Cultural, Culinary & Christmas Dishes Experience in Abruzzo

Your Italian adventure begins with a pick-up from Rome Fiumicino airport at 2:30 pm. We'll journey to the ancient Roman town of Vasto, crossing the stunning Abruzzo mountains and taking in the breathtaking landscapes, hilltop villages, and castles. Upon arrival in Vasto, we'll check into the charming, family-run Hotel dei 7 (or similar) located in the historical downtown. After settling in, we'll enjoy a welcome group dinner at a traditional restaurant in the heart of Vasto.

After a leisurely traditional breakfast, we'll explore Vasto's vibrant market, where you'll have the chance to practice your Italian. We'll then head to the beautiful countryside for an exclusive cooking class with Fabrizio's family. After enjoying our homemade lunch, we'll spend the afternoon exploring Vasto's historic center, including the medieval Castle, charming lanes, the Cathedral, and Piazza Rossetti. We'll also meet local artisans before you have free time to explore the city's culinary scene on your own.

Day 3 takes us to the hilltop village of Lentella, where we'll visit Ettore's 'Fattoria d'Arte' (Art Farm). Surrounded by stunning landscapes, we'll engage in an artistic experience, creating our own Christmas gifts. After a traditional lunch with Ettore and his wife, we'll drive along the famous Trabocchi coast, visiting a trabocco, a unique fishing platform. We'll learn about its history and enjoy a seafood aperitif while taking in the beautiful marine landscape. The evening is yours to explore Vasto's dining scene.

After breakfast, we'll return to the countryside for another cooking class with Fabrizio's family, this time focusing on traditional Christmas dishes. After a festive lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore Vasto at your own pace. Visit the city's museums and art galleries, shop for local crafts, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere. In the evening, you're free to discover Vasto's culinary delights on your own.

Day 5 takes us to a local farmhouse where we'll immerse ourselves in an authentic slow food experience. We'll learn how to make 'pizza scima', a yeast-free pizza, and prepare ricotta cheese. After a farm-to-table lunch, we'll drive inland to the charming village of Roccascalegna, known as Abruzzo's 'castle in the sky'. After a day of exploration, the evening is yours to enjoy a meal or aperitif in one of Vasto's many restaurants and wine bars.

Day 6 begins with a visit to an Olive Grove, where we'll learn about the production of 'liquid gold', followed by an olive oil tasting. We'll then visit an award-winning winery for a tour and tasting session, paired with local cheeses and salami. After some free time in the afternoon, we'll join Fabrizio's family for a farewell party, enjoying Abruzzo wines and food in a relaxed atmosphere. We'll also help prepare tiramisu and various types of pizza for our final dinner together.

After breakfast, we'll depart for Rome Fiumicino airport or your next destination. As we say 'arrivederci' to Italy, we hope you leave with unforgettable memories of this beautiful country and its rich culture.