Discover the world of Tuscan extra virgin olive oil in an authentic family atmosphere. Walking among centuries-old olive trees, you will uncover the history and the profound connection between this land and one of its most precious products.
Along the way, you will learn the traditional cultivation and production methods passed down through generations, understanding what truly makes an extra virgin olive oil of high quality and how to recognize it by color, aroma, and flavor.
The guided tasting will lead you through a selection of extra virgin olive oils, each with its own story, paired with local products such as bread, bruschetta, and seasonal specialties that enhance every drop. Expert explanations will help you explore the nuances of aroma and flavor, providing you with the tools to appreciate olive oil in a completely new way.
More than a simple tasting, this is a journey into the heart of Tuscan rural culture: a simple, genuine, and profoundly human experience that connects you to the land, the seasons, and the traditions that have shaped this territory for centuries.
The tour includes A guided visit to the family olive grove, followed by an olive oil tasting with local products such as:
Fresh cheeses, seasonal vegetables, bruschetta, and fresh bread.
Good to know
What's included
Not included
Languages spoken
Important notes
1. Every experience is designed to be fully enjoyed without worries. If you or any of the participants have allergies, intolerances, or follow a particular diet, please indicate this in the notes during booking — our host will be happy to adapt the menu for you.
2. The price does not include transfers from your hotel or villa to our location. We invite you to arrange your own transportation — we will be happy to provide you with the exact address and any useful directions to reach us.
3. After booking, your host will contact you personally to define all the details together — where to meet, how to reach us, and what time to start your adventure.
Booking a cooking experience with Gaia was one of the best decisions I made while in Cortona! Being in her home, in her kitchen, laughing and chatting while cooking was like being with family and friends. The atmosphere was warm and cozy, and Gaia was a great instructor - very patient with an inexperienced cook like me. To top it off, the food was absolutely delicious. I recommend Gaia’s Cooking Lab one thousand percent!!!
This was such a fun, cozy, wonderful experience. Gaia and her family welcomed us into their beautiful home with open arms. Not only do you learn how to cook classic Italian food (while drinking some delicious local wine), but Gaia’s Cooking Lab also lets you feel like you are a member of the family. If you’re in Tuscany and are looking for more of an intimate, cozy, and personal experience where you can learn something to impress your friends at home, make sure you book Gaia’s Cooking Lab. It was one of the best parts of our trip!
An unforgettable cooking class, between authentic flavors and sweet encounters! Last week I took part in a truly special cooking class and I was thrilled! The experience was much more than a simple cooking lesson: it was a real dive into nature and authenticity. We cooked delicious dishes, but one aspect that made everything even more beautiful were the people who led the activity: very sweet, prepared and incredibly friendly. From the first moment they made me feel welcomed and at ease, with a contagious passion for cooking and sincere attention to each participant. It is clear that they love what they do, and their enthusiasm made everything more engaging. It was a relaxing, authentic experience full of simple emotions. I had a great time and I recommend it to anyone who wants to disconnect from the routine and rediscover the pleasure of cooking and contact with nature.
Adults
Children (5–12 yrs)
30 €/childOptional extras
1 Bott. Rosso Sangiovese
15 € each
1 Bott. Bianco Manseng e Viognier
10 € each
Select a date
Have a discount code?
Free cancellation within 7 days of the experience
Full refund, excluding service fee (5%).
Guided tour of our vineyards and winery, featuring a tasting of 4 of our finest wines paired with local specialty products, cured meats, and cheeses.
Guided tour of our vineyards and winery, with tasting of 5 of our finest wines paired with a traditional Tuscan lunch
What a wonderful time! Gaia was so kind and patient with our very, very limited Italian. We highly recommend. And, oh yeah, the food was outstanding!!
This cooking class was our absolute favorite thing to do when we were in Cortona. Gaia and her family were so warm and welcoming that it felt like we were having dinner at a friend’s place. Her home and property were so beautiful, it was the perfect Tuscan experience. And our dinner was amazing! I’m already looking forward to taking the recipes home and making them with my own family.
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