Azores Culinary Experience with chef Jan Buhrman
Discover the culinary soul of the Azores on a cooking retreat in this breath-taking archipelago. Immerse yourself in the local culture, learn from passionate chefs and farmers and savour the unique flavours of this remote and enchanting region of Portugal.
September 29th-October 6th 2024
Culinary, Cultural, Retreat Of The Azores
With Chef Jan Buhrman
If you are looking for a unique culinary experience as a way to relax, Azoress Culinary Experience is the exact solution! This hidden gem is a group of nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that forms an autonomous region of Portugal. The Azores’ natural beauty is simply breath taking, and its food heritage is deeply rooted in the volcanic soil and surrounding ocean that evoke a profound sense of connection to the earth and sea. It is a great way for a complete reset.
A cooking retreat here, hosted by US chef Jan Buhrman will ignite all your senses as you learn from her and many others: top local chefs and the local farmers, explore its verdant farms and fully immerse yourself in the nature of the archipelago.
The best of the best awaits, in farming practices, those who bring food to the table, and those who create a life that reflects the textures and balance of the ruggedness, the fogginess and the verdant edges carved out of hillsides of Sao Miguel. Come along taste and learn in a 7 day culinary retreat. It is an all-inclusive, 7 days of learning and experiencing the flavors of the Azores. From the culinary experiences, to the wine, to the conversations, to the accommodations, and to our amazing hosts who join us at our tables to share their wealth and knowledge. Each has been carefully crafted and chosen for an ultimate week!
Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced foodie, a cooking retreat in the Azores is a soul-stirring way to discover unique flavours and traditions of this stunning region that will leave you feeling deeply fulfilled relaxed and inspired!
Cooking retreat with Jan Buhrman, her 15th cooking retreat around the globe!
Meet Jan Buhrman, a culinary expert with over 20 years of experience in the food industry. Since the age of three, Jan has been exploring the realms of cooking, farming, and fishing. Her journey led to mastering various culinary techniques while emphasizing the importance of flavors and freshness.
In 2007, Jan began teaching cooking classes and organizing farm tours, evolving to virtual platforms during the pandemic. Her expertise focuses on the intricate connections between food, health, and community. Jan believes in the power of thoughtful sourcing and mindful consumption for a healthier world.
Recently, Jan led a group on a culinary adventure to the Azores, offering an authentic immersion into the local culture. And she is hosting it again in 2024, as well as in Croatia!
What to Expect:
Destination: Sao Miguel Island, the hidden gem in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Culinary Delights: Immerse yourself in the local culture, learn from passionate chefs and farmers, and savor the unique flavors of the Azores for a week
Relaxation: Hikes around volcano craters and plantation, hot springs and ocean
All-Inclusive: 7 days of learning and experiencing the best the Azores have to offer, from culinary delights to wine, conversations, and accommodations.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Cooking Classes: Led by renowned local chefs as well as Jan Buhrman’s classes
Experiences: Explore organic farms, Water tasting tour, visit the oldest tea plantation in Europe, visit to pineapple plantation, volcanic hot springs, beach picnic, oceans, hikes
Unique Cuisine: Taste the traditional Cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat.
Local Delicacies: Enjoy fresh fish from local restaurants, visit an organic pineapple farm, and experience joyous picnics.
Daily Itinerary (Sample):
Day 1: Welcome breakfast, Furnas Lake buffet lunch, hike around Furnas Lake, and a taste of Azorean wines.
Day 2: Furnas village tour, lunch at a local fish restaurant, European oldest tea plantation tour, and Pico da Cruz equestrian horse show.
Day 3: Cozido cooking class with a local chef, farm-to-table experience, and hot springs exploration.
Day 4: Fish market shopping, hands-on cooking class, and dinner with a local farmer.
Day 5: Cooking class by Jan Buhrman, cheese tasting, cattle farm visit, and dinner at the villas in Furnas.
Day 6: Hike around a volcano crater in Sete Cidades, picnic lunch at the beach, visit an organic pineapple plantation, and dinner at a sustainable organic farm.
Day 7: Free time, explore the Azores, and a goodbye dinner party.
Accommodations:
Staying at Furnas Lake Forest Living is like staying in a modern forest, perfect for our retreat. You will be immersed in nature while experiencing the comfort of rustic and modern luxury. On top of tranquil property of the hotel, Furnas Lake is right in front of our doorway, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere for the whole week.
What is included:
7 nights in private villas, rooms available as Double Occupancy and Single Occupancy
Transportation to all activities
Three cooking classes and visits to plantations and farms
Seven breakfasts, five lunches, and two restaurant dinners
Three hikes and two village tours
What is not included:
International airfare
Personal travel insurance
Transportation from the airport
Saturday lunch (free day)
Extra excursions/events which are not within the offered itinerary
Culinary Notes & Restrictions:
Meat and fish will be served.
Dairy is a significant part of Azorean culture.
Fresh fruits and vegetables offered at most meals.
Please Contact us in advance for dietary considerations.
Weather and Packing:
· September weather: Warm and pleasant.
· Average high temperature: 24’C (75’F), low temperature: 18’C (64’F).
· Pack light, casual, and comfortable with layered clothes.
· Bring swimsuits, hiking shoes, a small backpack, and a raincoat.