Holiday Villa Cooking Classes near Lucca at Villa Raffaelli in Garfagnana
Discover the Cooking Classes at Villa Raffaelli: An Authentic Experience in Garfagnana
If you dream of immersing yourself in Italian culinary culture and learning to prepare authentic dishes in a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by nature, Villa Raffaelli offers a unique experience for food lovers. Located in the heart of Garfagnana, this historic 16th-century residence is the perfect place to take part in traditional cooking classes, guided by experts who will teach you the secrets of Italy’s most beloved recipes.
The cooking classes are available exclusively for guests staying at Villa Raffaelli. It is not a restaurant or a public cooking school, but a special experience reserved for those who wish to enrich their stay with an immersive culinary activity.

Cooking class at Villa Raffaelli, a historic holiday home in Garfagnana. Discover authentic Tuscan landscapes and outdoor activities in a unique setting.
Pasta Making Class: Learn the Art of Fresh Pasta
The Pasta Making Class is the perfect option for those who want to discover the secrets of homemade pasta, learning traditional techniques passed down through generations. During this interactive class, you will learn to make different types of fresh pasta from scratch, using genuine ingredients and traditional Italian tools.
What You Will Learn:
- Dough preparation: discover how to mix flour and eggs to achieve a perfect, elastic pasta
- Ravioli: learn to fill and seal ravioli with delicious fillings
- Tagliatelle: roll and cut the pasta to create classic tagliatelle
- Gnocchi: make the iconic soft and flavorful potato gnocchi
- Pairing with sauces and fillings: find out which sauces are best for each type of pasta

Handmade fresh ravioli at Villa Raffaelli, Garfagnana. An authentic culinary experience in a historic Tuscan holiday home. Mountain vacations with outdoor activities and relaxation.
Pizza Party: The Fun of Homemade Pizza
If you love pizza and want to learn how to make it like a true pizzaiolo, the Pizza Party with a chef is the experience for you. During this class, you will discover all the secrets of natural leavening, dough stretching, and ingredient selection for a perfect pizza. A fun activity to share with friends and family.
What the Course Includes:
- Dough preparation: kneading and techniques for a perfect dough
- Stretching and topping: learn how to create the ideal base and choose the best ingredient combinations
- Pizza baking: master the cooking methods to achieve a crispy and delicious pizza

Gourmet pizza with golden mozzarella, tomatoes, and rosemary on a rustic table, evoking the authentic flavors of Garfagnana, near Villa Raffaelli.
Traditional Garfagnana Cuisine: A Personalized Experience
For those who want to discover the authentic flavors of Garfagnana, we offer a personalized course where you can choose the recipes you want to learn, inspired by local tradition. From homemade pasta to typical desserts, you can enjoy a tailor-made gastronomic experience guided by local experts.
Possible Dishes to Prepare (Custom Requests Welcome):
- Farro Cake: a typical dessert made with spelt flour and ricotta
- Panzanella: a fresh and flavorful dish made with stale bread, onion, and tomato
- Castagnaccio: a rustic chestnut flour dessert, perfect for experiencing the true taste of mountain cuisine
- Testaroli: a traditional specialty served with pesto or classic sauces
- Seasonal Soups: traditional recipes prepared with fresh, genuine ingredients

Tuscan castagnaccio with pine nuts and raisins, perfect for tastings at Villa Raffaelli, a historic holiday home in Garfagnana, surrounded by unique Tuscan landscapes.
The courses conclude with a convivial dinner where participants can enjoy their creations, immersed in the stunning scenery of the Apuan Alps.
For more information or to book, visit our contact page.