At Secretplaces, we believe that immersing yourself in local gastronomy is one of the most enriching ways to experience a new destination. To make your travels even more memorable, we recommend staying at hotels that offer unique cooking masterclasses led by local culinary experts. These hands-on experiences not only introduce you to new flavors but also create intimate and rewarding moments, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and the essence of the cuisine.
Cooking is a science with no limits, and the joy of it lies in the endless discoveries along the way. The process becomes even more enjoyable when guided by professionals who not only master the original recipes but also carry the knowledge of the rich history and traditions behind each dish.
In this blog, we’re excited to present the first edition of our “Cooking with the Experts” series, focusing on Italy. Join us as we explore unique hotels in diverse Italian regions— Sicily, Tuscany, Sardinia, Umbria, Piedmont and South Tyrol—unique gateways into Italy’s rich gastronomic culture.
SICILY – SUSAFA
Discover the Flavors of Sicily at Susafa
Located in the Sicilian countryside, Susafa is more than just a boutique hotel—it's a living expression of local culture and sustainability. At the heart of this estate is Cucina, a hands-on cooking school that invites guests to explore traditional Sicilian recipes through workshops rooted in agricultural history. Participants are guided by local experts like Rita and Lumi, who prepare each class with passion, knowledge and a touch of Sicilian soul.
Workshops at Susafa run from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM and take place in the atmospheric bakery area of the hotel’s kitchen. Each class is thoughtfully curated to include:
A personalized recipe folder, apron, gloves and chef's hat
A balance of practical cooking and cultural storytelling
Use of zero-kilometre ingredients: from Susafa’s garden, orchard and farm
A casual standing lunch featuring the dishes prepared during class
A certificate of participation to commemorate the experience
Participants don’t just cook—they taste, learn and celebrate the essence of Sicilian cuisine.
Weekly Workshops at Susafa:
Every Monday – Maiorca: Sicilian Pastry Workshop
Rita guides guests through the creation of ricotta-filled cannoli, cassata al forno, and marzipan-based pastries. Learn the art of Sicilian desserts while unraveling the myths of their Arab-influenced origins.
Optional add-on: Enjoy your handmade cassata after dinner with a glass of Sicilian dessert wine in the hotel’s evocative restaurant (available by prior arrangement).
Every Wednesday – Perciasacchi: Fresh Pasta Workshop
Start your day with a walk through Susafa’s organic garden, selecting seasonal ingredients for your pasta dishes. Learn about traditional flours and make pasta from scratch—like busiate and maccaruna —under the guidance of Lumi.
Bonus: Your handmade stuffed pasta can be served at dinner later that day.
Every Friday – Pane e Olio: Bread Making & Olive Oil Tasting
Delve into the process of ancient grain cultivation and bake bread using traditional methods. You’ll also enjoy a guided tasting of Susafa’s own extra virgin olive oil, learning about its production and importance in Sicilian cuisine.
Every Saturday – Frìiri: Sicilian Cooking Classics
A deep dive into iconic street foods like arancine, panelle and caponata. Learn perfect frying techniques, the art of ragù and the stories behind each dish. Rita shares insights that go beyond the recipe, turning every dish into a celebration of Sicilian life and family traditions.
Whether you're kneading dough, stuffing cannoli or savoring fresh pasta with a glass of local wine, each moment at Susafa is infused with the warmth of Sicilian hospitality.
TUSCANY – villa bordoni
Flavours of Chianti: The Tuscan Way of Cooking at Villa Bordoni
Our culinary journey through Italy brings us to the rolling hills of Tuscany, just above the charming town of Greve in Chianti, where Villa Bordoni invites you to step into its professional kitchen for an unforgettable hands-on cooking experience.
Housed in a Renaissance-era villa surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Villa Bordoni is the birthplace of the Chianti Cooking School, created by restaurateurs David and Catherine Gardner. Here, you’ll join their trusted team of chefs in the villa’s open kitchen, built around a striking custom Molténi range and Carrara marble worktops.
The experience covers every course of a traditional Italian menu: from golden focaccia baked fresh from the oven, to handmade pastas inspired by the culinary traditions of Emilia-Romagna, slow-cooked Tuscan stews and classic desserts like panna cotta or tiramisù. Classes are kept intimate and tailored—catering to dietary preferences, families or private groups—and are held in English.
