Extra Virgin Cooking Classes / Countryside Mill location

Thinking about adding a culinary adventure to your trip in Italy? This 5-hour Tuscan cooking class in Lucca promises a flavorful journey through local ingredients, regional wines, and age-old techniques—all set in a charming countryside estate. With a perfect 5-star rating based on 141 reviews, it’s clear that this experience resonates with travelers seeking genuine, memorable food experiences away from tourist traps.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized, small-group format makes it feel intimate and relaxed. Second, the market tour and tasting bring a real sense of local life. Third, the beautiful setting—an 18th-century palace and countryside olive mill—creates a picturesque backdrop for cooking and conversation. On the downside, some reviewers mention that certain parts of the class involve pre-prepared tasks, which might lessen the hands-on element for those eager to cook every step.

This experience is ideal for food lovers of all skill levels, those interested in regional cuisine, and travelers seeking an authentic touch of Tuscany’s culinary culture. Whether you’re visiting Lucca for a day or staying longer, it offers a delicious blend of culture, scenery, and practical cooking skills.

Good To Know

• Small-group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Market tour and tastings provide insight into local ingredients and culinary traditions.
• Hands-on cooking results in a four-course meal paired with regional wines.
• Expert guidance from Chef Giuseppe, a charismatic and knowledgeable host.
• Beautiful, historic setting—an 18th-century palace paired with countryside olive press.
• Comprehensive recipe booklet and cooking tips to replicate dishes at home.

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

The Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

Your day begins in Montecatini Terme at Piazza Antonio Gramsci. From there, it’s a short trip to Lucca’s historic market, where you’ll walk among locals shopping for fresh vegetables, cheeses, and regional specialties. Reviewers highlight this part as a genuine peek into local life; one noted that Giuseppe’s guide skill made the tour especially engaging, with stories about the ingredients and shops.

Market Tour and Tasting

The tour kicks off with a visit to Lucca’s bustling market, where you’ll sample regional delicacies like honey, cheeses, and extra virgin olive oil. As one reviewer reminisced, “We stopped at the farmers market first to get some ingredients, and Giuseppe explained everything along the way.” This part of the experience really enriches the cooking class, giving you context about where your ingredients come from and how they’re used in traditional dishes. Plus, tasting regional products like olive oil and cheeses gives you a sensory preview of what’s to come.

The Countryside Olive Oil Mill and Ancestral Home

A short 10-minute drive takes you to Giuseppe’s family estate—the countryside olive press and historic olive oil mill. The setting is charming: adjacent to a 12th-century stone bridge and a babbling brook, it’s an idyllic backdrop for this culinary adventure. Many reviewers call this a “beautiful location,” emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views as a perfect escape from city life.

Hearthside Cooking & Kitchen Techniques

At the mill, you’ll help prepare a four-course Italian meal, with Giuseppe guiding you through each step. Some reviewers note that a portion of the prep work has been done in advance, which might limit hands-on activity for some. Nonetheless, Giuseppe’s charismatic teaching style and attention to detail keep everyone engaged. You might help with rolling pasta, assembling antipasti, or finishing dishes in the pizza oven.

The Meal & Wine Pairings

Once your dishes are ready, you’ll gather around a beautifully set table to enjoy your homemade feast. The meal includes an appetizer, two main courses, and dessert—all paired with regional wines and bottled water. Several reviews point out that the food was “some of the best they’d eaten in Italy,” and that Giuseppe’s wine pairings complemented the dishes beautifully.

Practical Tips & Takeaways

At the end of the class, you’ll receive a recipe booklet authored by Giuseppe—a practical keepsake to recreate your new culinary skills at home. Plus, you’ll get a certificate of achievement and an EVCC apron as souvenirs, which add a fun, tangible element to the experience.

The Value and Why It Works

The $191.87 price point might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider what’s included—market shopping, tastings, a four-course meal paired with regional wines, a professional guide, and take-home recipes—it feels more like a comprehensive food immersion. Many reviewers felt it was “well worth the cost,” especially considering the memorable setting and expert instruction.

What Sets This Apart?

• The small group size (max 12 people) guarantees individual attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• The location blends historical charm with natural beauty, enriching the experience beyond just cooking.
• Chef Giuseppe’s personality shines through in his engaging storytelling and genuine hospitality—many called him “charismatic,” “humble,” and “a great host.”
• The market tour adds authenticity, giving you a deeper understanding of Tuscan ingredients.
• The regional wines elevate the meal, providing insight into local flavors and traditions.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews note that parts of the class involve pre-prepared tasks, so it might not satisfy those looking for a fully hands-on experience from start to finish. Also, the class operates with a minimum of 6 participants, so it may be less suited for solo travelers or last-minute bookings.

Accessibility & Practical Details

The tour is suitable for ages 16 and up, making it accessible for families with teenagers interested in cooking or food culture. The meeting point is near public transportation, and the entire experience lasts approximately five hours, starting at 9:00 am. It’s perfect for a morning of culinary discovery, leaving plenty of time later to explore Lucca’s charming streets or relax in the spa town.

In The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?

This cooking class excels for travelers who want more than just a demonstration—they desire genuine participation, regional insight, and a scenic setting. It’s especially suited for foodies, those keen to learn authentic Italian recipes, and anyone who appreciates a warm, personable guide. The combination of market shopping, hands-on cooking, and a beautiful countryside backdrop makes it a memorable, immersive experience that will leave you with new skills and a deeper appreciation for Tuscan cuisine.

If you’re after a relaxing, engaging way to connect with Italy’s culinary traditions, this tour offers a delightful balance of education, scenery, and delicious food—plus a healthy dose of Tuscan charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The experience is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, and Giuseppe offers tips suitable for novices and seasoned cooks alike.

How much of the cooking is hands-on?
While many reviews mention that some prep work has been done in advance, there’s still plenty of participation, from helping with pasta or pizza to finishing dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and encouraging.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a market tour and tastings, a hands-on cooking class, a four-course meal with regional wines, a recipe booklet, a certificate, and an EVCC apron.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is usually booked around 83 days in advance on average, so it’s a good idea to reserve early, especially in peak seasons.

Is transportation provided?
Transport from Montecatini Terme to the countryside olive press is included in the experience, and the meeting point is accessible by public transportation.

What is the best time of day for this experience?
It starts at 9:00 am, making it ideal for morning participation, leaving your afternoon free to explore Lucca or enjoy local cafes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel within this window.

The Extra Virgin Cooking Class in Lucca offers an engaging, authentic taste of Tuscany’s culinary traditions. It’s a superb choice for those wanting to learn, taste, and enjoy in a stunning setting, all while making memories and friends along the way.