Zuppa di pesce, or Italian fish soup.
Aerial view of the relais, the gardens, the orchards.
Exterior of the villa.
Superior room at the relais.
Happy culinary travelers during a cooking class.
Drinking wine and relaxing in the garden.
Visiting the isle of Capri.
Relaxing outdoors in the gardens.
The hotel owner and the cooks.
Penthouse living room and view.
Having fun during a cooking class.
Delicious cheese and other local products.
Junior suite bedroom.
Dining outdoors at sunset.
Gnocchi Sorrento-style during a cooking vacation
Terrace of the penthouse with a view of Vesuvius.
Visiting Ravello on a beautiful summer day.
Aerial view of the labyrinth of the relais.
Making pasta during an Italy cooking class.
Hard at work cooking in Italy.
Visiting Ravello on the Amalfi Coast.
The beautiful coastline along the Amalfi Coast.
The beautiful views from the villa.
Preparing homemade pasta.
Learning to trim artichokes.
Breakfast table at the relais.
The pool at the villa.
The 5* Oasi Olimpia relais.
The exterior of the villa.
Salotto at the relais.
A wonderful week-long adventure with friends.
Pool at the relais.
Bathroom of the penthouse suite.
The terraced gardens and the villa.
Dining outdoors at sunset.
Enjoying a hands-on cooking class in Italy
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OverviewBest Selling Holidays on Amalfi Coast
Your home for our best-selling Amalfi Coast tour, the 5* Oasi Olimpia Relais, was featured on NBC Extra’s Mansions and Millionaires.
About the location: Sant’ Agata sui due Golfi is situated about 10 km from Sorrento and is one of our very favorite places for an Amalfi Coast cooking vacation. Located on the Sorrentine Peninsula just down the coast from the Amalfi Coast, its name means “on the two gulfs” and refers to the spectacular views of both the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno. Gaze out onto the isle of Capri from one direction, or toward Mount Vesuvius on the other, and you will discover why this is one of the world’s most beautiful places for culinary travel in Italy with The International Kitchen.
The site of your Italy cooking vacation will be a lovely five-star Oasi Olimpia Relais hotel of only six rooms and five suites situated on one of the hills of Sant’ Agata sui due Golfi. The villa was originally built in 1892 for a rich German aristocrat as a luxurious residence. It has recently been painstakingly restored and is now a splendid 5* hotel, complete with impeccably furnished interiors and a fine ambiance. The facilities include a gorgeous 15 meter swimming pool, tennis court, outdoor dining area, wine bar, and lush vegetation. There is also a charming cantina in the main building (complete with Cuban cigars) and an incredible wine cave with premium wines from Italy, France and Australia. You will feel like you are living in the lap of luxury during your culinary vacation. But at the same time, the owner and his staff are so warm that you will think you are staying with old family friends.
The Amalfi region is truly one of the most idyllic on earth and are perfect spot for Amalfi Coast culinary vacations, whether you are traveling off season or in the height of summer. From the time of Etruscans to present movie stars, this has been area that has long enchanted travelers. Your excursions during this week-long Italy cooking holiday will take you from the posh island of Capri to the cobblestoned medieval streets of Amalfi and other Amalfi Coast towns.
From the wine tasting on Mount Vesuvius, to the hands-on cooking classes in the teaching kitchen of the Oasi Olimpia Relais, to dinner at one of the area’s most famed Michelin-star restaurants, this Amalfi Coast cooking vacation with The International Kitchen will be the best trip you’ve ever had.
Latest Review
We gave this trip
5 stars
Shirley & Alex
BC
Trip taken March 2024
I have now taken part in two culinary vacations, the first was in Southern France and the second was in Southern Italy. I would highly recommend this company for their organization, their fast response time and they are truly here to help you with any questions you have. They are a great resource for where to stay and have suggestions for sights to see or other activities in areas you may want to visit before or after your culinary vacation. I highly recommend TIK and look forward to another trip with them!
All-Inclusive Amalfi Coast Vacations Highlights
Your 6-night luxury Amalfi Coast culinary vacation will include accommodations in a beautiful 5* relais hotel as well as:
- 4 hands-on cooking classes in the teaching kitchen
- Excursions to the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Pompeii
- Winery visit and wine tasting
- Farm visit with cheese making demonstration
- Olive oil mill visit
- Meals as indicated
Amalfi Coast Foodie Tour Itinerary
Discover the week-long itinerary for our best selling Italy cooking vacation on the Amalfi Coast, and contact us with questions!
Day One
- Pickup from the Naples airport or train station.
- Arrival at the charming Oasi Olimpia Relais. Afternoon check in to your deluxe room for your Amalfi Coast culinary tour. (If you arrive early, leave your bags at the front desk and head out to explore the town or the grounds.)
- Time on your own. If you are not jet-lagged, you may wish to take a short walk into Sant’Agata to do a little exploring. This is a charming little town; perhaps stop with the locals for a coffee and one of the pastry specialties of the region, or just stroll along the old streets.
- Welcome dinner of local cuisine at the hotel’s elegant restaurant, Villa Oasi.
Day Two
- A lovely buffet breakfast awaits you.
- In the morning you will head to a local farm where they produce top quality local cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, and caciotta. Visit the farm, meet the animals, and then settle in for a cheese-making demonstration! A light tasting lunch will follow, including the wonderfully fresh cheese and other products from the farm.
- Return to the hotel for an afternoon of relaxation. If weather permits, you might want to take a dip in the pool. You can also schedule a massage in the massage room (advance reservations of at least 48 hours is required).
- This evening at 5:00 PM, your first cooking lesson, followed by dinner based on your culinary efforts with wine.
Day Three
- Fantastic buffet breakfast followed by your second cooking class.
- After class, enjoy a light lunch and then depart with your driver for an exploration of the Amalfi Coast.
- Amalfi is a town that seems to have climbed up from the sea like froth and crystallized onto the land. The town is dominated by the impressive Duomo, rivaling in size the cliffs that rise up behind it. You can sit and observe in the Piazza Duomo or wind upwards through the cobblestone streets, exploring the little shops along the way. And Ravello is a charming town also perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea. It is home not only to the best Amalfi ceramics, but also the lovely gardens of the historic Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo.