Workshops run from 3:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with a minimum of two participants, and are priced at €165 per person, including dinner and wine. After the cooking session, you’ll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor, either in the villa’s gardens during warmer months or by the fireplace in cooler seasons.
Villa Bordoni’s cooking classes are a celebration of Tuscan culture, shared around the table, with new friends, great stories and vibrant flavors of Chianti.
SARDINIA - IS CHEAS
Sardinian Roots and Flavours: The Art of Cooking at Is Cheas
Sardinia, with its rich culinary heritage, offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into Italian cuisine, and at Is Cheas, you can enjoy hands-on cooking lessons that highlight the island’s delicious traditions.
The island’s cuisine is diverse and deeply rooted in local culture, shifting subtly from region to region, yet united by bold, authentic flavors. At Is Cheas, you’ll explore this rich tapestry by learning to prepare signature dishes using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients like pecorino sardo, spiny artichoke, saffron and bottarga (cured fish roe), along with estate-produced DOC and IGT wines.
You’ll create classic Sardinian and Italian dishes such as fregula (traditional pasta), malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi), and culurgiones (stuffed pasta with potatoes and mint), as well as fresh handmade pasta, ravioli and gnocchi. These lessons provide an in-depth look into the island's culinary artistry.
The cooking classes are fully tailor-made to suit your personal interests, curiosities and skill level. After the class, you’ll enjoy the dishes you’ve prepared — paired perfectly with local wine — in a beautiful setting.
The classes are priced at €60 per person and designed for both adults and families, being fun and inclusive. Children are welcome to join, making it a perfect bonding activity that introduces younger guests to the importance of fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.
Whether you're hand-rolling pasta or discovering the secrets of Sardinian breads, the cooking classes at Is Cheas offer a meaningful way to experience Sardinia.
SARDINIA –ANTICA DIMORA DEL GRUCCIONE
Bread, Pasta and Cheese: Sardinia´s Culinary Heritage at Antica Dimora Del Gruccione
Located in the heart of Sardinia, Antica Dimora del Gruccione offers a unique opportunity to experience the island's rich culinary heritage through hands-on cooking workshops. Guests can immerse themselves in Sardinia's traditional food culture, guided by local experts. Whether you're keen to learn the art of making Pane Pintau, Sardinia's stunning celebration bread, or eager to master the details of traditional pasta, these workshops offer a fun and educational way to explore the island's flavors.
The Forms of Bread: A Celebration of Sardinian Tradition
Sardinia’s bread is much more than just a staple food; it’s an integral part of the island's cultural and religious traditions. Among the many types of Sardinian bread, Pane Pintau holds a special place. Known for its elaborate, colorful decorations, this bread is a masterpiece often prepared for festive occasions. During this two-hour workshop, you’ll learn about the process of creating this beautiful bread, from working with local semolina wheat to shaping and decorating small “Festa” (celebration) breads. This hands-on class gives you the chance to experience Sardinian breadmaking firsthand and take home a delicious piece of tradition.
The Tradition of Pasta: Sardinia’s Iconic Fresh and Dried Varieties
Sardinia is famous for its diverse and unique pasta, and the Tradition of Pasta workshop offers the perfect introduction to these iconic dishes. From fregula (Sardinian couscous) to malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi), lorighittas, andarinos and culurgiones, you’ll learn how to make both fresh and dried pasta, using semolina from local grains. This workshop not only covers traditional recipes but also explores more gourmet versions of Sardinian pasta. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a beginner, you’ll walk away with new skills and a deeper appreciation for Sardinian cuisine.
The Forms of Milk: A Hands-On Experience with Casizolu Cheese
Sardinia’s dairy traditions are world-renowned, and the Casizolu cheese is a highlight. Known as "women’s cheese" because it is traditionally women who monitor its maturation, Casizolu is a raw, cow’s milk cheese that embodies the island's rural heritage. This two-hour workshop takes you through the process of making this cheese, where you will have the chance to witness its creation and even try your hand at preparing it yourself. With guidance from a local cheesemaker, you’ll gain a deep understanding of this artisanal product and the importance it holds in Sardinian cuisine.
