On this tour you will share the world of our extended family and friends and experience a way of life rooted in centuries of tradition. 

For most of the tour we will be based in Perugia - settle in, unpack and enjoy this ancient walled city.

On our daily excursions to surrounding towns such as Assisi, Norcia, Castellucio and Gubbio  we will meet local food and wine producers, taste their products and buy ingredients for our hands-on cooking classes.  Two days in Tuscany and Greve in Chianti will add to our knowledge of ancient and modern wines.

Our daily excursions will be at a leisurely pace, taking the slow and scenic route.  We’ll explore ancient towns and their hidden treasures, relax in town piazzas, tantalise our taste buds.

Much of Patrizia’s cuisine has been learnt from her extended family and friends, and on this adventure she will pass on some carefully selected recipes.  Together, you’ll prepare local dishes and recreate a little of the authentic atmosphere of Italy’s gastronomic heartland.

This outstanding itinerary is exceptional value.  The price is all-inclusive and covers all accommodation and breakfasts every day, all meals listed in the itinerary, all transport and costs associated with planned excursions, protective clothing and utensils required for cooking classes, a bound recipe book containing the recipes of dishes prepared in cooking classes, transfers to and from rail and bus terminals in Perugia.

Join the Simone family (Australian and Italian) and share in their knowledge of Italy and its foods, as they introduce visitors to the depths and delights of Italian and French cuisine, wines and culture.

Fully guided small group tours of Umbria, Sicily and France provide time to roam towns at leisure,  tap into the local culture and cuisine and enjoy the produce and scenery.

Tour begins and ends in Perugia

4 - 14 September 2011

Cost AU$6500 per person, single supplement $1850.

Perugia, Norcia, Castellucio, Montalcino, Pienza, Bagno Vignoni, Orvieto, Assisi, Greve in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Siena, Montefalco, Vescia, Gubbio