- Free time for shopping and leisure.
- Return to the hotel for a bit of relaxation before dinner based on your morning culinary efforts with wine.
- Overnight.
Day Four
- Breakfast.
- In the morning, head to Pompeii with a 2-hour guided tour of the archeological ruins.
- Next, depart for a winery visit on Mount Vesuvius. At this charming wine cellar experience a wine tasting and lunch.
- Return to the hotel around 4:30 PM. You’ll have some time to relax before dinner out at one of Italy’s most renowned restaurants, the Michelin-star Don Alfonso 1890.
- Overnight.
Day Five
- Buffet Breakfast.
- Third cooking class with lunch to follow based on your efforts.
- Afternoon on your own.
- Dinner on your own.
- Overnight.
Day Six
- Breakfast.
- Today will be a full-day visit to the enchanting isle of Capri, weathering permitting. You can walk private paths past secluded villas, gaze across the aqua water from the harbors, have a coffee in the main piazza in Capri Town, or explore the natural wonders and ancient ruins. If the sea is calm enough, you may be able to visit the magical Blue Grotto. (Please note that if the Blue Grotto is open, it entails taking a boat to the entrance, then waiting in line to transfer to the smaller boats that are permitted in the grotto. Your guide can provide details. Note also that the grotto is only open on days when the sea is calm). You will have an English-speaking guide to help you, but transportation costs on the island are not included, to be paid locally.
- Today’s lunch will be on your own.
- Return to the hotel mid-afternoon, and make some pizza dough in the kitchen with the chef. While the dough rises, enjoy a class on making the tasty Limoncello liqueur. After the dough rises, finish making your customized pizza, which you will then enjoy for dinner.
- (Please note that in the event of bad weather, Capri excursion will be replaced by an alternate excursion.)
Day Seven
- Breakfast and departure from the hotel to the Naples airport or train station.
Check out the day by day itinerary for our best selling Italy cooking vacation on the Amalfi Coast, and contact us with questions!
Day One
- Pickup from the Naples airport (around 12:00 noon) or train station (around 2:30 pm).
- Arrival at the charming Oasi Olimpia Relais where you check in to your deluxe room for your Amalfi Coast culinary tour.
- Time on your own. If you are not jet-lagged, you may wish to take a short walk into Sant’Agata to do a little exploring. This is a charming little town; perhaps stop with the locals for a coffee and one of the pastry specialties of the region, or just stroll along the old streets.
- Welcome dinner of local cuisine at the hotel’s elegant restaurant, Villa Oasi.
Day Two
- A lovely buffet breakfast awaits you.
- In the morning you will head to a local farm for an Amalfi Coast food tour, where they produce top quality local cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, and caciotta. Visit the farm, meet the animals, and then settle in for a cheese-making demonstration! A light tasting lunch will follow, including the wonderfully fresh cheese and other products from the farm.
- Return to the hotel for an afternoon of relaxation. If weather permits, you might want to take a dip in the pool. You can also schedule a massage in the massage room (advance reservations of at least 48 hours is required).
- This evening at 5:00 PM, your first cooking lesson, followed by dinner based on your culinary efforts with wine.
Day Three
- Fantastic buffet breakfast followed by your second cooking class.
- After class, enjoy a light lunch and then depart for an Amalfi Coast food tour and cultural excursion.
- Today, you will explore the Amalfi Coast! Amalfi is a town that seems to have climbed up from the sea like froth and crystallized onto the land. The town is dominated by the impressive Duomo, rivaling in size the cliffs that rise up behind it. You can sit and observe in the Piazza Duomo or wind upwards through the cobblestone streets, exploring the little shops along the way. And Ravello is a charming town also perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea. It is home not only to the best Amalfi ceramics, but also the lovely gardens of the historic Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo.
- Free time for shopping and leisure.
- Return to the hotel for a bit of relaxation before dinner based on your morning culinary efforts with wine.
- Overnight.
Day Four
- Breakfast.
- Today will be a full-day visit to the enchanting isle of Capri, weathering permitting. You can walk private paths past secluded villas, gaze across the aqua water from the harbors, have a coffee in the main piazza in Capri Town, or explore the natural wonders and ancient ruins. If the sea is calm enough, you may be able to visit the magical Blue Grotto. (Please note that if the Blue Grotto is open, it entails taking a boat to the entrance, then waiting in line to transfer to the smaller boats that are permitted in the grotto. Your guide can provide details. Note also that the grotto is only open on days when the sea is calm). You will have an English-speaking guide to help you, but transportation costs on the island are not included, to be paid locally.
- Today’s lunch will be on your own.
- Return to the hotel mid-afternoon. You’ll have some time to relax before dinner out at one of Italy’s most renowned restaurants, the Michelin-star Don Alfonso 1890.
- Overnight.
Day Five
- Buffet Breakfast.
- Transfer back to Naples.
Mediterranean Food & Wine Tasting Trip Details
Included in Your 6-Night Italy Culinary Vacation
Accommodations
6 nights accommodations in classic rooms (either one large or two twin beds) with ensuite bathroom
Food & Beverages
- Daily breakfast
- 4 lunches
- 5 dinners
- Local wine included with all included meals
Classes & Instructors
Your 4 cooking classes will be held in the large teaching kitchen built specifically for your culinary travel in Italy with The International Kitchen. It features spacious granite counters, a large professional range and an outdoor veranda, where you can enjoy a break between courses. Your Mediterranean cooking classes will be led by one of two chefs or sometimes even both of them! Chef Giuseppe is a young but experienced chef; born in Sorrento, he was raised in a family that has long had a passion for cooking traditional Italian cuisine. He has studied at a local culinary school and has cooked in a variety of hotels and restaurants, including the 1-star Michelnin restaurant Il Buco in Sorrento. Chef Giovanni may be your second culinary instructor. He lives in S Agata and has studied at the local hospitality school. He also speaks excellent English, having worked for 1 year in Scotland.
