If I knew you were coming I’d have baked a cake… or is that just me getting my Great British Bake Off vibe on?
It used to be the case that all we wanted from a holiday was sun, sea and sand.
But these days there are more of us seeking out learning holidays.
It’s not enough to sample the beautiful and varied foods we are introduced to around the world.
Now we have to learn how to make them ourselves.
I love baking… I’ll gladly watch The Scary One and Daddy’s Little Daughter, although more likely I smell the wafts.
I’m usually in the next room watching the sport on the TV.
But I surprised myself when I did bake me a cake in Colorado… or an apple pie, at least.
I probably wouldn’t have got past the dough stage without the help of chef Jen at Ginger And Baker http://www.gingerandbaker.com and http://www.colorado.com.
While Paul and Pru would deffo put me last in the list.
No Star Baker me compared with the Furies rolling, patting, preening and preparing their pies next to me.
So you want to get flour on your hands and sun on your back.
These are the guys for you… www.bookculinaryvacations.com.
They are offering five days Sourdough and Artisan Baking in Saleres in Grenada, Spain from €465.
Four days accommodation with all meals included. The vacation is available all year round except July and August.
And here is my baking adventure in Colorado… https://jimmurtytraveltraveltravel.com/2019/08/29/the-new-pioneers/
I can testify to the Irish love of food and there is a kitchenful of top chefs ready and willing to bake you beautiful things.
Catherine the Great
Why not learn from the best? Catherine Fulvio’s Ballyknocken House & Cookery School in my own county of Wicklow.
Of course they do baking courses but the one I’m flagging up here is what they are pitching as What’s the Dill for September 14.
A celebration of the herb, it’s €50pp.
You’ll get tea, lemon balm scones and blueberry and lavender jam on arrival.
Then it’s aprons on for some baking.
There’s a light lunch and some herb and edible flower butter to take home. www.ballyknocken.ie.
