UNFORGETTABLE FLAVOURS IN THE HEART OF MONFERRATO
AN EXCLUSIVE CULINARY JOURNEY
WITH URSULA FERRIGNO
An exclusive week of Italian slow living in the heart of Monferrato, where hands-on cooking with Ursula Ferrigno, market visits, vineyard lunches, and candle-lit evenings come together to celebrate refined regional flavours, tradition, and effortless elegance.
Scroll down the page to discover all the details of this unforgettable culinary adventure.
This immersive experience weaves together hands-on cookery classes, market visits, artisan producers, and long, leisurely meals, all designed to reflect the true rhythm of Italian life. Under Ursula’s expert guidance, guests will explore Northern Italian traditions, vibrant Mediterranean flavours, comforting classics, and refined desserts – mastering fresh pasta, elegant sauces, market-led dishes, slow-fermented pizza, and beautifully balanced plates that celebrate simplicity and finesse.
The schedule is hosted entirely in English, and alongside the daily cookery classes led by Ursula, your week will include:
- Moncalvo village visit, vineyard lunch at Mongetto Dre Caste, and private wine cantina tour
- Visit to artisan goat cheese producer Casa Costa, followed by a private tasting at Cantina Corteranzo
- Curated visit to Casale food market, including a Krumiri producer and artisanal bakery
- Moncalvo market visit with a private tour of a hazelnut and saffron farm
- Afternoon visits to a boutique olive oil producer and a renowned risotto rice farm
- Ample time to relax by the south-facing pool or unwind in the countryside
URSULA FERRIGNO
I am an author and professional cook, inspired by my Italian roots and a lifelong love of food, family, and tradition. As a sister, wife, and mother, home cooking has always been at the heart of my life, shaping the way I write and cook. I am the author of Dolci Italiani, Cucina del Veneto, Cucina di Amalfi, Lemons and Limes, and many more books, each celebrating the regional flavours of Italy and the simple joy of sharing good food around the table.
URSULA FERRIGNO
I am an author and professional cook, inspired by my Italian roots and a lifelong love of food, family, and tradition. As a sister, wife, and mother, home cooking has always been at the heart of my life, shaping the way I write and cook. I am the author of Dolci Italiani, Cucina del Veneto, Cucina di Amalfi, Lemons and Limes, and many more books, each celebrating the regional flavours of Italy and the simple joy of sharing good food around the table.
CASTELLO DI MONTALERO
During your vacation, you will stay at the historic Castello di Montalero, in the heart of the Monferrato region in Piemonte. Castello di Montalero is a beautiful building with much history going back to the 11th century, although the present building was reconstructed around the old castle around 1700.
The Castello was originally built for the Marquis di Casale, Teodore II Paleologo in 1188 whose family ruled the fiefdom of what was then Mons Laurus, becoming Montalerius, and nowadays Montalero, until 1634. Through marriage, the Castello and its estate passed through the Mazzetti family who, in 1656, successfully defended the Castello from an attack by troops of the Duke of Modena, in the pay of the French, during many local feuds and minor wars of that period.
CASTELLO DI MONTALERO
During your vacation, you will stay at the historic Castello di Montalero, in the heart of the Monferrato region in Piemonte. Castello di Montalero is a beautiful building with much history going back to the 11th century, although the present building was constructed on the old castle foundations around 1700.
The castello was originally built for the Marquis di Casale, Teodore II Paleologo in 1188 whose family ruled the fiefdom of, what was then Mons Laurus, becoming Montalerius and nowadays Montalero, until 1634. Through marriage, the castello and its estate passed through the Mazzetti family who, in 1656, successfully defended the castello from an attack by troops of the Duke of Modena, in the pay of the French, during many local feuds and minor wars of that period.
The Kitchen Experience
The atmosphere in the kitchen is intentionally relaxed, elegant, and welcoming. Instruction is guided, unhurried, and entirely pressure-free. Mistakes are part of the process – and quietly corrected with care and expertise. Classes are conducted in English, ensuring clarity and ease throughout. Guests are supportedat every stage, allowing creativity, curiosity, and enjoyment to take precedence over perfection. Relax in a Castello steeped in history, with private transfers, sunlit terraces, and curated excursions. From artisanal markets to local vineyards, each moment is carefully composed – offering time to savour, explore, and simply be.