The chefs will teach you such typical southern Italian dishes as Sorrento-style gnocchi, stuffed calamari, and Neapolitan-style artichokes. All dishes use the freshest ingredients, including the vegetables, which are from the hotel’s organic garden, and recipes that have been passed down for many generations. Your final cooking lesson of the week will teach you the essentials of preparing true Neapolitan style pizza!
Excursions
- Farm visit with cheese demonstration
- Exploring the Amalfi Coast towns
- Winery visit at Mount Vesuvius
- Guided tour of the archeological site of Pompeii
- All-day excursion to Capri (weather permitting)
Transfer Details
- Arrival transfer from Naples airport, train station, or city center.
- Departure transfer to Naples airport, train station, or city center.
Not Included
- Drinks outside of meal times.
- Local tourist tax (a few Euros per person per night), paid locally.
Included in Your 4-Night Italy Culinary Vacation
Accommodations
4 nights accommodations in classic rooms (either one large or two twin beds) with ensuite bathroom
Food & Beverages
- Daily breakfast
- 2 lunches
- 4 dinners
- Local wine included with all included meals
Classes & Instructors
Your 2 cooking classes will be held in the large teaching kitchen built specifically for your culinary vacation with The International Kitchen. It features spacious granite counters, a large professional range and an outdoor veranda, where you can enjoy a break between courses. Your Mediterranean cooking classes will be led by one of two chefs or sometimes even both of them! Chef Giuseppe is a young but experienced chef; born in Sorrento, he was raised in a family that has long had a passion for cooking traditional Italian cuisine. He has studied at a local culinary school and has cooked in a variety of hotels and restaurants, including the 1-star Michelnin restaurant Il Buco in Sorrento. Chef Giovanni may be your second culinary instructor. He lives in S Agata and has studied at the local hospitality school. He also speaks excellent English, having worked for 1 year in Scotland.
The chefs will teach you such typical southern Italian dishes as Sorrento-style gnocchi, stuffed calamari, and Neapolitan-style artichokes. All dishes use the freshest ingredients, including the vegetables, which are from the hotel’s organic garden, and recipes that have been passed down for many generations.
Excursions
- Farm visit with cheese demonstration.
- Exploring the Amalfi Coast towns
- All-day excursion to Capri (weather permitting)
Transfer Details
- Arrival transfer from Naples airport, train station, or city center.
- Departure transfer to Naples airport, train station, or city center.
Not Included
- Drinks outside of meal times.
- Local tourist tax (a few Euros per person per night), paid locally.
Luxury Amalfi Coast Culinary Vacation Pricing & Dates
Find pricing and dates for our luxury Amalfi Coast cooking vacations below, and contact us for availability or to book your trip.
2025 6-night Culinary Vacation High Season Pricing:
April 24 to October 4
6-Night Culinary Vacation Pricing
US$3960 per person based on double occupancy
- Add US$425 for single occupancy (use of a double room by 1 person)
- Add US$480 per person to upgrade to Junior Suite
- Add US$720 per person to upgrade to Penthouse Suite
30% deposit due to confirm booking.
Balance payment due 60 days prior to tour start date. Questions? Please contact us!
2025 6-night Culinary Vacation Low Season Pricing:
(March, April, October, November)
6-Night Culinary Vacation Pricing
US$3360 per person based on double occupancy
- Add US$425 for single occupancy (use of a double room by 1 person)
- Add US$480 per person to upgrade to Junior Suite
- Add US$720 per person to upgrade to Penthouse Suite
30% deposit due to confirm booking.
Balance payment due 60 days prior to tour start date. Questions? Please contact us!
Mediterranean Cooking Classes Dates 2025
Our best selling Amalfi culinary vacations are available any week early April to November for a minimum of 2 people. Sample dates follow, please inquire for availability. Interested in taking over the whole property for a private luxury Amalfi cooking holiday? Please contact us!
2025
Sample weeks follow, please inquire for availability:
April 13-19
April 20-26
April 26-May 2
May 4-10
May 10-29 – unavailable/sold out
May 31-6
June 6-12 (Friday to Thursday)
June 15-21
June 21-26
June 26-August 1 – unavailable/sold out
August 3-9
August 10-16
August 17-23
August 23-29
August 29-September 14 – unavailable/sold out
September 14-20
September 21-27
September 28-October 4 – unavailable/sold out
October 5-11 – unavailable/sold out
October 12-18 – please inquire
October 19-25
October 26-November 1
November 2-8
2025 4-night Culinary Vacation High Season Pricing:
April 26 through October 4
4-Night Culinary Vacation Pricing
US$3000 per person based on double occupancy
- Add US$300 for single occupancy (use of a double room by 1 person)
- Add US$400 per person to upgrade to Junior suite
- Add US$600 per person to upgrade to Penthouse suite
30% deposit due to confirm booking.
Balance payment due 60 days prior to tour start date. Questions? Please contact us!
Please inquire for 2025 upgrade costs.
2025 4-night Culinary Vacation Low Season Pricing:
March, April, October, November
4-Night Culinary Vacation Pricing
US$2640.00 per person based on double occupancy
- Add US$300 for single occupancy (use of a double room by 1 person)
- Add US$400 per person to upgrade to Junior Suite
- Add US$600 per person to upgrade to Penthouse Suite
30% deposit due to confirm booking.
Balance payment due 60 days prior to tour start date. Questions? Please contact us!
Please inquire for 2025 upgrade costs.
Amalfi Coast Culinary Tour Dates
Our best-selling Amalfi Coast culinary vacation is available any week late-March through November for a minimum of 2 people. Sample dates follow, please inquire for availability.