At Antica Dimora del Gruccione, cooking is about learning the history, culture and traditions behind each dish. Whether you’re baking Pane Pintau, crafting authentic Sardinian pasta or discovering the secrets of Casizolu cheese, these immersive workshops offer an unforgettable culinary adventure. Cooking classes are priced at €40 per person.
UMBRIA – BORGO CASTELLO PANICAGLIA
Umbria on Your Plate: Week-Long Culinary Immersion at Borgo Castello Panicaglia
Surrounded by the hills of Umbria, near Assisi, Borgo Castello Panicaglia offers a unique 8-day cooking workshop perfect for those looking to deepen their culinary skills. Whether you're a hobby cook or someone with a bit of experience, this immersive week will introduce you to traditional Umbrian dishes with a modern twist, all guided by expert local chefs.
Throughout your stay, you’ll explore regional Umbrian cuisine and discover the local food culture through hands-on workshops. From truffle hunting to pasta making, each day offers a new experience.
Program Overview:
Saturday: Arrival & Welcome Dinner
Arrive and settle into your beautiful accommodation at the Borgo. In the evening, enjoy a casual "aperitivo della casa" to meet the other participants, followed by a delicious welcome dinner prepared by our talented chefs.
Sunday: Truffle Day
The adventure begins with a truffle hunt, guided by expert truffle dogs. Afterward, you’ll learn how to prepare and cook these ingredients in the kitchen, culminating in a delicious truffle-infused lunch.
Monday: Wine Day
Take a visit to a local biodynamic winery, where you’ll gain insight into organic wine production and taste exceptional local wines paired with regional delicacies. In the afternoon, return to the Borgo for a cooking class inspired by your wine-tasting experience.
Tuesday: Cheese Day
Visit a nearby goat farm to experience the cheesemaking process firsthand. After a tour, try your hand at making cheese, followed by a delightful tasting of fresh, locally made cheeses.
Wednesday: Bread & Pizza Dough Day
Today, you’ll dive into the art of making bread and pizza dough. The chefs will guide you through the essential techniques, from dough proofing to achieving the perfect pizza crust. The evening brings a pizza-making session in a traditional stone oven.
Bonus for Families: Kids’ Pizza-Baking Class
On pizza day, younger guests are invited to join a fun, hands-on pizza-making class just for them. From shaping the dough to choosing toppings, kids create their own pizzas in the wood-fired oven—an engaging way to introduce children to Italian food culture and make lasting memories.
Thursday: Grain Day
Visit an organic grain farm to learn about the farming process and the different grains used in Italian cuisine. Taste products made from these grains before returning to the Borgo for a hands-on cooking workshop.
Friday: Olive Oil Day
Explore the production of extra virgin olive oil at a local olive oil farm. After learning about the harvest and pressing process, enjoy a picnic among the olive groves, sampling freshly pressed oil before returning to the kitchen for a final cooking session.
Saturday: Departure
After a final breakfast, you’ll depart with new skills, memories, and a deepened appreciation for the flavors of Umbria.
This experience provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the heart of Umbrian cuisine. From visits to local wineries, cheese farms and olive groves to immersive cooking classes and tastings, it’s a chance to deepen your culinary knowledge while savoring the best of Italy’s food culture. With just 12 spots available, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience, ensuring plenty of time for individual attention from the chefs and experts.
Program Details:
Location: Borgo Castello Panicaglia, Umbria
Duration: 8 days (Saturday to Saturday)
Start Price: €1,530 per person (based on a triple room)
What's Included:
7 Nights accommodation
7 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 7 Dinners
Cooking workshops focusing on traditional Umbrian dishes
Excursions to local wineries, cheese farms and olive oil farms
Tastings of regional specialties and local products
Transportation for excursions
PIEDMONT – VILLA SAN LORENZO
From Pasta to Chocolate: Piedmontese Cooking at Villa San Lorenzo
At Villa San Lorenzo, located in the picturesque Piedmont region of Italy, guests can enjoy a rich culinary experience. With hands-on lessons from talented local chefs, participants can explore the flavors and techniques that define Piedmontese cuisine.
