Experience Authentic Italian Cooking with The Full Treat in San Martino Alla Palma

Read the full experience

Located just 20 minutes from the heart of Florence, The Full Treat offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Italian cuisine while surrounded by the gentle Tuscan countryside. Situated in San Martino Alla Palma, a charming village in Toscana, Italy, this four-hour cooking experience combines hands-on culinary instruction with the pleasure of savoring a genuine three-course Italian meal prepared from seasonal, fresh ingredients sourced from nearby organic farms. What sets The Full Treat apart is its warm, intimate setting and personalized guidance tailored to small groups—perfect for families, couples, and food lovers alike. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a glass of crisp Prosecco and carefully chosen amuse-bouches, setting the stage for a festive and engaging afternoon. Under the expert supervision of your host, you’ll master the art of making iconic Italian dishes such as delicate handmade pasta, including gnocchi, stuffed pasta, and classic lasagna, alongside thoughtfully prepared second courses and desserts. Beyond just cooking, this experience is about sharing. When weather permits, the meal is enjoyed in a scenic garden overlooking Florence’s rolling hills, creating an atmosphere that blends heritage, nature, and gastronomy. A friendly orange cat often acts as the unofficial concierge, adding a cozy local charm to the gathering. The Full Treat is especially accommodating for dietary preferences, offering alternatives for fish lovers and vegetarians, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. The class is open to guests from age three and up, making it an enriching cultural activity for travelers with children. Babysitting services can be arranged upon request to provide parents a relaxed environment. San Martino Alla Palma, nestled in Toscana, is not only the ideal backdrop for this immersive cooking adventure but also introduces visitors to a slower pace of life, rich with history and tradition. Toscana is renowned for its rolling vineyards, olive groves, and sun-dappled landscapes, enhancing the overall charm of this culinary journey. Whether you’re a novice eager to learn or an experienced home cook longing for authentic regional recipes, The Full Treat provides hands-on experience, approachable instruction, and a genuine taste of Italy’s culinary heart. This trip promises more than just a meal—it’s a welcoming invitation to partake in a time-honored Italian tradition and create lasting memories near one of the world’s most celebrated cities.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

4 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels—mainly standing and light kitchen work

Frequently asked questions

Can children participate in the cooking class?

Yes, children aged three and up can join. The class is family-friendly with hands-on involvement tailored to different ages.

Are vegetarian or other dietary options available?

Absolutely. The host accommodates various dietary needs upon prior notice to ensure a satisfying experience.

Is transportation provided?

Transportation isn't included but can be arranged upon request if you contact the host a few days before your booking.

What is the maximum group size?

Groups are capped at eight people to maintain an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Is prior cooking experience necessary?

No prior skills are needed; the class is designed to teach and guide all skill levels through the recipes.

Will the recipes change according to the season?

Yes, menus are updated seasonally using fresh, local ingredients to reflect Toscana’s culinary rhythms.

Local insights

Wildlife

Common swifts nesting in the rooftops during summer.
European hedgehogs in the surrounding gardens and farmland.

History

San Martino Alla Palma dates back to medieval times and has maintained its agricultural heritage, reflected in its local food traditions.

Conservation

The experience emphasizes seasonal, organic ingredients sourced locally to support sustainability and reduce environmental impact.

About Cooking with Carlotta

Cooking with Carlotta is a family-run culinary school based in San Martino Alla Palma, Toscana, offering hands-on cooking classes and dining in a garden with views over Florence. Carlotta leads intimate classes focused on traditional Tuscan recipes and seasonal ingredients. Guests learn to make handmade pasta, gnocchi, pizza and classic second courses, then enjoy the meals with local wines and welcome Prosecco. Experiences include short workshops and extended formats: "Steak & Fire" featuring Florentine steak and fresh pasta; "Pasta Galore" centered on first courses and seasonal specialties; "The Total Experience (2 days)" and "The Total Experience (1 day)" for comprehensive pasta, pizza and second course preparation; the family-oriented "Just a Bite" Experience for children and adults making gnocchi or egg pasta; and "The Full Treat" combining a traditional three-course dinner with handmade desserts. Classes are hands-on and suitable for a range of skill levels, from beginners to experienced home cooks seeking authentic Tuscan techniques. Seasonal, local ingredients are emphasized throughout each menu, and sessions include aperitivo and wine pairings where noted. Cooking with Carlotta is featured on The Adventure Collective, and bookings are managed per experience to keep group sizes intimate and the teaching personalized. The school’s location in San Martino Alla Palma provides convenient access to Florence while offering a relaxed countryside setting. Guests can expect step-by-step instruction, a focus on regional flavors, and opportunity to dine on creations in a picturesque garden. Recipes, practical skills and an appreciation for Tuscan food culture are central to the experience.

Base locationSan Martino Alla Palma, Toscana

Tours offered6+

Specialty

Adventure tips

Plan your transport earlyArrange transportation in advance if you don't want to rely on public transit—The Full Treat is located outside central Florence.

Wear comfortable clothesDress comfortably but neat enough for cooking—an apron is provided, but wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little flour on.

Notify dietary needs aheadInform the host of any dietary restrictions or preferences before arrival to tailor the menu accordingly.

Reserve early for weekendsWeekends fill up quickly; booking early ensures you get a spot in this intimate experience.

Recommended gear

Comfortable shoes: You'll be standing and moving around the kitchen for several hours, so supportive shoes are important.
Light jacket or shawl: Spring evenings in Tuscany can be cool; layering helps while dining outdoors.
Sunscreen: If the garden dining is outdoors, protect your skin from sun exposure during daylight hours.
Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the cooking session and meal.