No visit to Italy would be complete without experiencing its gastronomic heritage. Food and wine are an integral part of the country’s pulse, and that is why this shore excursion is a soul satisfying way to explore the region on your day on shore.
With foods that are fresh, delightful and delectable, Italian cuisine has found itself on the food map of the world. The Mediterranean Diet found its origins here and is widely practiced all over. An astonishing fact to note is that over 16000 people in Italy are over 100 years old due to their emphasis on good, wholesome food!
Campania is well-known for its culinary innovations. The area produces San Marzano tomatoes that are used extensively for pizzas, olive oil, buffalo mozzarella, pasta and limoncello among a variety of other products.

Here are some interesting facts about olive oil:

• Olive oil has been a symbol of Italian food and the history of Italian cuisine for the longest time. Today, it has become a staple in the pantry of millions eager to enjoy healthier, richer tasting food.
• The Olea Europaea, or the Olive Tree came to Italy around 1,000 years ago. It is the tree or shrub that produces olives used in olive oil. It is native to the Mediterranean, Asia and Africa, although it hasn’t always been prevalent in Italy. It is believed that the Greeks brought the tree to Italy and from there on, it flourished.
• The Olive tree can live for up to 2,000 years. It is a very resilient tree that withstands difficult climates, particularly warm ones very well.
• Olive oil is sensitive to light. Light can have a detrimental effect on olive oil; therefore it is stored in dark green or brown bottles. If exposed to light, the anti-oxidants are destroyed. It is best stored in a dark cabinet at room temperature.

What to Expect on your Gastronomic Shore Excursion from Sorrento

Get set for an exciting day that promises a taste of the region. Our English-speaking chauffeur will pick you up at 8 am at the Sorrento port. Start your feast by gorging on scenic beauty as you pass the jagged mountainous cliffs overlooking the azure ocean.
Your first stop is the Frantoio oil mill that has seen the labor of love and hard work of four generations of family since 1850. A warm welcome by a family member will mark the beginning of your unique experience. Witness both the traditional and modern methods of extraction of premium high quality oil. You get a chance to taste the variety that is produced here. The range includes classic extra virgin to the lemon and chili pepper flavored, in which you are sure to dip an extra chunk of farm fresh bread, and want more!
Your chauffeur will be waiting for you and as he takes you to your next stop, be sure to ask him questions about the area. His knowledge laced with his life in the region can give you insights that you may not get elsewhere.
At a fresh cheese factory locally known as a Caseificio, you will get a firsthand look at how cheese is made. Fresh local milk is used to make some of the region’s specialties like buffalo mozzarella, ricotta and provolone cheese.

There is still more on your plate for the day. Your chauffeur will take you to a lovely local restaurant where you will learn how to make pizza. This is a moment that you will always remember. With your apron and hat that is given to you, the Pizzaiolo will show you how to make the perfect Italian pizza. Spread the dough like a professional, and top your pizza with flavorful local produce like tomatoes, mozzarella, olive oil and basil. Your Margherita pizza will be ready for you in just a few minutes once it is out of the wood burning oven.
To a local “Azienda Agricola” next! This family farm has been cultivating olives, lemons and grapes for the production of wine since 1935. Their relentless efforts have literally borne fruit. Now overseen by their third generation, they have embarked on organic farming for oil and limoncello. Utmost care is taken of the soil to ensure top quality produce.
At their factory, savor the unforgettable tastes of limoncello, orange, mandarin, licorice, walnut, myrtle and lemon cream liquor. We are sure you will also enjoy Babà, a local dessert soaked either in rum or limoncello.
With your palate dancing to the taste of Italy’s unforgettable food, take time to stroll in the historical center of Sorrento. Walk around the stores or just sit and watch the city at its best as you cool down with a gelato.
Your day of culinary adventure will be complete once your driver takes you back to the Sorrento port. The taste of this excursion will last long after your ship has sailed into the blue waters of the Mediterranean.

Contact us today to book your gastronomic shore excursion from Sorrento or request a quote online.