Flavors of Val d’Orcia: A Tuscan Cooking Class near Pienza

Hands-On Farm-to-Table Cuisine in the Heart of the Tuscan Countryside

Immerse yourself in the heart of rural Tuscany with a hands-on culinary journey at a working organic farm nestled in the hills of the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape famed for its postcard-perfect beauty and timeless traditions.

Your day begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Montepulciano and leads you through golden fields, cypress-lined roads, and medieval villages that seem untouched by time. Your destination is a family-run organic farm with one of the most breathtaking views in the region. Well-known for their renowned Pecorino cheeses produced on-site, the rustic farm offers a true taste of the owner's passion, with artisan cheeses, olive oil, and other local delights crafted in perfect harmony with nature.

Set in a beautifully restored 300-year-old Tuscan farmhouse amidst the rolling hills of the Val d'Orcia, here you’ll get the chance to immerse yourself in the world of Italian cuisine. You’ll be warmly welcomed by the farm’s owners and introduced to their way of life which is deeply rooted in sustainability, tradition, and passion for local flavors. You’ll learn how to prepare a traditional menu using ingredients freshly picked from the farm’s grounds. Then you’ll be guided through the cooking process while the chef shares insights on organic farming and the farm's 20-year journey. The class includes a full Tuscan menu using ingredients harvested from the farm including fresh pasta, seasonal vegetables, local meats, and hand-crafted cheeses. Guided by an expert chef, you’ll discover authentic techniques, all while enjoying stories about the farm’s history and philosophy.

After the class, gather for a leisurely four-course lunch, paired with organic wines and cheeses produced on-site. With panoramic views of Pienza, Monticchiello, and Mount Amiata, this is more than a meal, it’s a celebration of Tuscany’s culinary soul, shared with warm hospitality and breathtaking scenery.

Late Afternoon: A Renaissance Stroll in Pienza

After lunch, your next stop is the picturesque town of Pienza, a gem of Renaissance urban planning. Designed by Pope Pius II as the ideal Renaissance city, Pienza is a harmonious blend of architecture, art, and sweeping valley views. You’ll have the chance to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace. 

Use your free time to stroll through the harmonious central square, Piazza Pio II, surrounded by the town's most important buildings. Do not miss the magnificent Pienza Cathedral with its luminous interior and stunning views over the Val d'Orcia. Take time to enjoy the breathtaking views from the town's walls, where the countryside is dotted with cypress trees and ancient farmhouses.

After a day steeped in history and flavor, your driver will return you to your accomodation. Sit back, relax, and watch the landscape of golden hills, olive groves, and ancient farmhouses unfold through your window, each a quiet testament to the enduring beauty of Tuscany.


your driver will return you to your accomodation. Sit back, relax, and watch the landscape of golden hills, olive groves, and ancient farmhouses unfold through your window, each a quiet testament to the enduring beauty of Tuscany.