Monterosso al Mare: “Make your Pesto” Cooking Class- 5 Terre

Discovering Liguria’s Flavors: A Hands-On Pesto Cooking Class in Monterosso al Mare

If you’re dreaming of tasting the true essence of Liguria, this pesto-making experience in Monterosso al Mare offers more than just a cooking lesson — it’s a journey into the region’s vibrant culinary culture. From harvesting fresh basil in a lush garden to creating a homemade pesto with an expert chef, this class blends authentic regional ingredients with hands-on fun.

What we particularly like about this experience is its personal touch: the opportunity to pick your own basil, the chance to learn traditional methods, and the relaxed atmosphere of savoring your creation with local wine. Plus, the small-group setting means you won’t feel rushed, and you get plenty of individual attention. However, if mobility or dietary restrictions are a concern, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for everyone — it’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activity and are comfortable in a kitchen setting.

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to learn a regional craft, travelers wanting a genuine taste of Liguria, or anyone looking for a memorable, interactive activity during their stay in Cinque Terre. Now, let’s dig into what makes this class a delightful addition to your trip.

Key Points:

• Authentic Experience: Harvest basil directly from an organic garden, not just buy pre-packed herbs.
• Expert Guidance: Learn traditional pesto techniques from a knowledgeable chef.
• Tasty Tasting: Enjoy your freshly made pesto with focaccia and a glass of Ligurian wine.
• Cultural Connection: Listen to locals’ stories about basil and pesto in a charming agriturismo.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Timing: Approximate 2-hour duration, with checkable availability for different start times.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Pesto-Making Experience in Monterosso al Mare

What to Expect from the Tour

This class begins with a warm welcome at the roundabout in Monterosso al Mare, where you’ll be picked up by a shuttle and taken to the tranquil grounds of an organic agriturismo. The journey is brief — about six minutes — but it sets the stage for a peaceful, scenic escape from the bustle of the town. Once there, the experience unfolds in two distinct parts: the garden walk and the cooking lesson.

Basil Discovery in the Garden

The first part of the tour is a gentle stroll through a vibrant vegetable and herb garden. Led by a guide, you’ll explore the different varieties of basil cultivated on-site. Here, the emphasis is on understanding which types produce the most aromatic leaves, and how to harvest them properly. Several reviews highlight how engaging and educational this part is, with one guest noting, “The guide was so passionate about basil — I never knew there were so many varieties.”

Breathing in the scents of fresh herbs and soil, you’ll personally pick the basil leaves that will become your pesto. This step is not only practical but also deeply satisfying, giving you a genuine connection to the ingredients.

The Art of Making Authentic Pesto

After harvesting, you’ll move into a traditional kitchen, where the real fun begins. Under the guidance of an experienced chef, you’ll learn the art of making Ligurian pesto, a sauce famed worldwide but surprisingly simple when crafted correctly.

The chef emphasizes using a marble mortar and pestle whenever possible — a detail many reviewers appreciate, as this method releases the basil’s essential oils and flavor more effectively than a blender. You’ll combine freshly crushed garlic, pine nuts, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and, importantly, the fresh basil you just harvested, all drizzled with high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

Throughout the lesson, the chef shares stories about the regional significance of pesto and how traditional methods have been handed down generations. This storytelling aspect adds a warm, authentic flavor to the class, making it more than just a cooking demonstration.

Tasting Your Creation

Once your pesto reaches that perfect bright green consistency, you’ll enjoy it immediately. The class includes a tasting of your homemade pesto paired with crusty focaccia or local bread, which helps showcase its true flavors. Reviewers often mention how delicious and fresh the pesto tastes, some noting that “the flavors were so vibrant, it felt like I was tasting Liguria itself.”

To complement the dish, a glass of local Ligurian wine is offered, enhancing the tasting experience. Many guests find the wine selection well-chosen, with one adding that it pairs perfectly with the herbs and regional flavors.

