My Trips 
If you’ve ever dreamed of mastering Irish soda bread or perfecting the art of creamy seafood chowder, why not learn from the best, right at the source?
Hannah and Daniel Neeleman, the popular influencers behind Ballerina Farm, made headlines when they packed up their large family and relocated to Ireland. Their destination? The prestigious Ballymaloe Cookery School in Shanagarry, County Cork. Nestled on a 100-acre organic farm, this renowned culinary school offers an immersive, farm-to-fork experience. The Neelemans enrolled in the full 12-week chef program, and their journey sparked global interest in Ireland’s rich culinary traditions.
But don’t worry—you don’t need three months to taste the magic. Ballymaloe and other top-tier Irish cookery schools offer half-day and full-day courses that fit beautifully into a vacation itinerary.
Top Cooking Experiences in Ireland
Ballymaloe Cookery School (County Cork)
Set on a 100-acre organic farm just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean, Ballymaloe is one of Ireland’s most iconic culinary schools. Choose from half-day or full-day classes focused on traditional Irish dishes, seasonal baking, vegetarian cooking, and more—all taught with an emphasis on fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.
Dingle Cookery School (County Kerry)
Located in one of Ireland’s most charming harbor towns, this school offers a warm welcome and unforgettable classes. Learn to prepare local specialties like Kerry mountain lamb or seafood straight from the Atlantic, all while soaking up the flavors, music, and culture of the Dingle Peninsula.
Wild Garlic Table (County Donegal)
Tucked away in the scenic northwest, Wild Garlic Table offers a soulful cooking experience with Chef Pauline Sugrue. Her small-group classes focus on seasonal, local ingredients and Donegal’s wild natural larder. Expect hands-on instruction, storytelling, and a deep connection to place. More than a cookery class, it’s an invitation to slow down and savor Irish food heritage.
Galway Cookery Classes (Galway City)
Founded by Kate Wright, this welcoming school is all about keeping traditional Irish cooking skills alive. In her home-style kitchen, Kate teaches how to make wholesome, budget-friendly meals like brown bread, Irish stew, and hearty vegetarian dishes. With a special focus on plant-based cooking, her classes appeal to families, retirees, and anyone interested in real, nourishing food made from simple ingredients.
Let Us Plan Your Culinary Getaway
At Authentic Vacations, we create tailor-made journeys that go far beyond the typical tourist trail. If you’re inspired by the idea of cooking in an Irish farmhouse kitchen or learning centuries-old recipes with a local chef, we’ll make it happen.
Whether you dream of a half-day class at Ballymaloe, a week of culinary discovery through Cork and Kerry, or a gourmet escape tied to Ireland’s local food festivals, we’ll craft an itinerary that fits your pace and your passions.
From start to finish, we take care of every detail:
- Charming accommodations in boutique hotels, countryside estates, or cozy B&Bs
- Private transfers or car rentals, so you travel stress-free
- Cooking classes with expert chefs, tailored to your interests and skill level
- Food and tasting tours—from whiskey and craft beer to artisan bread, cheese, and seafood
- Farm visits, distillery experiences, and local market strolls to immerse you in Irish food culture
- Optional add-ons like castles, cliffs, and cultural sites to complete your journey
You don’t need to be a professional chef to enjoy a culinary journey through Ireland—just a love of good food and authentic experiences. Explore our curated culinary itineraries to get inspired.
Let us bring your Irish food story to life. We’re here to make it deliciously unforgettable!
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