Exquisite Ingredients, Timeless Flavours
Every dish celebrates the season and the region: sustainably sourced, ethically produced, and thoughtfully prepared. Leave not only with new skills but with memories, friendships, and the essence of Piedmont captured in every bite.
Rates and Details
- 8-day / 7-night Culinary Retreat
€4,525 per person
(Excluding flights, insurance, and personal expenses. All local taxes included.) - Shared Accommodation Rate
When two guests book and share a double or twin-bedded room:
€4,285 per person
A saving of €480 per couple. - For guests choosing not to participate in the cookery programme while joining the itinerary’s
excursions, a curated selection of alternative activities can be arranged, including private
cycling, golf, walking, and bespoke local experiences. Further details available upon request. - Deposit & Payment Terms
A deposit of €950 per person is required at the time of booking.
The remaining balance is payable 60 days prior to arrival.
Bookings made within 60 days of arrival require full payment at the time of confirmation.
Culinary Programme
All Courses are taught in English.
- Join this hands-on Italian cookery experience, guided by our team of accomplished celebrity chefs in classic and modern Italian cooking. Classes are fully hands-on, and take place in a dedicated professional kitchen reserved exclusively for these events. The space features twelve individual workstations, each equipped with preparation areas, utensils, and cookware. Hobs, ovens, and sinks are shared to encourage collaboration and conviviality.
- The emphasis throughout is on refined technique, enjoyment, and immersion – designed for guests seeking a relaxed yet elevated culinary experience, paired with exceptional accommodation, cuisine, and wine.
- Guests depart with a confident working knowledge of Italian baking and pasticceria, enriched by memorable excursions, meaningful encounters, and lasting friendships.
- Only the highest-quality ingredients are used. Wherever possible, produce is sourced from local artisans who share our commitment to sustainability, ethical farming, and respectful animal care.
Airport Transfers
- Private transfers to and from Malpensa, Linate, or Turin International Airport are included at recommended arrival and departure times.
- Guests are personally met on arrival and transferred directly to the Castello by private minibus.
- On departure, transfers deliver guests directly to the appropriate terminal, with assistance provided for luggage trolleys and check-in areas, ensuring a seamless and unhurried conclusion to the retreat.
Saturday – Arrival & Welcome
- Arrival day with lunch and a free afternoon to settle in and unwind.
- As evening falls, gather for a welcome dinner prepared by star chef Ursula Ferrigno.
Sunday – Slow Living in Monferrato
- Awaken to a simple, Italian style breakfast, followed by a visit to Moncalvo, a medieval town in the heart of Monferatto.
- Later, travel through the rolling vineyards of Monferrato for a long leisurely lunch at Mongetto Dre Caste in Vignale Monferrato. The experience continues with a private visit to the Mongetto wine cantina and its historic infernot, carved deep into the stone.
- Return to the Castello in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden light by the pool. As evening arrives, a softly candle-lit dinner is served on the terrace, overlooking the countryside.
Monday – Northern Italian Traditions
- Leisurely breakfast.
- Cookery class with Ursula | 9:30–13:00
An elegant introduction to the culinary heritage of Northern Italy. Guests will master fresh pasta techniques and classic regional sauces, alongside the preparation of a refined seasonal antipasto and a signature Piedmontese first course. - Lunch inspired by the morning’s creations.
- Free afternoon to sunbathe, swim, and unwind in the Castello grounds.
- Late afternoon visit to artisan goat cheese producer Casa Costa, followed by a private wine tasting at Cantina Corteranzo.
- Return to the Castello for aperitivi and dinner.
Tuesday – Markets & Mediterranean Flavours
- Leisurely breakfast.
- 9:30 Curated visit to the Casale food market, with exclusive stops at a traditional Krumiri producer and an artisanal bakery to select ingredients for lunch.
