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Cooking Holidays

Our cooking holidays are for anyone who loves food, travel and discovering new cultures. Whether you’re a passionate foodie, an aspiring chef or a complete beginner, you’ll learn authentic recipes and local cooking techniques from expert chefs and passionate hosts while experiencing the traditions, flavours and stories behind each destination.

From making fresh pasta in Italy and mastering tapas in Spain to exploring local markets, vineyards and family kitchens, our cooking holidays combine hands-on culinary experiences with characterful accommodation, authentic local connections and the chance to travel beyond the guidebooks. You’ll return home with new skills, new recipes and unforgettable memories.

Available this July

View all July Getaways
  • Tuscan Cooking and Culture Short Break image

    Tuscan Cooking and Culture Short Break

    calendar/duration icon 3 Nights location icon Italy
    • Available March to October
    • Cooking classes from a train Italian chef
    • Prosecco and private wine tasting
    • 1 half-day cultural excursion

    Price from

    £1067 pp*
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  • Fantastic French Cookery Course in Brittany image

    Fantastic French Cookery Course in Brittany

    calendar/duration icon 6 Nights location icon France
    • Maximum 8 people per class - classes taught by a Michelin Trained Chef
    • 6 night accommodation with transfers from Lamballe Train station included
    • Visit to a local French market

    Price from

    £2970 pp
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  • Greek Island Cooking Holiday image

    Greek Island Cooking Holiday

    calendar/duration icon 7 Nights location icon Greece
    • Available from mid-April to the end of October
    • Airport transfers plus accommodation located near the beach with breakfast, 5 lunches & 7 dinners included
    • 4 cooking lessons and 4 day experiences included

    Price from

    £2819 pp*
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    • View all July Getaways
    View all July Getaways

    Available this August

    View all August Getaways
  • Artisan Bread Baking Course image

    Artisan Bread Baking Course

    calendar/duration icon 4 Nights location icon Spain
    • Courses available throughout the year, choose your start day.
    • 3 nights Accommodation, all meals ingredients and equipment included
    • Learn from skilled experienced bakers
    • Take home delicious freshly baked bread and pasties

    Price from

    £742 pp
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  • Puglia – Foodie Tour image

    Puglia – Foodie Tour

    calendar/duration icon 4 nights location icon Italy
    • 4 nights accommodation with breakfast. Transfers and transport provided throughout
    • 2 dinners and 2 tasting lunches and 1 picnic lunch
    • 2 private cooking lessons & a visit a cheesemaker with tastings
    • Bike ride through the olive grove. Walking tour of Ostuni

    Price from

    £3500 pp*
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  • French Culinary Adventure in the Loire Valley image

    French Culinary Adventure in the Loire Valley

    calendar/duration icon 6 Nights location icon France
    • Available March to October
    • Accommodation, transfers, all meals and day experiences included
    • 22 hours of cooking lessons with two professional chefs

    Price from

    £2884 pp*
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    • View all August Getaways
    View all August Getaways

    Available this September

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  • Photography & Cookery Holiday Essaouira image

    Photography & Cookery Holiday Essaouira

    calendar/duration icon 7 Nights location icon Morocco
    • Available from February to October (July and August are on a request basis)
    • Luxury Riad with breakfast and transfers included
    • 5 photography sessions with an expert in different locations,
    • 2 cooking classes with a market visit & lunch included

    Price from

    £1488 pp
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  • A Vegetarian Retreat: Cook, Dine and Unwind in the Algarve image

    A Vegetarian Retreat: Cook, Dine and Unwind in the Algarve

    calendar/duration icon 4 Nights location icon Portugal
    • Available in March, May, September & November
    • Daily cooking tuition learning how to make vegetarian dishes, all ingredients & winery visit included
    • All meals included
    • Stay in an award winning luxury villa with pool

    Price from

    £873 pp*
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  • Cooking, Wine & Walking Holiday in Abruzzo image

    Cooking, Wine & Walking Holiday in Abruzzo

    calendar/duration icon 6 Nights location icon Italy
    • Operates in May and September
    • 6 nights accommodation with breakfast, airport transfers and transportation throughout
    • Walk along the breathtaking Abruzzo Mountains and Coastline
    • Explore enchanted castles. Family cooking lessons and wine tasting

