Discovering Sicilian cookery is like discovering Sicilian history. Various civilizations – Greek, Roman, Arabs, Normans, Spanish and British – have left their mark and from the gastronomic point of view, their influence is still in evidence in modern day Sicilian cooking. Courses in Sicily are 8 days/7 nights and are based at the enchanting Villa Sicily.

To let you discover the flavors of Sicily, the venue in the south east of the island: the place where it all began. The surrounding area is dotted with well know historical sites – such as Siracusa Greek Theatre, the Temples of Agrigento and various Baroque towns such as Noto and Ragusa – as well as popular gastronomic locations such as Pachino for cherry tomatoes, Modica for chocolate, Avola for almonds and wine, Ragusa for Caciocavallo cheese and so on.

The villa where the Cooking Vacation is held, is situated on a private estate, is of typical Sicilian style and dates back to 1848. Chosen because of its location, it has some beautiful views of the surrounding areas. Upon waking in the morning, to a clear blue sky, you can enjoy breakfast outside and soak up the sea views.

The luxurious bedrooms, all decorated in a modern style, are ensuite. Each room has a view of either the sea, almond grove or the Sicilian countryside.

Within the grounds of the estate there is an outdoor pool, which is encircled by almond and olive trees. After a dip, you can sit back and relax on the terrace and enjoy the sight and sound of the sea.

Saturday
On your arrival to Catania Airport you will be transferred to the venue, Villa Sicily, which takes about one hour. There we will have a welcoming aperitif waiting for you, followed by dinner.

Sunday
After breakfast, you will have your first cooking lesson followed by lunch. Then in the afternoon we have a visit to Noto, the most beautiful baroque village in Sicily, actually the most beautiful baroque village in Italy! Dinner is served back at the villa in the evening

Monday
After breakfast you have another lesson with the cook, followed by lunch. The afternoon is spent enjoying a wine tasting at Felice Modica estate, in Bufalefi. There you get a chance to wander around the grounds and house of the estate, which have been preserved in 18th century Sicilian style. At the end of the day we return to the villa for dinner.

Tuesday
After breakfast we head out for the day to visit the cities of Ragusa and Modica. Where you get to explore and enjoy the atmosphere of these delightful cities. We have lunch out in one of the many lovely restaurants in Ragusa and then continue on to the city of Modica. At the end of the day we return to the villa to enjoy dinner.

                   
Wednesday
A treat is in store for you after breakfast when you have a cooking lesson with an old Sicilian Mamma who will let you in on some of her cooking secrets. After lunch we visit the small fishing village of Marzamemi, with its Tonnara (ruined tuna fishing station) Dinner is served again back at the villa.

Thursday
You have your fourth cooking lesson with the cook after breakfast, followed by lunch. Then in the afternoon we visit the city of Siracusa and dine out.

Friday
After breakfast you have a lesson in a restaurant, which is situated on the port of Portopalo. The lesson will be based on fish. Weather permitting, we will select the fish from the fisherman in the port. then have lunch in the restaurant followed by the afternoon free to enjoy at your own leisure. Back at the villa, for your last night with us, we have a scaccia party with the old Sicilian Mamma.(A scaccia is similar to an Italian Pizza, but done the Sicilian way).

Saturday
After an early breakfast you will be transferred to the airport to get your 8.40 a.m. flight home

Price - $2,790

Included in price:

- 7 nights single accommodations
- 5 x 3 course cookery lessons with our Italian chef
- Transfers from Catania Airport
- Afternoon Modica visit - taste famous chocolate  and Ragusa for evening meal & wine in a restaurant
- Visit to Donnafugata, meet local cheese maker and taste fresh Ricotta then a Sicilian style barbecue
- Day trip to Siracusa's famous fish market for lunch then to Noto to taste local ice-cream
- All meals and wine
- Private wine tasting at a local winery
- Transport by private minibus

Cancellation and Change Policy
If you cancel 60 days prior to arrival date you will receive your deposit less an administration charge of $500. If you cancel between 60 and 45 days you will unfortunately forfeit your deposit. Cancellation less than 30 days prior to arrival date 100% of the amount is forfeited. If you want to change your date 60 days prior to arrival date there is no charge to change the land portion, assuming there is availability. The charge to change the airline ticket is whatever the airline is charging at the present time. We strongly recommend that you take travel insurance to cover in case you need to cancel.