Welcome to Calabria!

Check in to your 4* hotel in central Tropea. Unpack at leisure  and unwind and relax, or perhaps head out to the main piazza and enjoy your first gelato. We will have welcome drinks and antipasti at our hotel before heading out to dinner at our local favorite restaurant. At dinner we will introduce ourselves and discuss the week ahead.

Are you ready for an immersive dive into the rich and vibrant flavors of Calabrian cuisine?

Guided by an experienced local cook, you’ll take part in a hands-on culinary experience rooted in tradition. Using organic, locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes, you’ll learn to prepare a selection of authentic dishes that reflect the bold character and simplicity of the region’s cooking. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with Calabria’s culinary heritage in a warm and engaging setting.

Once our preparations are complete, we’ll sit down together to enjoy the fruits of our labor—a delicious, leisurely meal celebrating the flavors we’ve just brought to life.

In the afternoon, you’ll have time to stroll through Tropea, often called the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian.” With its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and charming historic center, it’s the perfect place to wander, take in the views, and savor the lingering tastes of the day.

Today we journey to Fiumefreddo Bruzio, one of Calabria’s most picturesque and atmospheric hill towns, perched high above the Tyrrhenian Sea. With its sweeping coastal views, flower-draped balconies, and labyrinth of narrow stone alleys, this enchanting borgo feels suspended in time. As we explore, you’ll encounter noble palaces, centuries-old churches, and the evocative ruins of a medieval castle, each corner revealing layers of history and quiet beauty.

In the heart of the village, a truly special experience awaits. We’ll step into a hidden farm-to-table trattoria, where we’ll roll up our sleeves for a hands-on cooking class rooted in Calabrian flavors. Guided by passionate local hosts, you’ll prepare authentic dishes using seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby small producers—many proudly bearing IGP, DOP, and Slow Food designations. This is a celebration of place, where every ingredient tells a story and every recipe is passed down with care.

After enjoying the fruits of our labor over a leisurely lunch, we’ll head towards the seaside town of Pizzo. Just in time for something sweet, we’ll visit our friend Franco for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how he crafts his renowned tartufo di Pizzo—the iconic gelato dessert with a molten chocolate center. Of course, no visit would be complete without tasting this indulgent local specialty.

We’ll end the day with some time on your own back home in Tropea.

Tucked between Tropea and Capo Vaticano lies the small agricultural hamlet of Spilinga, a place deeply rooted in tradition and best known as the birthplace of ’nduja—the fiery, spreadable sausage that has become a symbol of Calabrian cuisine.

This morning, we’ll set out for Spilinga to visit a local artisan producer, where you’ll gain insight into the history, craftsmanship, and time-honored techniques behind this iconic delicacy. From the careful selection of ingredients to the unique curing process, you’ll discover what gives ’nduja its unmistakable flavor and character.

Of course, no visit would be complete without tasting. You’ll enjoy a variety of samples that showcase the versatility of ’nduja, followed by a relaxed lunch on-site featuring regional specialties built around this bold and beloved ingredient.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to Tropea, where you’ll have time to unwind and reflect on another day rich in flavor and tradition.

Today, we journey  toward Borgo Partenope, with a special stop in the heart of the Cosenza countryside for a truly inspiring vineyard experience.

Nestled among rolling hills, this family-owned estate was founded by brothers Andrea and Marco together with their parents—a story of passion, perseverance, and deep connection to the land. With no formal background in winemaking, they transformed steep, challenging terrain into a flourishing 4.5-hectare vineyard, cultivating native Calabrian grape varieties such as Magliocco and Pecorello. Today, their vision has come to life in both the vineyard and a beautifully designed modern cellar and tasting space.

During our visit, you’ll be guided through the vines and the cellar, gaining insight into their journey, philosophy, and the unique characteristics of these indigenous grapes. The experience culminates in a leisurely, multi-course lunch prepared by Andrea himself, with each dish thoughtfully paired to highlight the estate’s wines—an authentic expression of Calabria’s flavors and traditions.

After this memorable afternoon of wine, food, and storytelling, we’ll return to Tropea, carrying with us the spirit of this remarkable family and their land.

Today, we’ll journey inland to the hilltop village of Tiriolo, where we’ll be warmly welcomed by Lucia at her family’s olive farm. Surrounded by rolling countryside and ancient groves, you’ll discover the story behind their award-winning olive oil production. Through a guided tasting and demonstration, you’ll learn how to taste high-quality olive oil and gain insight into the careful craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. You’ll also see how the family seamlessly integrates their dairy farm into their work, creating a sustainable and deeply rooted agricultural tradition.

We’ll then sit down to a relaxed, picnic-style lunch on the estate, featuring local specialties enhanced by their exceptional olive oil—simple, authentic flavors enjoyed in a beautiful rural setting. This will be a lunch to remember!

After this peaceful and enriching experience, we’ll return to your hotel, carrying with us a deeper appreciation for Calabria’s land, traditions, and way of life.

Our time in Calabria has come to an end. If your flight schedule permits, you can enjoy one more breakfast at the hotel before checking out.

NOTE: As we partner with small, family-run businesses, some flexibility in the above itinerary is necessary. We may adjust the schedule, modify activities, or substitute locations to ensure the best possible experience. A finalized itinerary will be provided two weeks before our adventure begins.