Cooking class: preparing tortellini on a historic farm in Valeggio

Would you like to try a unique cooking class experience on Lake Garda? We have just the right activity for you.

At a historic farm in Valeggio sul Mincio, halfway between Peschiera del Garda and Verona, you can try your hand at making tortellini following the instructions of an expert cook and replicating a unique recipe, just as it was done in the old days.

The cooking class takes place in a beautiful location, immersed in the hilly landscape and surrounded by vineyards, farms and wineries. You will thus breathe in a warm and familiar atmosphere, linked to the purity of the land, in which our experienced cook will take you to discover the gastronomic culture and traditions of the Benaco.

In the outdoor courtyard, in front of the cellar, or in the indoor hall, you can actively participate in the cooking class, putting your hands to pasta to make a local recipe that is very popular in Italy: the classic tortellini of Valeggio (also known as 'agnolin').

You will learn the secrets of this delicate fresh pasta, handed down for centuries, linked to an ancient legend. The story of a tormented love affair between the nymph Silvia and Captain Malco dei Visconti and linked to a symbol, a golden silk handkerchief knotted by the two lovers and left on the banks of the Mincio River to commemorate the strength of their union.

Since then, to celebrate the story of the two lovers, every feast day tortellini di Valeggio are brought to the table, made with a sheet of pasta as thin as silk, knotted like the golden handkerchief, and with a delicate filling. A tasty and magical recipe that you can then repeat at home, telling your guests about this romantic legend and your cooking class experience in Valeggio.

Participants will learn the art of making pasta dough by hand, creating traditional varieties such as tortellini, ravioli, and tagliatelle. During this creative process, you can sip on ‘Dorè’, our crisp and refreshing sparkling white wine—the perfect companion for this "hands-on" experience.

The cooking class experience also includes a second moment of food and wine exploration of the area. You will, in fact, be able to discover the wine cellar of the historic winery through a guided tour and tasting of 3 labels, expertly paired with an inviting platter of cold meats, cheeses and cold dishes typical of the Benaco area.

Following a guided tour of the winery, we will gather for a curated tasting where the stars of the show are the very tortellini and fresh pasta you’ve prepared together. This gastronomic experience unfolds in three key moments:

• The Appetizer: A first glass of wine paired with a rich selection of local cold cuts and artisanal cheeses from the region.
• The Show Cooking: With your second glass, enjoy a live performance. Our chef will demonstrate the professional techniques for cooking tortellini and finishing them in the pan, sharing the secrets of local culinary traditions in an engaging and interactive demonstration.
• The Sweet Finale: The journey concludes beautifully with a third glass of wine paired with a traditional local dessert.

In total, you will enjoy a three-course gourmet menu paired with an excellent three-wine tasting tour, transforming a simple cooking lesson into a total immersion in the authentic flavors of Lake Garda.

A gastronomic and cultural activity not to be missed and suitable for everyone: perfect for couples, families with children, groups of friends or team building activities on Lake Garda.

How does this cooking class at Lake Garda work?

• Which wine varieties will be tasted during the experience?

The different labels offered for wine tasting depend on the availability of the cellar and the success of the vintage.

• Can the contents of the proposed wine tasting board be modified?

During this cooking class you will be served samples of cheese, cold meats and other cold and warm dishes. In the event of allergies, intolerances and other food preferences (for those on a vegetarian or vegan diet), we recommend that you communicate with the operator via the appropriate messaging service after booking.

• Is the cooking class a suitable activity for everyone?

The cooking class we offer near Lake Garda is ideal for families, couples and groups of friends.

• Are there any special clothing or footwear requirements to participate?

The cooking class activity will take you to discover one of Italy's most popular recipes. Putting your hands in the dough and preparing the filling, the advice is to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to enjoy the experience to the fullest.

• Will transport services be provided to reach the winery or do you have to organise your own transport?

The activity does not include transport to the winery. The location where the wine tasting in the barrique cellar will take place is easy to reach, either by your own means or by taxi or hire car.

Cancel booking up to 48 hours before start time for a 100% refund
Cancel booking up to 24 hours before start time for a 50% refund