2025
Sample weeks follow, please inquire for availability:
April 13-17
April 20-24
April 26-30
May 4-8
May 10-29 – unavailable/sold out
June 1-5
June 8-12
June 15-19
June 22-26
June 26-August 1 – unavailable/sold out
August 3-7
August 10-14
August 17-21
August 24-27
August 29-September 14 – unavailable/sold out
September 14-18
September 21-25
September 28-October 2 – unavailable/sold out
October 5-9 – unavailable/sold out
October 12-16 – please inquire
October 19-23
October 26-30
November 2-6
Reviews
We gave this trip
5 stars
Shirley & Alex
BC
Trip taken March 2024
I have now taken part in two culinary vacations, the first was in Southern France and the second was in Southern Italy. I would highly recommend this company for their organization, their fast response time and they are truly here to help you with any questions you have. They are a great resource for where to stay and have suggestions for sights to see or other activities in areas you may want to visit before or after your culinary vacation. I highly recommend TIK and look forward to another trip with them!
It was a fabulous trip with a nice combination of cooking, sightseeing and free time. The staff were very friendly, helpful and a lot of fun. The cooking classes were excellent and we learned a lot. Kudos to Chef Giuseppe and Chef Giovanni. And as for the Amalfi coast, nothing could be more beautiful than the hillside towns and the island of Capri all overlooking the sea. Thank you TIK for planning a wonderful trip that I will remember for years to come.
I want to thank you for planning and taking care of all the details of our trip. You were so helpful and concerned about us all through the trip. Our hotel, Oasi Olimpia was beautiful. The staff was so kind and helpful in every way.
I especially enjoyed the chefs and the cooking classes, that were so much fun. We had a lot of food to eat!! I enjoyed the Pompeii tour but that was a tough day. The trip to Capri was great!! The weather was good, and the views of the coast were fantastic.
Thanks again for everything.
It really was a an amazing experience. Thank you one more time for planning everything so perfectly and dealing so patiently with our many questions and concerns. I feel like we were at home while there, those beautiful people took care of us as if we were family! That’s what made this trip so special.
I just ordered 00 flour to start practicing the pasta recipes. Can’t wait!
Shouts out to TIK for planning the trip of a lifetime! Giovanni, Josie and the entire staff were so attentive to our every need. The side trips were great, I especially enjoyed Capri, Amalfi and Sorrento. The cooking classes were filled with knowledge and laughter. My friends and I enjoyed every moment ! I would recommend this trip.
We gave this trip
5 stars
Glenn & Laurie
NB
Trip taken October 2023
The culinary tour of Sorrento and Amalfi was arranged perfectly for experiencing the local fare and sightseeing combined into one single booking. There was flexibility in our schedule to accommodate our arrival and for weather dependent excursions. I highly recommend TIK for future travels.
What an amazing experience we had - There are no words for how wonderful our experience was, the staff at the hotel was exceptional and went above and beyond. I would recommend this amalfi experience to anyone and everyone.
Sometimes when someone tells you something is wonderful, you don't believe it is as great as they say! Well, The Mediterranean Cooking: Amalfi Culinary Vacation: Relais Oasi Olimpia is! I and 3 other friends went to the school and loved it. The hotel was beautiful, the cooking was fun and the tours were informative and enjoyable! Thank you for such a great time and I am already thinking of where I want to go next!
Jan
CA
Trip taken April 2023
The International Kitchen held at Oasi Olimpia in Italy was fabulous! The day trips were well planned and showed us a variety of the culture and history of the area. The chefs shared tasty recipes with lots of humor during the lessons. It will be fun to try the recipes at home. The wait staff was so attentive and made our stay very enjoyable. Next year I hope to attend another International Kitchen culinary week.
Debra
KY
Trip taken October 2023
My recent trip with the International Kitchen was outstanding! The Villa was lovely with an outstanding view of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Cooking classes were so fun. They were well organized. Giovanni and Giuseppe were excellent at walking us through each step of preparing the delicious dishes, and they were truly delicious! The day trips were amazing exploring the Amalfi coast. We added extra days at the end, and had a wonderful time in Rome, Florence, Pisa, and Venice. Every detail was planned out for us and we enjoyed it immensely.
We gave this trip
5 stars
Howard Barry & Karen
Florida
The trip was great. We all enjoyed the cooking school and our creations. The day trips were informative even driving on crazy roads.The extension to Pestium, Matera and the Puglia region added a different aspect visiting the Adriatic.
We gave this trip
5 stars
Thank you Adrian and TIK for the amazing trip you planned for us. Not only was the Amalfi Coast Mediterranean Cooking Experience wonderful but your customization of our trip to include our wish list of Herculaneum, Paestum and Puglia made for a perfect trip. From the minute we arrived in Naples until we left Polignano a Mare 12 days later we felt extremely well cared for. All the hotels you booked for us were excellent. Oasi Olimpia was beautiful and we enjoyed the wonderful views while watching the sun rise. The staff at Oasi were all great and Giovanni and Giuseppe were a wonderful team teaching us to cook and making it so much fun. During our entire time in Italy the best food we ate was the food we cooked under their excellent tutelage. In addition to the excellent food, the tours were all great. Every tour guide was excellent and we learned so much. Puglia was a wonderful add on and we so appreciate your helping us plan this customized part of the trip. Your choice of hotels, Palazze Gattini in Matera and San Michele Suites in Polignano a Mare were wonderful. I want to also commend the staff at San Michele Suites. The room was beautiful and we are so happy we got the suite with the balcony. I was sick one day and got to recover in luxury, pampered by the staff bringing breakfast to the room while enjoying the amazing view from the balcony. From start to finish Adrian was wonderful to work with for both the big items like customizing the trip to the prompt responses to our many questions about converters, tipping and even things that were not part of TIK like helping us with tickets to the museum in Naples. We can't thank you enough!
We gave this trip
5 stars
I can’t tell you how wonderful our trip was. The Oasi Olimpia was beautiful and we spent many hours at the pool overlooking the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. The lush grounds and multiple sitting areas make for a very relaxing vacation.
The staff was fabulous. Giovanni and Jose (I may be spelling that wrong) couldn’t have been nicer or more accommodating. Josie even drive me to and from town when my leg was bothering me. The cooking lessons were also great. I am already trying the recipes, although, I doubt I can top Giuseppe and Giovanni. One of the waiters always seemed to know when I needed a glass of wine.
