Have you ever been given a very fine pair of shoes and then had to purchase a complete ensemble to go with them? But in the end you didn’t mind. In fact, you were totally delighted because you absolutely loved the free shoes and the end results were more than worth any expense on your part! Today’s giveaway is sort of like that.
Lunch in the Alley at City Gite in Jarnac, France
The Back Story
Victoria Edlinger is the owner of GF Patisserie. (Note: This business is no longer operating.) Originally a very popular, well-loved gluten-free bakery in Calgary, Alberta, GF Patisserie has now evolved into a business which, in the simplest of terms, helps others set up their own successful gluten-free bakeries. Currently, there are four gluten-free bakeries licensed through GF Patisserie: Beau Monde Bakery in Las Vegas (which supplies gluten-free baked goods to Four Seasons there), Nevada; Big Star Bakehouse in Calgary, Alberta; Kneaded Bakeshop in Regina, Saskatchewan; and Nourish in Newfoundland and Labrador.
I have been online friends with the Edlingers, primarily Peter, since I discovered Peter’s blog, The Celiac Husband, several years ago. (Note that this site is no longer in operation.) Peter is a very outgoing and engaging sort and while Victoria and their daughter Lauren were working away at GF Patisserie, he would showcase their amazing gluten-free baked goods (and other gluten-free delights made in their home) on his blog. He shared much else that was of interest, too—and still does!—such as his business adventures, their travels, etc.
The Best Gluten-Free Bread
The Edlingers relocated to Jarnac, France in the spring of 2012. (Jarnac is a town of about 5,000 people located in the Cognac region of France. It’s 2 ½ hours southwest of Paris by train.) They purchased the historic building shown below (which was built in 1848) and, in relatively short order, lovingly transformed it into their residence, business space, and also a studio apartment, part of their new City Gites business. A “gite” (pronounced “zheet”) is a holiday rental that has the owners nearby to provide any needed assistance. In the U.S., we say vacation rental of course, although I much prefer the more festive term of holiday!
La Maison In Warm Weather with Pots of Lavender
La Maison During Winter Holidays
Welcome!
What You Really Want to Know
The Edlingers are very graciously sponsoring a giveaway of two nights at their studio apartment in Jarnac. The giveaway is for up to two individuals and it is not only for two nights’ accommodations, but it also includes gluten-free breakfast each morning and gluten-free dinner each evening! Your travel to and from France is NOT included in the giveaway. Only your accommodations at the Edlingers’ studio apartment and your breakfast and dinners while there are included in the giveaway. But wow, huh?
The gluten-free meals are made in the Edlingers’ 100% dedicated gluten-free kitchen. You should know that Victoria is known for creating fantastic gluten-free food that brings the type of satisfaction and smiles of happiness that are not often experienced by those who are gluten free.
One View of Victoria’s Kitchen (Love the Chandelier!)
French Toast at City Gite
Gluten-Free Monte Cristo Sandwich
Gluten-Free Upside Down Apple Cake
More Beautiful Gluten-Free Bread
Galette
Peter says that heading to Paris for a few days before your arrival in Jarnac would be a splendid idea. No, that’s not included in the giveaway either, but if you’re going to “cross the pond,” you should definitely make it a worthwhile trip and flying into Paris is one way to get to Jarnac. Although Bordeaux is actually the airport that is closest to Jarnac, per Peter. He is full of helpful information and can point you in the right direction for maximizing your stay at this City Gite.
Lunch in Alley at City Gites Jarnac
Shown below are some photos from the village of Jarnac and nearby, as well as photos of just a few of the fabulous gluten-free food that Victoria creates. (Note that all photos are courtesy of the Edlingers and GF Patisserie.)
Charente River
One of the Neaby Shops
The Chabot–Jarnac’s Boat Tour
One Display from a French Market
Veggies (including my faves–artichokes) at a French Market
Flowers at a French Market
Down River from Jarnac, France
Courvoisier Headquarters in Jarnac, France
A Few More Important Details
Here are some more details on the studio apartment and what will be available to you during your stay:
One View of the City Gite
~ It’s a 350-square foot self-contained space with a separate entrance, which includes a kitchenette
~ It’s located right in the village of Jarnac, which means that it’s near those charming European bars and cafes, as well as a twice weekly market
~ There’s a Bio Store with lots of gluten-free groceries located right across the street
~ Accommodations at the gite always include gluten-free breakfast, and there are lunch and dinner options with the family (again, the latter is included for this giveaway)
~ There’s free WiFi (you don’t have to be “unplugged” here)
~ Basically, this City Gite is perfect for the single traveler or for couples
View Across the Rooftops
THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. Congratulations to India Baldwin! India’s comment, which was selected by random using the Pick A Giveaway Winner tool, was:
“Hello,
When I was 17 I was given the opportunity to live in France for 6 months while my stepfather moon lighted as a chef at a bed and breakfast. However, I said “no” since I had a boyfriend. I don’t regret many things in my life, but that is something I have regretted ever since! That is also one of the reasons I have recently taken a job in London and have just moved to the UK. Life is to short to sacrifice great opportunities! I would love the chance to come to France to fully enjoy the sights, history and delicious gluten free food! I’ve been Facebook friends with gf patisserie for some years now. It would be lovely to meet everyone in person.
