The Sourdough School

BALM – Proven as one of the healthiest approaches to bread in the world.

Based in the walled gardens of Dr. Vanessa Kimbell's beautiful Victorian home in rural Northamptonshire, UK, we tutor individuals and train bakers and healthcare professionals in Baking as Lifestyle Medicine (BALM). Personalising bread to your lifestyle, gut microbiome, and unique genetics for optimal health—tailoring fermentation, fibre, and diversity so that your daily bread becomes the foundation of your health.

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7 Day Bread & Longevity Tuscan Retreat 2025
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Pisa Bread making Course - thesis the tower

7 Day Bread & Longevity Tuscan Retreat 2025

£1,499.00

 Tuscany 

  • DATES: 8th September 2025 to 14th September 2025 is a 7-day span, starting on a Monday and ending on a Sunday lunch time. 
  • ACCOMODATION INFORMATION:  Castello di Potentino
  • OPEN TO: All
  • COURSE FEE: £1499
  • NUMBER OF SPACES: Limited to 18
  • PAY WHAT YOU CAN: We have 1 space for existing students on a pay what you can contribution (please contact Vanessa directly)
  • LOCATION  TUSCANY: Castello Di Potentino
  • FOCUS: A relaxed baking week of Bread Making as a Mediterranean diet and longevity focus
  • LEVEL: Any Level
  • HOURS:  1st session 10 am – noon Lunch break  – 12 – 3 pm – 2nd session 3 pm – 6 pm
  • Supper 8pm
  • + Evening of wine tasting on the 11th –  Friday Evening

Bread and Longevity

In 2023 Dr Vanessa Kimbell and her team visited Sardina, and spent time getting to know the local people in the Blue Zones.  This unique insight coupled with Dr Kimbell’s own insight into the gut microbiome and mental health from her doctoral work is the central theme to this week’s retreat.

During the week, you can look forward to:

  • Learning to bake tinned loaf, a sourdough boule and all aspects of mixing, shaping, proofing and baking.
  • Creating a starter: We will craft a sourdough starter using grapes from the surrounding vineyards, harnessing the natural yeast present in this beautiful environment.
  • Focaccia and bread making: Using olive oil from the castle’s own olive groves, we will bake a variety of breads, including focaccia, that showcase the richness of local ingredients.
  • Exploring stoneground Italian flour: Making sourdough pasta, and a visit to the local stone ground mill will give us the opportunity to work with authentic, locally-sourced stoneground flour, ensuring our bread is as nutritious and flavourful as possible.
  • Cheese making: Engage in the art of cheese making, a fundamental part of Italian culinary tradition, and learn how to pair it with our freshly baked bread.
  • Pasta making: Master the techniques of traditional pasta making, another Italian staple, and enjoy the process of crafting it by hand.
  • Wine tasting: Savour the exquisite wines produced by the Castello di Potentino, appreciating the complexity and variety of flavours from the region.
  • Baking phenomenal bread: Each day will involve hands-on baking sessions, focusing on different types of bread that are both delicious and health-promoting.
  • Embracing the Mediterranean diet: We will explore the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet, with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients forming the cornerstone of our meals.
  • Health discussions: Engage in insightful conversations with our in-house GP, who will discuss the health benefits of our baking practices and dietary choices.

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Join Our 2025 Sourdough Course at Castello di Potentino, Tuscany –  8th – 14th September 

I am thrilled that in 2025, we will be holding a regular sourdough course at the stunning Castello di Potentino in Tuscany. Nestled between Pisa, Siena, and Rome, this breathtaking location offers the perfect setting for a week of immersive learning and culinary delight on bread and longevity.

Important Details:

Students are required to book their own accommodation directly with Castello di Potentino, as staying at the castle is a part of our unique experience. This arrangement allows us to fully integrate the use of the castle’s produce—including garden herbs, olive oil, wine, and other local ingredients—into our baking sessions. We will also be milling our own botanical blend flour on-site, making this an authentically immersive culinary experience.

  • Please check the link to see the accommodation at Castells di Potentino.
  • Only once you are booked, please then book your accommodation ASAP.
  • While we have two baking sessions daily, allowing for a break during the hottest part of the day, there will be ample time for relaxation and exploration.
  • Please note, breakfast is the responsibility of each student. Additional guests are welcome, but they will need to arrange their own activities during the baking sessions.
  • All travel arrangements, accommodation inquiries, and logistics are to be handled by the students. We highly recommend securing travel insurance, as this retreat is essentially a holiday experience where we are providing the course and food.

