The Culinary Adventure
Elba Island | Tuscany
Dotted with picturesque villages and stunning beaches, Elba is the ideal destination for culinary tourism for those with an adventurous spirit! We will delve into the history of this Medici influenced island – that has been a cultural hub since the time of Etruscans – all while we savor delicious local seafood, olive oils, wines and so much more. We will make cheese with the goat shepherd, ebike along the coast with stops for a swim, and go on a fishing boat adventure with Gaetano the skipper. Local chefs will invite us in for cooking sessions so we can indulge in the island’s finest wines and native flavors, all while we uncover a natural side of Tuscany seldom seen through this immersive experience.
May 19 – 26, 2025
SPRING 2026
May 18 – 25, 2026
FALL 2026
Sep 14 – 21, 2026
EARLY FALL 2025 with Shereen Pavlides
Sep 15 – 22, 2025
PROGRAM DETAILS
Day 1
Benvenuto ad Elba/A Warm Welcome
We’ll meet at Pisa Centrale, where your hosts will greet you before our private transfer to the coast and ferry ride to Elba—marking the true start of our island adventure.
After arriving, a short drive brings us to Casale Caterina, a peaceful countryside retreat nestled near Napoleon’s former summer home. Recently restored by a renowned Tuscan architect for father-and-son owners Giulio and Davide, this 19th-century estate offers a true sense of Tuscan island living—surrounded by olive trees, vineyards, and the quiet rhythms of everyday life on Elba. With its gorgeous pool and serene setting, it’s the ideal home base for our midday breaks between culinary and cultural moments.
That evening, we’ll gather in the traditional Tuscan gardens for a welcome dinner featuring estate wines, olive oil, and a seasonal meal prepared by our friend chef Michele—a relaxed, delicious start to the week.
Day 2
History & Harvest
We’ll start with breakfast and an optional yoga session in the garden before our driver takes us to meet Nina, our local guide, in the historical center of Portoferraio just a short drive away, for a walking tour through Elba’s rich history—tracing Napoleon’s exile and the legacy of the Medici family.
Next, we’ll visit nearby La Chiusa, a historic winery overlooking the sea, for a tasting of rare island-grown wines. The winery’s villa sits just inside the original gates Napoleon passed through upon arriving to Elba in 1814. We’ll step through those same gates and walk the beachfront paths he once did on our walk to a nearby biodynamic family-run farm for an al fresco lunch among ancient olive trees, enjoying seasonal dishes made with their olive oils and paired with their own wines.
After a rest and refresh back at the Casale (time enough for a swim!) we’ll head to Capoliveri, a lively hill-top town for time to explore before gathering for a lively cooking class with Chef Andrea and his wife Cristina, where we’ll prepare and enjoy a traditional Elban dinner together.
Day 3
Mines & Wines (and seafood!)
After breakfast, we’ll head out for a very full day in classic Elban attire – always ready for the beach or a seaside meal, with both walking shoes & flip flops! Today we head to the southeastern coast to meet our adored adventure guide Luigi to explore Elba’s rich mining history—hard hats and flashlights included. We’ll visit the museum and descend into ancient tunnels that date back over two millennia.
From there, we’ll make our way to Fattoria delle Ripalte, a stunning coastal winery in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. After a wine-paired lunch at the historic villa, we’ll tour the cantina and take in sweeping vineyard views.
On this busy day on the other side of the island our rest time will be at a locals beach. We’ll kick back for a bit before strolling—sandy beach attire and all —to our casual cooking and seafood culture class with Chef Gabriele, a laid-back Elban local known for his passion for sustainable seafood. Inspired by his grandfather, a legendary island cook, Gabriele has spent years chatting with local elders to revive Elba’s old-school seafood traditions. We’ll cook together, family-style, in his restaurant kitchen — reserved just for us—as we close out this flavor-packed, sun-drenched day.
Day 4
Fishing, Feasting & Sun
Today we set out for Marina di Campo, a charming coastal town where we’ll join our friend Gaetano aboard his fishing boat for a hands-on adventure in Mediterranean fishing traditions. We’ll help prepare a fresh seafood lunch on board and stop to swim and snorkel in hidden coves.
Back on land, we’ll unwind at our favorite beach club, complete with lounge chairs, showers, and time to relax or explore. Whether you prefer a seaside stroll, a dip in the sea, or browsing local shops, the afternoon is yours.
As the sun begins to set, we’ll raise a glass of bubbly on the beach, then walk to our beachside wine pairing dinner hosted by our friend Matteo at his family-run restaurant—an unforgettable evening by the water.
Day 5
Scenic Ride and Sunset Dining
Today we return to charming Marina di Campo, this time for a scenic e-bike ride to one of Elba’s most beautiful beaches. We’ll stop for views along the way, then relax on the sand and swim before heading back.
