Cinque Terre Pesto Making with Bologna Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities
Overview
Get your hands on tradition with Bologna Tour’s pesto-making experience in Manarola, Cinque Terre. Harvest fresh basil, master authentic techniques, and taste your creation with local wines on a seaside terrace.
Cinque Terre Pesto Experience
1h | Let's make Pesto! Cooking class and tasting
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Immerse yourself in the flavors of Liguria with a hands-on pesto-making class in the breathtaking Cinque Terre. Discover the rich history of this iconic sauce, gather fresh basil from the garden, and learn traditional techniques. Enjoy your homemade pesto with local delicacies and wine on a stunning terrace overlooking the sea.
Let’s make Pesto! Cooking class and tasting of the traditional Ligurian sauce, be local for a day in the splendid setting of the Cinque Terre.
Duration
1 hours
Description
Do you want to feel Ligurian for a day? Discover the secrets, origin and history of the Ligurian Pesto and what makes this sauce unique and famous in the world. You will learn how to make it with a Pesto making class in Cinque Terre. The panoramic view of our location in the Cinque Terre will leave you breathless. Let’s make Pesto!
In this splendid setting you will be introduced to the history and presentation of the ingredients, with the collection of basil directly in our garden. It continues with the explanation and preparation of the pesto, surrounded by its colors and scents, with the technique of the Carrara marble mortar. Who will be the winner of the best pesto?
You can finally taste the pesto prepared with your own hands and enjoy the lunch on the terrace overlooking the sea with cold cuts (vegan / vegetarian solution available) accompanied by the tasting of a Cinque Terre wine with a local sommelier.
Inclusions
- Pesto course with mortar
- Pesto tasting with focaccia and 1 glass of Cinque Terre white wine
Not included Tips
Adventure Tips
Book in Advance
This popular cooking class fills up quickly, especially during peak season—reserve your spot early.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Dress casually and prepare for a relaxed kitchen setting with the chance to get your hands dirty.
Dietary Preferences
The class accommodates vegan and vegetarian options—notify the operator ahead of time if needed.
Accessibility Notes
The terrace involves some steps and uneven surfaces—consider mobility needs when booking.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mediterranean lizards bask on sun-warmed rocks.
- Seabirds like gulls and cormorants circle the cliffs and sea below.
History
Pesto originated in Liguria centuries ago, with Genoa and Cinque Terre playing key roles in popularizing the slivered basil-green sauce.
Conservation
The Cinque Terre region is part of a national park committed to sustainable tourism, encouraging visitors to respect local flora, including the basil gardens used in tours.
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Adventure Hotspots in Genoa
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable casual clothing
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit of basil or olive oil on.
Sun protection
Bring a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor garden and terrace.
spring specific
Light jacket or sweater
Layers help manage cooler sea breezes on the terrace.
fall specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning sea views and food moments throughout the experience.