Cooking class with family and in the garden of an old boathouse

Cooking Class in the Garden of an Old Boathouse in Lecce

This cooking class in Lecce offers a unique chance to connect with Salento’s culinary traditions in a beautifully restored, historic setting. For $95.78 per person, participants spend approximately three hours learning to make fresh pasta while immersed in the charm of a cozy garden at an ancient boathouse. The tour is private, ensuring an intimate experience, and features a mobile ticket for easy access.

The experience begins with a welcoming aperitif of local products, paired with excellent wines typical of Salento. After the tasting, everyone pitches in to prepare homemade pasta, including orecchiette and macaroni, seasoned with two different sauces: fresh tomato & basil and “Ciceri & Tria”—a chickpea-based dish with vegetables and fried pasta. The evening flows with traditional music—“La Pizzica”—and the opportunity to play musical instruments like the violin guitars and tambourines. To finish, a homemade ice cream and house-made limoncello provide a sweet closing.

While the location and hands-on approach stand out, this tour is especially well-suited for those interested in authentic local cuisine and family-style dining. The 3-hour duration makes it a manageable addition to a day in Lecce, with the small group setting enriching the experience. It’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking culture combined with culinary fun.

Key Points

• Authentic Salento experience in a renovated old boathouse garden
• Hands-on pasta making of orecchiette and macaroni
• Includes local aperitif and pairing with regional wines
• Traditional music participation with “La Pizzica” and instrument playing
• Delicious homemade ice cream and house limoncello to end the night
• Private tour with only your group, ensuring a personalized atmosphere

The Historic Boathouse Garden in Lecce

The tour takes place in the garden of an ancient boathouse, a Salento structure featuring 4-star vaults that have been recently renovated. This setting was historically used as a stable and warehouse but today provides a charming venue for the cooking class. The cozy ambiance of the garden combined with the historic architecture creates an inviting atmosphere for both learning and relaxing.

This unique location adds to the experience, as it blends history and culture with the pleasure of cooking. The outdoor setting allows for fresh air and a more informal environment compared to traditional kitchens, making the experience more engaging and memorable.

The Aperitif of Local Products and Wines

The evening kicks off with a taste of typical Salento products, which include local delicacies paired with regional wines. This aperitif sets a welcoming tone and gives participants a chance to enjoy authentic flavors before rolling up their sleeves in the kitchen. The pairing underscores the importance of local gastronomic traditions and prepares guests for the culinary journey ahead.

The quality of the wines is often highlighted as a notable feature, providing a complementary experience to the pasta dishes that follow. This initial tasting is a relaxed way to warm up and get familiar with Salento’s produce.

Making Pasta: Orecchiette and Macaroni

The core activity involves making fresh pasta, a hands-on process guided by the local cook. Participants learn to create orecchiette and macaroni, classic Salento pasta shapes. The process emphasizes traditional techniques and attention to detail, resulting in authentic homemade pasta that’s seasoned with two distinctive sauces.

This interactive segment allows participants to engage directly with the cooking, gaining skills and confidence in handmade pasta techniques. The dishes are inspired by local recipes and seasonal ingredients—a true taste of Salento’s culinary identity.

The Sauces: Fresh Tomato & Basil and Ciceri & Tria

Once the pasta is prepared, the seasonings come into focus. The first sauce features fresh tomato and basil, a simple yet flavorful combination that highlights summer harvests. The second sauce, “Ciceri & Tria,” is a chickpea-based dish flavored with vegetables and fried pasta, representing a classic Salento specialty.

The preparation of these sauces offers insights into local flavor profiles and traditional cooking methods. Participants leave with the knowledge to recreate these authentic dishes at home, further extending the cultural value of the experience.

The Role of Traditional Music and Instrument Play

A distinctive feature of this tour is the musical accompaniment provided by local musicians, who play “La Pizzica”, a traditional dance and music style from Salento. Guests are invited to listen and, if they wish, participate by playing the violin guitars and tambourines.

This musical element enriches the evening, turning it into a cultural celebration rather than just a cooking class. It offers a dynamic connection to the local heritage and adds a fun, lively atmosphere to the experience.

Dessert: Homemade Ice Cream and Limoncello

To conclude the evening, homemade ice cream and house-made limoncello provide a sweet finish. The ice cream is crafted on-site, giving a fresh, creamy end to the meal, while the limoncello offers a refreshing and aromatic digestif.

These final touches showcase local ingredients and traditional recipes, rounding out the culinary journey with tasty, authentic flavors. The limoncello in particular is a highlight, often praised for its quality and freshness.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at Via Giuseppe Casciaro, 5, Lecce, making it easy to find near public transportation options. The activity is private, meaning only your group participates, creating an intimate environment for sharing and learning. The duration of approximately three hours offers a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed.

Participants should be prepared for outdoor conditions and should note that the experience is weather-dependent. In case of poor weather, a reschedule or full refund is available, providing reassurance for planning purposes.

Cost and Booking Insights

At $95.78 per person, this cooking class offers good value given the inclusion of local wines, musical entertainment, and homemade dishes. It is best booked in advance, with an average reservation lead time of 40 days. The full price covers the hands-on experience, culinary ingredients, and cultural activities.

The flexible cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, adding peace of mind for travelers planning ahead.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others in Lecce

Unlike typical cooking classes, this experience emphasizes family and culture. The historic boathouse setting, paired with music and local wines, creates a multi-sensory experience that extends beyond just cooking. The small group and private format foster a personalized atmosphere, ideal for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Salento.

The integration of traditional music and the chance to play instruments elevate the experience, making it a unique cultural event as well as a culinary lesson.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience Most

This tour suits those who appreciate authentic local cuisine and cultural traditions. It’s especially ideal for food lovers, music enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate activity in Lecce. The outdoor setting and family atmosphere make it accessible to most, though physical activity is minimal, and moderate mobility should be sufficient.

Families, couples, or small groups looking for a meaningful, interactive experience will find this class both fun and enriching.

Final Thoughts on the Lecce Cooking Class in the Old Boathouse Garden

The cultural richness, hands-on pasta making, and authentic atmosphere make this tour a highlight for those visiting Lecce. The beautiful historic setting, combined with local wines and traditional music, ensures a well-rounded, memorable experience.

While the price is reasonable for the quality and intimacy offered, travelers should consider weather conditions, as the outdoor activity could be affected. This tour provides a warm, genuine introduction to Salento’s culinary and musical culture—perfect for those wanting more than just a typical cooking class.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $95.78?
The price covers the three-hour cooking class, local aperitif, regional wines, musical entertainment, homemade ice cream, and house-made limoncello.

Where does the tour start and end?
The activity begins and ends at Via Giuseppe Casciaro, 5, Lecce, making it easy to find and convenient for public transportation.

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
While designed for small groups, the family atmosphere and outdoor setting make it suitable for families, especially those interested in cultural activities and interactive experiences.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund available.

What should I wear or bring?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity. No specific equipment is required, but weather-appropriate attire is advised.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
The experience is private, so it is booked for your group only, but it does depend on availability and weather conditions.

Can I participate in playing the musical instruments?
Yes, you are welcome to use the instruments provided, such as violin guitars and tambourines, to join in the musical part of the evening.

Is this tour good for those new to cooking?
Absolutely. The step-by-step guidance makes it accessible for beginners and experienced cooks alike.