About

Cook In Tuscany

Cook, Eat, Play, Travel

Experience Tuscany and learn the basics of Tuscan cooking, stroll the narrow cobblestone streets of the medieval villages, shop at the city markets, cook with the local women, listen as the church bells ring, wander the gardens as you sip Vin Santo wine while you discover each view is better than the last. This is the bucket-list trip you have dreamed of!

Immerse yourself in the Tuscan life style. Live the sweet life, leave your worries at home and let us take care of all details.

You’re with us…you’re family.

Much more than just a cooking school in Tuscany. Join us for a hands-on all-inclusive culinary tour with daily cooking lessons from local Tuscan women, first-class accommodations in the medieval hilltop village of Montefollonico, tours of the region’s wineries and cheese makers, daily excursions to local and historic sites, recreational activities and more! Cook in Tuscany is a luxury culinary vacation for the traveler who wants to be a local, and not a tourist.

Reviews

GG R.

This was a wonderful experience! From the time we arrived until we had to say goodbye. Linda, George, and Whitney were great hosts. The week was packed full of activities but done in a very relaxing and leisuring way! From the cooking lessons to the excurions — it was all amazing!

Heinz R.

Wir kamen außerhalb der Essenszeit, trotzdem haben wir etwas zu Essen bekommen. Ich habe den Chef kennen gelernt der uns ein sagenhaften kleines Menü gezaubert hat. Dazu ein original Brunello, war ganz großes Kino.Hätte auch10 Sterne gegeben schon allein für die Gastfreundschaft.

Christopher A.

I cannot say enough good things about Cook in Tuscany. In 40 years of vacations as a couple, this was by far best! Every part of this trip exceeded our expectations. What really put this over the top was the hands on involvement of the owners. George, Linda and/or Whitney were present at every event. This is not just a business for them, it’s a way of life that they share with their guests. The trip included just the right mix of cooking, visiting nearby villages, or just relaxing at the hotel. If you are reading this review and thinking about a trip, just sign up now you will not be disappointed.

Sandra K.

George, Linda and Whitney are special people who share their passion of Tuscany through food, drink and unique local experiences. Every last detail was executed to provide their guests with the ultimate Tuscan adventure of a lifetime.

Cindy A.

Wow! Cook in Tuscany was fabulous and exceeded all my expectations. The hosts Linda, George and Whitney were warm, friendly and knew exactly how to run the show. For anyone who is a foodie, this is the vacation for you. I will remember this trip forever.

Roberta H.

A cooking class experience with Daniele Natale is a must do for visitors of all ages and all levels of cooking expertise. Daniele will create a tailored menu based on your preferences and using the best local ingredients. After you prepare the main components of your meal, Daniele will quickly add in the supplements while you enjoy a pre dinner beverage, then serve each of 3–4 courses with as many seconds or thirds you may desire. Wine is included. The setting is absolutely magical. You will take your apron and memories home and have them close to your heart for a long time. Don’t miss this fun, unique and personal experience with Daniele. Book ahead!

Pat C.

Linda , George , WhitneyThank you so much for such an amazing week with Cook in Tuscany. The visits to so many beautiful hill top towns in Tuscany, the Truffle hunt with Paulo, the seven course meals , the cooking classes with Antonetta and the fun and dancing while cooking, wine pairing and the fun and knowledge you Linda, George and Whitney provided. And especially the beauty of La Chiusa , olive trees, wine vineyards , plum trees, lemon trees, and gardens. A fabulous memory I always will have and the new Family that I shared it with. Thank you

Mary J.

It was an experience of a lifetime. The people who own it are wonderful and they plan a great cooking experience along with the winery visit, cheese making class and truffle hunting. I was very impressed with everything about my experience

Christy B.

My fiancé and I did the pasta making class and it was one of the most memorable experiences of our entire trip. Chef Antonetta was amazing and helped our meal to turn out better than we ever expected. Lorraine and Matteo and the whole kitchen staff helped to make our class and meal unforgettable as well. Could not recommend this experience more!

Margaret P.

Amazing experience. Fabulous food and wine, hands-on cooking lessons, wonderful new friends, entertaining hosts, historic sites, and breathtaking views. Life doesn’t get any better.

