The black gold! Truffles have always had an air of secrecy about it, right from the hunting stage to the preparation and use in gastronomic treats.

There has been a growing interest in learning more about this curious yet tasty fungus and as a result villages near Carcassonne, have come together and created gastronomic events where the Truffle is the star of the show! Visitors will learn all about the truffle and well-known chefs are on hand to teach how to prepare easy dishes using this magical ingredient.

There is even a museum dedicated to the Black Gold, which is well-worth visiting in the village of Villeneuve-Minervois near Carcassonne. The museum is of course also home to a shop where truffle products and delicacies are tempting visitors.

For more information: www.tourisme-carcassonne.fr & www.audetourisme.com