We were grateful for the private tours. All of the drivers were careful , although I won’t miss the winding roads. The tours themselves were very informative. I especially liked the farm with the cheese making demonstration.
Overall, this was an unforgettable trip for my daughter and I. I would highly recommend this experience.
We gave this trip
5 stars
David & Joyce
MD
Trip taken October 2022
From beginning to end The International Kitchen provided everything we needed or wanted. From staying within our budget to providing some of the nicest hotels we have ever stayed at. The tour guides they provided were the best. We had one mishap when the airlines cancelled our plane from Italy to Munich, but TIK was there to help us get new airline tickets and to find a place to stay while we waited to leave. I am already looking at other trips for the future and I plan on using TIK.
You could not possibly pick a better place than Oasi Olympia!! The staff were all so nice and attentive. They made us feel like part of their family! Thank you for a fabulous experience!
No rating given with this review
Professional team coordinated our main trip and all side trips. The cooking experience was one of a kind and accommodations were outstanding.
We gave this trip
5 stars
From start to finish The International Kitchen/Mediterranean Cooking Experience was fabulous. Peg and Adrian always responded timely and patiently to all our questions before our trip. Peg assured us of a fabulous stay and she was correct.The beautiful Oasi Olimpia Relais, Sant’Agata Sui Due Golfi, Italy, was all you would expect from a five star hotel--impeccably appointed and immaculate. The staff, Salvatore, Josie, Alessandro and the magnificent chefs, Giovanni and Giuseppe were wonderful. The tours were well planned, interesting and entertaining with a full flavor of the Italian culture. We enjoyed the cooking lessons, tours of Pompeii and Capri, and the dinner at Don Alfonso. It was difficult to leave this enchanting place. Arlene and Liza 10/3-8, 2021
Laura
VA
Trip taken June 2022
We enjoyed our trip to the Amalfi Coast immensely. The staff at the hotel were amazing! The trip was just enough cooking and touring the area it was the perfect mix.
Katherine
VA
Trip taken June 2022
(This traveler left a starred review with no additional comments.)
We gave this trip
5 stars
Great location, great people and great food.
We gave this trip
5 stars
Lori Ann & Rebecca Lynn
AR
My sisters and I just got back from a tour to the Amalfi Coast with TIK and it was amazing! So much better than we dreamed it would be. We can’t wait to go again. Thank you!!!
We gave this trip
5 stars
Paige & Maureen
SC
Trip taken April 2019
We had a FABULOUS time!!! I cannot even begin to tell you how much fun we had....everyone was great!! We loved the accommodations, the area, the guides, the chef, .....everyone was so nice and pleasant to be with...... I so highly recommend the trip...
We gave this trip
5 stars
Susan & Barbara
Pennsylvania
You make of this trip what you want. If you want to do little cooking and mostly observe that is an option. We went all in and got as much cooking experience hands on as offered. There was plenty of down time to visit the sights in the area. Location is a bit secluded but the local town was very warm and welcoming. Side trips were great.
I really enjoyed this trip, everything was planned and organized so I didn't have to worry about anything. There was a good mix of planned excursions, cooking classes and free time, and everyone from the hotel and cooking class staff to the tour guides and drivers were all so helpful and pleasant!
We gave this trip
5 stars
Carl & Mary
CA
Trip taken October 2018
Love the hands-on cooking classes. The Master Chef and the Chef were incredibly knowledgeable and explained and aided each of the "students" as we prepared our delicious recipes. The kitchen facilities were modern and well equipped. It was so much fun interacting with all of our "classmates". It was a "Blast"!!!!
The excursions along the Amalfi Coast was absolutely magnificent. Thoroughly enjoyed Amalfi, Ravello and Positano. So much charm and character of these beautiful towns nestled such natural, gorgeous scenery.
Touring the ruins of Pompeii and visiting the Isle of Capri were so enjoyable and memorable. We just loved these tours with some personal time to explore points of interest!
Having dinner at the world renowned Don Alfonso restaurant in the small town of San' Agata was an absolute highlight. It was one of the finest dining experiences on the planet.
We gave this trip
5 stars
All three of us thoroughly enjoyed this trip. The chefs and cooking kitchen were great. Given the small group (7), we each had individual attention, the recipes were easily accomplished. The field trips were interesting and the drivers informative. The setting was lovely and the accommodations were certainly fine, but perhaps the one area that could be improved on...
No rating given with this review
My daughter and I just returned from an incredible week. The property is magnificent and the views spectacular. Ermelinda and the entire staff, Giovanna, Luigi, Daniela and Lena to name a few, welcomed us as though we were family. Every possible detail was taken care of, and, each of them went out of their way to make our visit very, very special. Our cooking lessons were, of course, the highlight of our stay. He is a great chef (so charming and handsome, too!!) and teacher. His love of cooking certainly was felt in each class. The itinerary was perfect for us as well. Each day was planned so that we could experience as much of the beauty and charm of this area as possible in a week. I am back to NH only one day and already anxious to return next year with my other daughter!!
Marie H., NH
No rating given with this review
It is hard to find enough superlatives to describe this experience! From the time they welcomed us at the door until the final "arrivederci" it was magic. The natural beauty of the location was a feast for all the senses--and the food was yet another feast. My daughter and I were participating in a class only with another mother-daughter combo, so the small number made for intensely personal instruction. The times we spent in the kitchen with the Chef were wonderful. The dishes we made will certainly be attempted at home. I loved the balance of travel/relaxation/sightseeing/instruction. However, it would be nice to have had more opportunity to cook. I simply cannot find anything negative to say about the whole week. Thanks for such a wonderful time. Ciao!
Jan K., KY
No rating given with this review
The hotel was wonderful, very intimate and personal. The staff was friendly and helpful. The chef made the classes fun and yet we learned. Also, the group of people was a wonderful mixture of ages,interests, fun, and came from all over the U.S. and abroad. We had a lot of laughs, food and wine. The packet provided was the most professional one I've ever seen. Your attention to detail from aprons to diplomas was wonderful and thoughtful. Anyone that I spoke to in Chicago was helpful and sincere. Great job! I had a wonderful experience and would consider another vacation with you.
