Tour 1 • My Signature Tour
Valpolicella, Lake Garda, Verona & Soave
The original story of my life in Italy over the past decade, anchored by my two restaurants and seamless, unhurried travel.
Italy From the Inside
This is my signature tour – the original story of my life here in Italy over the past decade, anchored by my two restaurants. The thread begins at Groto de Corgnan on our first evening and unfolds over ten days. From the Valpolicella hills to the historic streets of Verona and the medieval town of Soave, our journey then leads to where I live on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, and my second restaurant, Vista Lago.
We travel in one seamless, unhurried direction. Along the way, I’ll introduce you to the winemakers, cheesemakers, olive oil millers, and prosciutto curers who have shaped my menus and become part of my life.
Tour Details & 2027 Dates
AUD $16,975 pp | €9,950pp
AUD $3,680 | €2,550
2027 Confirmed Departure Dates
- Spring: 30 March – 8 April 2027
- Late Summer: 31 August – 9 September 2027
Deposit required to confirm booking:
AUD $3,395 pp | €1,990pp
Tour Highlights
3-Star Michelin & Fine Dining
Chef’s Table at 12 Apostoli (Casa Perbellini, 3-star) in Verona, plus two 1-star Michelin dinners and four Michelin-listed trattorias.
Wineries & Private Tastings
Eight private tastings across Valpolicella, Durello, Soave, Lugana, Bardolino, and Trento DOC – including Quintarelli Amarone.
Hands-On Cooking Classes
Three hands-on classes at Groto de Corgnan and Vista Lago with Judy and local chef friends: gnocchi, fresh pasta, risotto, gelato, desserts and much more.
Artisan Producer Access
Behind-the-scenes visits to my personal restaurant suppliers: an olive oil mill, prosciutto producer, and two mountain dairies.
“Food in Northern Italy isn’t just about sustenance – it is a deeply rooted conversation between history, landscape, and community.”
— Judy Harman
The 10-Day Journey
Tour 1 starts Valpolicella (Verona) and ends at Lake Garda (transport can be arranged back to Verona). Our route moves in one clean direction: Valpolicella, Verona, Soave, then north along the eastern shore of Lake Garda. No backtracking, no long transfers, no days lost to logistics.
The itinerary is designed for balance: a more significant dinner means a lighter lunch, or vice versa, so you can truly appreciate every single dining experience. Most days include a 1–2 hour guided walk through villages, hilltops, vineyards, and historic centres – keeping us moving and exploring, and ready for the next amazing meal.
Days 1-3: Valpolicella Hills & Groto de Corgnan
Stay for two nights at Villa Quaranta thermal spa resort. Welcome dinner at Groto de Corgnan. Hands-on cooking class with Judy and traditional pasta making with Davide. Visits to three of the best Valpolicella wine producers including Quintarelli. Local olive oil mill and tasting. Michelin-listed dining.
Days 4: Verona & 3-Star Michelin Chef’s Table
Stay for two nights at the 5-star NH Collection Palazzo in Verona for two nights. Guided tour of the historic centre, including a visit the world’s oldest library. Dinner at the Chef’s Table of 3-star Michelin 12 Apostoli (Casa Perbellini).
Day 5: Soave and Artisan Cheese & Prosciutto
Meet Giovanni an artisanal cheese maker. Enjoy a private tasting of Durello (Verona’s champagne) at Fongaro estate. Visit Luca’s prosciutto curing facility. Private Soave tasting at Sandro de Bruno’s. winery, and take a guided walk through Soave’s medieval walled town and hilltop castle.
Days 6-8: Lugana, Lake Garda & Vista Lago Restaurant
Private Lugana tasting at Ca dei Frati. Transfer to Al Caminetto by Lake Garda for three nights. Sunset aperitivo and dinner at Vista Lago – Judy’s lakeside restaurant. Hands on cooking class with Judy. Scenic hike with stunning Lake Garda views. Private tasting of Lake Garda wines – Bardolino and Chiaretto ,at Benazzolli winery. Visit Madonna di Corona church sanctuary carved into the Monte Baldo mountain side.
Days 9-10: Limone sul Garda, Tremosine & Riva
Ferry across to the western shores of Lake Garda. Mountain dairy visit. Trento DOC tasting. Hiking in the hills and panoramic walk by the lake. Stay two nights at EALA 5-star luxury spa resort. Sunset boat cruise. Michelin star dining.
What’s Included
- 10 nights in premium rooms or suites at 4 & 5-star hotels and thermal spa resort
- All daily meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Premium wine pairings with every lunch and dinner
- 1 × 3-star and 2 × 1-star Michelin dinners, plus Michelin-listed dining
- 3 hands-on cooking classes
- 8 private winery visits and tastings
- All gastronomic producer visits & private boat cruise
- All private ground transport and guide fees
- All restaurant, driver, and guide gratuities
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Airport/Train station transfers (assistance provided)
- Personal travel insurance (required)