Gourmet Lunch Farm Tour with Cooking Class

Authentic Albanian Farm Experience with Gourmet Lunch and Cooking Class

The Gourmet Lunch Farm Tour with Cooking Class in Albania offers an engaging way to explore the countryside while enjoying a delicious, farm-to-table meal. Priced at $86.82 per person, this 6-hour experience combines a hands-on cooking class, feeding friendly farm animals, relaxing swimming in a natural eco pool, and touring terraced gardens and a new wine vineyard. The tour departs from Saranda at 10:30 am, with private transportation included. The tour is well-suited for most travelers, including vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets. With a maximum group size of 25, it feels intimate without losing the lively farm atmosphere.

This experience stands out for its genuine hospitality, beautiful mountain setting, and variety of activities. The chance to milk a goat, feed animals, and sample Albanian wines and infused teas creates an authentic farm day. The gourmet six-course meal leaves many satisfied, and the friendly hosts make the experience welcoming and relaxed. Keep in mind that villas are not included, and early booking is recommended, as the tour is often booked about 100 days in advance.

Key Points

• Price: $86.82 per person for a 6-hour farm experience
• Departure Point & Time: Saranda at 10:30 am
• Activities: Cooking class, feeding farm animals, swimming, exploring gardens and vineyards
• Highlights: Gourmet six-course farm-to-table meal, eco pool, wine tasting, and hands-on farm activities
• Group Size: Up to 25 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere
• Accessibility: Suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free guests
• Booking: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Introduction to Bote Farms

The tour begins with a pickup from Saranda at 10:30 am, where friendly staff transport guests to Bote Farms. The location is a peaceful mountain-side farm, away from the busier beaches of Saranda and Ksamil. This setting offers stunning views and a chance to unwind in nature. Once at the farm, guests immediately feel welcomed by the warm hospitality of the hosts, who are passionate about showcasing Albanian rural life.

Upon arrival, guests are introduced to the farm’s terraced gardens, wine vineyard, and eco pool. The farm’s unique eco swimming pool provides a refreshing break, with towels supplied, making it easy to relax or enjoy a swim before or after the cooking activities. The environment is casual and friendly, encouraging interaction with the farm animals and fellow travelers.

Albanian Cooking Class at Finiq

The centerpiece of the tour is the Albanian cooking class led by experienced local hosts. Participants get hands-on experience preparing a traditional Albanian dish, which is part of the six-course gourmet meal served later. The cooking session emphasizes local ingredients and techniques, giving insight into Albanian culinary traditions.

The kitchen workshop is described as accessible and well conducted, making it suitable for most guests. Though the recipe paper isn’t provided during the session, many find the shared experience enriching and fun. After cooking, guests enjoy tasting their creations as part of the gourmet farm-to-table meal.

Feeding Animals and Interacting with Farm Life

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the chance to feed and pet farm animals. Guests get to cuddle donkeys, milk goats, and feed chickens and other farm animals, which are known for being tame and friendly. These activities make the experience memorable, especially for those who enjoy animals or want a more authentic farm encounter.

The informal animal interaction is described as very pleasant, and many appreciate the opportunity to connect with farm life in a relaxed setting. The friendly farm animals contribute to the warm atmosphere and add an element of fun and spontaneity.

Relaxing at the Eco Pool and Garden Exploration

After the culinary activities, guests can swim in the eco-friendly natural pool. The pool area is praised for its beautiful setting, offering a calm environment to unwind. Towels are provided, making it easy to enjoy a swim without packing extra gear.

Beyond swimming, the terraced gardens and wine vineyard invite exploration. Guests can take pictures, admire the mountain views, and learn about local viticulture. The gardens and vineyard add a scenic backdrop to the farm experience, emphasizing sustainability and natural beauty.

The Six-Course Gourmet Farm Meal

The meal served at Bote Farms is a highlight for many. It’s described as generous, local, and delicious. The six-course menu features farm produce and highlights the best of Albanian cuisine. Many reviews note that it leaves diners speechless with its quality and flavor.

The meal is paired with endless wine, infused tea, and gourmet lemonade, providing a variety of drinks to complement each course. This wine and beverage selection adds to the overall tasting experience and elevates the farm day.

Alcoholic Beverages and Refreshments

Guests enjoy endless wine and special infused tea, which are served throughout the day. The gourmet lemonade also features as a refreshing accompaniment, ensuring guests stay hydrated and refreshed amid the farm activities. The wine tasting is noted as a notable aspect, contributing to the relaxed and convivial vibe of the tour.

Group Size and Accessibility

The tour caters to up to 25 travelers, fostering a cozy, friendly atmosphere. The experience is designed to be accessible to most, including those with dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. Service animals are also permitted, ensuring inclusivity.

Practical Details and Booking

Booking is simple and flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours beforehand. Since the tour is often booked around 100 days in advance, early reservation is recommended to secure a spot. The private transportation makes getting to and from the farm convenient, and the meeting point is clear—Saranda’s bus station in front of Kristiano Restaurant.

Why This Farm Tour Excels

Many reviews praise the friendly hosts, beautiful mountain scenery, and authentic farm activities. Guests appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and variety of experiences—from cooking and animal feeding to swimming and wine tasting. The gourmet meal is consistently highlighted as a major highlight, with many describing it as local and delicious.

The tour’s balance of engaging activities and relaxing moments makes it ideal for those seeking an authentic Albanian countryside experience. Its family-friendly nature and inclusive approach mean that almost everyone can participate and enjoy.

Limitations and Considerations

While the experience is broad and satisfying, villas are not included in the package, so accommodation arrangements are separate. The natural eco pool might not appeal to everyone if they prefer traditional swimming pools, but the beautiful setting compensates for this. The timing requires booking in advance, especially during peak season, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Albanian Farm Life in a Comfortable Setting

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Albanian rural life, paired with delicious local cuisine and fun hands-on activities. The friendly hosts and scenic mountain backdrop create a warm, approachable environment. Whether you’re interested in cooking, animal encounters, or just relaxing by the eco pool, this tour provides a well-rounded farm day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets upon request, ensuring everyone enjoys the meal.

What is included in the price?
The six-course gourmet farm-to-table meal, swimming pool and towels, friendly farm animals, private transportation, and the Albanian cooking class are included.

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

What should I wear for the farm activities?
Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for outdoor activities and possibly getting a little dirty is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the data does not specify age restrictions, the interactive farm activities and relaxed environment generally suit families with children.

How long is the cooking class?
The cooking class is integrated into the overall 6-hour tour, with specific timing not detailed separately.

Will I get to feed the animals?
Yes, feeding and petting the farm animals are key highlights, with tame donkeys and friendly goats available.

What are the main attractions of Bote Farms?
The farm’s terraced gardens, wine vineyard, eco pool, and friendly farm animals are the main attractions.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included from Saranda to Bote Farms.

How many people typically participate?
The tour limits group size to 25 travelers, creating an intimate experience.

This Gourmet Lunch Farm Tour with Cooking Class provides a authentic, relaxing, and engaging taste of rural Albania, perfect for food lovers, animal enthusiasts, or anyone looking to unwind in nature.