Farm To table Experience on an organic hilltop estate in Tuscany

If you’re traveling to Florence and craving a day away from the crowded streets, this Farm to Table experience on a beautiful organic estate offers a chance to enjoy Tuscany’s simple yet delicious lifestyle. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews, high ratings, and detailed itinerary paint a picture of something truly special—especially for those who love good food, scenic views, and relaxed, personalized experiences.

What stands out most about this tour are the intimate, private nature of the trip, and the opportunity to learn how traditional Tuscan cuisine is made from scratch. Plus, the inclusion of local wines, limoncello, and spirits, along with the chance to swim in a stunning infinity pool afterward, really helps it feel like a full day of indulgence and relaxation.

One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to handle your own train tickets from Florence, which adds a tiny bit of planning—but nothing too complicated. This experience suits anyone who appreciates authentic food experiences, enjoys picturesque settings, and doesn’t mind a moderate walk through vineyards and gardens. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a personalized, less touristy day trip.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Small group size or one-on-one guidance makes it special.
• Hands-on cooking: Perfect for beginners who want to learn Tuscan culinary secrets.
• Beautiful setting: Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and panoramic views.
• Included drinks: Enjoy local wines, limoncello, and spirits with your meal.
• Relaxation options: Swim in an infinity pool and explore the estate after lunch.
• Cost and value: $161.34 per person, which includes a three-course lunch and drinks—good value for a full day of activities.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Firenze Santa Maria Novella Central Station, where you’ll meet your guide. You’re responsible for buying your train tickets to San Miniato, which cost around €12.40 round trip—an easy and affordable way to reach the countryside. The train ride, about 40 minutes, is a nice way to transition from the city buzz to the peaceful Tuscan landscape, giving you a chance to relax and take in views of rolling hills and vineyards.

Once you arrive at San Miniato, the true adventure begins as you walk to the estate, Agriturismo Tenuta Chiudendone. The estate is known for its organic practices, and the setting itself is truly a highlight—imagine vineyards stretching on every side, with the estate perched on a hill offering sweeping vistas.

Exploring the Estate

We loved the way the estate opens up with its vineyards and olive trees, offering a glimpse into what makes Tuscan food so special: simple, fresh ingredients grown right on the land. The estate’s gardens are lush, and here, you’ll gather ingredients—like grapes, olives, wild herbs, or even wild asparagus—depending on the season. It’s a genuine farm-to-table approach that adds an educational element to the day.

Walking through these gardens with your guide, you’ll get insight into traditional farming methods and the significance of each ingredient. Plus, the relaxed pace makes it easy to ask questions and really connect with the environment.

The Cooking Class

The heart of this experience is the hands-on cooking lesson. The guide, Francesco, or another knowledgeable host, will walk you through preparing a classic Tuscan three-course lunch. The emphasis is on simplicity and freshness—think fresh pasta, seasonal vegetables, and locally produced olive oil.

What we find especially appealing is how beginner-friendly this class is. Even if you’ve never cooked before, you’ll find the instructions clear and accessible. Plus, the ingredients are picked fresh from the estate gardens, making the entire process feel authentic and meaningful.

Food and Drink

The meal itself promises a farm-fresh, three-course lunch featuring local, quality ingredients. You’ll taste cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil on bread—an iconic Tuscan starter—and then enjoy other dishes prepared during the class. The meal is paired with three different kinds of wines, plus limoncello and spirits, which are all included in the tour price.

Guests consistently rave about the quality of the food and drinks. One reviewer called it the “best tour ever” and mentioned that the food was amazing, with fantastic wine pairing. Another highlighted the delicious homemade dishes and the friendly guidance, making the entire experience feel warm and genuine.

Post-Lunch Relaxation

After lunch, you’ll have the choice to spend free time swimming in an infinity pool with stunning views over the countryside. This feature really distinguishes this tour from more cookie-cutter options. The pool is a perfect spot to relax after a busy morning of walking and cooking, and it’s especially inviting on warm days.

The estate also offers the option to explore further or simply enjoy the tranquil environment. Not everyone may want to swim, but it’s a great way to unwind and soak in the scenery.

The Experience’s Strengths and Considerations

What Travelers Love

According to reviews, Francesco’s warm and welcoming guidance makes the experience memorable. One guest called it “one of the best experiences” they’ve ever had, emphasizing the beautiful farm, the delicious food, and the friendly hosts. The views, the wine, and the pool are frequently praised as added bonuses that elevate the day beyond just a cooking class.

Possible Drawbacks

The main factor to consider is the train travel—you’ll need to organize your own tickets and timings, which adds a small layer of planning. Also, the group size is limited to 12, so if you prefer a more solitary or exclusive experience, this is a good thing, but it might also mean some waiting during busy seasons.

While the tour is designed for most physical fitness levels, it does involve walking around gardens and estate grounds, so some mobility is needed. No specific family-friendly info is provided, so it may be better suited for adults or older teens interested in culinary experiences.

Overall Value

At around $161.34 per person, including a multi-course meal and drinks, this experience offers solid value—especially when you factor in the personalized nature, the scenic setting, and the opportunity to learn Tuscan cooking from real farmers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for food lovers and curious travelers who enjoy hands-on activities in beautiful settings. It’s perfect if you want to learn about Tuscan ingredients and techniques in a relaxed, private environment. It also suits those who appreciate wine, spirits, and a good meal paired with a scenic view. If you’re after a full-day, immersive experience that balances education, relaxation, and delicious food, this is a strong pick.

However, if you prefer more structured or guided city tours, or if you’re traveling with very young children, you might find this experience less suitable. Remember, it’s a farm experience—there’s walking and some outdoor activity involved.

FAQ

Do I need to buy train tickets in advance?
No, but you will need to purchase your tickets from Florence to San Miniato, which costs around €12.40 round trip. The train ride is straightforward and well worth the scenic journey.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking around gardens and estate grounds. Dress casually and appropriately for outdoor activity and potential warm weather.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The cooking class is designed to be beginner-friendly, with clear guidance. It’s a hands-on experience, so no prior cooking skills are necessary.

Can I swim after lunch?
Yes, the estate offers an infinity pool where you can relax and enjoy the views after your meal. It’s a lovely way to unwind and fully enjoy your day.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly labeled as family-oriented, the experience could be enjoyable for older children or teenagers interested in food and farm life. However, it’s primarily geared toward adult travelers.

How long does the experience last?
The entire tour runs approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, tasting, cooking, and free time for swimming or exploring.

Are drinks included?
Yes, your meal will be paired with three wines, limoncello, and spirits—all included in the price.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic taste of Tuscany that combines culinary learning, scenic beauty, and luxurious touches like swimming in an infinity pool, this farm-to-table experience hits the mark. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local ingredients, enjoy personal guidance, and spend a memorable day outside Florence’s hustle.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate genuine experiences over cookie-cutter excursions, especially if you’re eager to dive into Tuscan cuisine and scenery in an intimate setting. With excellent reviews and a high rating, it’s clear that many find this experience to be a highlight of their trip.

Whether you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast, or simply someone who loves beautiful landscapes, this day on a hilltop estate offers plenty to cherish—delicious food, stunning views, and new skills to take home.