As every couple knows, it takes work and dedication to maintain a partnership. But for Linda and George Meyers, who have been together for 39 years and run a cooking school together, the key to remembering all of those reasons you selected one another as lifelong partners is to enjoy the small moments in life together.

Everyone wants to live their dreams. Linda Meyers has done just this–the Tuscan life she created for her family is everyone’s dream. Spend a week living in “Linda’s dream!”

It’s a liberating thought to rid yourself of everything you own, move to another country and live a carefree adventurous life. While most of us will only dream about it and never do it, this inspiring couple did.

This fifty-something pair from the Washington, DC area moved to Tuscany and not only made a new life for themselves, but started a thriving business: Cook, Eat, Play, Travel.

Linda & George Meyers combine travel, beauty and history into a food lover’s destination vacation with their Cook in Tuscany business.

Spending time with Linda & George is like spending time with old friends. Their New Orleans roots are definitely show–the food, the fun, the laughter–the pure enjoyment of life!

Cooking School

Montefollonico, Italy

On top of a hill facing Montepulciano, stands the medieval village of Montefollonico. Far from busy roads and from the usual tourist trail, the splendid isolation of Montefollonico is probably what makes it particularly charming and appealing. It is a fantastically preserved medieval village, surrounded by 13th-century walls that protect Montefollonico Castle.

With its narrow, winding streets and its low, rustic houses, Montefollonico provides a genuine view of Tuscany. Here you’ll enjoy great cooking, memorable meals, and unlimited wine in our hidden village surrounded by rolling hills.

During the week we will take you to visit some of our neighbors–other hilltop villages like Pienza, Cortona, and Montepulciano.

Our guests stay in Montefollonico, at LaChiusa, just outside the gates of Montefollonico. LaChiusa is situated among a 1000-tree olive grove with broad views of the mountains and Montepulciano across the valley. The staff at LaChiusa will take care of every need–they will spoil you.

In addition to our Tuscan cooking school, there are many things to do in Tuscany, so if you decide to arrive early or stay late, let us suggest a few things to help you. Tuscany Wine Tours, Tuscany Villa Tours, Tuscany Bike Tours, Tuscany Day Tours.

GG R.

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Heinz R.

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Christopher A.

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I cannot say enough good things about Cook in Tuscany. In 40 years of vacations as a couple, this was by far best! Every part of this trip exceeded our expectations. What really put this over the top was the hands on involvement of the owners. George, Linda and/or Whitney were present at every event. This is not just a business for them, it's a way of life that they share with their guests. The trip included just the right mix of cooking, visiting nearby villages, or just relaxing at the hotel. If you are reading this review and thinking about a trip, just sign up now you will not be disappointed.

Sandra K.

1728072949

Cindy A.

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Roberta H.

1727352236

A cooking class experience with Daniele Natale is a must do for visitors of all ages and all levels of cooking expertise. Daniele will create a tailored menu based on your preferences and using the best local ingredients. After you prepare the main components of your meal, Daniele will quickly add in the supplements while you enjoy a pre dinner beverage, then serve each of 3-4 courses with as many seconds or thirds you may desire. Wine is included. The setting is absolutely magical. You will take your apron and memories home and have them close to your heart for a long time. Don’t miss this fun, unique and personal experience with Daniele. Book ahead!

1726748209

1726497078

1719607252

1718406929

Amazing experience. Fabulous food and wine, hands-on cooking lessons, wonderful new friends, entertaining hosts, historic sites, and breathtaking views. Life doesn’t get any better.

Ann R.

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Absolutely everything was over the top. The accomodations, the view, the food, wine, lessons and excursions were all 10 out of ten. The atmosphere is fun, the hosts are delightful and our group of people was fantastic. A trip of a lifetime!!!

Linda J.

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A unique experience you won’t soon forget. The setting is fairytale perfect. Nestled in the village of Montefollonico, Italy. The hosts, George, Linda and Whitney Meyers, rolll out the welcome mat, with perfect accommodations and agendas for the week.You don’t have to be a chef or a professional to enjoy the preparations for the meal.Visits to nearby cities and top tier restaurants where you can work alongside with outstanding chefs is what dreams are made of.

Fred K.

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Absolutely Wonderful experience!!! Great food, great memories and a perfect birthday present for my wife, Luckily I got to share it. Linda, George and Whitney are passionate about what they do, and kept us singing, laughing and dancing while we learned to prepare foods. Wonderful support staff and great experiences on excursions to truffle hunting and meeting people who made life changes to teach about healthy food and lifestyle. Somehow I now appreciate the beauty of our own home and love of our own family more after this trip.

Fred J.

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We were told of our hosts' gracious hospitality and of the sheer fun and adventure of the cooking classes and the excursions, but we were totally unprepared--it was all that and MUCH more! We returned two days ago and would love to go back next week! This was a fabulous vacation that we are already recommending to our friends!

Timothy R.

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What a GREAT time.My wife planned this trip for my 65th birthday and it was spectacular. 1st.... La Chiusa is stunningly beautiful. Right out of a storybook. Whatever you have pictured in your mind... forget that. This was prettier. 2nd.... The folks who run the school (George, Linda, and Whitney) were FANTASTIC folks. They weren't intrusive but were informative and fun to be around and obviously the people of the town and surroundings have accepted them as family. 3rd... The cooking classes were informative and not labor intensive. What you learn, you can easily bring back home with you. You ate what you made. There was even music and dancing, while cooking. Yes there is dancing...kinda. It all occurs while cooking and at times the flour is "flowing" especially when making pasta. (One footnote, George can't dance :) )4th.. There were multiple "excursions" into the surrounding areas, visiting the small towns, eating at phenomenal restaurants, multi-course meals at a local family winery, truffle hunting replete with the coolest dog ever. 5th... There was "down-time" every day. Since we were going to be staying in Italy a while after the school, we used this time to take a nap, as jet-lag was still a problem. Others drove into some of the other towns as nothing is far away.6.....You definitely WILL NOT go hungry. 7...There is no shortage of wine.Was it worth it? You betcha. Don't miss your chance to go.

Michelle S.

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My husband and I have traveled a great deal and this by far one of the best experiences we have ever had. Linda, George and Whitney made sure everyone was well cared for. The passion that they have is contagious and we can’t wait to book another cooking class with them. This should be on everyone’s bucket list!

T. “Corky” C.

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Simply, the experience of a lifetime! Beautiful countryside, wonderful people and delicious food and wine!

Julieta E.

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This is for the class offered at Relaise La Chiusa. After receiving our aprons and cooking pamphlets we were patiently guided by Nonna Antonetta. She took us step by step through the preparation of soup, sauce (gravy), pasta, filling for our raviolis and the cookies that would accompany our post meal wine or coffee. We not only learned, we made new friends and an insight into what Tuscan food is really like. Antonetta advised us on how to finish each dish and we had a delightful evening dining with our new friends on delicious food we'd been lucky enough to have helped prepare. This is the best cooking class I've ever participated in anywhere - and I'm a tough reviewer. I'd give more stars if Google allowed.

Diane

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Amore! From the breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside, the personable cooking instructors, daily excursions to explore, learn or shop, and the beautiful rooms to rest in La Chiusa, there is love. The hosts, Linda and George, were the perfect combination of information and fun, making our stay the most enjoyable time I've ever had on vacation. I have told everyone that will listen that they NEED to go to this cooking school at least once. Myself? I have already booked to go back in 2024 with my sister.

Sylvia R.

1697552429

Everything was perfect. A slice of heaven for sure! Linda and George were more than just good hosts. They treated us like family and made us all feel so welcomed and special. We cooked, we danced, we laughed, we ate great food, we drank fantastic wine. Wonderful cooking and food lessons, excursions around the countryside to towns, farms, sights, with time for some shopping. Our villa was so comfortable with every need taken care of. I can’t find one fault. Best travel experience ever!

Susan M.

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My husband and I enjoyed a week at La Chiusa Villa in Montefollonico with Cook in Tuscany. From the minute we arrived we were amazed at the beauty of Tuscany! Our accommodations were beautiful, the views absolutely stunning - everywhere we looked it was like a picture from a magazine! George and Linda are the perfect hosts. They both are so knowledge, friendly and funny too! We always felt like they were happy we were there. Our group was awesome-we met so many lovely people from all over the world! It was really sad to say goodbye at the end of the week. And every event was perfectly planned with every detail taken care of by Linda & George. This experience was one of our best ever and we hope to one day visit them at one of their other schools! Memories to last a lifetime!!