Thank you! India
Truthfully, I will be very jealous of the winner of this giveaway! I always like to personally check out any “items” I give away here on gfe, so you can be sure I’ll be making up for that oversight as soon as I can. 😉 Many, many thanks to Victoria and Peter for sponsoring this giveaway! And, of course, if you’re not into giveaways and/or like doing your own thing, then by all means feel free to contact the Edlingers via their City Gites site and make your own reservations!
Originally published September 11, 2013; updated August 27, 2024.
Deanna says
Oh man, I haven’t been to France in forever, and I loved the parts I saw, but this area was not one that I’ve been to, so I’d really love to see another part of France. And, that food! It looks ah-maze-ing! (Of course, I’d love the food the most!)
Deanna says
Shared it on FB.
Michelle Osborne says
How incredible would it be to France!! What I would love most about this trip would be getting to travel to somewhere I have never been to try some amazing GLUTEN FREE!! Delicacies 🙂
Fingers are crossed!! This would be a once in a life time chance for me to be able to go to France!!
(Also added as friend and shared on Facebook!!)
Dave Baldwin says
So my comment as to what I would most like about this opportunity – My wife of 12 years is vegetarian and has been for the past 20 years…she learned, after a very serious hospitalization that she has celiac issues which have led her to be gluten free. As you might imagine gluten free is difficult enough, but add vegetarian and you can imagine how hard it is. We were able to visit France once before our first child was born and have always talked about going back. I would love the opportunity to take my wife back to France and provide her the chance to have an experience where food would not limit her in any way and this sounds like the perfect chance for that.
Thank you
April says
Sightseeing for the beautiful historical and nature sites! Thanks for the giveaway!
April says
Friended!
April says
Commented
Tami F says
I would love to be able to take my daughter (a celiac) on vacation to France and know that she would have safe, GF food.
Jessica says
I have been gluten-free for one year this month, so winning a getaway to a BEAUTIFUL French village with the guarantee of delicious, healthy-for-me food would be an amazing way to celebrate!
(also friended GF Patisserie on facebook)
Jenn says
what a cool giveaway! a set up like this is so rare to find and my husband has always wanted to visit Cognac… this would be the perfect vacation for us! Being able to find a gite to stay in without having to worry about gluten issues? truly priceless!
Melissa says
I would love to be able to stay at a B&B with absolutely NO worries about if my breakfast is GF – plus it is FRANCE!! 🙂
Linda says
Friended GF Patisserie on facebook
Linda says
Would love to see France and not worry about my meals being Gf. This place looks amazing!
Marsha says
My son is gluten free and speaks French very well. I would love to take him on a gluten free trip to France. That would just be such a great experience for both of us.
Danielle DaVault says
Visiting France has always been a long time dream of mine and my fiance. I have often wondered how we would go about eating in a country packed with gluten. This is such and amazing giveaway! Thank you for the opportunity.
Danielle DaVault says
“Friended” GF Patisserie on Facebook
Alicia says
I would love to see France! It all sounds incredible.
Alicia says
I sent a friend request!
Rosanne says
This would be SO AMAZING and delicious….and restful…..and romantic….and just what I need right now!
Thank you SO much for this contest.
Vicky says
What I would like most about the Jarnac Gate Gite experience is to be able to relax and enjoy a wonderful “safe” gluten free holiday and to enjoy the sights and markets – especially the markets!
Thank you do much for the opportunity to try and win this break!
I sent a friend request.
I shared on Facebook.
I shared on Twitter. 🙂
Kimberly says
It is my celiac daughter’s dream for us to travel to France together. I would love to share this special trip with her.
Kimberly says
I friended GF patisserie!
Kimberly says
I shared this on my Facebook.
Linda says
I posted a comment on GF Patisserie facebook page.
Linda says
I shared this on facebook.