Pasta Making
One of the highlights of the experience is the chance to make a variety of traditional pastas. Guests will learn how to create potato gnocchi (and even pumpkin gnocchi in the autumn), the classic tajarin (Piedmont’s signature egg-yolk pasta) and ravioli al plin (small ravioli with various fillings like vegetables, cheese and meat). Expert chefs share their knowledge and provide tips to perfect these dishes and guests receive written instructions to recreate them at home. After the class, everyone gathers for a meal, enjoying the dishes they’ve made, paired with local wines that complement the flavors.
Pizza Making Experience
For those who love pizza, Villa San Lorenzo offers a private pizza-making party. Guests can participate in the entire process or simply relax and enjoy the results. Using organic flour from local Piedmont farms and a custom sourdough starter, guests learn how to create delicious pizzas. The wood-fired brick oven adds the perfect touch to the crisp crust and toppings include classic Margherita DOP, Marinara, homemade pesto, local prosciutto, focaccia with rosemary and even fresh farm eggs and black truffles. It’s a great way to experience authentic Italian pizza-making.
Bread Making and Sourdough
For anyone interested in baking, Villa San Lorenzo offers a class focused on naturally leavened bread. Guests learn how to create their own sourdough starter (pasta madre) and experiment with different bread recipes using local artisanal flours. Clay, the expert baker, shares his passion for baking with local ingredients like Einkorn wheat, an ancient grain grown at a nearby farm. This grain is naturally low in gluten, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitivities. After the workshop, guests can take their new skills home and bake their own delicious bread.
Chocolate Making with a Master Chocolatier
For a sweet ending, guests can indulge in a chocolate-making experience. Under the guidance of master chocolatier Eugenio Truffa, with over thirty years of experience, guests learn the delicate process of tempering chocolate and creating unique chocolates. After crafting their own treats, guests can enjoy a sampling of the chocolates, savoring the rich, handcrafted flavors.
Villa San Lorenzo offers an authentic Italian culinary experience where guests can learn traditional techniques and take home new skills. Whether making pasta, pizza, bread or chocolates, it’s an unforgettable opportunity to dive into the local food culture of Piedmont.
SOUTH TYROL – FELDER ALPINE LODGE
Mountain Meals and Alpine Roots: Hight-Altitude Cooking at Felder Alpine Lodge
As our culinary journey across Italy continues, we travel north to the breathtaking mountains of South Tyrol, where alpine serenity meets gourmet sophistication at Felder Alpin Lodge. Located in a tranquil corner of the Dolomites, this luxurious mountain retreat offers more than just panoramic views—it invites guests to dive into the rich flavors of South Tyrolean and Mediterranean cuisine through immersive cooking experiences.
The “Black Kitchen” is a fully equipped cooking space where guests are invited to express their inner chef. Whether you’re cooking on the gas stove, wood-fired cooker or electric grill, the kitchen provides all the tools you need to create authentic alpine meals or refined Mediterranean dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients—often delivered directly from nearby farms. Among them are handpicked herbs, mountain vegetables, organic meats and South Tyrolean specialties like Canederli (savory bread dumplings) with speck, or their equally delicious vegetarian versions.
For those who prefer a guided experience, private cooking lessons with a personal chef are available upon request. These sessions offer an exclusive opportunity to explore traditional Italian, South Tyrolean and Ladin cuisine — from ravioli del plin and hearty soups to dumplings (known as Knödel), apple strudel, Linzer torte and more.
Under the watchful eye of a local culinary expert, guests can learn everything from rolling fresh pasta to perfecting a grilled steak. Each class is tailored to the guest’s interests and skill level, ensuring an enriching experience.
The lodge’s personal concierge can also arrange private wine tastings, showcasing exceptional regional vintages that pair perfectly with the dishes created in class.
Whether you’re refining your culinary skills or learning something new, Felder Alpin Lodge is a one-of-a-kind gastronomic escape in the mountains.
Ready to roll your own ravioli in Piedmont or taste your handmade cassata in Sicily? Explore our Gourmet Escapes collection and start your Italian cooking journey today.