    Price from

    £2032 pp*
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    • View all September Getaways
    View all September Getaways

    Available this October

    View all October Getaways
  • Discover Portuguese World Cuisine – Riverside Cooking Holiday image

    Discover Portuguese World Cuisine – Riverside Cooking Holiday

    calendar/duration icon 4 nights location icon Portugal
    • Available April. May and October
    • Daily cooking tuition learning how to make iconic Portuguese dishes plus all ingredients included
    • Award winning luxury villa with pool - all meals included
    • Market visit & winery visit with tastings and tapas

    Price from

    £873 pp*
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  • Truffle Hunting and Cookery Holiday image

    Truffle Hunting and Cookery Holiday

    calendar/duration icon 3 Nights location icon Italy
    • Available March to October
    • Truffle hunting
    • Tuscan Cooking Lessons from a train Italian chef
    • Prosecco tasting + a guided town visit

    Price from

    £1116 pp*
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  • French Cookery Break image

    French Cookery Break

    calendar/duration icon 3 Nights location icon France
    • Course starts on any day April - December
    • Full Board Accommodation
    • Visit to a local market
    • Small classes of maximum 4

    Price from

    £1043 pp*
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    • View all October Getaways
    View all October Getaways

    What our travellers are saying...

    I had a wonderful time. Poul Erik (chef) was generous with his knowledge and skills, and Niall (CEO) is endless entertainment. They're a great combination.

    A Clements

    Best Trip Ever!!! My husband took this course and I just got to thoroughly enjoy the food and the company. Chef Poul and Niall are an incredible team that make you feel like family in their home. My husband learned a lot--not just amazing recipes, but useful techniques that in our week back home he says have already made him more efficient and a better cook. The accommodation was private, comfortable, clean, and felt like a special getaway. The

    Megan F

    This course is an amazing experience. Regardless of your level of cooking ability you will learn such a lot. Poul is a Michelin trained chef and is not only an amazing, knowledgeable chef but an amazing man. He has a wonderful sense of humour and makes the week lots of fun while he teaches you so much. This is a very hands on course and Poul helped us produce amazing food while we learned so many techniques we can apply at home. Naill is also a

    Elaine

    It far exceeded my expectations. Great location, wonderful hosts, excellent food and wine.

    H Riley

    Was privileged & honoured to be part of this Incredible, Unique retreat! Thank you for making the experience soo special and every detail thought out with such excellence. Highly recommended, the food, wine, excursions, accommodation and how you are cared for is a trip like no other!

    Nichola Foreman

    We had a brilliant time and the course hugely surpassed our expectations. The classes were great fun and informative, the excursions interesting and beautiful, the location incredible and the food some of the best we’ve ever eaten. We enjoyed Oli and Flo’s company so much and we highly recommend!

    C McCurrach

    I cannot recommend this holiday highly enough. Oli and Flo were more than perfect hosts - their attention to all the little details was very much appreciated. The Italian culinary tuition was extremely well presented and understandable. I have new skills and what's more, I am using them now. High 5!

    D Summers

    Incredible holiday! Oli is passionate chef with an intimate knowledge of Italian cooking and the Tuscany region. Both he and Flo made sure we were well looked after and entertained for our entire stay and showed us the best of the breathtaking scenery and local produce. Worth every penny.

    M Bingham

    We arrived a group of 12 people some of us where professional cooks, other amateur cooks in order to enjoy a culinary study abroad program, to learn about local h as habits, classic French cooking and more. We all heard about this venture but did not expect such an amazing experience led by two outstanding chefs Alison and Sydney Bond. We have experienced master classes, tours in a Truffels Farm, duck farm, fantastic local restaurant and much m

    Michael

    A week full of on the job learning from highly qualified experts who provided not only guidance on food preparation but multiple foundational tips for succeeding in the kitchen. Always of good humour, highly professional, gracious, and client focused. Very well thought out program with excursions to the famous Tours market and also Chenonceau chateau. Kitchen supply shopping in Paris, the food tour in Montmartre were outstanding.