- Free afternoon to relax by the pool.
- Cookery class with Ursula | 15:30–19:00
A sophisticated Mediterranean-inspired class celebrating vibrant flavours and seasonal produce sourced from the morning’s market. Emphasis on elegant vegetable, seafood, and herb-driven dishes, prepared with finesse. - Aperitivi and dinner.
Wednesday – Wellness & Pizza Under the Stars
- Early morning yoga session.
- Leisurely breakfast.
- Cookery class with Ursula | 9:30–13:00
A refined exploration of comforting Italian cuisine, featuring beautifully balanced lunch dishes, rustic-elegant mains, and simple yet indulgent desserts. Focus on technique, flavour harmony, and presentation. - Lunch inspired by the class.
- Free afternoon to sunbathe, swim, stroll the countryside, or simply relax.
- Pizza class | 18:00–20:00
An elevated pizza experience: learn the art of slow-fermented dough, hand shaping, refined toppings, and traditional baking methods. Shape, top, and bake pizzas together for a relaxed yet indulgent dinner. - Aperitivi followed by an atmospheric pizza evening under the stars.
Thursday – Local Heritage & Sweet Indulgence
- Leisurely breakfast.
- Visit the Moncalvo market with Giuseppe, followed by a private visit to a local hazelnut and saffron farm.
- Lunch.
- Cookery class with Ursula | 15:30–19:00
A decadent session dedicated to sweet and savoury indulgence. Guests will create elegant desserts and refined small plates using hazelnuts, saffron, artisanal cheeses, premium meats, and seasonal vegetables—blending tradition with creative flair. - Aperitivi and dinner.
Friday – Flavours & Farewell
- Leisurely breakfast.
- Cookery class with Ursula | 9:30–13:00
A celebratory final class focusing on polished Italian techniques, refined flavour pairings, and
elegant plating. Guests will prepare signature dishes worthy of a farewell feast. - Lunch inspired by the class.
- Afternoon visits to Piero Veglio, a boutique Piemontese olive oil producer, and San Giovanni, a renowned risotto rice farm.
- Return to the Castello for a Farewell Dinner and presentation of diplomas.
Saturday – Departure
- Leisurely breakfast.
- Depending on flight or rail schedules, enjoy time to relax by the pool before departure by private transfer.
Come and stay with us
We’re Christopher and Kaarina Watkins and if you share our passion for Italian food, wine and culture, then we’d like to invite you to enjoy our Italian Food and Wine Experience in one of the country’s undiscovered regions – Monferrato. Monferrato’s part of Piemonte, which is now being called the new Tuscany for lovers of food and wine. So, while it’s not as well-known as other parts of north-west Italy, we think its culinary heritage is just as rich. We discovered and fell in love with Monferrato more than 25 years ago and, after countless visits here, it’s where we now live in a romantic medieval castle – Castello di Montalero. And we hope you’ll join us here as our guest on one of our Italian Food and Wine Experiences.
Accommodation and Facilities
Our retreats are fully inclusive, offering 8-day / 7-night, 5-day / 4-night, or 3 day/3 night options, with all meals, beverages, escorted excursions, and private airport transfers included.
Luxury Rooms
- Nine spacious double rooms (approx. 35m² / 350 sq.ft.) with en suite bathrooms.
- Choice of double or twin beds, sofa, reading lamps, mini-fridge, and tea & coffee facilities.
- Individually controlled heating and air conditioning.
- Bathrooms with large showers, twin basins, bidet, WC, heated towel rails, and seating.
- Daily chambermaid service (excluding Sundays).
Shared Spaces & Amenities
- South-facing 14m x 6.5m pool, with loungers, steamer chairs, and parasols.
- Expansive terraces for al fresco dining, plus a traditional private dining room for cooler months.
- Elegant drawing room with drinks tray—perfect for reading, relaxing, or conversation.
- WiFi throughout the Castello and pool area.
Solo Guests Welcome
Our retreats are perfectly suited for single travellers seeking connection, indulgence, and inspiration.
