Culinary, Cultural, Retreat Of The Azores
With Chef Jan Buhrman
Discover the culinary soul of the Azores on a cooking retreat with ched Jan Buhrman 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.
The island of Sao Miguel has been chosen as our destination, for the third time already. (It’s a five hour non stop flight from Boston or New York!)
This hidden gem is among a group of nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that forms an autonomous region of Portugal. The Azores natural beauty and the food heritage is deeply rooted in the volcanic soil and surrounding ocean that evoke a profound sense of connection to the earth and sea.
We found the best of the best, 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. And we invite you to come along taste and learn in a 7 day culinary retreat.
Cook with amazing chefs, explore verdant farms and plantations, learn from the local farmers and witness a way of life. Fully immerse yourself in the nature of the archipelago. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced culinary professional, the Azores offers a soul stirring discovery of a place, as we learn about the evolution of food anchored in traditions of this stunning region that will leave you inspired. The experiences will revolve around tastes and foods of the region, with time planned for hiking and to immerse in nature.
It is an all inclusive, 7 days of learning and experiencing the flavours of the Azores. From the culinary experiences, to the wine, to the conversations, to the accommodations, each has been carefully crafted and chosen for an ultimate week!
Let the Azorean Adventure Begin!
We have chosen Furnas Lake region for the accommodations. Furnas is the most easterly volcano on Sao Miguel and the best place to really feel the volcanic origins of the Azores. There are over thirty geysers and hot springs dotted around the village. Their temperatures vary, as does their mineral content – from the cool, crystal-clear waters of the drinking fountains to iron-rich hot springs and swimming pools. From the arrival of the first settlers to the valley, residents and visitors have been enjoying the therapeutic waters of Furnas for over 500 years, and you will too!
There will be three cooking classes throughout the week, each beginning with a tour of the gardens and an overview of the purveyors. With a few culinary professionals like Chef Hugo Ferreira and chef Maria da Paz Estrella Pimentel, organic farmers Paulo & Ines, culinary entrepreneur Pete Luckett, are among those we have chosen. Each will offer us a tour of their home gardens, with fresh, authentic meals served over paired wines.
What to Expect:
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 & hike, dinner.
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, beach time and dinner with a local farmer.
Day 5: Cooking class by Jan Buhrman, free time for hot springs & botanical garden., dinner.
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.
Day 8: Farewell, check out.
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.
You’ll be immersed in nature and experience the comfort of the modern rustic luxury. Each private villa sleeps up to three with a living area, kitchen, private bath, porch and southern views. Organic linens for comfort and endless morning coffee, tea and breakfast each morning.
Each of these forest villas are built with the wood of the Japanese Cedar wood - Cryptomeria. These trees were introduced to the islands 200 years ago, one of many reminders of this Asian influence, like azaleas and bamboo that line the volcanic trails and the forest roads.
Each room has a private bathroom and kitchen, in rustic and modern luxury, with organic linens and breakfast!
Jan will be offering one cooking class of her own which will take place in the pavilion at the hotel’s estate- glass building surrounded by greenery, perfect for hosting cooking classes.
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
Room Options:
Option 1: Double occupancy
EARLY BIRD FEE valid until February 15th for Culinary Experience Azores, Double Occupancy, paid in two installments:
$7,455 per person for double occupancy.
Deposit: To secure a room $1.000 deposit is required per person. Deposit is non-refundable.
First instalment: 50% due by May 1, 2025
Balance: due by August 1, 2025
REGULAR PRICES FROM FEB 16th 2025:
$7,900 per person for double
Option 2: Single occupancy
EARLY BIRD FEE valid until February 15th for Culinary Experience Azores, Single occupancy, paid in two installments:
$8,100 per person for single occupancy.
Deposit: To secure a room $1.000 deposit is required. Deposit is non-refundable.
First installment: 50% due by May 1, 2025
Balance: due by August 1, 2025
REGULAR PRICES FROM FEB 16th 2025
$8,700. per person for single
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.
Join us for an educational, serene, and taste-of-terroir culinary experience in the Azores! Book now and embark on a culinary journey that will ignite your senses.
Cook with Jan Buhrman, on her 16th 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 2025! Come and join us!