Linda says
I shared the GF Patisserie contest on facebook.
Nancy Funderburgh says
I am taking my 82 year old mother to France before she completely loses her eye sight. We are both gluten-free. This would be a perfect spot for us to stay for a couple of days. It would be great to tell her that we won this giveaway.
Mary Bushnell says
My husband has celiac disease & loves France. It would be wonderful to visit & not have to worry about eating gluten free.
Vicky says
I left a comment on the GF Patisserie facebook page today 🙂
Deanna says
I posted on GF Patisserie’s FB page.
Blessie Nelson says
Living in that cozy studio apartment eating authentic french gluten free meals and visiting the french market is my dream!
Blessie Nelson says
friended them on FB – Blessie Nelson
I am still thinking this is a dream!
Blessie Nelson says
Tweeted and shared and dreaming!
https://twitter.com/Bless_Eliz/status/378483115334725632
Jane says
It would be a perfect place to stay, since I was recently diagnosed with gluten intolerance and diabetes. Secondly a perfect honeymoon place to be. Absolutely a dream come true.
Sheila says
I’ve never been to France but often think of it thanks to Julia Child. Would love to experience this quaint, cozy town to celebrate my 50th year.
Linda says
Son is gluten free, with severe seizure disorder. Seven years overdue for a vacay!!! Long to go to France, ohhhh how this would fit the dream for us!!
Susan Halloran says
Oh my goodness, this looks heavenly! Thanks for this opportunity, and also for all the information and recipes you share.
Deb says
I would love everything about the experience! I love to travel but hesitate to go outside the United States because of potential difficulties of eating GF.
Loretta Zeliph says
I believe visiting France with the Love of my life would be awesome. Working on changing my menu to Gluten Free is very trying. As all the breads, cake and sweets keep drawing me back. Thank you for the chance to enter this sweepstake.
liked on FB
sending a link to someone
and looking for GFE recipes.
Have a great day
Heather says
Isn’t being in France enough?! GF would be the topper!
Heather says
Twitted, and pinned, also liked on FB!!
Megan Ringenberg says
Would love to see this region in person and not struggle to find gf food!
Debra Lee says
I think the thing I would like best is falling in love with my husband all over again!
Debra Lee says
Sent a friend request under Distracted Debra!
Debra Lee says
Left a comment on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gfpatisserie/posts/10201950695347188
Debra Lee says
Tweeted here: Fingers crossed!
Alisa says
Oh my goodness! What would I love most, you mean besides introducing my husband to Europe for the first time? I would have to say that Jarnac looks like an amazing walking place. We love new places to walk and explore, especially when they have so much culture (and good food!) to offer 🙂
Alisa says
I’ve friended them!
Alisa says
Posted on their FB page!
Alisa says
Tweeted!
Anne Gwynn says
I would love to come to Jarnac City Gite for the fresh GF food and the opportunity to walk, photograph & paint (water colors) this picturesque commune. I have not had a vacation for the past seven years because of caring for my mother with celiac disease, dementia & CLL. My boyfriend has been very supportive. We are celebrating 20 years together this year. He is a Francophile and speaks better French than I do. I was wondering how could I ever travel to France with him and deal with a GF, dairy free, diet – in the land of butter croissants & cappuccino. Voila’–I am so happy to know about this place from celiac chicks & celiac husband. Congratulations to Kelly on her 10th anniversary. I don’t do Facebook or Twitter, but I will post this on Instagram: (Annecam600) #citygites #jarnacfrance #glutenfreeb&b #gfpatisserie #victoriaedlinger #peteredlinger #glutenfreehusband #celiacchicks #glutenfree #GF Au revoir!
Moriah says
Oh my gosh! This giveaway is just he bomb! I love France – the scenery, the atmosphere, the fresh markets, the fashions, etc… -and the food looks soooooo fabulous! When should i start packing? 🙂
Moriah says
Sent a friend request – Moriah Cameron
Moriah says
Left a message/posted under Moriah Cameron
michelle says
When I was 19 I came to this region as an au pair (a nanny). Havent been back since then and its been many many years! Now my teenage son has been diagnosed with Celiac. How lovely it would be to show my family the area that I adored all those years ago and to simultaneously accomodate our new need : to find Gluten Free food. THank you for this opportunity!
michelle says
sent friend request – michelle goodrich
Judith says
Would LOVE to visit all those French markets in France!!
Judith says
“Friend” GF Patisserie on Facebook – Done!