The Kitchen Awaits
Step into a space where curiosity is celebrated and creativity flows freely. Under the guidance of our team of professional chefs you’ll craft various Piemontese and Italian dishes with confidence and joy. Classes are hands-on, intimate, and entirely in English, with support at every stage. Here, mistakes are part of the experience – and every success is savoured.
A Retreat in Every Detail
Relax in a Castello steeped in history, enjoy private transfers, sunlit terraces, and curated excursions. From artisanal markets to local vineyards, every moment is designed for immersion, enjoyment, and discovery.
Exquisite Ingredients, Timeless Flavours
Every dish celebrates the season and the region: sustainably sourced, ethically produced, and thoughtfully prepared. You’ll leave not only with new culinary skills but with lasting memories, friendships, and a true taste of Piedmont captured in every bite.
Cook with the Best Ingredients
Step into a 1,000-year-old castle, yet work in modern, fully equipped kitchens designed for hands-on learning. Each workstation is complete with prep space, utensils, and shared hobs, ovens, and sinks. Every ingredient is carefully selected for quality, seasonality, and authenticity – many of them new to your palate. Most come from local producers who share our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, ensuring every bite tells the story of the region.
What’s Included
Accommodation & Facilities
- 7 nights in luxury en suite rooms, each with fridge, coffee & tea facilities, hairdryer, and air conditioning.
- Use of the saltwater pool and newly opened fully equipped gym.
- Private airport transfers from Malpensa, Linate, Turin airports, or rail stations.
Culinary Experiences
- 4 hands-on Italian baking lessons (3.5 hours each) with Ursula Ferrigno
- 1 masterclass in Italian bread and pizza (3.5 hours each)
- Farmers’ market visit with Ursula
- Dinner with Ursula on one evening during the course
- Complimentary ‘Montalero Cookery’ apron and corkscrew
- Complimentary copy of Ursula’s book ‘Cucina Siciliana’
- Complimentary 2025 Montalero Recipes Book (100+ regional recipes)
- Diplomas and prizes for all participants
Wellness & Leisure
- 1 morning yoga session
- 1 massage session (additional treatments available at extra cost)
Excursions & Tastings
- Visits to local dessert wine producers and bakery ingredient artisans
- Sunday lunch at Mongetto Dre Caste, Vignale Monferrato
Meals & Drinks
- Breakfast: Freshly baked breads and pastries, locally sourced cheeses, cured meats, organic honey, jams, muesli, fresh fruit, juices, teas, and coffees
- Lunch: Typically prepared during morning classes, featuring fresh pasta, risotto, salads, and seasonal vegetables
- Dinner: Multi-course meals showcasing locally sourced ingredients, including antipasti, pasta or risotto, meat or fish courses, regional desserts, and cheeses.
- Aperitivi and drinks are included before dinner
- Unlimited quality wines, spirits, soft drinks, and coffee/tea throughout your stay
- Organic produce is used where available
- Dietary needs (vegetarian, allergies, etc.) can be accommodated – please advise when booking
Not included
- Flights.
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Travel outside of the curated course itinerary
Participants Single Occupancy
- All inclusive (except flights, travel insurance and personal expenditure)
- Luxury accommodation
- First class instruction & ingredients
Participants Double Occupancy
- All inclusive (except flights, travel insurance and personal expenditure)
- Luxury accommodation
- First class instruction & ingredients
Excellent Experience
Chef Beppe Sardi Cuoco is fine chef and a wonderful teacher. I learned a lot, met new friends, and had a wonderful birthday trip. It was an incredible and memorable experience.
(Susan R, Nov 2023)
First-rate food travel
You are transported to a truly special place, where time seems to move a little slower and each view is more stunning than the last. Comfortable accommodations, delicious meals and the opportunity to try new wines.
(Jennifer S, Oct 2023)
Not just cookery!
Yes the views were amazing but nothing can compare to the warmth and hospitality of the family run castello! This is a most special and memorable place to visit! And can’t wait to return! Thank you Chris, Kaarina and Charlie!
(Jane T, Oct 2023)