Learn more about the venue: Castello di Potentino

Castello di Potentino is a beautifully restored medieval castle set amidst vineyards and olive groves in Tuscany. Known for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and quality produce, the castle is an ideal location for those who appreciate the intersection of history, gastronomy, and natural beauty.

Please remember that there are limited rooms, and you will need to secure your accommodation.

Additional Information for current Diploma Students:

  • For current students you will be able to include your bread as a Graduation Loaves: If you would like to bake your graduation loaves during the week, you are more than welcome to do so. This is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and enjoy the process in a beautiful setting.
  • Photography: Our photographer, Joe, will be available to take photos of your loaves. Please note that I will not be doing any online work during this event. Students will need to obtain their photos directly from Joe and add them to their own posts when they submit their recipes.

 

FAQ'S

Frequently asked Questions

We have had the privilege of speaking directly with Charlotte Horton, the owner of both the vineyard and Castello di Potentino. She has graciously provided comprehensive answers to almost all frequently asked questions regarding your visit to the castle. We highly recommend taking the time to watch these informative videos. They will help you become familiar with the surrounding area, transportation options, accommodation details, food arrangements, and other pertinent information. This will likely address many of the common inquiries before needing to contact the castle directly. Should you have any additional questions after viewing these resources, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

PLEASE CLICK ON THE FIRST VIDEO BELOW – USE ARROWS TO MOVE THE THE NEXT VIDEO

Location & Travel Details

It is very relaxed and informal, and we bake every day and visit the local mill to get our flour.

Transport and accommodation are not included. However, we have arranged for the whole castle to be ours. and some very special events during the week.

We have arranged special booking page for your accommodation. Please make sure you have booked with The Sourdough School first and then book your accommodation. We will send you a link to do this once you are booked.

Castello di Potentino lies in a secret valley nestled in one of the last undiscovered corners of Tuscany – the Amiata. The nearest villages are Seggiano to the east and Montegiovi to the west.

By Helicopter – Arrangements for helicopter landings at Potentino can be made in advance. Please contact the castilio to organise this.

Airports – The nearest airports are:

  • Pisa (2 hours 15 minutes)
  • Florence Peretola (2 hours 30 minutes)
  • Perugia (2 hours 15 minutes, but the driving is difficult)
  • Rome Fiumicino (3 hours)
  • Rome Ciampino (3 hours 30 minutes)

By Car – It is recommended to travel to Potentino by car to maximise freedom, as there are no local taxi services on Monte Amiata.

Coordinates – 42.924265, 11.543227

Train Stations – The nearest mainline station is Grosseto (50 minutes by car). Chiusi/Chianciano Terme is also an option. There are nearer stations at Buonconvento and Paganico, but trains are infrequent, and transport can be difficult to arrange. Train timetables are available here.

Taxis and Private Cars – Taxis are usually available at Grosseto station, costing approximately €100-€120. If preferred, a private car can be organised upon request.

Buses – Buses to local towns Seggiano and Castel del Piano can be found from Grosseto train station. The timetable is available at Tiemme SPA.

Electric Vehicles – Two chargers are available for electric vehicles, one for Teslas and one for other cars, free of use for guests.

WARNING – When travelling to Potentino, please note that the road from Montegiovi is a difficult strada bianca (gravel road) and it is easy to get lost, particularly in the hours of darkness. We recommend arriving from Seggiano unless you are accustomed to such roads.

Accommodation

Please book your accommodation directly with the Castle.

Please note that this event is only possible because I have booked the accommodation for us at The Castle.  This week is ONLY possible if you stay at the castle, so

  1. Please check the link to see accommodation. LINK ( this will but updated in September 2024)
  2. Book Your Accommodation:
    Once you have booked then please arrange your accommodation directly with Castello di Potentino. Please contact Alexander Greene for booking details:

    • Email: [email protected]
    • Mobile: +39 348 288 1637
    • Office: +39 0564 950 014
    • Reception: +39 0564 950643
  3. Review Pre-Course Information:
    Before attending, review the essential pre-course information, including recipes and other relevant materials. Please ensure you have watched the 15-minute attendee’s information video available on the website.
  • While we have two baking sessions daily, allowing for a break during the hottest part of the day, there will be ample time for relaxation and exploration.
  • Please note, breakfast is the responsibility of each student. Additional guests are welcome, but they will need to arrange their own activities during the baking sessions.
  • All travel arrangements, accommodation inquiries, and logistics are to be handled by the students. We highly recommend securing travel insurance, as this retreat is essentially a holiday experience where we are providing the course and food.

