Farm to Table at Podere Il Casale: A Delicious Adventure
- Amy B
- Feb 20
- 3 min read
There are two kinds of road trip stops: the kind where you begrudgingly pull over at a sad gas station for questionable snacks, and the kind where you step into a postcard-perfect Tuscan farm and live your best rustic fantasy. Our visit to Podere Il Casale? Definitely the latter.
We had heard the whispers from fellow travelers: You HAVE to stop at Podere Il Casale! The food! The views! The goats!So, en route to our next Tuscan destination, we decided to take the detour. And let me tell you, we did not regret it.
The Story Behind Podere Il Casale
To follow the rhythm of nature, to be in a place of its own kind, to be surrounded by genuine, healthy food—this is what led Sandra and Ulisse to move to Pienza in 1991, to Podere Il Casale. Their dream came true, despite the difficulties they encountered along the way.
Who would have thought that one day visitors from all over the world would come to Podere Il Casale to taste dishes from the farm’s restaurant, take part in a cooking class, visit the farm, sample its organic products, or even stay overnight at the farm’s campsite?
The Farm Tour: Goats, Pigs & One Very Sassy Donkey
The adventure started with a tour of the farm, which immediately won over our kids (and, let’s be honest, us too). Imagine rolling hills, cypress trees, and a soundtrack of happy farm noises. The kids got hands-on feeding and petting the animals—goats, cows, pigs, and even a donkey with some serious main-character energy.
Say Cheese! (No, Really.)
Next up was the cheese-making facility, where we got a behind-the-scenes look at how all their delicious cheeses come to life. I’ll admit, I’ve never thought much about the science behind cheese beyond “yum,” but this was fascinating. We learned about different aging processes, the role of happy goats in producing the best milk, and the fine art of cheese naming (okay, I made that last part up, but still).
And of course, there were samples. Glorious, creamy, tangy samples. If you think kids can’t appreciate fine cheeses, just wait until you see them fighting over the last bite of pecorino like it’s the final cookie in the jar.
The Lunch: Farm-to-Table Bliss
After all that hard work (i.e., watching other people make cheese), we were rewarded with a farm-to-table lunch featuring everything fresh from the farm. Homemade bread, local olive oil, farm-fresh veggies, house-made cheeses, and the kind of wine that makes you contemplate moving to the Italian countryside permanently. And did I mention the view? Picture sprawling vineyards, rolling golden hills, and a sky so blue it looks like it was Photoshopped.
More Than Just a Meal: Cooking Classes & Activities
Podere Il Casale offers a wide range of cooking classes, from traditional Italian cuisine to pizza and bread baking (which is great for families). You can even bake your own pizza or bread in their wood-burning oven and season it to your liking. Each class includes a guided tour of the farm, including the dairy. The ingredients used are all from the farm itself, making the experience truly authentic.
If time permits, there are plenty of other activities to take part in, like learning about ancient farmers’ culinary traditions or exploring their organic product shop. Unfortunately, we were limited on time, so we made a lunch reservation and did the farm/cheese tour that was included—but there’s plenty more to experience if you have extra time!
For more details on cooking classes, availability, and prices, you can contact them at info@podereilcasale.it.
Final Verdict: Add This to Your Tuscany Itinerary
If you’re exploring Tuscany and want to experience amazing food, adorable animals, and peak Italian countryside charm, Podere Il Casale is a must-stop. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or just someone who enjoys a good goat selfie, this place delivers.
10/10—would detour again.