Jane J.

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Joy-filled cooking using ingredients from surrounding farms. Nothing "fancy" in the pot--just the basic, delicious flavors. SLOW food. The best.

Robert F.

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What an amazing Life Experience we had at Cook in Tuscany! Everything from the rooms, staff, tours, cooking classes, food, wine, and the friendships that were formed were above my expectations! George and Linda are amazing, generous, and fun people! They run a class act operation!Denyce Fry

haley C.

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In May 2022, my aunt and I, along with each of our friends, took a trip of a lifetime to Tuscany to spend a week at La Chiusa. It was one of the best weeks of my life! From day one to the very last day every detail of the experience met and exceeded my expectations. George and Linda are wonderful hosts and make everyone feel at home. I learned so much and really got to soak up the beauty of Italy, as well as enjoy it with family and friends and meet new friends as well. Each day we either cooked or ate something new, explored the town, learned the history of Montefollonico, and did plenty of dancing and laughing. I have life long memories of cook in Tuscany and hope to be back very soon. :)

Mary M.

1677504912

What a wonderfully, glorious time we had in Montefollonico--George, Linda and Whitney were such fun and gracious hosts!! The cooking school was unbelievable, the resort was beautiful, the food was second to none, the excursions were spot on...and the friendships we have created--unforgettable! If you have the chance to enjoy a culinary vacation, Cook in Tuscany is the one!! Cheers!

Margaret B.

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On October 9, 2022, I attended Cook in Tuscany once again. It was another exceptional experience made even better since Linda and George purchased La Chiusa, a wonderful boutique hotel and fabulous restaurant in Montefollonico. I had just as much fun as before, but I actually liked the new accommodations better. This is the trip to take, folks, if you want to have an absolutely exciting and satisfying trip in Tuscany. Linda, George and Whitney take very good care of their guests and plan a fabulous itinerary! I'd rate the experience more than 5 stars if I could!I wrote the following four years ago when I went participated in the Cook in Tuscany experience: Have you ever had a dream trip you wanted to take and you imagined it would be perfect? Have you then taken that leap, gone on the trip and found everything was absolutely, fantastically, marvelously as magical as you’d imagined it would be? Well that’s what it was like for me on my Cook In Tuscany trip! My friend and I wanted to experience a cooking school in Tuscany. After looking at various websites, we found Cook in Tuscany. Linda and George own the company, organize and accompany the tours along with their daughter Whitney. The communication about every aspect of the trip was excellent and complete and any questions I had were answered quickly. When you visit the website and watch the videos, you’ll see people having a lot of fun and let me assure you, it was that much fun and more. Everyone we met in the villages was delightful, the instructors were excellent, the food was incredible—oh yeah, and the cooking classes were definitely hands-on, interesting and informative. The accommodations were magical--we stayed in a hundreds year old hotel and the amenities were definitely up to 2018 standards! Each afternoon during my down time, I’d look out my hotel window surveying the breathtaking Tuscan valley, rolling hills and the neighboring hill town of Montepulciano and I wanted to pinch myself! I am really here! I am really doing this trip I’ve wanted to go on for so long! Linda, George and Whitney had each day well planned and they accompanied their 12 “guests” the entire time. We visited other cities and villages in the area as well as interesting attractions and sites and along the way, the three of them served as very knowledgeable tour guides. It’s easy to see how much they love Tuscany and why they’ve made their second home within the 13th century walled medieval village of Montefollonico. The other members of our group were very nice and friendly and they also made the trip that much more fun and memorable. With Linda, George and Whitney, you feel like you are part of their extended family. This Tuscany trip was on my bucket list and it turned out to be more magnificent than I ever expected it would be. If, like me, you always dreamed of going to a cooking school in Tuscany, I can’t emphasize strongly enough how much I’d encourage you to consider Cook In Tuscany. Ciao!

Dan B.

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This trip was better than we expected! George,Linda and Whitney are incredible hosts. They make sure all their guest are having the best experience possible. The food is fantastic , plenty of wine and you meet a great bunch of people.

