Tour Overview
Italy is renowned wordlwide for offering the richest and most varied food, and this is the perfect opportunity to recreate some of their classic dishes. The ideal place to learn these skills has to be Tuscany, where pretty mediaeval villages dot a wonderful green landscape. Our base for the week is Villa Fabbroni, a renovated castle dating back to ancient Rome. Our cooking lessons are spread across the week, leaving plenty of time to relax, wander in the romantic countryside, see the famous landmarks of Siena and of course sample the local Chianti. Thanks to the villa's superb location, there is always chance on the free day to visit the great treasure houses of Florence, the home of Renaissance.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1Start Villa Fabbroni, near San Polo in Chianti.
Day 2
Market day. Our first day heads straight down the 'Strada di Chianti' (Wine Road), renowned for the famous Chianti wine that is still produced along this valley. In the morning, we enjoy a stroll around Castellina in Chianti, where the huge 14th century tower, known locally as Rocca (castle) dominates this small town. We also visit Panzano market, where a selection of local foods will inspire you with cooking ideas for the week. Our relaxing introduction to the area is complete with some optional wine tasting in Greve-in-Chianti.
Day 3
Today is our first attempt at cooking, where we create some tasty antipasti such as crostini with sausage and cheese. Local chefs will help us to make some of the most classic Tuscan starters like Polenta con funghi (mushrooms) or Green Gnocchi. The highlight will be tasting our wonderful creation, as well as learning the most important culinary techniques.
Day 4
We make our way to the centre of Siena for a day exploring this fascinating city. We have time for visits to the numerous museums and stunning Duomo, as well as a spot of relaxing in one of the many outdoor cafes in the main square, the Piazza del Campo, home of the world famous Palio horse race, and a visit to one of the many boutique shops specializing in local products and cutting edge Italian fashion.
Day 5
Our next cooking lesson shows how to make a wonderful Bolognese sauce for all the family. We also learn the speciality of stuffed vegetables (verdure ripiene), especially mushrooms, tomatoes and zucchini. In the afternoon, there is the option for a short walk to local fortified villages.
Day 6
Free day to enjoy captivating Florence (only 30 minutes away), or simply relax by the pool (all optional).
Day 7
We make a leisurely morning visit to the local winery where we can sample some of the best Chianti. An optional walk is also available up to Montefioralle, a quaint hilltop town situated above Greve-in-Chianti. Our afternoon is spent preparing a famous tiramisu and prati biscuits, to accompany our evening meal.
Day 8
End Villa Fabbroni.
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