Sustainable Farm Tour & Northern Italian Cooking Class in Asti

Authentic Italian Cooking on a Sustainable Farm in Asti

This $140 per person experience offers a 4-hour journey into traditional Italian cuisine on a sustainable farm in the hills of Piedmont. Led by Viviana, a passionate master herbologist, this tour combines foraging, farm visits, and hands-on cooking in a local home kitchen. With a rating of 5.0 from 5 reviews, it proves to be a favorite for those seeking a genuine, off-the-beaten-path culinary adventure.

While the experience is suitable for all skill levels, including children, it offers a meaningful look at eco-friendly farming practices and the use of wild herbs in cooking. The tour departs from Agriturismo Serra dei Costa in Priocca, and booking typically occurs about 10 days in advance. The group size remains small and private, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Key Points

• Includes a farm tour, foraging, and cooking class led by Viviana, an experienced guide
• Learn to recognize and collect wild herbs using all five senses
• Cook and enjoy 2-3 traditional Italian dishes with recipes from Viviana’s family
• Visit a sustainable farm surrounded by vineyards and orchards in the Piedmont hills
• Alcoholic beverages included in the experience
• No hotel pickup or drop-off—you meet at the designated location in Priocca

Visiting Viviana’s Sustainable Farm in Priocca

The experience begins at Agriturismo Serra dei Costa, where Viviana’s beautiful farm sits on the scenic hills of Piemonte. Here, you get an introduction to her eco-conscious farming methods, including soil enrichment and ecosystem management. Farm animals, vegetable gardens, and fruit trees like hazelnuts and apricots are part of her land’s charm.

This farm tour offers a chance to see Viviana’s sustainable practices in action. She explains how she maintains a healthy environment for her plants and animals, enriching the soil through replanting and creating a balanced ecosystem. This behind-the-scenes look adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a cooking class.

Foraging for Wild Herbs and Vegetables

A true highlight is the foraging segment, where Viviana guides you through her farm’s land to gather wild herbs and vegetables. She shares her knowledge on properties and traditional uses of plants like wild herbs, teaching you how to identify them using all five senses. Expect to find plants common in Italy that enhance your cooking with authentic flavors.

The foraging walk offers practical skills, including how to quickly recognize edible plants and incorporate them into recipes. This part of the tour broadens your understanding of wild herbs, making it accessible for anyone, regardless of cooking experience.

Making Two to Three Italian Dishes with Family Recipes

Back in Viviana’s home kitchen, the hands-on cooking session begins. She demonstrates how to prepare two or three dishes that highlight the wild herbs you collected. The recipes reflect her family’s traditions, emphasizing authenticity and local flavors.

Participants—whether novice cooks or seasoned chefs—learn simple techniques to bring traditional Italian dishes to life. The class is relaxed and inclusive, allowing everyone to participate and enjoy the process. After cooking, you sit down to share and taste the meal you’ve created together.

The Warmth of Italian Hospitality and Meal Sharing

A major part of this experience is the warmth and friendliness of Viviana and her home. The family-style meal provides a chance to connect over home-cooked dishes with natural ingredients. The alcoholic beverages included complement the meal, enhancing the flavors and creating a convivial atmosphere.

Enjoying the fruits of your labor in the company of your hosts offers a genuine taste of Italian hospitality. This personal touch makes the experience memorable and more meaningful than a typical cooking class.

Practicalities and Booking Details

This private tour ensures an intimate setting, with only your group participating. The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, with the meeting point at Agriturismo Serra dei Costa. There is no hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to arrive at the start location.

Bookings are usually made about 10 days in advance, and the tour is available year-round, depending on seasonal harvests. The full cost is $140 per person, which includes the farm visit, foraging, the cooking class, and alcoholic beverages. Gratuities are appreciated but not included.

Viviana’s Passion and Teaching Style

Reviews highlight Viviana’s enthusiasm and dedication to her sustainable lifestyle. Her knowledge of wild herbs and her ability to share her practices make her a captivating host. She explains her approach to farming and cooking clearly and passionately, making the experience accessible and engaging for all.

Her attention to detail and commitment to sustainability shine through, inspiring participants to appreciate local ingredients and eco-friendly practices.

How This Tour Differs from Other Culinary Experiences

Unlike typical cooking classes, this tour combines foraging, sustainable farming, and family-style cooking in a private setting. It offers a deeper connection to local culture and nature, making it ideal for travelers seeking a hands-on, authentic Italian experience.

The emphasis on wild herbs sets it apart from more conventional classes, providing practical skills in recognition and use of wild plants. The scenic farm location and personalized attention ensure a relaxed and enriching environment.

Accessibility and Suitability

This experience is suitable for all ages and skill levels, including children. The walks on the farm are gentle, and the cooking is straightforward. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is designed to be inclusive.

No specific physical requirements are noted, but participants should be comfortable walking outdoors during the foraging segment. The tour’s small-group format fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on the Asti Culinary Adventure

The Sustainable Farm Tour & Northern Italian Cooking Class in Asti offers an authentic taste of Piedmontese culture and eco-conscious farming. The combination of foraging, farm visits, and home-cooked meals makes for a rich, engaging experience that appeals to food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

While it does not include hotel pickup, the personalized nature and intimate setting make it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary in the Piedmont region. It’s especially suited for those eager to learn about wild herbs, support sustainable practices, and enjoy genuine Italian hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $140?
The tour covers a private farm visit, foraging, cooking class, meal, and alcoholic beverages. Gratuities are not included.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately 4 hours, starting at the meeting point in Priocca.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is accessible for all ages and skill levels, including children.

Do I need to bring anything?
No specific items are required, but comfortable shoes for outdoor walking are recommended.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves gentle farm walks and kitchen activities; participants should be comfortable with mild outdoor movement.

What makes this tour unique?
It combines sustainable farming, wild herb foraging, and family-style cooking in a private setting with a passionate guide.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.

Is there transportation included?
No, there is no hotel pickup or drop-off; participants meet at the designated farm location.

How do I book this experience?
Bookings are typically made 10 days in advance through the provided platform, depending on availability.

What kind of dishes will I cook?
You will learn to prepare 2-3 dishes that highlight wild herbs and traditional family recipes.