Italy Cooking School Vacations: Lake Garda Grandeur

Lake Garda Grandeur
Saló, Lakes Region

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About the location: Lake Garda is the main Italian lake and one of the most important water reserves in Europe. The east bank of the Lake produces olive oil and famous wines, such as Valpolicella and Bardolino. Looming above the area is Mount Baldo with its three peaks. Projecting through the last glacial sheet, its unique flora is a throwback to pre-glacial times. The rich soil and mild climate of the lake area encourages an abundance of wildlife and flora. Cedars, olives, lemon and palm trees flourish and the gorgeous shore line offers pristine beaches. Gardone Riviera and Salò stand side by side in the Gulf of Salò. The area is known for its mild climate and exotic vegetation, with over 2000 species of trees and sub-tropical shrubs.

Salò is a small, unspoilt lakeside town, full of little squares, churches, bars and shops. Its history dates back to the Romans and Venetians. It is especially fun to visit for the big Saturday market, or on Sunday when the residents take their evening stroll on the long lakeside promenade. In the enchanting environment of the Salò hills, with a magnificent view of Lake Garda, stands the Hotel Villa Arcadio surrounded by olive trees, woods and flowers.

The Hotel is an ancient restructured convent and its evocative ambiance makes it an elite resort for discerning travelers to rediscover the atmosphere much loved by poets, artists and refined travelers. One of the most exclusive in Salò, this 4-star hotel is truly exquisite. It lies on the Brescia shore of Garda Lake, 36 kilometers from Brescia, and it has a restaurant, a panoramic swimming pool, rooms with views and a wellness program. In addition to the “high tech” electronics, every amenity and detail has been carefully attended to by the owners of the hotel, down to having their own formula of olive oil soap created for their guests. This is a truly special place.

About the cooking lessons: Chef Ivan De Cesari is a passionate chef with tremendous taste and creativity! He respects the “natural” aspect of the culinary arts and prepares all dishes with fresh and high quality products. He finds that people are looking for the traditional “old Italian kitchen,” which is returning after the wave of “nouvelle” and “gourmet” cuisine which has been in fashion for some years. During your cooking lessons, you will visit the “old Italian kitchen” and concentrate on regional pastas, meats, fish and desserts!

Lake Garda Grandeur Itinerary

  • Transfer from Desenzano del Garda train station to your accommodations.
  • Welcome drink with Chef Ivan followed by a short walk in the garden.
  • Ivan will give you a short tutorial on the home-grown herbs.
  • Traditional Italian dinner at the restaurant.
  • Overnight.
  • Breakfast.
  • Your first cooking lesson with Ivan will concentrate on how to prepare fresh pasta.
  • Lunch to follow based on your efforts.
  • In the afternoon, visit Vineyard Comincioli (a very famous producer of olive oil) where you will enjoy an olive oil and wine tasting.
  • Tonight’s dinner (cost of dinner not included, but you will be transferred there and back) is at a lovely trattoria by the lake.
  • Return to the hotel and overnight.
  • Breakfast followed by your second cooking lesson with Ivan. Today you will learn the art of preparing fish and meat, as well as other second courses and desserts.
  • Enjoy lunch based on your efforts.
  • After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon in Salò. Visit the village’s historical center with some time to shop.
  • Dinner at the local Osteria in Salò.
  • Return to the hotel and overnight.
  • After breakfast, depart to Franciacorta, a famous wine district where Spumante is produced.
  • Visit the Barone Pizzini vineyard followed by lunch at the restaurant Santa Giulia of Barone Pizzini.
  • Transfer to Brescia with time to visit the center (Roman old city).
  • In the afternoon, stop in Gavardo to see the fabulous and traditional cheese shop of Mr. and Mrs. Orioli for a tasting of local cheeses.
  • Farewell dinner at the hotel.
  • Breakfast and transfer to Desenzano del Garda train station.