Although we say it ourselves, this really is a little gem of a program. In a luxurious, historic palazzo right in the center of Parma, Chef Mattia and his team lead this unique hands-on cooking experience that reveals the history behind some of Italy’s best-loved flavors. Visit local artisans producing Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano and Balsamic vinegar and find out more about the centuries old traditions that dictate production, with specialist knowledge passed from generation to generation by experts who know how to use the characteristics of their territory to obtain products of only the highest quality. During this tour you’ll be able to soak up the town’s many delights as your residence, an elegant twelfth-century palazzo built by the noble Prati family, enjoys a central location in Parma’s historic center. And it is in this building’s ancient cellars that you’ll enjoy a wine tasting followed by a tour of the palazzo. As part of the program you will also learn how to prepare a full, typical menu in the palazzo’s kitchen, including the area’s fresh hand-made pasta.
Cooking Classes
Classes take place in the palazzo’a attractive kitchen where Chef Mattia will talk about the many culinary delights of Parma, from the beautiful sheets of fresh pasta that can be fashioned into lasagna, tortellini, cappelletti and ravioli to culatello, prosciutto, bollito misto and fritto misto. Menus vary with the seasons and the availability of fresh ingredients, but there will always be a pasta dish, some wonderful fresh vegetables – the area’s delicious pumpkin perhaps, or artichokes, fava beans and zucchini – and a traditional second course, either meat or fish based. Sweets might include a sweet focaccia, a semi-freddo or a dessert with fresh fruit. After class you eat the dishes prepared earlier and enjoy a glass of local wine.
Parma
The city of Parma is not only an important gastronomic center and a haven for foodies, but also boasts one of the oldest universities in Europe and a choice of Museums and Art Galleries. It is a city that has retained, not only its food traditions, but also its rich cultural and artistic heritage. As a result, visitors cannot fail to be impressed by the size and scope of the collections held by the city’s museums. As well as works of art, those visiting the museums in Parma can browse exhibits, which range from old printing presses and fashion sketches, to early Christian mosaics and archaeological finds. Parma was originally a Roman colony, and traces of the Roman settlement are still visible in places, with the streets of the old town, for example, following the ancient layout of Roman settlement. During the Roman era the town had a theater, amphitheater, thermal spa, basilica and forum, where Piazza Garibaldi stands today. And as you might expect, there are countless restaurants and osterie where you can sample Parma’s delicious cuisine in your free time.
Accommodations
The Palazzo, your accommodation, is in the heart of Parma. Built around 1222, the Palazzo belonged to the noble Prati Family. Carefully restored maintaining the style and art of its past, and has all the modern comforts you could wish for, including a glass elevator that whisks you up to your suite. Elegant suites and luxury apartments take front seat and look out onto the city’s medieval piazza. Each suite has tastefully appointed kitchen areas, air conditioning, satellite TV, internet, telephone, and a security box. The property is just a couple minutes walk from the main piazza, artisan shops and centro storico. Local landmarks include the Chiesa della Steccata, Piazzale della Pace, the National Gallery, the Gardens of Saint Paul and the Regio Theater. And of course, there are cafés, trattorias, restaurants and wine bars fit for every taste.
Photo Gallery
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Itinerary ~ 4 days, 3 nights
Day 1: Arrival & Welcome
• Welcome, Check in to your residence.
• Afternoon – wine tasting in the newly restored 13th-century cellars of the palazzo.
• Dinner on your own.
Day 2: Gastronomic Tour ~ Prosciutto Di Parma, Parmiggiano Reggiano, Balsamic Vinegar
• Breakfast is served.
• Head off for your gastronomic tour of the Prosciutto, Parmigiano and Balsamic vinegar artisans to learn how these world famous Parma products are made.
• Dinner on your own.
Day 3: Cooking Class
• Breakfast is served.
• Spend the morning at the Palazzo learning to make typical dishes of the region and then enjoy the fruits of your labor.
• Afternoon free to explore Parma.
• Dinner on your own.
Day 4: Tour of Parma
• Breakfast is served.
• Spend the morning with your guide and your half day tour of Parma.
• Check out and Arrivederci!
Program Includes:
- 3 nights accommodations, based on double occupancy.
- Daily Breakfast.
- Wine tasting and Tour of the 13th-century Palazzo, (Suggestion in May & June only).
- Gastronomic Tour (Parma Ham, Cheese and Vinegar artisans).
- Cooking Class followed by lunch on the foods prepared in class.
- Guided half day tour of Parma.
- Transfer to and from train station.
Program Prices
$1,600 per person, based on double occupancy. All taxes & VAT included.
2012 Dates: This program is available throughout the year. You can check in and start your cooking program any day of the week, as this program is offered 12 months per year. Rates are subject to change based on currency exchange. Call for updated rates. Airfare not included.
