Join celebrated cookbook author and culinary expert Cheryl Alters Jamison on a gastronomic journey to the French Riviera and Piedmont region in northern Italy. With Cheryl’s signature warmth and culinary knowledge, you’ll gain unique insight into regional traditions, cooking techniques, and unforgettable flavors.
Enjoy the comfort of just one hotel change on this 9-day tour. You’ll begin your adventure in a refined boutique hotel overlooking the Mediterranean in Nice, then transition to a charming hotel nestled among the vineyards of Piedmont. Each property has been handpicked for its refined style, comfort, and authentic local charm.
With a small group of like-minded food lovers, this specially curated tour offers exclusive access to the best of both regions: hands-on culinary experiences, unforgettable meals, cultural immersion, and just in time for Alba’s famous white truffle festival.
Monday, October 12: Bienvenue to the French Riviera!
Upon arrival at Nice International Airport, your private driver will be waiting to escort you to your hotel, La Perouse. Settle into your room, and take time to relax around the pool or explore the nearby streets at your leisure.
At 6:00 PM, meet Cheryl and Nancy, your dedicated tour escort, for a welcome cocktail on the hotel’s courtyard, followed by a gourmet dinner as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Tuesday, October 13: Nice & Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence
Today, Nancy will guide you through the historic center of Nice, where you’ll sample local specialties such as candied fruits, freshly made socca, and delicate macarons—all while soaking in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the Cours Saleya flower market. By the end of the morning, you will board your private coach for the picturesque village of Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence, a haven for artists and creatives. Visit the iconic Maeght Foundation, home to striking works by Miró, Calder, and Chagall, set within peaceful sculpture gardens.
Lunch will be at the legendary La Colombe d’Or, where Picasso once dined and where artists once paid in paintings, and the walls still tell stories.
Continue to Grasse, the world’s perfume capital, for a tour of the historic Fragonard perfumery.
Return to Nice in the evening and gather for dinner at a charming bistrot.
Wednesday, October 14: Antibes & Mougins
Begin the day in Antibes with a visit to the Musée Picasso, housed in the ancient, 500-year-old castle, Château Grimaldi, where Picasso once lived and worked. After the museum, take time to explore the lively local market and browse stalls overflowing with olives, cheeses, and seasonal delights.
At midday, continue to the village of Mougins, a former home of Picasso. Enjoy a scenic lunch at L’Amandier, where the panoramic terrace offers stunning views over the French Riviera. For dessert, you’ll head to the restaurant’s rooftop kitchen and tie on your apron for a hands-on pastry workshop led by renowned local pastry chef, Nicolas Dolbeau, who brings over 20 years of experience in Michelin-starred kitchens.
Return to Nice for an evening at leisure, perfect for a relaxed stroll and dinner on your own.
Thursday, October 15: Villefranche‑sur‑Mer & Èze
This morning, journey to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, the opulent pink mansion designed for Baroness Béatrice from the famous French banking family. The villa is surrounded by nine themed gardens perched above the sea. Stroll through manicured terraces and fountains, each one more enchanting than the last. Continue to Èze, a medieval village, after a walk through narrow cobblestone streets of the 11th-century town, to the top of the Exotic Garden. Here, you will discover one of the most dazzling panoramic views of the Côte d’Azur. Lunch will be enjoyed at the charming Deli, a local favorite tucked into the village’s historic streets.
Return to La Perouse in the afternoon, where Cheryl will lead a lively culinary talk about the region’s beloved dishes—celebrating the blend of French and Italian flavors.
This evening, dress up for a memorable dinner beneath Belle Époque frescoes at La Rotonde, the iconic restaurant within the Hôtel Negresco—a jewel of the Riviera.
Friday, October 16: Ventimiglia Market & the Road to Piedmont
Check out, bid farewell to Nice, and head east to Ventimiglia, just across the Italian border. The town hosts one of the busiest markets in Europe. It is famous for its lively seaside setting and wide variety of Italian goods, from fresh produce to fashion. Take your time to explore and enjoy lunch at leisure in one of the local trattorias.
