About the location: Welcome to a slice of history that is 1000 years old! Castello di
Tornano is a fascinating restored medieval castle in a magnificent and vast setting of
DOCG wine and olive groves. The castle has been carefully restored by the
owners, who previously lived on the property and who have retained the true sensibility of
the original building while allowing for every amenity for your comfort. This is a
splendid opportunity to relax and enjoy a spectacular setting in the heart of
Chianti, just south of Gaiole.
If you feel inclined to some activity, there is a
beautiful pool, miles of hiking trails, complimentary mountain bikes, a tennis
court, and stables right on the property for horseback riding. And, when done,
you can arrange for a massage in your room!
About the lessons: Chef Andrea Nardelli has trained in some of the finest
restaurants in Tuscany and is now the head chef for the castle. He will lead you
in your hands-on lessons for an introduction to typical Tuscan cuisine with the
freshest ingredients, uncomplicated preparation and wonderful sapori, or
flavors. Guests will prepare everything from starters to the desserts, including
home made pasta, local meat dishes and finally having lunch with all the dishes prepared.
Chianti Retreat in a Medieval Castle
Gaiole-in-Chianti, Tuscany
Itinerary
Day One
- Afternoon transfer by private car from Florence airport or hotel to
Castello di Tornano.
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Check into reserved rooms (check-in available after 3 p.m.).
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Enjoy a welcome drink followed by dinner in the castle’s
restaurant with local wine included.
- Overnight.
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Day Two
- After breakfast meet in the castle's charming kitchen for your
first cooking lesson with Chef Andrea. You will learn to
prepare many traditional and seasonal Tuscan dishes.
- Lunch to follow based on
your efforts.
- In the afternoon, a private transfer will take you to Siena for a special
guided two-hour walking tour to discover
this medieval city known all over the world for the famous horse race Il Palio.
- Tonight, dinner will be on your own.
- After dinner return to Castello di
Tornano and overnight.
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Day Three
After breakfast, enjoy your second cooking class.
Lunch to follow based on your efforts.
Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the
grounds: take a swim in the pool, a stroll through the
vineyards, or an afternoon horseback ride (Tornano has riding stables
located on the premises)!
Before dinner visit the wine cellars with a
guided tasting of the castle’s products—Chianti Classico wine, grappa, vin santo,
and olive oil.
Afterwards enjoy a light dinner at Castello di Tornano.
Overnight.
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Day Four
- Breakfast and transfer back to Florence. Arrivederci!
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High season — Easter week (March 21 - 24), April 18 - Otober 19 and December 24 - January 7
US$1700 per person based on double occupancy in a classic room
Low season
US$1600 per person based on double occupancy in a classic room
High and Low season
US$125 per person, upgrade to superior room
US$250 per person, upgrade to superior tower room
US$55 Horseback riding (per hour per person)
Single supplement, please inquire
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2008 Tour Dates
Available any three nights on request for a minimum 2, maximum 6 people.
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Included in the program:
- Three nights stay on B&B basis in classic double room at Castello di Tornano
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Apperitif on arrival and welcome dinner local wine included
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Two morning cooking lessons followed by lunch, local wine included
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Roundtrip transfers by car or van to Siena on day two
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Two-hour guided walking tour in Siena with official city guide
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Wine tasting in the castle cellars on day three, followed by light dinner at the castle
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Roundtrip transfers Florence - Castello di Tornano
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Taxes
Not included: Dinners not specified in the program, gratuities, museum entry fees and extras.
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Cooking Vacations 
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