La Bourdique is an old farmhouse which overlooks the village of Martrin. It is in the centre of a Parc Naturel Regional in the Midi Pyrénées, situated between the Tarn Valley, only a few minutes away by car, and the village of Roquefort, where the famous cheese is matured. Each is well worth a visit.

To locate Martrin, first find Albi.

Your map is certain to show this renowned Cathedral city, home to the artist Toulouse Lautrec. Take the D999 towards Millau. Go through Villefranche d'Albigeois, then Croix Blanche then Alban. After about 11 km you'll see a large local road marked Plaisance, going off to the left. Follow this road through Plaisance, from there to Coupiac and take the signs out of Coupiac to Martrin, 5 m away. This is the route you will probably choose if you fly to Toulouse and drive from the airport.

An Easyjet route flies between London Gatwick and Toulouse.

Ryanair also operates between Stansted airport, London and Rodez, 80 kms from Martrin. If you fly to Rodez, you will need to rent a car. Then you take the road towards Albi then follow all the signs to go through La Primaube.

From there, the route D902 is signposted to Requista.

Once in Requista, you take the St Affrique Road to Lincou, then to Coupiac. It is a very beautiful route through steep, wooded valleys. A map is advisable as the route takes you along a number of different, fairly small roads. Car hire is available at both Toulouse and Rodez. It is best to book in advance during the summer season.

Course participants who choose not to rent a car can fly to Toulouse and take the train to Albi, one hour away, where you can be met at 5.30 p.m. at Pontie Restaurant, in the central Place Vigan.