In the early afternoon, depart for a three-hour drive through the rolling hills of northern Italy to the charming village of La Morra, nestled in the heart of Barolo wine country. Check in at the elegant Corte Gondina Boutique Hotel, your home in Piedmont. This evening, raise a glass to the next chapter of your journey during a private wine tasting and buffet dinner at the hotel, featuring local specialties and fine regional wines.
Saturday, October 17: Turin Delights
This morning, board your private coach and set off for a full-day excursion to Turin, the elegant capital of Piedmont and the first capital of unified Italy. Begin with a guided tour of the majestic Royal Palace of the House of Savoy, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll step back in time amid its opulent salons, royal apartments, and one of the finest armories in Europe. Next, follow your sweet tooth through a curated stroll of Turin’s most iconic historic cafés, where gianduja, velvety hot chocolate, and the city’s signature drink, bicerin, await your discovery. Cap your morning with a visit to the city’s landmark, the Mole Antonelliana. Ascend by elevator to the panoramic observatory, offering sweeping views of Turin’s rooftops and the distant snow-capped Alps.
Lunch is at your leisure—perhaps in one of the city’s grand piazzas. In the afternoon, experience a Michelin-trained Chef Abram-led tour and dinner, uncovering hidden trattorias and savoring the finest of refined Piedmontese cuisine.
Sunday, October 18: Alba’s Culinary Treasures
This morning, set out for a private truffle hunt alongside a local expert and his specially trained dogs. Learn the secrets of finding Alba’s legendary white truffles, a delicacy treasured by chefs and gourmands around the world. After your woodland adventure, return to the town of Alba, where the streets come alive during the famous Truffle Festival. Explore its historic medieval center, lined with market stalls, artisan goods, and the unmistakable aroma of truffle-laced delicacies.
Lunch is at your leisure, giving you time to sample local flavors or simply soak in the festive ambiance.
In the afternoon, you’re invited into a private Piedmontese home for a hands-on cooking workshop. Under expert guidance, prepare fresh pasta with truffle shavings, then gather around the table to savor your creations.
Monday, October 19: Barolo & Barbaresco Tastings
Today is dedicated to the noble wines of Piedmont’s Langhe hills. Visit two of the region’s premier wineries, where you’ll be welcomed into elegant cellars to taste world-renowned Barolos and a refined Barbaresco. Along the way, deepen your appreciation for the unique terroir, grape varieties, and meticulous winemaking traditions that define this prestigious region.
At midday, enjoy lunch at a winery. Return to La Morra for a peaceful afternoon at leisure—perfect for a stroll through the village, a coffee in the square, or for simply savoring the view over vine-covered hills.
Tonight, celebrate the flavors, friendships, and memories of your journey with a farewell dinner: a multi-course feast highlighting seasonal Piemontese cuisine. Raise a glass one last time to the elegance, generosity, and richness of this unforgettable region.
Tuesday, October 20: Arrivederci Piemonte
After breakfast, check out at 8:00 AM and board your private coach for a 2-hour drive to Milan’s international airport, arriving at around 10:00 AM—perfectly timed for afternoon flight (after 1:00 PM).
Optional Milan Add‑On
For those extending their stay in Milan, you’ll be dropped off at the elegant four-star Senato Hotel, ideally located for exploring Italy’s style capital. After lunch at leisure, enjoy a specially curated private food tour in the late afternoon, uncovering Milan’s culinary secrets—from neighborhood trattorias to hidden pasticcerias.
Wednesday, October 21: Milan
Begin your day with an early guided tour of the Duomo, Milan’s iconic cathedral—explore its magnificent interior and panoramic rooftop terraces.
Lunch is at your leisure, allowing you to savor Milan at your own pace one last time.
A private transfer to Milan’s airport will be arranged at your convenience, ensuring a smooth and stress-free departure.
Milan Add‑On Price: private room 850 euros / shared room 550 euros
Deposit
To secure a place on this tour, we ask that you fill in our reservation form, which indicates that a 30% deposit will be required. The balance will be due 2 months prior to the tour.