    Dorra

    Fantastic place! I went here for one of their courses and loved every minute. The course was tailored to my individual needs and I learned loads across the five days. The fact this was in a stunning setting with a lovely, lovely family only made the experience even more special. I have done quite a few baking courses in the UK which have not come close to this. The fact that you stay means you can really cover off all parts of the baking process

    Matthew Draper

    Had a great time, learn the skills fast and warm and friendly welcome.

    M De Guzman

    Can’t say enough about incredible time in Mike’s, Lydia’s, little Lara’s and Matthew’s home. Learning to make sour dough bread and baguettes/Mike and croissants/Lydia was so informative. Instructions, knowledge and techniques were only surpassed by their patience. Recommend to everyone - 5 star plus.

    P Morrison

    Great holiday with friendly family, sharing lots of sourdough baking and eating. Enjoyed walks from village beside orange and lemon orchards. Visited the Alhambra palace and an olive oil tour on my extra days. Home with lots of tips, my signature loaf, photos and happy memories.

    P Carr

    Both of the hosts, Mirella and Francesco made the trip for me. They were both extremely hospitable and made me feel very welcome. I also learnt a lot which I’m grateful for!

    Louis

    Mirella and Francesco are amazing, they truly made us feel at home. Definitely recommend this experience!

    Elisabetta

    The most incredible, authentic Italian experience! I don’t even know where to begin… It was absolutely INCREDIBLE! Not only was the villa an absolute gem, but the little town surrounding the villa was beautiful. I loved the swimming pool and the real, authentic Italian vibe of it all. BUT, the main stars of the show were 100% the hosts.

    Maisie

    Amazing hosts, amazing food, amazing villa. Absolutely superb trip couldn’t fault it. Will 100% be back

    Joseph Twyford

    I was fortunate enough to have a week at the Frog's House in August and it was a welcome respite from a challenging year during the pandemic. Benoit and the team take care of everything with great care and attention. The room had a beautiful view across the valley towards the sea and the yoga studio looked on to the mountain tops. There was delicious healthy food and a full program that you could engage with, or step out of if you wanted a more l

    Deborah

    Thoroughly enjoyed the charming little village, beautiful yoga, French cooking, amazing hiking, fun day trips and absolutely lovely hosts!! Benoit is very passionate and patient, and was such a knowledgeable guide around the city! A very authentic French country side experience with a good mix of city exploring too! Fantastic and recommend it!!

    Crystal

    Had an amazing time at the frogs house. The views are spectacular and has all the amenities you would ever need. The yoga was suitable for all levels, and as a beginner i found it very spiritual and testing physically but always felt amazing after. The food gave a real taste of French culture and was all locally sourced, delicious! Also really enjoyed the trips and the hosts felt more like friends rather than tour guides. The staff and people we

    Brigg

    Was privileged & honoured to be part of this Incredible, Unique retreat! Thank you for making the experience soo special and every detail thought out with such excellence. Highly recommended, the food, wine, excursions, accommodation and how you are cared for is a trip like no other!

    Nichola Foreman

    This experience was way beyond my expectations. Everything was wonderful - the people, the location, the classes and most of all the food and I cannot forget the wine we sampled.

    Marjorie Heywood

    Had a super week - Flo and Oli couldn’t have done more to make us feel welcome. Oli was a knowledgeable and relaxed teacher - the food, wine and setting were all fantastic. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this trip!

    J Bulmer

    I went to Mezzaluna in Tuscany on the cooking retreat and it was amazing. Rita was so welcoming and I came away feeling part of the family. I was on my own for the trip but that just meant I got more attention and we got to go on many excursions. My highlight was the cooking courses, I especially loved making the pasta from scratch and I cannot wait to make the recipes again! Thank you to Rita and her family who were the best hosts

    Charlotte

    Just returned from a wonderful week of Tuscan cooking and wine tasting at Rita's cooking classes at 'La Messa Luna' in Barga, Italy. Worth every €. Can't praise Rita enough for her warm humorous welcome and generosity throughout the week.

    Elizabeth P

    It was a wonderful wine tasting and Italian cookery holiday . Rita was a wonderful host, she went over and beyond to make sure her guests were happy and enjoying their experience . Her recipes were clearly explained and delicious.

    SR

    Great Tuscan cooking holiday with Rita, easy to book and such fun to experience. Rita is the most easy going host and so very hospitable. Cooking level as stated from beginners through to experienced, everyone learnt something, also the history of Barga and surrounding villages. Great wine on tap too!

    Maddie A

    Excellent Tuscan cookery holiday with the family and their boyfriends near Barga. Mixed levels of cooking skills from 18-year old beginners about to head off to university, to experienced cooks, but we all learnt something. And all the recipes are things that we will do at home.

    Tanya H

    I have to recommend the Italian cooking course in Tuscany with Rita. This was a fabulous way to unwind and Rita's hospitality knew no bounds. Perfect for the single traveller as you will meet like minded people who love food, good company, and plentiful wine. The wine was locally made and didn’t give you a hangover which for me is no bad thing. In between cooking lessons we went on day trips to the local villages and the more impressive towns o

    Robert M

    Just returned from a Cooking and Wine tasting holiday in Tuscany. Due to Covid and cancelled flights changed the dates from last year. Not a problem for Not In The Guidebooks. Went as a solo traveller. Host Rita was waiting for me at Pisa airport and my reception was warm and friendly. Stayed at Rita’s home La Mezzaluna along with six other guests. It’s a bit rural, rustic and traditional but Rita in between cooking lessons took us out and

    Sylvia Harris

    I had a wonderful week with everyone. It was my first solo holiday and Rita put me right at ease and made it feel like a home from home. The week was really relaxed but we still managed to cram a lot in! We learnt so much in the cookery lessons and I think the fact that most of the people in my group started to cook the recipes in the same week as arriving back home sells the course itself. Rita took us to some wonderful places and hearing about

    R Filby

    Real home from home. Loved Rita. Made us feel like one of the family. Girls loved making pasta and pizza. A wonderful week x

    J Seymour

    Fabulous wine and cheese. Days exploring the French local cuisines. Nights full of Apero's and laughs. Adam and Caroline are such amazing hosts and create an environment full of laughs. Adam makes cooking amazing food look so easy even for some beginners. The trips to the local areas were great being able to wander beautiful country towns full of cobblestones and history. And the cheese, the cheese made by the local producers are to die for. Ther

    Anon

    Our photography and cooking course in Morocco was phenomenal! It was just us, so we got lots of one-on-one instruction and learned a lot as well as seeing the area from more of a local's perspective. I will keep an eye on this site for future travel programs.

    Jessica

    Great location, both for the variety of photo opportunities and hanging out and be on holiday!

    A Line Christensen

    This was a wonderful tour. Educational and enjoyable. Many thanks!

    C Schwartz

    Fantastic and unique experience that was good value for money. The food and the cooking experience was great and there was a nice mixture of activities and leisure time. The hosts were great and ensured I had a great experience

    Yaso E

    One of the most enjoyable holidays I’ve ever had. Great hospitality from Cheryl and Graham. A lovely place to visit. Wonderful communal cooking experiences and fabulous food as the result. A fun and relaxing break!

    Liz J

    "I spent a wonderful few days with Cheryl and Graham on a festive vegetarian cooking holiday. Each of the day's menus and recipes had been carefully planned out and tested in advance and, as a group, we prepared the dishes for multiple celebratory brunches and dinners with gentle guidance from our hosts. Sooo much yummy food! The accommodation was stylish and comfortable, with everything I needed."

    Julie F

    "We had a fantastic 3 days spent with Cheryl and Graham in their beautiful home. The cooking course was great fun and very informative with hands on cooking at all times. We learnt loads and the food that we all created was truly delicious. Cannot recommend this course enough!"

    Rob T

    What a very special place! In a beautiful riverside setting this was the perfect venue for a cooking course. Very comfortable rooms (mine had a view of the infinity pool), well equipped kitchen and charming company. Graham & Cheryl are the perfect hosts with nothing being too much trouble from arrival to departure. We worked our way through many Portuguese and Portuguese influenced dishes, my favourites being the Bacalhau com Natas and the Catapl

    Johnathan Rowe

    Just returned from a wonderful 4 day cooking retreat. It's an idyllic setting in the Algarve countryside complemented by fabulous hosts Cheryl and Graham who immediately create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere among the guests. I'm no chef but I got so much more out of the experience than expected. Great fun and conversation with the other 'cooks' and magnificent food was the output. An added bonus was to stay in one of the glamping tents which

    Richard Parker

    What a lovely group to share the Ottolenghi vegetarian brunch experience! The cooking result was terrific . Graham and Cheryl are such gracious hosts.

    Mary Armstrong

    "Cheryl and Graham were wonderful hosts who guided us through cooking a wide array of delectable Portuguese, Goan, South Africa and Macaun dishes. My husband made the most delicious orange cake having never baked before. The villa is in such a relaxing and picturesque spot. A beautiful setting in which to unwind in between the cookery workshops."

    Claris D'cruz

    "Amazing cooking class, Graham and Cheryl were so hospitable and friendly. We learnt how to cook some delicious dishes and have fun with the other people who came along. I would highly recommend."

    Aliya J

    "A wonderful few days with excellent host and hostess. The cookery was fun and informative. The area was very beautiful. We learnt so much. I totally recommend staying and doing this course. I do hope to return and see them again."

    Madeleine K

    What an amazing holiday we had. From the moment we arrived we felt at home and relaxed. It was a pleasure to cook the delicious food and of course to enjoy it afterwards. A big thank you for an unforgettable adventure.

    Heather Robinson

    What a really lovely experience, in a beautiful house having the opportunity to relax or wander in the countryside. Cooking so many fabulous dishes, alongside others in such an informal but well organised kitchen, and have the joy of eating so many different dishes. Most of all I enjoyed being part of your family and sharing a relaxed, friendly and chatty time.

    Elaine England

    What a very special place! In a beautiful riverside setting this was the perfect venue for a cooking course. Very comfortable rooms (mine had a view of the infinity pool), well equipped kitchen and charming company. Graham & Cheryl are the perfect hosts with nothing being too much trouble from arrival to departure. We worked our way through many Portuguese and Portuguese influenced dishes. There was a visit to a small local market and museum and

    Jonathan R

    Wow wow wow This was a truly amazing experience from truly amazing hosts. Lara & Andrea compliment each other superbly and this shines through in their service. We had some laughs whilst being educated and got to eat the breathtakingly tasty food at the end. We walked away feeling totally content and we can not recommend this experience enough Thank you so much xxx

    Chaz

    Food, staff and location were incredible! Most amazing pasta!

    C Robertson, UK

    A family amazing Cooking class We had a wonderful time today in Lara's and the greatest chef Andrea's lovely house with a fantastic view over Garda lake, it was one of the most powerful experience we had as a family. We learned to make pasta, pizza and more... and then to sit by the balcony drinking white win and to eat what we have just prepared. We warmly recommend you all to try this special experience!!!

    Lea

    Romantic Cooking Class , Highlight of our trip! We were on honeymoon and wanted a romantic cooking class to learn how to make Italian food. We are so glad we came here! We were on the course with another lovely couple who were lucky enough to be doing a 3/4 day stay at the accommodation which has an incredible view over Lake Garda. We were welcomed by our hosts, and shown how to make a delicious 4 course meal which we ate later on. Risotto, Past

    Samuel

    Food, staff and location were incredible! Most amazing pasta!

    C Robertson, UK

    Fantastic experience cooking and learning more about the history, food culture and community around Arezzo and Tuscany. What I loved about this experience in particular is that this course runs if you are an individual or if you are a group of 4 people. Fantastic when you are a solo traveller!

    V Scarcella

    A really enjoyable break! A real 'lasagne' of culture and cooking. Comfortable accomodation and so wonderful to have Arezzo nearby to explore. Fabrizio's lessons were, to use his own word, 'TOP'! Patient instruction and lots of skills and recipes to take home. The trip to Cortona and the wine tasting were an added bonus.

    A Sexsmith

    I have to recommend the Italian cooking course in Tuscany with Rita. This was a fabulous way to unwind and Rita's hospitality knew no bounds. Perfect for the single traveller as you will meet like minded people who love food, good company, and plentiful wine. The wine was locally made and didnt give you a hangover which for me is no bad thing. In between cooking lessons we went on day trips to the local villages and the more impressive towns of L

    Robert Moore

    The few days spent with Rita and Alex were amazing. Such hospitality, nothing was too much . Wine was overflowing. Great balance of cooking and sightseeing. Wish I vould have stayed longer but I will be back in the future.

    Ursula

    It was a really great holiday. Rita was a great host and went out of her way to make everyone feel welcome. The mixture of sightseeing, cookery and wine tasting was perfect. The cookery lessons were really fun, and the food very tasty! Would definitely recommend this holiday.

    A Lewis

    We've had the most amazing time with Rita and Alex! The atmosphere is fantastic and you feel like a part of the family; they really look after you. This holiday is suitable for both solo and group travellers, as you will all bond together as a group anyway. We would love to come back in the future!

    Agata & Curtis

    This cooking week far exceeded my expectations. The hospitality from the family-run business there made this trip very special. They are all very friendly and really care whether you are having a good time. And the food was simply divine. Come alone - it doesn't matter, you'll be fine!

    Anne

    What an amazing holiday. I travelled on my own but met so many friendly people, both cooking and otherwise. Odyssey is a friendly place to stay, the cooking sessions were great fun and we got to eat the food at the end. I thoroughly recommend it.

    B Hughes

    Brilliant 8 days. Excellent family atmosphere and great fun.

    V Rogers

    The French Cooking and Wine Holiday is a beautiful course. There is something for everyone in this course, from exquisite and authentic cooking to local sightseeing, Armagnac tasting sessions and of course having a great time dining and reaping the rewards of a busy cooking day.

    C Vogt

    An amazing week in a beautiful setting of Southern France. Chefs David and Bernard were so very nice with incredible enthusiasm for teaching us great cooking skills. It was a wonderful experience highly recommended for anyone who would enjoy learning new cooking skills in a fabulous place.

    M Reinfuss

    Does exactly what it promises and so much more. It was very hands on so we all learned an enormous amount and got to eat the fruits of our labours each day. Plus we visited museums, chateaux, had a private Armagnac tasting, shopped at the market, toured the area and ate like kings. Excellent course.

    P Price

    The pictures of the farm do not give this stunning B&B justice. Each room has been carefully designed to create a comfortable welcoming. David & Alison have carefully thought through every detail to provide a fantastic customer experience. The continental breakfast offering a variety of cereals, pastries, bread, ham & cheeses, not forgetting the tasty homemade banana & nut bread, makes a great start of the day. Also available is a French or Engli

    Trish

    Enjoyable and peaceful stay in this tasteful and thoughtfully renovated old farmhouse. Alyson was the most perfect hostess and nothing was too much trouble. Her and her husband David's hard work and labour of love renovating this old place, shines through in every aspect. We wish them the success they clearly deserve in their venture together. Come and see for yourselves, you won't be disappointed! We will be back...

    Julie

    My husband and I stayed in a beautiful villa in Arezzo for a wonderful cooking holiday. Fabrizio is a great chef, he taught and cooked delicious Tuscany food for us. He also took us for sightseeing, wine yard etc. He helped to prepare a birthday cake for my husband that made our vacation perfect.

    L Powell

    Very relaxing and enjoyable few days. The staff were very friendly and helpful.

    S Miller

    I had a fantastic time with Fabrizio and Marina in Tuscany, they were so welcoming and made you feel part of the family. The cooking lessons were really good fun, I learnt a lot and had a great time in the process, the perfect combination. Overall I thought this was a really well planned and very enjoyable holiday and I would not hesitate recommending this to friends and family.

    K Griffiths

    A wonderful experience set in the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Chef and guide Fabrizio certainly went the extra mile to ensure my holiday was personalised, informative and fun. The Truffle hunting walk in the hills was a fantastic experience I shall never forget.

    S Coulson

    Had a great time on a cooking holiday with Caroline and Adam. They were such wonderful host and made for a great holiday. There was plenty of good food and wine and I learn quite a lot about how to cook great French food.

    Anon

    Friendly family. Tailored program willingly to suit our needs. Quality food. Quality workshops. Quality touring.

    K Judd

    From the moment we arrived we found 2 new friends - incredible hosts - quite laid back. Adam is an incredible chef and along with Caroline fantastic hosts. Nothing was too much trouble and on one occasion we went to a night market, and although we were already fed, I said I must have some snails that I had seen in the market and Adam instantly appeared with a bowl to try!! They took us to so many places we would have never seen without them and w

    Anon

    Spent an excellent week with Adam and Caroline. Enjoyed the cooking lessons and preparing the evening meals. No shortage of good food and wine throughout the week. Good balance of activities and down time. Beautiful setting in the french countryside.

    Anon

    Fabulous wine and cheese. Days exploring the French local cuisines. Nights full of Apero's and laughs. Adam and Caroline are such amazing hosts and create an environment full of laughs. Adam makes cooking amazing food look so easy even for some beginners. The trips to the local areas were great being able to wander beautiful country towns full of cobblestones and history. And the cheese made by the local producers are to die for. There really is

    Anon
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    Ignite your culinary passion on our exhilarating cooking holidays! From sun-soaked Cyprus to romantic France, vibrant Greece to charming Italy, and beyond, we offer a smorgasbord of mouthwatering destinations. Our cooking holidays and cookery weekend breaks are the perfect way to explore new cuisines or master your techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, our diverse cooking holidays cater to all skill levels and tastes. Immerse yourself in hands-on classes led by Michelin-starred chefs and local culinary masters. Knead pasta in Tuscan hills, perfect paella in Spain, or craft delicate pastries in Paris. But it’s not just about the food – it’s about the experience! Explore bustling markets, savour wine tastings, and forge friendships with fellow food enthusiasts from around the globe. 

    For those seeking an extra twist, combine your culinary adventure with yoga, horseback riding, or language lessons. Join us on a cooking holiday that will tantalise your taste buds, broaden your horizons, and create unforgettable memories. Your gastronomic journey awaits!

    Pick your Cooking Holidays location

    France

    France

    From classics like onion soup and beef bourguignon to cutting edge cuisine, in stunning locations from Provence to Paris, Brittany to Bordeaux, come and learn to cook like a local in a country madly passionate about food.

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    Greece

    Greece

    Whether you’re looking to perfect your moussaka, learn how to wrap your vine leaves, cook up a delicious mezze or satisfy your sweet tooth with a plate of sticky baklava, we've got just the thing.

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    Italy

    Italy

    Choose from our range of cooking holidays in Italy and you’ll be kneading pasta dough, flipping pizzas, and whipping up authentic regional dishes in no time, from Tuscany to Puglia, Rome to Venice & much more.

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    Morocco

    Morocco

    Immerse yourself in Morocco's vibrant culinary scene during our cooking holidays. Master the art of tagine, perfect your couscous, and blend aromatic spices in bustling medinas and tranquil riads.

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    Portugal

    Portugal

    Portugal's cuisine is a fine hot pot of famous fish dishes and 'bacalhau' to world-famous puff pastries and sweet Port to wash it all down with.

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    Spain

    Spain

    Sample plump olives in Seville, velvety creme Catalan in Barcelona and fresh clams with smoky chorizo over a glass of crisp Cava in Menorca. Discover Spain beyond the tapas and paella.

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    Who are our cooking holiday guests?

    Our cooking holidays truly are for everyone of all levels. Lifelong chefs, beginners who struggle to chop onions, fervent foodies – everyone has a place at our cooking schools.

    People from all ages and nationalities, solo travellers and couples, friends and family. Everyone on our cooking holiday’s is different and that is why we love them!  Some are there to learn about local, seasonal food, others are simply looking for a getaway that mixes relaxation with life-enhancing activities. 

    All you really need to have on our cooking holidays is a love of learning and a determination to become a better chef! So, just ask yourself, do I want to be a better chef? If the answer is yes then book a cookery course with Not in the Guidebooks.

    Discover a new way to cook with Not in the Guidebooks!