Carole B., FL
No rating given with this review
My wife and I both enjoyed the experience. We learned how to cook Napolitan style - we were used to cooking Genovese style, so the change was good. The cook was a lot of fun - we "dished" it out and he gave it back. Just the way it should be. The staff at the hotel was excellent - anything we wanted we got. It was especially great to see the owner, Salvatore, in the background; but, always making sure things got done. The pace was just right - we got time to relax, but, when it came down to cooking, the time was just right....
Rich & Ellen C., CA
No rating given with this review
OK, seriously, this is the most incredible trip I have ever taken. I have to tell you that I have travelled aLOT, and we have stayed in the nicest hotels in the world, but nothing compares to this. This is the rarest find, the combination of beauty, comfort and luxury, while still feeling intimate and quaint. Simply put, this trip was a soul awakening and filling experience. I would give it my HIGHEST recomendation.... The most exquisite experience one could ask for. Everything, the accomodations, the food, the cooking lessons, the staff, the wine, the gorgeous grounds and views, is simply perfection! I cannot even put into words how wonderful and meaningful this experience was. Thank you!
Sarah S., NY
No rating given with this review
I absolutely enjoyed each and every moment. The chef had to put up with some strong willed women and one man. And he was a trooper. His knowledge and assistance during our cooking lessons was great. I enjoyed his little quips, i.e. "You must feel, touch, caress the dough" (when we were trying to adequately knead or mix our pasta). The members of my group were a hoot! I appreciate all of their personalities. My sister and I both loved it. Please let me know when you do another class, possibly with different recipes because I'd love to come again to the Relais Oasi Olimpia. I loved the excursions, also. It was a good mix of cooking and sightseeing. I have never been to Italy, so every day trip was good to me!.
I loved it. I'd do it again and I would recommend the cooking class to everyone. All of the staff was absolutely magnificent. So helpful, courteous, thoughtful! Please compliment them all for their hospitality.
Jodi R., WI
No rating given with this review
This vacation class was fabulous. It was beyond words. The instruction, the instructor, the special care that was extended toward us, the camaraderie, THE RECIPES--just EVERYTHING couldn't have been better. I can't give this experience enough complimentary remarks or high grades. Every detail was thought out so carefully--and to have people cleaning up after you and picking up after you during cooking was a dream. The staff at the Villa treated us like such ladies. It was a wonderful feeling to have their respect and concern about our comfort and happiness. They couldn't do enough for us, and that came across very clearly. I don't think that the most critical of evaluators could have found fault with this experience.
Joanna S., FL
No rating given with this review
First off, you do not have enough space, as I could go on and on about how great our trip was. My mother and I had a wonderful experience. The facility was immaculate and our Chef shared his passion for food. He taught us many wonderful recipes and how to use all different types of food. (Several of us have been cooking away since we have come back to the States). The kitchen was well organized and when class began all the prep items were at our stations. They was no waste of time. We were busy from the minute we stepped into class until the end. The staff was fantastic and were open for suggestions. All 13 of us didn't want to cook squid, so we approached the staff and they immediately changed the menu and printed up the new class. In our opinion they went over and above. The blend of being in the kitchen, plus the side excursions were amazing. They made it a point to pay attention to detail. I was impressed because you had seasoned cooks, plus beginners. Chef Gennaro got all of us on the same page. Simple things like holding the chopping knife properly or making us aware of frying methods made the difference to all of us. Nothing was taken for granted. Gennaro gave ample time to the class as a whole, but he singled each student out, making sure we were on track. Each and every time we entered the facility we were greeted as though we were family. The wine, food, grounds, side trips, STAFF, hotel, kitchen, were magnificent and professional. You know you had a good time when you cried when your kitchen vacation came to an end.
Lorrae F., FL
No rating given with this review
This trip went perfectly. It was a celebration for a 50th birthday and carefully chosen. We have traveled quite a bit in Europe and none of our accommodation has ever been as clean as the relais. Georgeous flowers in our suite and wonderful spa products to use. The staff were superb! They remembered how we liked our coffee at breakfast and even our names! ... We had 6 in our group and all of us really liked being together. Most of the skills needed were basic and those who did not know how to do something were quickly shown. Our exucursion to Rosa's will forever bring a warm memory. Such a welcoming family. Now, to order the olive oil! The calamari experience was really funny and we all survived! We really liked the additional tours chosen in our packet. The drivers and tour guides made it extremely enjoyable, hassell free. We enjoyed incredible weather as well. Our trip to Capri will the most memorable... I have already recommended this to many others.
Nancy G., TN
No rating given with this review
I loved that the hotel was "in the middle of nowhere" and yet an easy walk to town: S. Agata. The staff was ALWAYS attentive - anticipating your needs without being intrusive. I loved being able to sit ouside for most of our dinners. A special moment was the wonderful lunch with Antonio & Rosa after the magical mozzarella demonstration. I will never eat Mozzarella without thinking of her and it will never taste as good... My only complaint might be that we made too much food - we couldn't possibly eat it all.
Deborah & Angela, Chicago
No rating given with this review
The trip was outstanding. Every detail was planned and organized far exceeding my expectations. The hotel is a beautiful small hotel and everyone there went out of their way to make us feel comfortable, enjoy their country and the cooking experience... The International Kitchen and especially their representative, Peg, did an excellent job during that week which was organized and put together so exceedingly well and helping me to arrange an additional week in Italy with my husband. I would recommend The International Kitchen programs to anyone and hope to do another trip in the future. Thank you!!!!
Suzy S., Ridgefield, CT
No rating given with this review
I just returned from San Agata.... I am still in a state of bliss about the magnificent week I spent... My time there was as good as it gets. Great friends, great food, great wine, great learning experience, great expeditions to absorb the cultural highlights of the surrounding countryside, luxurious accomodations, and the highest standard of service... This program sets a new standard of excellence in culinary experiences. Congratulations and thank you.
