin bed, a full bathroom, and a view that feels enveloping and intimate. Overall cost for this room is $2950/per person. $1400 deposit reserves the room for both you and a guest. Final Payment of $4500 is due April 21st. Room is not wheelchair accessible.

Lavender Room – $2,900 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room Lavender Room – $2,900 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
Lavender Room – $2,900 Per Person (Double Occupancy Only) Book Now with $1400 Non-Refundable Deposit Per Room
$1,400.00

Hues of lavender and soft neutrals make this a restful, mellow retreat. With either a king or twin bed, its en-suite bath and cozy aesthetic, it’s perfect for guests who value calm elegance and a slightly lower price point in the collection. Overall cost for this room is $2900/per person. $1400 deposit reserves the room for both you and a guest. Final Payment of $4400 is due April 21st.

Scenic landscape with a pond in the foreground, surrounded by green trees and grass, under a colorful sky with pink and purple clouds. Domain du Haut Baran, a unique B&B in the Dordogne region of France

Important information to remember

Haut Baran is a two hour drive from Toulouse and a 45 minute drive to Cahors. We only offer transportation to these locations at a specific time. We do not stop anywhere else or at any other time than designated. *If flights are delayed too late, you will be responsible for cab fare which can be hundreds of dollars to get to our location.

There is only ONE pickup at the Toulouse Airport StarBucks on arrival day at 2:30pm for transfer to Haut Baran and one pickup from the Cahors Train station at 4pm. There is only ONE transfer to Toulouse Airport on departure day and one transfer to the Cahors train station , we leave Haut Baran at 8am, arriving Toulouse airport at 10am or Cahors at 9am, in time to check in for flights departing at noon. Guest encouraged to arrive in Toulouse or Cahors early enough to avoid connection delays. Please reach out for more details!

Air conditioning is available in Haut Baran’s main living areas and art studio; guest bedrooms are not air-conditioned.

DIETARY NEEDS: Because this is a food-focused, small-group experience featuring local restaurants, markets, wineries, and shared meals, we cannot guarantee allergen-free preparation or accommodate all specialized diets. Guests with severe food allergies or highly restrictive dietary needs should contact us before booking to determine whether this trip is a good fit.

Cancellation/Refund Policy

Cancellations fees are determined as follows: 91 days or more before arrival date of trip your cancellation fee is your deposit 1400.00 USD : 61-90 days prior to trip, the cancellation fee is 50% of total trip price : 31-60 days prior to trip, the cancellation fee is 75% of the total price of trip : 0-30 days prior to trip, the cancellation fee is 100% of trip cost. Exceptions cannot be made for any reason and there is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early. If we must cancel a trip, all balances received to date will be refunded (remember your deposit is non-refundable) and this constitutes full settlement. A rescheduled trip is not a canceled trip. We are not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any trips (even cancelled trips), such as airline tickets, travel delays, flight cancellations or health problems. This tour will be held regardless of world events.

Travel Insurance is highly recommended, and should be arranged by you! Very Important! We do not issue refunds for travel delays or cancellations of flights etc. Trip insurance will give you peace of mind.