Included
Breakfast and all meals indicated in the program, gratuities in restaurants, tips to guides, taxes, professional tour facilitator & guide, activities and admission fees as indicated in program, airport transfers on the first day of the tour and in the morning on the last day of the tour, transportation by coach for day trips, 4 star accommodation on the French Riviera in France and in the Piedmont in Italy.
Not Included
Round trips airfare to France and Italy, tips to drivers, any personal souvenirs or purchases outside of this tour and not indicated above, additional softs, wine, beer or spirits beyond what is offered at meals, spa services at the hotel, travel insurance (highly recommended) and trip medical coverage (required for travelers over 50 years of age).
Terms and Conditions
If insufficient numbers of participants register for the tour or in the event of conditions deemed unsafe for our clients, the tour may be cancelled or postponed. While we endeavor to operate all tours as described, we reserve the right to change the trip itinerary owing to circumstances beyond our control or if more interesting opportunities arise. Any changes will be of similar or superior quality and content. If Cheryl is unable to travel, the tour will go ahead as planned with Nancy McGee, Tour with Absolutely representative.
Discounts
If this is your second trip or more with Absolutely, you are entitled to a loyalty discount .
Cancellation Policy
This is a non-refundable package group tour, no refunds even in the case of injury, illness or personal emergency. Cancellation must be notified by email to emma@tourwithabsolutely.com. We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance including medical assistance and cancellation. If you get sick before the trip, departs or during it you will need your own medical and trip cancellation insurance to cover any costs incurred.
Payment
We accept Visa and MasterCard.
Travel with insurance – and rest assured
Check out Insure My Trip, insurance specialists that compare coverage, including Covid, from 19 reputable providers. Just select what best suits you (cancellation for any reason, interruption, medical evacuation…) . Prices are reasonable and well worth it for a stress free trip.
Arrival and Departure
On arrival October 12, airport transfers are included from Nice airport to Hotel La Perouse in Nice. You will be welcomed at 6 PM for the meet and greet by Cheryl Alters Jamison and Nancy McGee our Tour with Absolutely representative who will be escorting the group during the entire trip. On the last day of the tour September 22, airport transfers are included in the morning from the hotel in La Morra to Milan Malpensa airport. When searching for flights, check out Skyscanner which compares flights and prices from numerous airlines.
Photo Release
You will grant Tour with Absolutely permission to use your likeness in a photograph, video or other digital media in any and all of its publications including web-based publications, without payment or other consideration. In addition, you waive the right to inspect or approve the finished product wherein your likeness appears.
What to Pack
Phone chargers, power banks, medication, hat, sunscreen, jacket, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear if you care to use the hotel pool (heated). If you develop a cough during the trip, you will be required to do a COVID test and out of respect for fellow guests to wear a mask in enclosed or confined spaces (masks and tests are not provided). Amenities, iron and hairdryer are available at the hotels.
Weather
Temperatures should be pleasant with sunny skies and average highs of 26°C / 79°F and overnight lows of 15°C / 59°F.
Physical Requirements
This tour is “physically active.” Tour guests must be able to walk without assistance and carry their personal luggage. You may be on your feet, walking and standing, for over an hour, indoors and outdoors, rain or shine. That means if you need help climbing in a tour bus or if you are winded after walking 50 feet, Emma has other tour options you may want to explore.
Behavior Expectations
As a group, you are all on this trip to have a good time and to bond with one another. We expect you to do everything in your power to get along with the crew and make other guests feel welcome. If you have an issue with someone or something please speak with your trip leader, do not complain to the other guests. Your trip leader is there to solve any problems.
Accommodation
You will be staying in a conveniently located 4-star boutique hotel La Perouse in Nice, and a charming 4-star boutique hotel Corte Gondina nestled among the vineyards of Piedmont, Morra, Italy.All hotel rooms are not created equal. We chooses unique hotels for our trips and you will be assigned a room at random. Your room might be smaller, larger, or different from the other guests’ rooms.
Additional Services
Emma Gély of Tour with Absolutely is happy to assist with roommate matching in twin occupancy as well as pre- and post-tour travel planning.
