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For those who see food as more than just sustenance, culinary travel is a chance to connect, explore, and indulge. Around the world, a new class of luxury cooking retreats is redefining how we experience a destination, through its flavours, traditions, and extraordinary chefs. From the vine-laced hills of Tuscany to the spice-scented souks of Marrakech, these are the retreats where gourmet dreams meet five-star living.
1. Il Borro Estate, Tuscany – Italy
Owned by the Ferragamo family, Il Borro blends old-world charm with modern culinary finesse. Set in a beautifully restored medieval village, this retreat offers truffle hunts, pasta-making with local artisans, and wine pairings from its own estate. The villas are a masterclass in rustic elegance, with frescoed ceilings, private gardens, and rolling vineyard views.
2. La Mirande, Avignon – France
Moments from the Palais des Papes, La Mirande is where French culinary heritage comes alive. Guests cook in a 19th-century kitchen with chefs who specialise in Provençal classics, using seasonal produce from nearby markets. With its silk-covered walls and antique furnishings, this château invites you to experience la belle vie at its most tasteful.
3. Ryokan Kurashiki, Kurashiki – Japan
In one of Japan’s most picturesque canal towns, Ryokan Kurashiki offers an intimate take on Japanese gastronomy. Here, you’ll receive personalised instruction in kaiseki and sushi from masters of the craft. The setting is serene — tatami mat rooms, painted sliding doors, and tranquil gardens create a space where every moment feels meditative.
4. Como Shambhala Estate, Ubud — Indonesia
Perched in the jungle above the Ayung River, Como Shambhala is both a wellness retreat and culinary sanctuary. Guests learn to cook with Ayurvedic guidance, using ingredients grown on-site. Meals are designed to nourish both body and soul, and each villa comes with private pools, panoramic jungle views, and tailored wellness amenities.
5. The Vines Resort & Spa, Mendoza – Argentina
Nestled at the foot of the Andes, The Vines offers a bold, open-flame cooking experience under the guidance of chefs trained by Francis Mallmann. Days begin with vineyard walks and end with meals you’ve helped prepare over fire. The villas are private and stylish, with outdoor tubs and sunset views over rows of lush vines.
6. Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa, Amalfi Coast – Italy
Set in a 17th-century monastery perched above the sea, Monastero Santa Rosa is an idyllic blend of history and modern refinement. Cooking classes focus on regional seafood, handmade pastas, and herbs from the hotel’s own terraced garden. The suites are something out of a dream: vaulted ceilings, antique touches, and terraces overlooking the Amalfi coast.
7. La Maison Arabe, Marrakech – Morocco
A trailblazer in Moroccan culinary retreats, La Maison Arabe invites guests into its fragrant garden kitchen. Begin your journey in the spice markets, then craft dishes like chicken tagine under the guidance of local experts. With mosaic-tiled courtyards, candlelit alcoves, and warm, attentive service, this riad is a window into authentic Moroccan luxury.
8. Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, Napa Valley – USA
For something closer to home, the CIA at Greystone in Napa offers a gourmet playground with a serious pedigree. Private sessions range from modern plating to charcuterie, all led by top-tier instructors. Pair your classes with a stay at nearby Auberge du Soleil or Meadowood, and you’ve got the perfect blend of fine dining and wine country elegance.
What Sets These Retreats Apart
- Exclusivity: Intimate group sizes, private access, and tailored experiences. These retreats are designed for those who value privacy and personalised service — no crowds, no itineraries, just you and the flavours of a region.
- Setting: Think cliffside monasteries, jungle hideaways, and heritage estates. Each location is chosen not only for its beauty but also for its sense of place, creating an immersive backdrop for your culinary journey.
- Expertise: Learn from Michelin-starred chefs, regional legends, and culinary icons. Instruction is hands-on and deeply insightful, whether you’re mastering a perfect risotto or discovering ancient fermentation techniques.
- Authenticity: Local ingredients, traditional techniques, and a genuine sense of place. You’ll cook with what’s grown nearby, learn from those who live there, and take home skills rooted in culture, not gimmicks.
These retreats aren’t just about cooking, they’re about connection. To the land, to local traditions, and to the joy of creating something unforgettable. For those who crave both flavour and finesse, these are the world’s most rewarding culinary escapes.