Susan H.

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I can't say enough good things about my recent visit to Cook in Tuscany (October 2-8, 2022). I somehow stumbled across its website about 5 years ago, and was immediately intrigued. Every time I was able to attend, though, the program was full. I lucked out when I logged on in March, and was thrilled to be able to book a spot in October, which is when I always thought I wanted to be in Tuscany. The weather was perfect, which didn't hurt, but the whole experience was one I will always treasure. George, Linda and Whitney were the hosts (and hostesses) with the mostest; the cooking classes were terrific; the local restaurants, farms and wineries we were taken to indescribably great, and the people in our group terrific. My friends whom I have talked to since returning have already logged on to the website, and are planning trips.

Conrad J.

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One of the most fun weeks we’ve had! It was a wonderful combination of cooking, sightseeing and dining out. Linda, George and Whitney, our hosts, made each event a memorable experience …..lots of fun, lots of laughs and delicious food! It was the best possible way to spend a week in Tuscany.

Carmela S.

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We cooked, ate, drank and we laughed with new friends in the beautiful Tuscan countryside.Truly one of the greatest experiences of our lives.Thanks to our hosts (George, Linda & Whitney)and their local friends especially the Nonnas for making it all happen!

Lorrie D.

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Last month I brought a group of 7 others with me to Cook in Tuscany. From start to finish, this was a super experience. Linda, George and Whitney are amazing hosts who have thoughtfully put together an incredible 6 days and nights for one of the most memorable holidays of my life. La Chiusa is an old olive mill that has been upgraded to a boutique hotel with all of the amenities you could ask for, including a new pool. The days activities are centered around cooking Italian cuisine with local cooks on their farms, set in the most gorgeous Tuscan countryside. There is always 'down' time of at least 2 hours scheduled into each day so that you can spend time at the pool or walk amongst the beautiful hills or into the village of Montefollonico. And of course, the food and the wine - all top notch and very enjoyable. This was a bucket list trip for myself and for the clients that I brought with me. I will be back and have already secured space for 2024!

Maureen P.

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I can’t say enough about the wonderful time we had at Cook in Tuscany. Linda, George and Whitney are wonderful hosts, the tours and cooking classes were perfect and more than we anticipated, and Tuscany is one breathtaking view after another. This experience should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list.

Cathy S.

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Loved Cook In Tuscany. George, Linda and Whitney were amazing hosts. It is among the top vacations we have ever had. We can’t wait to try the other venues that they host. Thanks again for such n amazing time.

Nerina B.

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The most beautiful place in Tuscany.Great host-attentive and very friendly welcome and stay.Just enjoy -everything is taken care of.A must do holiday for all who love food,wine and a good time.Nerina

Bryant K.

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Cook in Tuscany can be summed up as good times, good food, and good wine. The serenity of the villa overlooking the valley was amazing and indescribable. We had plenty of time to relax and absorb our surroundings.The hosts were fun, knowledgeable and very engaging. The different chefs we learned from every day at their local restaurants were spunky and engaging. They ranged in age from their 30s to 80s. And even the chef did not speak English, you learned!We ate what we made during the day and had fantastic dinners at night.I would do it again, even if the chefs, menu and itinerary was exactly the same! I plan to do so.

Roger H.

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George and Linda are two amazing, professional and fun people who make every day at their cooking course a wonderful experience.

Ada M.

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This was an experience of a lifetime. George, Linda and Whitney are wonderful. The experience in and out of the kitchen were incredible. I hope to join you in Sicily and Mexico in the future. Thank you for all the great memories.

David H.

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We had the most wonderful week at Cook in Tuscany. Seemed like 5 courses with wine every day - and that was just for lunch! The hosts - Linda, George and Whitney - went out of their way to make everyone feel welcome and to share their love for and enjoyment of living, working (and of course eating) in Tuscany. Highly recommend this experience.

Mark H.

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This is a fabulous experience and a totally outstanding food experience in one of the most picturesque settings one could imagine. Linda, Whitney and George are amazing hosts that bring this to life in a very fun and relaxing way. This is a first rate experience for food lovers.

Brenda D.