Join celebrated cookbook author and culinary expert Cheryl Alters Jamison on a gastronomic journey to the French Riviera and Piedmont region in northern Italy. With Cheryl’s signature warmth and culinary knowledge, you’ll gain unique insight into regional traditions, cooking techniques, and unforgettable flavors.
Enjoy the comfort of just one hotel change on this 9-day tour. You’ll begin your adventure in a refined boutique hotel overlooking the Mediterranean in Nice, then transition to a charming hotel nestled among the vineyards of Piedmont. Each property has been handpicked for its refined style, comfort, and authentic local charm.
With a small group of like-minded food lovers, this specially curated tour offers exclusive access to the best of both regions: hands-on culinary experiences, unforgettable meals, cultural immersion, and just in time for Alba’s famous white truffle festival.
Monday, October 12: Bienvenue to the French Riviera!
Upon arrival at Nice International Airport, your private driver will be waiting to escort you to your hotel, La Perouse. Settle into your room, and take time to relax around the pool or explore the nearby streets at your leisure.
At 6:00 PM, meet Cheryl and Nancy, your dedicated tour escort, for a welcome cocktail on the hotel’s courtyard, followed by a gourmet dinner as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Tuesday, October 13: Nice & Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence
Today, Nancy will guide you through the historic center of Nice, where you’ll sample local specialties such as candied fruits, freshly made socca, and delicate macarons—all while soaking in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the Cours Saleya flower market. By the end of the morning, you will board your private coach for the picturesque village of Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence, a haven for artists and creatives. Visit the iconic Maeght Foundation, home to striking works by Miró, Calder, and Chagall, set within peaceful sculpture gardens.
Lunch will be at the legendary La Colombe d’Or, where Picasso once dined and where artists once paid in paintings, and the walls still tell stories.
Continue to Grasse, the world’s perfume capital, for a tour of the historic Fragonard perfumery.
Return to Nice in the evening and gather for dinner at a charming bistrot.
Wednesday, October 14: Antibes & Mougins
Begin the day in Antibes with a visit to the Musée Picasso, housed in the ancient, 500-year-old castle, Château Grimaldi, where Picasso once lived and worked. After the museum, take time to explore the lively local market and browse stalls overflowing with olives, cheeses, and seasonal delights.
At midday, continue to the village of Mougins, a former home of Picasso. Enjoy a scenic lunch at L’Amandier, where the panoramic terrace offers stunning views over the French Riviera. For dessert, you’ll head to the restaurant’s rooftop kitchen and tie on your apron for a hands-on pastry workshop led by renowned local pastry chef, Nicolas Dolbeau, who brings over 20 years of experience in Michelin-starred kitchens.
Return to Nice for an evening at leisure, perfect for a relaxed stroll and dinner on your own.
Thursday, October 15: Villefranche‑sur‑Mer & Èze
This morning, journey to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, the opulent pink mansion designed for Baroness Béatrice from the famous French banking family. The villa is surrounded by nine themed gardens perched above the sea. Stroll through manicured terraces and fountains, each one more enchanting than the last. Continue to Èze, a medieval village, after a walk through narrow cobblestone streets of the 11th-century town, to the top of the Exotic Garden. Here, you will discover one of the most dazzling panoramic views of the Côte d’Azur. Lunch will be enjoyed at the charming Deli, a local favorite tucked into the village’s historic streets.
Return to La Perouse in the afternoon, where Cheryl will lead a lively culinary talk about the region’s beloved dishes—celebrating the blend of French and Italian flavors.
This evening, dress up for a memorable dinner beneath Belle Époque frescoes at La Rotonde, the iconic restaurant within the Hôtel Negresco—a jewel of the Riviera.
Friday, October 16: Ventimiglia Market & the Road to Piedmont
Check out, bid farewell to Nice, and head east to Ventimiglia, just across the Italian border. The town hosts one of the busiest markets in Europe. It is famous for its lively seaside setting and wide variety of Italian goods, from fresh produce to fashion. Take your time to explore and enjoy lunch at leisure in one of the local trattorias.
In the early afternoon, depart for a three-hour drive through the rolling hills of northern Italy to the charming village of La Morra, nestled in the heart of Barolo wine country. Check in at the elegant Corte Gondina Boutique Hotel, your home in Piedmont. This evening, raise a glass to the next chapter of your journey during a private wine tasting and buffet dinner at the hotel, featuring local specialties and fine regional wines.
Saturday, October 17: Turin Delights
This morning, board your private coach and set off for a full-day excursion to Turin, the elegant capital of Piedmont and the first capital of unified Italy. Begin with a guided tour of the majestic Royal Palace of the House of Savoy, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll step back in time amid its opulent salons, royal apartments, and one of the finest armories in Europe. Next, follow your sweet tooth through a curated stroll of Turin’s most iconic historic cafés, where gianduja, velvety hot chocolate, and the city’s signature drink, bicerin, await your discovery. Cap your morning with a visit to the city’s landmark, the Mole Antonelliana. Ascend by elevator to the panoramic observatory, offering sweeping views of Turin’s rooftops and the distant snow-capped Alps.
Lunch is at your leisure—perhaps in one of the city’s grand piazzas. In the afternoon, experience a Michelin-trained Chef Abram-led tour and dinner, uncovering hidden trattorias and savoring the finest of refined Piedmontese cuisine.
Sunday, October 18: Alba’s Culinary Treasures
This morning, set out for a private truffle hunt alongside a local expert and his specially trained dogs. Learn the secrets of finding Alba’s legendary white truffles, a delicacy treasured by chefs and gourmands around the world. After your woodland adventure, return to the town of Alba, where the streets come alive during the famous Truffle Festival. Explore its historic medieval center, lined with market stalls, artisan goods, and the unmistakable aroma of truffle-laced delicacies.
Lunch is at your leisure, giving you time to sample local flavors or simply soak in the festive ambiance.
In the afternoon, you’re invited into a private Piedmontese home for a hands-on cooking workshop. Under expert guidance, prepare fresh pasta with truffle shavings, then gather around the table to savor your creations.
Monday, October 19: Barolo & Barbaresco Tastings
Today is dedicated to the noble wines of Piedmont’s Langhe hills. Visit two of the region’s premier wineries, where you’ll be welcomed into elegant cellars to taste world-renowned Barolos and a refined Barbaresco. Along the way, deepen your appreciation for the unique terroir, grape varieties, and meticulous winemaking traditions that define this prestigious region.
At midday, enjoy lunch at a winery. Return to La Morra for a peaceful afternoon at leisure—perfect for a stroll through the village, a coffee in the square, or for simply savoring the view over vine-covered hills.
Tonight, celebrate the flavors, friendships, and memories of your journey with a farewell dinner: a multi-course feast highlighting seasonal Piemontese cuisine. Raise a glass one last time to the elegance, generosity, and richness of this unforgettable region.
Tuesday, October 20: Arrivederci Piemonte
After breakfast, check out at 8:00 AM and board your private coach for a 2-hour drive to Milan’s international airport, arriving at around 10:00 AM—perfectly timed for afternoon flight (after 1:00 PM).
Optional Milan Add‑On
For those extending their stay in Milan, you’ll be dropped off at the elegant four-star Senato Hotel, ideally located for exploring Italy’s style capital. After lunch at leisure, enjoy a specially curated private food tour in the late afternoon, uncovering Milan’s culinary secrets—from neighborhood trattorias to hidden pasticcerias.
Wednesday, October 21: Milan
Begin your day with an early guided tour of the Duomo, Milan’s iconic cathedral—explore its magnificent interior and panoramic rooftop terraces.
Lunch is at your leisure, allowing you to savor Milan at your own pace one last time.
A private transfer to Milan’s airport will be arranged at your convenience, ensuring a smooth and stress-free departure.
Milan Add‑On Price: private room 850 euros / shared room 550 euros
Deposit
To secure a place on this tour, we ask that you fill in our reservation form, which indicates that a 30% deposit will be required. The balance will be due 2 months prior to the tour.