Deborah says
2013 has been a tough year; broken toe, 2 broken watches, broken marriage, broken trust…. A return trip to France would be a blessing and staying with the originators of GF Patisserie (who I shopped from when they were at Bearspaw Market) would be icing on the cake (gf of course).
Deborah says
I also entered on Peter’s blog mentioning your tag as requested.
Amber says
What an amazing giveaway! I would love the provided gluten-free breakfast each morning and gluten-free dinner each evening! And of course being in France to site see and visit the markets!
Janette says
B&B looks absolutely charming! Would love the opportunity to vacation without having to worry about where I’m going to eat!
Shared on facebook too!
https://www.facebook.com/Sears.Janette
Debi says
I think I would like the tranquility of Jarnac the most. Or maybe the fact that it is in FRANCE and I’ve always wanted to go to France. 😀
Debi says
I shared this giveaway on Facebook
Debi says
I sent a friend request to GF Patisserie on Facebook
Sue says
I’m so glad there’s a place (lLeStudio) in the world where I can go to and get the bread and pastries that my soul has been missing since Ive gone GF. I’m tired of missing out! I’m going whether I win or not!! But, it would be nice to win! Thanks for introducing us all to this fabulous place. Please find more!
Tammi Stubblefield says
I have always been a foodie but have never left North America as I was sick for so many years. I finally have the culprit GLUTEN. How limiting it is for a newly diagnosed but I am learning! It would be so wonderful to visit France and see all the beautiful sites that I can now walk around and see. To taste the wonderful foods from France and see how they accomplish gluten free cooking. It would be a dream to visit France!
Tammi Stubblefield says
I sent friend request to Gf Patisserie
Erin Smith says
I would love to try this gluten-free B&B. I have never let my Celiac prevent me from traveling the world. If I go, France will be my 18th country while maintaining 100% gluten-free! Thanks.
Sandy Newfield says
I have never traveled outside of the US (except over the border to Canada when I was in the Girl Scouts many years ago). It would be so amazing to win a trip to France (where my ancestors came from), and to have gluten free foods available to eat. The scenery and the food looks wonderful! Winning would be so awesome! I sent a friend request to GF Patisserie.
Courtney says
Having recently read A Year in Provence, I’ve been obsessed with getting to France for the markets, the cuisine, the architecture, the scenery, and the flea markets! I would LOVE this getaway!
christina says
I would love to learn about the food preparation and about the city of course, I have never been to Europe so this would be a great opportunity!!
Deb says
I have been to Paris, briefly, but have not had the opportunity to see any of the rest of France. Previously, I was able to enjoy the baked goods – how great to know there are still options! I have a friend in Bordeaux that it would be wonderful to visit, but more importantly, it would be nice to soak in the culture of the “real” France. It looks like a beautiful and charming place – I feel my stress level drop and imagine a scent of lavender just looking at the photos 🙂 I’ve posted about bringing my mom as well on the GF Patisserie page (what a great site!)
Kat says
This would be a dream come true!! I would love to be able to truly enjoy an opportunity abroad and safely for my tummy. 🙂 often the reason it’s still only a dream
Caroline Gort says
I am actually allergic to gluten. Have to carry an epi pen & was informed by the allergist @ the Mayo Clinic that anytime I eat from a kitchen containing wheat I’m risking my life. I cried “what do I do when I travel?” And he said “buy an apple from the market and wash it well”. I was thrilled to read your blog post offering great hope – imagining a French adventure with safe, amazing food = unbelievable joy. Thank you for sharing.
Denise SanFilippo says
Any friend of Shirley’s must be amazing! What a fabulous gesture to have them graciously open up their home. This is what I love about the Gluten Free community, the bond and friendship that are formed across counties and borders. Count me in, I’d love the opportunity. 🙂
Caroline Gort says
Gladly FB friended GF Patisserie. What a delightful find.
Caroline Gort says
Happy to post on GF Patisserie’s FB page letting them know we discovered them through this post.
Caroline Gort says
Was excited to share this giveaway and blog post on FB.
Amanda says
It is never easy for me to go on vacation because I never know if I will have access to gluten free food options. It would be wonderful to not have to worry about finding the food I need.
Staci Roe says
While I just got home from France a week ago yesterday, this trip would be awesome to win. This was a region we did not visit and there is so much of the country to see yet. After looking at the Jarnac visitors site, I can tell I would love to visit with my husband. I have never tried cognac so that would be a first as well. I would definitely recommend to anyone planning a visit to France, renting an apartment is definitely the way to go, rather than booking a hotel. This is what we did in Paris and it is a great way to find the smaller, out of the way, markets, restaurants and shops.
