Manarola: Pesto Making Class with Tasting and Wine

Discover the authentic flavor of Liguria with this Pesto Making Class in Manarola. Priced at an accessible rate, this 1-hour experience offers a hands-on way to master the art of creating traditional basil-based pesto, guided by the knowledgeable chef Yvonne Riccobaldi. Located in the stunning village of Manarola, part of Italy’s famous Cinque Terre, this tour provides not just a cooking lesson but also a chance to savor focaccia baked by the chef herself and sample some of the best local white wine. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 45 reviews, it proves to be a favorite for visitors seeking a genuine Ligurian culinary experience.

While the class is short and sweet, its focus on learning authentic pesto preparation and enjoying local flavors makes it an ideal activity for foodies or those wanting a taste of Liguria’s rich culinary traditions. The meeting point is easy to find near the Manarola train station, and the class is suitable for most visitors, with English and Italian instruction. The experience offers excellent value, combining hands-on participation with local storytelling, and leaves guests with a deeper appreciation of Ligurian cuisine.

Key Points

• Learn to make traditional Ligurian pesto with mortar and pestle
• Taste fresh, handmade focaccia baked by the chef
• Enjoy a glass of premium Cinque Terre white wine
• Guided by Yvonne Riccobaldi, a knowledgeable and engaging host
• Located in the picturesque village of Manarola, Italy
• Duration of 1 hour, with flexible starting times and full cancellation options

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meet Yvonne Riccobaldi: The Expert Guide

This pesto class is led by Yvonne Riccobaldi, whose engaging teaching style and deep knowledge of Ligurian food history shine through. She welcomes participants warmly and provides all necessary ingredients and utensils, including an apron. Yvonne’s storytelling about the origin and history of pesto adds an enriching layer to the hands-on activity, making the experience both educational and fun.

Guests find her a very kind and informative host, and her passion for local cuisine translates into an enjoyable learning environment. The class emphasizes doing the process by hand—using mortar and pestle—giving participants a true sense of tradition. The relaxed pace allows enough time to ask questions, absorb stories, and connect with the local culture.

How the Class Starts in Manarola

The meeting point is just outside the Manarola train station tunnel. From there, visitors turn right, walk uphill, crossing the church square, and continue along the main road. About 50 meters past a white and red bar, the entrance to Pie de Campu marks the spot. Yvonne is ready to welcome you with a friendly smile, set against the scenic backdrop of this colorful Ligurian harbor town.

Making Pesto the Traditional Way

The core of this experience is learning how to prepare pesto using the classic mortar and pestle. Yvonne walks participants through adding ingredients gradually—fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, cheese, and olive oil—sharing stories about each element’s origin. Once the basil seedlings are bare, the pesto is complete, and everyone gets to taste their own handiwork.

This method emphasizes authenticity over speed, allowing participants to appreciate the textures and aromas that define Ligurian pesto. The focus on traditional techniques makes the process meaningful, especially for those interested in culinary heritage.

Tasting Focaccia and Cinque Terre Wine

After creating the pesto, the group enjoys a handmade focaccia crafted by Yvonne. This freshly baked bread pairs beautifully with the pesto, offering a true taste of Liguria’s bread-making craftsmanship. To complement the flavors, a glass of local Cinque Terre white wine is offered, providing an authentic regional touch.

While reviews suggest that a little more bread or wine might enhance the experience, the quality of both the focaccia and the wine consistently impresses. Guests appreciate the relaxed setting where they can savor their creations and soak in the Ligurian ambiance.

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The Ligurian Flavors and Cultural Storytelling

Yvonne shares stories about the history and cultural significance of pesto in Liguria, adding depth to the tasting. Guests learn how this sauce evolved and why it’s a staple in local cuisine. The class emphasizes the importance of fresh ingredients and traditional methods, reinforcing how Ligurian flavors are rooted in simplicity and quality.

This storytelling approach helps participants understand not just how to make pesto but why the process matters, creating a richer culinary appreciation.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point is conveniently located near the Manarola train station, with clear instructions for finding the entrance at Pie de Campu. The class is suitable for most people, with instructions provided in English and Italian.

The tour operates with the flexibility of reserve now and pay later, offering full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Its short duration of 1 hour makes it easy to fit into a broader sightseeing itinerary, and the experience is designed to be approachable for all skill levels.

Why This Pesto Class Stands Out

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the opportunity to learn a genuine Ligurian recipe from a local expert. The focus on hands-on preparation ensures that participants leave with both new skills and memorable flavors. The inclusion of focaccia and local wine enhances the tasting experience, making it more than just a cooking lesson.

The high praise in reviews highlights the engaging guidance of Yvonne, the quality of the ingredients, and the overall warm atmosphere. The class offers excellent value, especially for those interested in authentic regional cuisine and culture.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience Most

This pesto making class is ideal for food lovers, cooking enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Ligurian traditions. It suits travelers who prefer interactive activities that combine learning, tasting, and cultural stories. The experience is accessible and relaxed, making it perfect for families, couples, or solo visitors seeking a meaningful connection with Italian flavors.

Keep in mind, the class is brief, so those looking for an extensive tour or detailed culinary workshop might consider other options. Nonetheless, this activity offers a genuine taste of Liguria in a friendly setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the pesto making class last?
The class lasts 1 hour, allowing enough time to learn, prepare, and taste.

What is included in the price?
Participants receive hands-on pesto preparation, freshly baked focaccia, and a glass of Cinque Terre white wine.

Where does the class take place?
The experience begins near the Manarola train station, at Pie de Campu. Directions are provided to ensure easy access.

Are the instructions in English?
Yes, the class is offered in English and Italian.

Is it suitable for all skill levels?
Absolutely, the class is designed to be accessible for all, whether beginners or experienced cooks.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with reserve now, pay later options.

This Pesto Making Class in Manarola offers an authentic and engaging way to dive into Ligurian cuisine, guided by an expert and set in a stunning village. Its focus on tradition, quality ingredients, and regional storytelling makes it a memorable addition to any Italian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby