Tuscan culinary traditions come alive at Hotel Le Fontanelle with immersive cooking classes and private dining experiences

In the hills of Chianti Classico, Hotel Le Fontanelle is offering guests a direct experience of Tuscan culinary tradition through hands-on cooking classes and private dinners. Located in Castelnuovo Berardenga, near Siena, the hotel has developed a program that brings visitors into the heart of local food culture, using regional products and recipes passed down through generations.

The cooking classes take place in a villa on the hotel’s property, about 400 meters from the main building. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 11 a.m., small groups gather to learn how to prepare classic Tuscan dishes. The sessions are limited to six participants, or up to twelve if booked as a group, ensuring an intimate and interactive environment. Guests make handmade pasta, seasonal dishes, and traditional desserts under the guidance of experienced chefs. Children are also welcome, with special activities designed for young cooks.

Each class begins with a glass of sparkling wine and includes a bottle from Vallepicciola winery, which is part of the Fontanelle Estate. After cooking, participants sit down together for lunch in the villa’s kitchen, enjoying the food they have prepared. The villa also houses a small wine cellar where guests can purchase bottles from Vallepicciola to enjoy during their stay or take home. At the end of each session, participants receive a personalized apron, a digital recipe book, and a certificate. The classes are open to both hotel guests and visitors staying elsewhere, with a complimentary shuttle service provided for convenience.

In the evenings, the villa transforms into an exclusive venue for private dinners for up to twelve people. These events are tailored to each group’s preferences and feature menus that highlight local ingredients and seasonal flavors. The chefs work closely with guests to create personalized dining experiences that reflect the best of Tuscan cuisine. The setting is designed for intimacy and comfort, making it suitable for gatherings of friends, family celebrations, or business meetings.

The private dinners are enhanced by attentive service and views of the surrounding countryside. The villa’s gardens offer a peaceful backdrop for conversation and relaxation after dinner. Throughout these experiences, wines from Vallepicciola accompany each course, reinforcing the connection between local food and wine traditions.

Hotel Le Fontanelle and its sister property The Club House have established themselves as destinations for travelers seeking authentic Tuscan hospitality. By focusing on hands-on culinary experiences and personalized service, they aim to give guests more than just a taste of Tuscany—they offer an opportunity to participate in its living traditions. The combination of cooking classes, private dinners, and local wines positions the Fontanelle Estate as a leader in high-end tourism in Chianti Classico.