Learn Italian, Food & Culture in Abruzzo

Your Italian adventure begins with a private group pick-up from Rome Fiumicino Airport. From there, we'll embark on a scenic drive to the ancient Roman town of Vasto, located on the Adriatic Coastline. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Abruzzo mountains and National Parks, adorned with hilltop villages and castles. Upon arrival in Vasto, we'll check into the charming Hotel San Marco (or similar) located in the historical center. After settling in, you'll meet your Italian teacher and tour leader, followed by a delightful group dinner at a traditional local restaurant.

After a hearty breakfast, we'll visit an award-winning winery nestled between a marine park and the mountains in Vasto. Here, you'll participate in a fun Italian language class focused on food, olive oil, and Italian wines. After touring the vineyard and cellars, we'll enjoy a wine tasting session paired with local cheeses and salami. In the afternoon, we'll explore Vasto's historical center, including the medieval Castle, charming lanes, the Cathedral, and Piazza Rossetti. We'll also meet local artisans before you have the evening to explore Vasto's culinary scene at your own pace.

Day three begins with a visit to Vasto's vibrant market, where you'll get to practice your Italian while shopping for seasonal products. Next, we'll drive to the beautiful countryside to meet Fabrizio's family for an exclusive cooking class. You'll learn how to make fresh pasta and traditional Abruzzo sauces. After a delightful lunch with the dishes we've prepared, we'll visit an Olive Grove farmed by Giovanni's family for three generations. Here, you'll learn about the production of 'liquid gold' - olive oil, followed by an olive oil tasting session. The evening is yours to explore Vasto's diverse dining options.

Day four takes us to the famous Trabocchi coastline. We'll start with a short walk in the 'Punta Aderci' Nature Reserve, one of Italy's most beautiful beaches. Here, we'll have our Italian language class, surrounded by the serene seaside and lush vegetation. We'll then visit a 'trabocco', a unique fishing platform, where depending on the weather, you'll learn the art of fishing from our host, Rinaldo. His wife, Maria, will prepare a delicious lunch with fresh fish from the Adriatic Sea. The afternoon is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace, before another evening of culinary exploration in Vasto.

After breakfast, we'll head to a local farmhouse where Pina and Berardino will introduce us to traditional farming. After our Italian language class, you'll have the chance to milk a cow, learn how to make 'pizza scima', prepare ricotta cheese, and collect fresh vegetables for our farm-to-table lunch. In the afternoon, we'll drive to the enchanting village of Roccascalegna, known for its stunning castle. After a day of exploration, you'll have the evening to enjoy dinner or an aperitif at one of the many restaurants and wine bars in Vasto.

On day six, we'll drive to the hilltop village of Lentella to visit Ettore's 'Art Farm'. Here, we'll have our final Italian language class, followed by an artistic experience where you'll create your own postcard using natural colors from leaves and flowers. After an aperitif and a traditional farewell lunch with Ettore and his wife Barbara, you'll have free time to relax, pack, or do some last-minute shopping.

After breakfast, we'll depart for Rome Fiumicino Airport or your next destination. As we drive back, you'll have ample time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you've made during this 7-day Italian adventure. Please ensure to book an afternoon flight due to the travel time from Vasto to Rome Fiumicino.