Cooking Trips with a Twist

What could be better than a vacation that involves cooking, adventure and travel? If these are a few of your favorite things you’re in luck, because some of the newest epicurean getaways offer a lot more than just hands-on cooking lessons. If you’re in the mood to mix, stir and shake things up, below is a taste test of some of the latest multi-sport culinary packages on the market today.

A Tuscan Culinary Excursion on Vespa:  What could be more intoxicating than olive groves and truffles under the slow to rest October sun in Tuscany? ScooterBella, an operator that has been offering organized Vespa trips throughout Italy, France and Croatia has added a new culinary expedition to the list. This Fall those born or looking to be wild can taste test their way through the Chianti region on motor scooter for five full days.  In addition to visiting local wineries, farmers markets and restaurants, you’ll receive hands-on cooking lessons in a beautifully restored medieval tower-house and learn how to make fresh pasta and gnocchi!

Wilderness Gourmet Trips: O.A.R.S., the small raft outfitter in The Grand Canyon that has been around since 1969, is all grown up and they’ve just added a culinary curriculum to their extensive menu of adventurous nature trips. Spend four days kayaking and hiking along The Rogue River while learning gourmet cooking basics over an open flame under the guidance of professional executive chefs. Fear not, for the food is not the sloppy tripper stuff one might expect, as participants can indulge on seared filet mignon, grilled prawns and mushroom-infused risotto.

An Epicurean Voyage by Yacht and On Foot: This trip by ROW Adventures is a splurge in terms of money and time off, but if you’ve got the days and dollars banked it is well worth the investment. If you are one of the lucky voyageurs aboard this small luxury yacht, your itinerary will include twelve days complete with walking, hiking and tasting authentic Croatian food as you island-hop and sail along the Adriatic sea.  An English speaking but thoroughly Croatian captain and crew will be there to guide you throughout this tasting journey.

Paris Chocolate & Gastronomy Tour: If you love chocolate, then you know that Paris is the place you ought to be. Chocoholics can follow David Lebowitz, author of The Great Chocolate Book, as he uncovers some sweet treats in the city of lights. In addition to hands-on cooking classes in a private teaching kitchen, you’ll visit the labs and shops of master Parisian chocolatiers plus enjoy private guided chocolate tastings in local kitchens and shops.

Now that cooking has become one of our favorite pastimes, it’s easier than ever to find a trip that hits all of your sweet spots.

RELATED FEATURE ARTICLES

Creative Getaways for Artistic Souls

Fresh Breaks to Help You Spring Forward