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Beautiful experience! Every aspect of this week was memorable, you feel comfortable from the time you arrive. Food/accommodations/service/wine/excursions just everything was Excellent!!! Do not hesitate book your vacation now. I look forward to visiting one of the other experiences they offer. THANKYOU George,Linda,Whitney and Staff

Sandra R.

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Six years ago I attended Cook in Tuscany with girlfriends. For six years I have talked about the experience so positively that my husband decided he would like to attend cooking school this year. Our experience in May was even better than the first trip. The Meyers have developed an excellent program— fun, informative, interesting and suitable for all levels of cooking expertise. The tours and activities were outstanding—truffle hunting, cheese making, and exploring surrounding villages. One of the best parts of the experience was the friendships that developed over the week and , of course, there was the laughter, lots of that too. I’d like to give the experience 6 stars!

Brenda H.

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Great fun week. We would heartily recommend!

Janet C.

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Summer camp for adults! Pasta making, bread baking, wine drinking, truffle hunting, dance parties on the bus. Mix all of that with the most gracious hosts, perfect accommodations, and a view that will take your breath away each morning. What more can you want?

Ginger B.

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This was an amazing vacation! We had so much fun with Linda and George! They make you feel so special! We are so ready to do this again! The best of the best❤️❤️

Kim G.

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We didn't really know what to expect during our time in Tuscany other than what we had seen online. All of our hopes and expectations were exceeded in every way but what we didn't count on was the sheer beauty and incredible sense of calm and relaxation that came over us each time we looked out over the valley. Linda and George were incredible hosts, knowing instinctively how to blend the classes, the touring and the periodic breaks in the day so that we never felt rushed nor hurried, but were also never bored. George is also a wonderful tease, making each of his guests feel like a long lost dear friend and it's clear from his interactions with his neighbors that he and Linda are valued members of the Tuscan culture. We learned sooo much about food and wine and history and came away with a sense that these folks have truly figured out what's important in life. I find myself wishing we were back there and trying to figure out how best to return. This was far more than a vacation; this was truly an experience of a lifetime and one we will treasure always.

Mary G.

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Five stars is not enough.The week spent at Cook in Tuscany was magical. George, Linda and Whitney are the best hosts ever! The cooking classes, excursions, the wine and the new friendships made this week one of the best in my life. Every detail was looked after, and our room was absolutely lovely. As soon as I got home, I was planning my next trip to Cook in Sicily with the Meyers.If you are looking for a wonderful week in one of the most beautiful locations in the world, Cook in Tuscany is for you. I can’t wait to do it again!

L F

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This trip was so much better than I could’ve dreamed it would be. George, Linda & the staff @ la Chuisa were wonderful they made you feel like one of the family. Everyday was an adventure cooking,eating,drinking wine,dancing,& sightseeing. I would do it again tomorrow if I could. Hopefully one day I’ll get to cook in Sicily 🇮🇹 😊Loraine

Lindzi M.

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Planned to do this for so long - then Covid delayed - but we finally got there and it was fantastic. Varied and fun and lovely people. The visits to local places enhanced the whole experience, from truffle hunting to seven course dinners, from exploring the streets of Montepulciano, to watching the sunsets. To feeling confident about making pasta from scratch - and eating it!

Sharon S.

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I don't even know where to begin to tell you how wonderful our week at "Cook in Tuscany" was. Five stars just doesn't give it justice!!! It was like living in a dream. It was so far beyond what we expected. The experiences were so unique from hunting for truffles to our wine pairing dinners. Who ever thought that we could drink so much wine and have so much fun! Linda and George were truly amazing, We feel as if they are now some of our very best friends. We came home and have immediately begun making pasta and all of the other wonderful foods that we made. We are going to make cooking, eating and playing a part of our everyday life. Every time we think of the week we have the biggest smiles on our faces. We also made some wonderful new friends from all over the world. We will definitley be back. So until next time, cheers, Sharon

Karen R.

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Fabulous life-changing experience. A slice of paradise with fantastic hosts, a perfect schedule of events along with dancing, cooking, eating and drinking local wine. I learned so much about Italian cooking and lifestyle. And the accommodations were primo! What a hoot!!! Can’t wait to return to magical Tuscany.

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Cook In Tuscany

Cook, Eat, Play, Travel

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Montefollonico, Italy

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