Cooking Holiday in Venice

Holidays in Italy in the spring are wonderful whatever your plans, but add in the chance to learn to cook like an Italian with a handpicked local chef, taste the region’s finest prosecco on a vineyard visit and relax in a beautifully restored Venetian villa and you really are experiencing a taste of La Dolce Vita.

It is the informality of this exclusive food tour that makes it so special, with small groups of no more than 10 for the hands-on classes that take place in the villa itself, and plenty of time to explore the canals, bacari and hidden corners of one of the great European cities, as well as tucking into the best of Venice’s food and wine. You will be staying throughout your trip at the historic Villa Domenica, which dates back to 1611 and is set in beautiful grounds with a sculpture garden, tennis court and swimming pool.

During your two cookery courses you will learn to cook perfect pasta dishes and other local recipes – such as sarde in saor and tiramisu – under the watchful eye of the chefs, who will also cook your evening meals. There will be ample time and opportunity to explore Venice, too – where you can marvel at the Basilica San Marco, take in the Rialto local markets and enjoy lunch in a typical bacaro – and to sample some of the region’s best wine tastings, including an exclusive tasting of the finest authentic prosecco from a nearby vineyard.

* Flights from London Gatwick. Regional airports may be available on request. Subject to availability.