A special word of appreciation for Peg. She is one of your most valuable assets. Her command of the Italian language. Her understanding of the Italian history and culture. Her intelligence. Her sophistication. Her service orientation. Her ability to keep everything on a positive note. Her deft ability to herd cats. Her unflappable temperament. All of these qualities add value and make a huge contribution to the success of the program. She is a gem. This talented professional earned our profound respect.
My compliments to the chefs of this program.
April F.
No rating given with this review
A+ trip all the way. Hotel was spectacular, and the balance of cooking, sightseeing, hanging around was just right... I loved, loved, the breakfasts and our room overlooking the gardens and in the distance, the water. Peg did a good job of squiring us around and her Italian was a nice plus. Felt very coddled, which I guess is what you should feel on such a trip.
The visit to Antonio and Rosa was a highlight, last night had an olive oil tasting comparing theirs to my brand here in NY and theirs was much smoother, better aftertaste.
Really fun getaway vacation -- the women only theme was great. Thanks so much.
Janice B., NY
No rating given with this review
From the moment we arrived, we knew we had found a most special place... The cooking experience was fun, fun, fun. My husband (who has cooked twice in 25 years) had a marvelous time. Each day had something new and different to do without being overwhelming. We were never tired but felt we accomplished so much during the day!
My friends and I felt it was a life-changing holiday.
Michelle O., New Canaan, CT
No rating given with this review
This was a fantastic experience!... Our only regret was that due to our other travel requirements we were only able to do the short version and missed the last day and a half! We have received e-mails from the other "students" along with photos. We will (and have) recommended the cooking school to others and feel it was the best part of our 2 week trip to Italy.
We really loved meeting "Mama Rosa" and Roberto, learning how to make the best mozz[arella] we have ever tasted and look forward to completing the lemoncello we brought back with us. We look forward to trying the recipes and skills we learned at the school.
Tom & Lynn W., Austin, TX
No rating given with this review
In a word "fantastico"! From the minute I drove up the drive way leading to the hotel I knew I had found my heaven on earth. The hotel and surrounding grounds were lovely. Just the exterior of the facility took my breath away. Before I entered the hotel I could feel the cares of my everyday life disappear... The interior of the hotel was beautifully furnished. The room, it's bath tub and most importantly, it's private terrace were incredible... I just don't know what was better: the hospitality, incredible service and authenticity of the staff, the other guests, the cooking lessons, the sightseeing excursions or the immediate rapport and camaraderie felt within my cooking - travel group. All I can say is I am saving up my euros and counting the days until I can go back!
Jill Y., CA
No rating given with this review
The classes, and the instructor were just wonderful. The number of participants was exactly right. We had eight in our group. The hotel was welcoming, and the staff warm and attentive. I personally liked the fact that I was doing several things that I had never tried before.
The menus were not too difficult to create, and I have already made some of them since our return home.
We enjoyed meeting our classmates, and having the time to get to know them during class...
Sonnie & Bill D., Bethesda, MD
No rating given with this review
From the moment we arrived at the hotel, the wonderous staff greeted us with offers of refreshments and comfort after our long journey. We knew immediately we were in for a treat, the setting gorgeous, the Relais refined and the accomodations superb. Our delight continued with cooking classes which taught recipies that can be replicated at home with ease. The classes themselves were a joy.... The side trips were wonderful as well as the planning of our activites inclusive with our very own driver. We could have not dreamed of a better experience, truly polite people and our time spent in Southern Italy has its own special place in our hearts. We will always remember this as one of the truly great vacations of a lifetime. Thank you again!
Andiamo!
Elaine & Amanda B., Coral Gables, FL
No rating given with this review
The setting was beautiful, the service topped anything else I have ever experienced, I hated to leave... I learned alot about cooking technique. Our group of six was a great, diverse mix that had fun together. Accomodations were excellent, staff so attentive, the excursions great, esp. Rosa 's mozzerella making, the private boat to Capri. I would happily return.
Marleen F., WA
No rating given with this review
This is a piece of heaven right here on hearth. Your creation warms the hearts and souls of chose of us fortunate enough to share a portion of your dream. As a world traveler with many years of experience, you may trust that you are way up there with" The Best of The Best" With many wonderful memories, and a trace of sadness upon leaving.
John M., MA
No rating given with this review
Thank you for a fabulous holiday. You and your staff are the best! The cooking classes were marvelous, the excursion fantastic + the service at the hotel un-matched by any. It was a true joy. Definitely 5 stars.
Dina
No rating given with this review
This was the trip of a lifetime. The hotel was beautiful, the staff went out of their way to ensure that our every need was met, and the cooking classes were amazing. Every dish that we prepared was wonderful and presented in a way that I am sure I will be able to reproduce the recipes at home easily. Not to mention the experience of making mozzarella and experiencing the area with local guides, it was the best. Guidebooks and photos do not do the Amalfi Coast justice. It was one of the most beautiful and charming places I have ever been. I did not want to come home...
Shelly K., MN
No rating given with this review
This trip was unbelievable!!! It far exceeded my expectations. Everything about the trip was excellent. The Villa was absolutely beautiful and the rooms, eating areas, sitting areas, etc. were all gorgeous. From the minute we arrived the staff was friendly, professional and attentive. I felt like my every need was anticipated and taken care of. The food was outstanding. The cooking classes were outstanding and so much fun! ... The daily excursions were all fun. The sights were beautiful. I just can not say enough about this trip!!! I would love to go back.
Terese D., NJ
No rating given with this review
It was an outstanding experience. I cannot say enough about the wonderful hospitality, the dedication to you and your pleasure, and heart-warming attitudes the whole team possesses. The complete program (cooking, socializing, sightseeing, interacting with the people of the towns) is well planned and gives you a well-rounded experience of the region. Attendees should not worry about hidden costs or surprises at check out. Everything outlined in the itinerary is covered in total.
