About the location: Montepulciano is famous for its vino nobile wine, and is still
something of a perfect miniature Renaissance city. Perched at 2000 feet above sea level,
with Piazza Grande its highest point, the town is a joy to discover. Just outside the
center you will find your home away from home, Il Podere, a 16th-century farmhouse nestled between woods and
olive groves. Silvia and Maurizio have lovingly turned the villa into a residence of
refined charm that retains its atmosphere of informal welcome.
The guest rooms are few but exquisitely furnished; each one has its own unique character
and is named after one of the many artists who contributed to the rich cultural legacy of
Montepulciano. Il Podere provides a high quality service in the spirit and atmosphere of
a private home. The farmhouse has been meticulously restored and furnished with every
comfort. There are two floors of living quarters and plenty of space both inside and out.
About the cookery courses: Charming and ebullient Maurizio, who speaks very good English,
has worked as a professional chef and cooking is still his passion (along with creating a
superior olive oil!). During your stay he will lead you in the hands-on cookery courses in the wonderful,
professionally equipped kitchen of the villa.
Cooking at Il Podere
Montepulciano, Tuscany
Itinerary
Day One - Saturday
-
Pick up in Florence. Check in to your lovely room at the property.
- If arrival is early,
lunch on your own at a charming restaurant a short walk away.
-
This evening, your welcome dinner at the Villa.
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Day Two - Sunday
-
Following breakfast, a visit of the town of Montepulciano.
- Lunch on your own at one of
the characteristic restaurants in the Piazza Grande.
- Afterwards, perhaps stop for a coffee
or incredible hot chocolate at one of the oldest and most famous cafes in the area.
-
Return to the villa for a short rest and then time for your first hands-on cookery course with
Maurizio.
- Dinner with wine pairing to follow.
- Overnight.
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Day Three - Monday
- Breakfast, followed by a visit to the wonderful towns of Pienza, a jewel of a Renaissance
city with its splendid Collegiata, Monticchiello, a tiny delight, and the
fashionable spa town of Bagno Vignoni.
- Lunch on your own.
-
Dinner tonight will be out at a local pizzeria in Saint Albino.
- Overnight.
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Day Four - Tuesday
-
Breakfast followed by a visit to Cortona, with lunch on your own in town.
-
Return to the Villa for your next hands on cookery course, with dinner and wine pairing.
- Overnight.
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Day Five - Wednesday
-
After breakfast a visit to Montalcino and S. Antimo.
-
Lunch and wine tasting in Montalcino at a farmhouse.
- Afternoon visit of La Foce
Garden.
- Dinner at La Locanda del Vino Nobile.
- Overnight.
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Day Six - Thursday
-
Breakfast, followed by an excursion to the market in Montepulciano.
- Lunch in the
Vineria Mentina with a wine tasting.
- In the afternoon, a visit to a local cheese and
wine maker for a light dinner degustation.
- Coffee and digestivo on your return to the
Villa.
- Overnight.
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Day Seven - Friday
-
Breakfast with a free morning or an excursion to the Prada outlet for some shopping.
-
Lunch on your own.
-
Tonight, your final cooking course and farewell dinner at the Villa.
- Overnight.
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Day Eight - Saturday
-
Breakfast and a reluctant farewell. Transfer to Chiusi rail station (a transfer to Florence can be arranged for an additional charge).
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Prices based on a minimum of 4 people. (Please inquire for prices for 2-3 people.)
7-night program
US$2700 based on double occupancy
US$200 per person suite upgrade
US$400 single supplement
4-night program
Available Saturday to Wednesday or Tuesday to Saturday.
US$2000 per person based on double occupancy
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2008 Tour Dates
Available any week Saturday to Saturday on request for a minimum of 4 people, maximum of 8 people.
Please inquire for groups of 2-3 people.
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Included in this cookery holiday:
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Seven nights accommodation
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Daily breakfast
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Seven dinners with wine
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Two lunches
-
Three hands-on cooking classes
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Excursions as noted in itinerary (excursions are not accompanied by a guide)
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Arrival transfer from Florence and return transfer to Chiusi rail station
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Cooking Vacations 
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