Included
Breakfast and all meals indicated in the program, gratuities in restaurants, tips to guides, taxes, professional tour facilitator & guide, activities and admission fees as indicated in program, airport transfers on the first day of the tour and in the morning on the last day of the tour, transportation by coach for day trips, 4 star accommodation on the French Riviera in France and in the Piedmont in Italy.
Not Included
Round trips airfare to France and Italy, tips to drivers, any personal souvenirs or purchases outside of this tour and not indicated above, additional softs, wine, beer or spirits beyond what is offered at meals, spa services at the hotel, travel insurance (highly recommended) and trip medical coverage (required for travelers over 50 years of age).
Terms and Conditions
If insufficient numbers of participants register for the tour or in the event of conditions deemed unsafe for our clients, the tour may be cancelled or postponed. While we endeavor to operate all tours as described, we reserve the right to change the trip itinerary owing to circumstances beyond our control or if more interesting opportunities arise. Any changes will be of similar or superior quality and content. If Cheryl is unable to travel, the tour will go ahead as planned with Nancy McGee, Tour with Absolutely representative.
Discounts
If this is your second trip or more with Absolutely, you are entitled to a loyalty discount .
Cancellation Policy
This is a non-refundable package group tour, no refunds even in the case of injury, illness or personal emergency. Cancellation must be notified by email to emma@tourwithabsolutely.com. We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance including medical assistance and cancellation. If you get sick before the trip, departs or during it you will need your own medical and trip cancellation insurance to cover any costs incurred.
Payment
We accept Visa and MasterCard.
Travel with insurance – and rest assured
Check out Insure My Trip, insurance specialists that compare coverage, including Covid, from 19 reputable providers. Just select what best suits you (cancellation for any reason, interruption, medical evacuation…) . Prices are reasonable and well worth it for a stress free trip.
Arrival and Departure
On arrival October 12, airport transfers are included from Nice airport to Hotel La Perouse in Nice. You will be welcomed at 6 PM for the meet and greet by Cheryl Alters Jamison and Nancy McGee our Tour with Absolutely representative who will be escorting the group during the entire trip. On the last day of the tour September 22, airport transfers are included in the morning from the hotel in La Morra to Milan Malpensa airport. When searching for flights, check out Skyscanner which compares flights and prices from numerous airlines.
Photo Release
You will grant Tour with Absolutely permission to use your likeness in a photograph, video or other digital media in any and all of its publications including web-based publications, without payment or other consideration. In addition, you waive the right to inspect or approve the finished product wherein your likeness appears.
What to Pack
Phone chargers, power banks, medication, hat, sunscreen, jacket, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear if you care to use the hotel pool (heated). If you develop a cough during the trip, you will be required to do a COVID test and out of respect for fellow guests to wear a mask in enclosed or confined spaces (masks and tests are not provided). Amenities, iron and hairdryer are available at the hotels.
Weather
Temperatures should be pleasant with sunny skies and average highs of 26°C / 79°F and overnight lows of 15°C / 59°F.
Physical Requirements
This tour is “physically active.” Tour guests must be able to walk without assistance and carry their personal luggage. You may be on your feet, walking and standing, for over an hour, indoors and outdoors, rain or shine. That means if you need help climbing in a tour bus or if you are winded after walking 50 feet, Emma has other tour options you may want to explore.
Behavior Expectations
As a group, you are all on this trip to have a good time and to bond with one another. We expect you to do everything in your power to get along with the crew and make other guests feel welcome. If you have an issue with someone or something please speak with your trip leader, do not complain to the other guests. Your trip leader is there to solve any problems.
Accommodation
You will be staying in a conveniently located 4-star boutique hotel La Perouse in Nice, and a charming 4-star boutique hotel Corte Gondina nestled among the vineyards of Piedmont, Morra, Italy.All hotel rooms are not created equal. We chooses unique hotels for our trips and you will be assigned a room at random. Your room might be smaller, larger, or different from the other guests’ rooms.
Additional Services
Emma Gély of Tour with Absolutely is happy to assist with roommate matching in twin occupancy as well as pre- and post-tour travel planning.
French Riviera
Northern Italy
Copyright 2025 | Tour with Absolutely
Copyright 2025 | Tour with Absolutely
