Mastering Traditional Pesto-Making in Levanto’s Historic Heart
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness needed; suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Overview
Discover how to craft authentic Ligurian pesto by hand in Levanto’s historic center. This 1.5-hour course blends tradition, tastings, and local culture into an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Pesto Course: Levanto
1,5 hours
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Immerse yourself in the art of pesto-making in Levanto's historic center. Learn traditional techniques using a mortar, enjoy tastings of your creations paired with local wines and appetizers, and take home a printed recipe. This hands-on experience promises a flavorful journey through Italy's culinary heritage.
Duration
1,5 hours
About
Since 1976 in Levanto’s historical center the laboratory of the pesto prepares the most ancient and well- known sauce in the world. In this laboratory you will have the chance to learn how to make the pesto sauce with your own hands following the tradition.After tasting a glass of sparkling wine accompanied with a local extra virgin olive oil on a bruschetta, you will taste the pesto sauce made with the modern method while assisting the demonstration and explanation of the pesto sauce made with the mortar. Here comes the moment to make your own pesto sauce with the mortar: wash and dry the basil leaves, pounding them together with salt, pine nuts and garlic, add the parmesan cheese and at the end the extra virgin olive oil. You will get a concentrated and perfumed pesto cream, which can be used on the pasta or on a slice of bruschetta. At the end you will enjoy your own made pesto sauce together with a glass of white wine and some typical local products such as olives “taggiasche” (small and black olives), bruschetta with anchovies.
What is included
- pesto course with mortar
- pesto tasting with a glass of wine and local appetizers
- olive oil tasting
- printed recipe
Language
The tour takes place in English or Italian depending on the group composition
Adventure Tips
Arrive Hungry
Come ready to taste several pesto variations paired with local wines and appetizers.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
The class involves standing and stirring with a mortar for an extended period, so dress comfortably.
Book in Advance
Spaces fill quickly due to the class's popularity; securing your spot ahead ensures availability.
Ask Questions
Engage with the instructor to learn about regional culinary history and ingredient sourcing to deepen your experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mediterranean gulls frequent the harbor area
- Colorful butterflies among Levanto’s olive groves
History
Levanto has been a strategic coastal settlement since Roman times and flourished as a fishing and trading port through the Middle Ages.
Conservation
Local producers emphasize organic and sustainable farming practices, helping preserve Liguria’s delicate coastal ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Levanto
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Footwear
You’ll be on your feet during the mortar-and-pestle session.
Notebook and Pen
Useful for jotting down extra tips or advice from the chef.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the class, especially in warmer months.
summer specific
Light Jacket
Historic centers can be cool; layering helps.
spring specific