Linda S., NJ
No rating given with this review
I can't imagine a more perfect way to celebrate a special birthday. The "Ciao Chows" are a group of eight women that for two decades have enjoyed adventure, food, travel, new experiences and extreme friendship together. The International Kitchen experience enabled us to do everything we love on one trip! The staff at the magical hotel treated us like long-lost family. The villa is like something out of a fairytale and the food and wine were spectacular. Our tours of the Amalfi Coast, Pompei, and Rome were so well orchestrated that we saw more in one week than we could have possibly experienced in a month on our own. And with a group of eight opinionated women, it was wonderful that this all-inclusive trip took all of the decision-making out of our hands-all we had to do was show up, eat, drink and take pictures! The opportunity to spend time with Rosa and Antonio on the family farm was about much more that just making mozzarella...it was a rare chance to experience their way of life. The same is true of the many local shop owners and artisans that we were introduced to in Sorrento. This trip was fabulous beyond anything I could have imagined---don't turn 50 without it!
Candis K, CA
No rating given with this review
There is not room enough to tell you how wonderful this trip was from beginning to end. The accommodations were superb, the staff at the hotel bent over backwards, yet they make it look pleasant and easy. Just charming... The excursions covered all the things i wanted to do and i felt safe and taken care of. I had not a worry ~ and that let me enjoy every moment of my first trip to Europe.
Madelene T., VA
No rating given with this review
From the first communications with The International Kitchen, it was apparent that things would be well organized. The staff at the International Kitchen followed up to ensure that all our arrangements pre and post were taken care of. And punctually at the pre-arranged time, our transport arrived to take us to Oasi Olimpia Relais. Wow! A villa at the top of the hill, surrounded by gardens, a pool and the view of the bay of Sorrento, across to Naples and Vesuvius! Fabulous! The Chef greeted us and from the moment we arrived, we felt as though her home was our home and we were in her capable hands! Nothing was too much effort! Dinner on the patio under the wisteria and the night sky was magical; meeting our fellow cooking school friends and partaking in some home cooked Italian food. Each day brought new surprises - making mozzarella, tasting Limoncello, seeing pasta made in a factory and then coming back to the Relais to make our own ravioli, gnocchi, tagliatelli and pizza! Breakfasts were heaven - the chocolate and coconut roll was to die for! I didn't realize that cooking school meant eating school too! Tours were arranged to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast and Capri - nice breaks from cooking! Although the Relais was so peaceful and beautiful that it was easy just to stay there too! The week flew by; acquaintances changed to friends; Piano Piano, Basta and Alora became commonly used vernacular! And then it was over! So hard to say good bye! Great memories and wonderful new relationships! I look forward to making brachiola for my friends back home!
The International Kitchen staff: Fabulous! Helpful, considerate and knowledgeable! A great recommendation for the first cooking experience.
Lesley and Timothy S., Canada
No rating given with this review
I enjoyed the structure of the course - cooking either in the morning or evening with time to ourselves and/or some organized day trips. Relaxed and fun cooking experience - not too intense. Very good holiday!
Anna-Marie W., South Africa
No rating given with this review
Where do I begin? The villa was lovely and the staff was divine! They bent over backwards to meet your needs and wants! Three of my high school girlfriends and I went to Italy to celebrate my retirement. We were pleasantly surprised at how nice the accommodations were and the cooking classes were fabulous!! We soon felt that the owner and members of his staff felt like our extended family. They were so kind and friendly. We felt that we had known them for years. The four of us are 69 years old and we had the time of our life. The best thing that happened was that on our last night there, the kitchen staff asked us to join them for dinner. We were so flattered and the owner even showed up to dine with us!! They also had a driver for us to take us to sightseeing tours and shopping. We have never before had the service that we enjoyed there. I highly recommend The International Kitchen and their associates. Well done!!
[Regarding the cooking vacation packet:] Yes, it was quite informative!
[Regarding The International Kitchen staff:] They were most kind and helped us in many ways. We went on to Florence and Rome and they helped us in obtaining accommodations in both places and also explained the train system for us.
Lina M., KY
No rating given with this review
An unforgettable experience with unforgettable people. The crew clicked immediately and all expressed our love for wine and food. Learning from a true Italian chef was incredible and helped us really understand what it takes to cook the simplest but most delicious foods.
Dorothy, PA
No rating given with this review
Everything was done first class. The villa is a beautiful haven with the warmest and most helpful staff. Everything that was promised was delivered. .. and then some. Dinner at Don Alfonso was extraordinary. We only had another couple in our cooking class so received very individualized attention. The food and views were amazing.
Victoria, NY
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We Can Help Plan The Best Oasi Olimpia Relais Culinary Travel
We are happy to provide assistance with flights, additional nights and tours in Italy, transportation, or more! Just contact us to let us know what you need.
There are many things we can help with to make your cooking holiday in Italy that much better.
Contact us for more information, or you can indicate your interest in the notes field during check out and we will follow up directly!
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You May Also Like Our Other Amalfi Coast Cooking Holidays
Your home for our best-selling Amalfi Coast tour, the 5* Oasi Olimpia Relais, was featured on NBC Extra’s Mansions and Millionaires.
The Amalfi region is truly one of the most idyllic on earth and are perfect spot for Amalfi Coast culinary vacations, whether you are traveling off season or in the height of summer. From the time of Etruscans to present movie stars, this has been area that has long enchanted travelers. Your excursions during this week-long Italy cooking holiday will take you from the posh island of Capri to the cobblestoned medieval streets of Amalfi and other Amalfi Coast towns.
Discover the week-long itinerary for our best selling Italy cooking vacation on the Amalfi Coast, and contact us with questions!
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Your 4 cooking classes will be held in the large teaching kitchen built specifically for your culinary travel in Italy with The International Kitchen. It features spacious granite counters, a large professional range and an outdoor veranda, where you can enjoy a break between courses. Your Mediterranean cooking classes will be led by one of two chefs or sometimes even both of them! Chef Giuseppe is a young but experienced chef; born in Sorrento, he was raised in a family that has long had a passion for cooking traditional Italian cuisine. He has studied at a local culinary school and has cooked in a variety of hotels and restaurants, including the 1-star Michelnin restaurant Il Buco in Sorrento. Chef Giovanni may be your second culinary instructor. He lives in S Agata and has studied at the local hospitality school. He also speaks excellent English, having worked for 1 year in Scotland.