The Practicalities

The entire session lasts around 2 hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity. The class is offered on Wednesday mornings, with checkable availability to suit different schedules. Small groups — limited to 8 — ensure personalized attention, and the instructor speaks both English and Italian, making it accessible for a range of visitors.

Included in the price are all ingredients, equipment, the guided tour, and the recipe card for you to replicate your pesto at home. The tour also covers transportation — a shuttle to and from the old town of Monterosso — which simplifies logistics and adds to the relaxed vibe.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authenticity and Value

Guests praise the quality of the ingredients and the depth of knowledge from the guides and chef. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide’s passion for basil and regional cuisine was contagious,” highlighting how this experience offers genuine local insights. The inclusion of a recipe card and tasting makes this not just a fun activity but a useful skill you can recreate back home.

Accessibility and Considerations

While the tour is ideal for most travelers, it’s not suitable for those with certain food allergies, dietary restrictions, or mobility issues. The activity involves outdoor walking in the garden and standing in a kitchen, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Pregnant women and those over 70 are advised to consider their comfort level before booking.

Why This Experience Works

This pesto class stands out because it’s rooted in authenticity. You’re not just watching a demonstration but actively participating in the process, from garden to plate. The small-group format allows for meaningful interaction — a rarity in larger, more commercial experiences. The scenic setting of the agriturismo adds a peaceful backdrop, making the entire process feel special.

Plus, the focus on traditional techniques, like using a marble mortar, means you’re learning methods that have been used in Liguria for generations. This isn’t a cookie-cutter class; it’s a genuine, hands-on journey into regional cuisine.

Who Will Love It?

This experience is perfect for foodies seeking to deepen their understanding of Ligurian cuisine. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, as the garden walk is an integral part of the class. Wine lovers will appreciate pairing their pesto with local vintages, adding another layer to the experience.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic activity that combines culture, gastronomy, and relaxation, this class ticks all the boxes. It’s also ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to connect with local traditions.

Final Thoughts

This pesto-making experience in Monterosso al Mare offers a rare blend of education, authenticity, and regional charm. From harvesting basil in the garden to savoring your own creation with regional wine, every step feels meaningful. The attention to detail — like traditional pestle and mortar use and sharing local stories — elevates it beyond a simple cooking class.

While it’s ideal for those who enjoy hands-on activities and outdoor settings, it may not suit travelers with specific dietary or mobility needs. But for anyone eager to take a piece of Liguria home — in both flavor and technique — this class provides excellent value.

Overall, it’s a beautifully crafted, authentic experience that captures the spirit of Liguria’s culinary heritage, making it a highlight for food lovers exploring the region.

FAQ

How long does the class last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, including garden walk, cooking, and tasting.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at a roundabout in the old town of Monterosso al Mare, with a shuttle ride to the agriturismo.

What is included in the price?
All ingredients and equipment for the pesto-making, a guided garden tour, tasting with focaccia or bread, a glass of local wine, and a recipe card.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a shuttle picks you up from and drops you off at the old town of Monterosso, making logistics easy.

Is the activity suitable for kids?
While not explicitly stated, the small-group and hands-on nature suggests it’s best suited for older children and adults.

Can I do this activity if I have food allergies?
It’s not suitable for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions, as all ingredients are standard for pesto and regional cuisine.

Is there a specific dress code?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since part of the tour involves walking in the garden.

What language is the class taught in?
The instructor speaks both English and Italian.

Can I book this experience last minute?
Availability depends on the schedule, but it’s advisable to reserve in advance, especially in peak seasons.

Are there any physical limitations to consider?
The activity involves outdoor walking and standing in a kitchen — not suitable for those with mobility issues or certain health conditions.

This pesto class in Monterosso al Mare is a delightful, practical way to connect with Ligurian culture, learn a regional craft, and enjoy delicious flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about Italian cuisine, it offers a memorable taste of authentic Liguria.

You can check availability for your dates here: