Authentic gourmet experiences on the Amalfi Coast

There is increasing demand from travellers for authentic gourmet experiences. 

Casa Angelina on Italy's dramatic Amalfi Coast has launched a collection of activities featuring local Italian traditions. 

Located high above the the ancient fishing village of Praiano, Casa Angelina is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. 

The exclusive 36-room retreat aims to offer the "pleasures of southern Italy are reimagined through a lens of quiet luxury". It is represented in Australia by the Unique Tourism Collection. https://uniquetourism.com/  

Among the immersive experiences for the 2026 summer season are Ancient Lantern Fishing and Nonna's Secret. 

Lantern Fishing offers guests the a night-time excursion inspired by the traditional lampare fishing technique. Accompanied by a local fisherman, guests catch their own fish. Executive chef Leopoldo Elefante later guides them in preparing their catch using seasonal local ingredients and simple techniques (below). 

In southern Italy, the annual preparation of tomato preserves is a tradition with most families. 

Nonna's Secret invites guests to take part and discover one of Campania's most cherished customs (top image). 

The experience begins with a leisurely walk through Casa Angelina's organic garden alongside chef Elefante, gathering sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant basil. Back in the kitchen, guests are guided through the traditional preparation of homemade passata - with each guest taking home a jar of hand-crafted tomato preserve. 

Other experiences include lacemaking. basket weaving and painting. 

For more details see www.casangelina.com

Clare Valley gourmet festival gears up in its fourth decade

 

Long-running favourite the Clare Valley Gourmet Festival will return from May 15-18. 

Now entering its fourth decade, the festival offers a four- day, region wide program across cellar doors, wineries and venues throughout the Clare. 

With more than 45 events planned, it provides an opportunity for wine and food lovers to discover the region through gourmet experiences. 

Highlights will include long lunches, tastings, live music and hosted experiences, all in a region that is quintessentially Australian but less than two hours from Adelaide. 

“Autumn is when the Clare Valley really comes into its own,” says Cherry Stowman, executive officer for the Clare Valley Wine & Grape Association.

“The leaves in the vineyards are turning golden, the days are clear and mild, and there’s a genuine sense of excitement across the region. 

"The Gourmet Festival is an invitation to experience the region, not just through food and wine, but also the beautiful people and landscapes that define the Clare Valley."

Rather than centring on a single venue, the festival unfolds across the villages and vineyards of the Clare Valley, allowing visitors to engage with multiple producers and settings. 

One popular way to experience the event is through the Gourmet Bus Trails, an itinerary designed for a stress-free day of indulgence. This hosted journey includes visits to three Clare Valley wineries with priority queue-jumper privileges. 

For those feeling entitled, a limited VIP upgrade provides an additional intimate winery experiences. 

Guests can also opt for a convenient Adelaide transfer, leaving the car behind and enjoying a scenic 90-minute bus ride. 

A word of warning. Accommodation and popular events are expected to be sold out. Book early and check out program details at www.clarevalleygourmet.com.au