Learn more about the venue: Castello di Potentino

Castello di Potentino is a beautifully restored medieval castle set amidst vineyards and olive groves in Tuscany. Known for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and quality produce, the castle is an ideal location for those who appreciate the intersection of history, gastronomy, and natural beauty.

Please remember that there are limited rooms, and you will need to secure your accommodation.

Additional Information for current Diploma Students:

  • For current student you will be able to include your bread as a Graduation Loaves: If you would like to bake your graduation loaves during the week, you are more than welcome to do so. This is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and enjoy the process in a beautiful setting.
  • Photography: Our photographer, Joe, will be available to take photos of your loaves. Please note that I will not be doing any online work during this event. Students will need to obtain their photos directly from Joe and add them to their own posts when they submit their recipes.

Castello di Potentino

Accommodation and Venue Details for the Tuscan Longevity Bread Making Course at Castello di Potentino

Castello di Potentino is a magnificently restored medieval castle nestled in the idyllic Tuscan hills, surrounded by lush vineyards and ancient olive groves. This historic estate offers an enchanting retreat where the rich tapestry of Italy’s past meets sustainable, modern-day agricultural practices. It is the perfect setting for those who seek an immersive experience that combines history, nature, and the culinary arts.

Accommodation at Castello di Potentino

Participants in the Tuscan Longevity Bread Making Course will enjoy a stay at Castello di Potentino, allowing for a truly immersive and seamless experience. The castle’s accommodations are both elegant and comfortable, reflecting the character and charm of the castle’s storied past.

  • Room Features: Each room is uniquely designed, blending rustic Tuscan charm with modern comforts. Guests will find comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and beautiful furnishings that evoke the castle’s historical essence. Large windows frame stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves, providing a serene and inspiring atmosphere.
  • Communal Areas: The castle boasts several inviting communal spaces, including a cosy library, sun-drenched terraces, and a tranquil courtyard. These areas are perfect for unwinding, socialising, or simply soaking up the serene beauty of the Tuscan countryside.

Dining and Culinary Experience

All meals during the course are crafted using fresh, local ingredients, many sourced directly from Castello di Potentino’s own gardens, vineyards, and olive groves. The dining experience is a celebration of the Mediterranean diet, highlighting its benefits for health and longevity.

  • Course-Related Meals: Participants will take part in hands-on bread-making sessions using premium local ingredients, such as the castle’s own olive oil. These sessions will offer a deep appreciation of traditional Tuscan culinary techniques and the role of wholesome, locally-sourced foods in promoting well-being.
  • Special Event: A highlight of the week will be the wine tasting event on Friday evening, 11th, where guests can indulge in the estate’s exquisite wines. This event offers a chance to learn about the art of winemaking and enjoy the unique flavours that define Tuscan wine.

Historical and Agricultural Background

Steeped in history, Castello di Potentino was originally a medieval fortress, now lovingly restored by owner Charlotte Horton to its former glory. The castle not only stands as a monument to Tuscan heritage but also as a model of sustainable living. The surrounding vineyards produce award-winning wines, renowned for their depth and character, while the olive groves yield some of the finest olive oil in the region.

These vineyards and groves are more than just beautiful landscapes—they are integral to the castle’s identity, reflecting a commitment to preserving traditional agricultural practices while embracing modern sustainability. Every aspect of life at Castello di Potentino is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and a dedication to quality and authenticity.

By participating in the Tuscan Longevity Bread Making Course at Castello di Potentino, you will not only learn the art of sourdough bread-making but also immerse yourself in the rhythms of a Tuscan estate, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. This unique experience promises to be enriching, educational, and deeply connected to the land.

Booking link for rooms. 

Contact for Further Information

If you have any additional questions or require further information, please feel free to reach out:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mobile: +39 348 288 1637
  • Office: +39 0564 950 014
  • Reception: +39 0564 950643

Castello di Potentino is not just a place to stay—it is an experience that invites you to live the essence of Tuscany. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to this extraordinary retreat, where history, nature, and the art of bread-making come together.

Additional Information for current Diploma Students:

Additional Information for current Diploma Students:

  • For current student you will be able to include your bread as a Graduation Loaves: If you would like to bake your graduation loaves during the week, you are more than welcome to do so. This is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and enjoy the process in a beautiful setting.
  • Photography: Our photographer, Joe, will be available to take photos of your loaves. Please note that I will not be doing any online work during this event. Students will need to obtain their photos directly from Joe and add them to their own posts when they submit their recipes.

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