The Aegean Table is a small-group gastronomic retreat held in Crete, Greece. It runs for seven nights from 9–16 November 2026. The retreat combines hands-on cooking classes using local Cretan ingredients, two fully organised group excursions, and the relaxed rhythm of life in the mountains of western Crete. Limited to ten guests, it is led throughout the week by a classically trained chef and sommelier.

The Aegean Table is for anyone who loves food, is curious about where it comes from, and wants to experience Crete in a way most visitors never do. It suits couples, solo travellers and small groups of friends equally. You do not need any cooking experience, just a genuine interest in eating well and learning. Guests tend to be people who care about craft, culture and connection, and who understand that a week spent cooking and eating with interesting people in a beautiful place is time very well spent.

A mixture of both. The Aegean Table is not a culinary school. There are no exams, no grades and no pressure to perform. The cooking sessions are hands-on, informal and conversational. You will learn techniques and recipes but always in the context of a week that is fundamentally about relaxing, eating well, and enjoying good company.

Fly into Chania International Airport (CHQ). Heraklion Airport (HER) is also possible at around 2 hours away. From either airport you can reserve a transfer or take a taxi to the villa. Direct flights to Chania in November are available from London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Vienna, Stockholm and other major European cities. We are happy to advise on travel logistics and local transfer options when you book.

November in Crete is mild and mostly sunny. Daytime temperatures typically range from 18–21°C, dropping to around 13–15°C in the evenings. Western Crete sees a few days of rain in November but long stretches of clear blue sky are more typical. It is excellent weather for exploring without the sometimes oppressive heat of summer.

Yes, absolutely. Solo travellers are warmly welcome. The twin rooms are priced per person for two guests sharing, but solo travellers may book exclusive use of any room by adding a sole occupancy supplement — from €600 for a twin room up to €1,000 for the king rooms. Many people find cooking retreats to be a particularly rewarding solo travel experience: the group is small, meals are shared, and you are never without good company.

The price covers everything you need for the week: seven nights accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner every day), all cooking class ingredients, two fully organised group excursions with private transfers, use of the heated pool, a welcome kit, and the time and knowledge of your hosts throughout. The only things not included are flights to and from Crete, travel insurance, transport to and from the retreat on the first and last day and any personal spending in the village or on free afternoons.

No. Whether you cook every day or only occasionally, you will find the classes accessible, enjoyable and educational. The emphasis is on understanding Greek food culture, learning techniques, and appreciating quality ingredients; not on demonstrating skill or speed. Anyone who loves eating good food will find something meaningful here.