Food is absolutely one of Italy’s most exquisite charms – the processes, the ingredients and the flavours are all elements we conjure up when thinking of time spent in Italy. It’s synonymous with the way of life and the balmy temperatures, making a spa break complete with cooking classes the optimal Italian spa treat…

Fonteverde, Tuscany

On a spa experience that combines luxury and wellness in a way that dates back to the Romans and Etruscans, Fonteverde overlooks the majestic rolling hills of Val d’Orcia.

Set on top of natural hot springs that bring their healing power to the spa’s thermal waters, the natural spa and thermae pools are a unique and beautiful experience, while the hotel itself was first built as a renaissance palace for the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici.

Here, Tuscan and Mediterranean cuisine are served with a suave delicacy, so it stands to reason that cooking should be a central part of your visit. Their culinary spa break includes two hours of cooking courses a day under the guidance of Chef Salvatore Quarto and nutritionist Dr. Roberta Mannucci who will illustrate the concept of a balanced diet and demonstrate cooking techniques with an Italian twist.

VISIT FONTEVERDE

Grotta Giusti, Tuscany

Set in a 45-hectare park, Grotta Giusti is a luxurious hotel with an unusual spa. Built on a spring and thermal cave discovered in 1849, its three distinct areas are called Heaven, Purgatory and Hell and are characterised by warm steam, sparkling water and a mesmerising lattice of stalactites.

Once a luxurious family retreat, today it’s gastronomic offerings include the Giusti family’s tea room where they used to entertain 19th century nobility, Bar II Poeta for cocktails, wine and chocolate tasting, Bioaquam Café by the pool, La Pergola for outdoor meals, and La Veranda Restaurant for gourmet Tuscan cuisine.

It is no wonder then that a culinary escape to this historic gem is the cherry on top of the sensual experience. Guest can enjoy two hours of cooking courses a day. Under the careful guidance of Chef Gianluca Braglia and dietist Laura Bettarini – certainly a holiday of luxurious proportions.

VISIT GROTTA GIUSTI

Bagni di Pisa, Tuscany

A destination spa since the 1700s, the Bagni di Levante looks out onto olive groves, Pisa and the beauty of the Tuscan countryside.

Originally built in 1743 for the Grand Duke of Tuscany, over the years Bagni di Pisa has hosted royalty, dignitaries and celebrities, retaining its 18th century charm with frescoed ceilings, extravagant furnishings, floral gardens and captivating nature in abundance.

Built on thermal springs that were visited by the Romans and then by the Medici family, its pedigree is unparalleled, as its its dining. Dei Lorena Restaurant has beautiful views of the Leaning Tower of Pisa and The Byron Court terrace is the place for a drink overlooking the olive groves, again making it an ideal place to learn the art of Italian cooking with two hours of daily classes.

VISIT BAGNI DI PISA