Staci Roe says
I have also submitted a friend request to GF Patisserie on FB.
Desiree says
I love the idea of this BnB!! I currently live in Geneva, Switzerland it is nearly impossible to find gluten free friendly places. I love the idea of being able to try french patisseries without gluten, and the City Gite accommodations look perfect. I will definitely share this on facebook.
Michelle Rea says
My husband and I have always wanted to travel to France. To be able to travel and not have to worry about what I am going to eat while there would be the icing on the cake! This would be such an incredible experience! Hope I win! I submitted my friend request!
Andrea says
Wow! I have wanted to go to France for a long time. Would love the opportunity to stay in such a cool apartment and be served very yummy GF looking food by some great folks as well! I like that there is an option to cook our own GF meals as well with a store close by. Looks like an incredible experience!!
Andrea says
Shared on Facebook and Twitter 🙂
Catherine Dove says
Hi there! I love your place – Le Studio and when I found out about “Celiac Chicks Le Studio Contest” and the possibility that my husband and I could win 2 nights I got soooo excited!!! We are professional photographers and we would love to capture our whole experience and share it with you so please choose us! It would also be such a romantic anniversary for our 15 years of marriage!!! Viva la France-we love it sooo much there! xo
P.S. I posted on your Facebook page as well 😉 Please choose us…new friends we shall be!
Richelle says
Just wanted to say how lovely my “gite” experience would be because I wouldn’t have to worry about food! I’m super sensitive and I hate having to ask so many questions and the fear ! It would be such a treat to stay in a gluten free apartment and not have to look for safe food all the time :).
Richelle says
Oh and I’ve already liked gf patisserie on Facebook !
Sarah says
oh I’d love to go to France again and actually be able to eat their nice breads and pastry!!! 🙂 Also, small French cities are just too cute!
Marusha says
My 11 year old daughter wants to go to France more than anything else. She studied in French Immersion school from Kindergarten to 4th grade. We discovered she was celiac a year ago and travel has been more challenging. To have a gluten free experience in France would certainly be a dream come true!
Maya says
I have been to Paris a few times before as I live in Madrid (so close!). As a Celiac, it is so hard to find such delicious and homemade food, I would love to come and gorge myself on pastries!!! The Jarnac City Gite experience would be epic, I have never explored this region of France!
Thank you do much for the opportunity to try and win this trip!
I am already friends on facebook, and left a comment.
India Baldwin says
Hello,
When I was 17 I was given the opportunity to live in France for 6 months while my stepfather moon lighted as a chef at a bed and breakfast. However, I said “no” since I had a boyfriend. I don’t regret many things in my life, but that is something I have regretted ever since! That is also one of the reasons I have recently taken a job in London and have just moved to the UK. Life is to short to sacrifice great opportunities! I would love the chance to come to France to fully enjoy the sights, history and delicious gluten free food! I’ve been Facebook friends with gf patisserie for some years now. It would be lovely to meet everyone in person
Thank you!
India
India Baldwin says
Shared on Facebook, friends with gf patisserie and posted on their page as well! Thanks again!! Fingers crossed!
India Baldwin says
I’ve also mentioned your page as well and wrote my entry comment above. Thanks!
Jeanne says
After looking through the photos what’s not to like. The colors, the tastes, the views, and of course the food. To have the luxury to spend a few days on vacation with no food worries sounds like heaven and it looks like jarnac is a little slice of such a place.
I’d love a chance to win the contest for two nights. I’ve already “liked” GF patisserie.
Andrea says
I friended GF Patisserie on Facebook too. 🙂
Cherie says
What I would like most is bringing my amazing daughter Abigail to France! She would be beyond excited and we would have the best time!
Lindsay says
My husband and I have never been to France! Both of us are gluten free! How much fun would it be to go for the first time together?! 🙂
Melissa Ross says
Just tweeted about this amazing getaway @misspens . Such an amazing way to truly experience France without the stress of worrying about getting glutened. Truly amazing
India says
Dear Shirley, Peter and Victoria,
Thank you all for this amazing opportunity and fun contest! I cannot wait to enjoy what will probably be the best gluten free food I will ever have as well as beautiful Jarnac! Look forward to updating on my trip once I return.
From a very happy gluten free girl!
Xx
Shirley says
India–I am so very happy for you!! I only wish there was room for all of us to head over on a massive gluten-free field trip of sorts. 😉 I can’t wait to hear all the delicious details when you return! 🙂
Congratulations and celebratory hugs to you, dear!
Shirley