Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Umbria.
Cooking in Orvieto, Italy
Perched atop cliff faces, overlooking the Italian countryside of Umbria, the ancient town of Orvieto has become Nikki’s second home. Her love affair with the region’s culinary delights continues here, and much of Nikki’s inspiration lies in the variety of fresh seasonal Mediterranean produce available – and it’s simple use in Italian cooking.
Nikki is fortunate to have been able to spend the last few years sharing space in a busy family kitchen, gaining wonderful exposure to techniques and secrets handed down through generations of Italian chefs.
Italian Cooking Course
Our courses are split between the picturesque wine estate, Cantina VeNtiSei — and a secret in-town location.
Cantina VeNtiSei, owned by Michiel and Larissa, is a boutique winery nestled in the Umbrian hills, this boutique winery combines modern wine making techniques with state of the art technology. They are renowned for practicing traditional and environmentally friendly agriculture.
The second location is tucked away in town, with a garden terrace overlooking the ancient rooftops. Just a short walk from your hotel, it offers a relaxed, local atmosphere — perfect for unwinding after your cooking session and soaking up authentic Italian culture.
Course Itinerary & Details
Join Nikki and her team on a culinary adventure of Umbrian fare.
Email Nikki at nikki@ottimocibo.co.za
Your Orvieto Cooking course includes:
- 5 nights’ accommodation in a local hotel or Airbnb – with check in from 14h00.
- Welcome aperitivi and orientation at Nikki’s home followed by dinner.
- Our sommelier will pair local wines from the region.
- Local Umbrian dinners and wine.
- Daily transportation.
- Wine tasting excursion – with an emphasis on Umbrian produce.
- Apron and recipe book.
2025 Dates:
- 28 July – 2 August 2025 (fully booked)
- 25 – 30 August 2025 (fully booked)
- 1 – 6 September 2025 (fully booked)
- 12 – 17 October 2025 (three spaces available)
2026 Dates:
Dates to be confirmed for:
- May
- August
- September
Customisable dates are also available upon request.
Terms and Conditions:
- Alternative accommodation requirements are available within Orvieto and will be subject to rate adjustments as quoted by the supplier.
- The course does not include flights or transportation to and from Orvieto.
- A maximum number of 8 participants will be accepted for each course with a minimum of 5 participants in order for the course to run. Non-participating partners are most welcome to join you on the culinary experience at an additional fee of €250 per day.
- A non-refundable deposit of 25% is required to secure your booking
- The cooking itinerary may change within the value of the course.
- A one or two day course is available within the above dates.
- Dates may vary based on demand.
- All participants will be required to sign an indemnity form prior to the start of the course.