Are you fascinated by the idea of foraging and exploring the natural bounty of the Shenandoah Valley? If so, you won’t want to miss the chance to attend our upcoming Foraging Class with the experienced Forager Clay Morris. In addition to exceptional learning experiences and comfortable accommodations, our Virginia bed and breakfast also offers a variety of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy, including a restaurant serving French-inspired cuisine, wine tasting, romance packages, and nearby outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Keep reading for the inside scoop on foraging in Virginia!
Meet Knowledgable Forager Clay Morris
In 1985, Clay Morris began working at L’Auberge Provencale when he was 18 years old. After working in the restaurant industry for a decade, he decided to pursue degrees in Botany and Restoration Ecology. Morris obtained a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from Shenandoah University and a Master of Science in Biology from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. He has since worked as a field ecologist and wetlands environmental scientist. Morris developed a keen interest in Ethnobotany and Ethnogastronomy, which led him to teach foraging and research traditional foodways. His primary objective is to collaborate with chefs to introduce foraged foods into modern culinary practices while preserving this knowledge.
Attend an Upcoming Foraging Class
Want to learn from the best? Participate in our upcoming Foraging Classes, where you can join Forager Clay Morris on a journey to a beautiful estate farm located just 15 minutes from the Inn. During the class, you’ll have the opportunity to gather seasonal wild finds and explore the area’s natural bounty. Chefs on L’auberge and Clay Morris will guide you on how to incorporate what you’ve collected, as well as heirloom regional varieties, into culinary creations. These classes will also feature heirloom produce from our gardens and local farms, demonstrating how their distinct flavors can enhance your cooking. Our class participants also receive a gourmet lunch at our restaurant as well!
Discover the Perfect Place to Stay
While attending the Foraging Class, why not make it a weekend getaway and experience the charm of L’Auberge Provençale? Our French country inn, located in the heart of the valley, offers a unique and romantic experience. Innkeepers Celeste and Alain Borel have crafted an authentic Provençale ambiance, complete with elegant guest rooms and an award-winning restaurant. You’ll feel transported to the south of France, all while being just a brief 90-minute drive from Washington D.C.
If you’re looking for the perfect introduction to foraging in Virginia, attending a Foraging Class with Forager Clay Morris is a must-do. And if you’re in need of a romantic getaway, L’Auberge Provençale is the perfect place to stay. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beauty and flavors of the Shenandoah Valley. We can’t wait to see you!