Villa d'Este Italian Cooking Holiday
Lake Como, Lombardia

About the location: It is called the most beautiful hotel in the world. For centuries, the Villa d’Este has hosted the rich and famous; from Napoleon to the Duchess of Windsor, all have enjoyed the sumptuous elegance of this grand villa. Originally built in the 16th century for a cardinal, the Villa d’Este became a hotel in 1873. Today its gardens offer a glimpse into a time past, when royalty used the villa as a summer residence. Spectacular views of Lake Como and the snowcapped mountains beyond have changed little over the centuries.

About the cooking lessons: Villa d’Este takes pride in being the first hotel to introduce the refined Northern Italian cuisine around the world. Luciano Parolari, the Executive Chef of the Villa d’Este for 40 years, travels around the world to give demonstrations for various fund-raising events and for Food promotions. In the early seventies Villa d’Este started a cooking school now internationally acclaimed and run by Luciano. In 1995 Luciano Parolari was invited as guest chef to the Food & Wine Festivals celebrating the United Nations’ 50th Anniversary. In November 2002 he celebrated his jubilee as Executive Chef of the Villa d’Este at the James Beard Foundation in New York.

Join Luciano for a cooking class and discover the secrets of his fine cuisine! He is noted for the artistic and creative presentation of regional Italian dishes such as Risotto “Milanese style” with saffron, fettuccine with fondue and white truffle, tortellini with pumpkin and artichokes, Cotoletta alla Milanese and the most delicious desserts. “The essence of the Italian table,” says Luciano “is the feeling that you put into it: you have to love Italy, to love our food.” This is easily accomplished when you cook with Luciano on the shores of Lake Como! Enjoy all the comforts and luxuries of the Villa d’Este, while being immersed in the gastronomy, art and leisure of the region. A truly unforgettable culinary vacation.