    What You Could Learn on a Cooking Holiday

    Our cooking holidays offer a rich, hands-on experience that goes far beyond basic culinary skills. You’ll dive deep into the art of cooking, learning to:

    1. Master local techniques: From flambéing in France to perfecting paella in Spain, you’ll learn authentic methods from expert chefs.
    2. Understand ingredients: Discover the beauty of local, seasonal produce and how to use them boldly in various dishes.
    3. Explore flavour combinations: Stretch your palate and learn to create exciting taste profiles in traditional and modern dishes.
    4. Perfect regional specialties: Whether it’s rolling out pizza dough in Italy or wrapping vine leaves in Greece, you’ll become proficient in iconic local recipes.
    5. Develop advanced skills: Learn to sauté, purée, and create exquisite sauces under the guidance of Michelin-starred chefs and local culinary artisans.
    6. Cook with fresh catches: In coastal areas, you’ll learn to prepare the day’s freshest seafood in Mediterranean-inspired meals.
    7. Create full menus: From appetisers to desserts, you’ll master the art of composing well-balanced, multi-course meals.
    8. Pair food and wine: Understand the principles of food and wine pairing to elevate your dining experiences.

    Our cooking holidays are designed to enhance your culinary knowledge, boost your confidence in the kitchen, and immerse you in the local food culture of your chosen destination. You’ll return home with new skills, recipes, and a deeper appreciation for global cuisines.

    Add Something New to your Cooking Course

    If you’re looking to sharpen more than just your knife skills, combine your cookery course with another hobby or passion. Maybe you want to ride around the Tuscan countryside on a horse with one of our horse riding holidays, which is a great way to build your appetite for your cooking lessons.
    Perfect your downward dog by combining a cooking holiday with one of our yoga retreats. Improve your painting skills or get back in touch with nature on a walking holiday. Whatever you decide to do, you will be learning to cook amazing meals with a group of like-minded people. Whether it’s cooking in Italy, a culinary adventure through Spain, or a foodie retreat in France, never settle for ordinary.

    Cooking Holidays blog posts

    Visit our blog
    What to Eat and Drink on a Spanish Holiday image
    calendar icon 01/07/2025 category icon Local Insights

    What to Eat and Drink on a Spanish Holiday

    Spain is the most popular holiday destination for British tourists, with 31% of brits opting for a Spanish holiday. With so many of us travelling to Spain, and with one of the most delicious and influential cuisines in the world, it is important to think about what you’re eating and... Read More »
    Top 5 Foodie Holidays in Europe – Not In The Guidebooks image
    calendar icon 29/01/2025 category icon Features

    Top 5 Foodie Holidays in Europe – Not In The Guidebooks

    What better way to truly get to know a culture than through its food? Our foodie holidays, whether they’re cooking, tasting, drinking or foraging, get you to the heart of a culture and help you get to know true, authentic cuisine from France, Italy, Vietnam or Cambodia. Maybe you’re tempted... Read More »
    10 Iconic Italian Cooking Methods image
    calendar icon 08/01/2025 category icon Local Insights

    10 Iconic Italian Cooking Methods

    Italian cooking’s real secret is that it’s actually extremely simple. However, that doesn’t mean that mastering Italian cuisine is by any means easy. Italian cooking methods are the result of high quality ingredients, age-old traditions, and a genuine passion and love for good food that goes pretty much unmatched anywhere... Read More »
    2025 Bank Holiday Getaways image
    calendar icon 21/10/2024 category icon Features

    2025 Bank Holiday Getaways

    What happened in 2024 cannot happen again in 2025 – that is why we are already planning our 2025 bank holiday getaways for the maximum yield of fun and adventure. We want to have as much time as possible to lay back and relax, enjoy a little culture and go... Read More »
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    FAQs

    What products do Not In The Guidebooks offer?
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    We have three collections:

    • Arctic Adventures: Short, unforgettable winter adventures in Iceland, Norway, and Finland. Unique and amazing accommodation packed with bucket list experiences.
    • Immersive Exploring: Private, flexible itineraries in 30+ worldwide destinations, designed from a locals perspective filled with authentic experiences and premium, unique stays.
    • Special Interest: For customers who want a holiday where they can learn a new skill or do something they love as a hobby. From foodie and creative, wellness, to active holidays.

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