On the return we’ll park our bikes and enjoy a classic schiacciata sandwich at a favorite locals spot, the quintessential Elban beach day lunch. Once back at the Casale we’ll have time for a swim and to prepare for our special evening dining experience.
In the evening, we’ll head to Marciana Marina, an elegant seaside village beloved by locals for special celebrations. Enjoy time on your own to wander the village’s charming boutiques and take in the harbor at sunset. We’ll then gather at Umami, our dinner spot, for an elegant tasting meal at one of the island’s most beloved restaurants. Chef Leandro is an Elba native whose passion for local ingredients and creative cuisine has earned the restaurant international acclaim.
Day 6
Herbs & Heritage (massage option this morning, yoga possibility)
After a leisurely breakfast, and time spent relaxing at home with optional massages and pool time, we’ll head out late morning to explore Elba’s rugged natural beauty. We begin at the Orto dei Semplici open just for us, a tiny hillside renaissance-style botanical garden dedicated to the healing plants of the Tuscan Archipelago. With local botanist Francesco, we’ll enjoy one of his educational herb walks, before our al fresco lunch prepared by a private chef in the quaint walled garden. We’ll also visit the adjacent 17th-century Romitorio di Santa Caterina and hear all its legends.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to charming, seaside Porto Azzurro, a lively shopping town for free time to stroll the narrow streets, browse artisan shops, and enjoy a seaside gelato. You’ll have time for an aperi-cena, Italy’s version of happy hour turned light dinner, before a transfer back to our accomodations, or choose to stay on for a longer evening out with a taxi home.
Day 7
Day with the Shepherd + Formaggio in Cucina
Lace up your walking shoes! After breakfast our driver will take us up into the hills to meet up with Luigi our adventure guide and start our morning hike to visit Daniele, a local shepherd preserving the island’s cheese-making traditions, meet his sweet goats, and sample his fresh cheese with sweeping sea views. Then we’ll continue our walk through the Via del Granito, and follow historic footpaths where Romans once extracted stone to use for famous monuments throughout their empire.
After some time to swim and unwind in the gardens at the Casale, we’ll take a short drive to Il Club Enogastronomico Giannutri for our final evening together. Founded by Lucia and Maurizio, this private food and wine club focuses on seasonality and local ingredients, honoring the rich culinary traditions of the Tuscan Islands—and tonight, they’ll open their doors just for us. We’ll reunite with Daniele the shepherd for a lively cheese-making demo, then enjoy a festive night of outdoor grilling, live music, local wine, and joyful moments shared around the table.
Day 8
PRICE
The price of the Elba Culinary Adventure for 2025 is 7,300 euros per person for double occupancy/8,300 euros per person for single occupancy. Tour is limited to 12 guests. We reserve the right to make changes to itinerary as necessary to ensure quality of trip. All changes will be communicated by email. Because we work with small, local partners, occasional changes in timing, location, accommodations, or experiences may occur as part of the authentic, real-life nature of our trips. Detailed itinerary sent out 30 days before departure.MORE ABOUT YOUR ACCOMODATIONS
Casale Caterina is a beautifully restored, 19th-century, family-owned wine estate nestled at the base of Villa di San Martino, Napoleon’s former summer residence. Surrounded by vineyards and centuries-old olive trees, it offers a peaceful, elevated retreat between our seaside adventures. The estate features a pool set in traditional Tuscan gardens, historic outbuildings, and cozy spaces to enjoy massages, estate wines, and charcuterie during your downtime.
PAYMENT DETAILS
Reservations are secured by deposit on a first-come, first-served basis. Only a down payment of 25% is needed to reserve your spot, and monthly payment plans are available for the remainder. The cost is divided evenly by the number of months left before the trip with final payment needed 60 days prior to departure. Reserve your spot and we will send you a link to make your deposit and receive a full itinerary with all locations and timing for the day. Prior to making your deposit, you may also use the reservation form to ask any questions you may have.
DATES
Spring 2026
A magical time to visit when the wildflowers are in full bloom!
May 18 – May 25
Fall 2026
When the weather and water is ideal for swimming!
Sep 14 – Sep 21
SPRING 2026
May 18 – 25, 2026
FALL 2026
Sep 14 – 21, 2026
WHAT’S INCLUDED
• 7 nights
• Optional group Zoom call for packing tips, general trip planning for before and after tour, Q&A
• All group meals throughout the tour, including wine at each meal.
• Group transfers from Pisa Train Station to port
• Ferry tickets
• Private driver throughout the tour
• Daily cooking experiences – some are hands-on, some are demo style, and some are tastings. You are always welcome to just watch (and eat!) if preferred.
• Visits to local farmers & tastings
• All tours and experiences
• Tips for bus drivers and guides (we want you to just relax and enjoy the moment so we have taken care of this)
NOT INCLUDED
• Airfare
• Travel & health insurance
• Shopping and personal expenses
• Food, drinks, and snacks that are not included in the itinerary
• All other expenses incurred during free time
