Lamezia Terme: Ice Cream Laboratory

Imagine stepping into a vintage ice cream shop from the 1960s, where the air is filled with lively music, the scent of fresh ingredients, and the promise of creating delicious, artisanal treats. That’s exactly what you get with the Ice Cream Laboratory tour in Lamezia Terme, hosted by CONERIA ITALIANA. Over two hours, you’ll learn to make traditional ice cream and organic cones, ending with a chance to taste all your homemade creations. It’s a delightful way to spend part of your Calabria trip, especially if you love hands-on experiences, authentic flavors, and a touch of nostalgia.

One of the things we love most about this experience is how it combines skill-building with genuine fun. Valentino, the guide and host, is praised for his knowledge and friendly manner, making even beginners feel at ease. Plus, the vintage shop ambiance truly transports you back to Italy’s golden era of “La Dolce Vita.” That said, if you’re not a fan of small-group activities or strict schedules, this might not be your ideal fit. But for those who want a meaningful, tasty, and culturally immersive activity, this tour hits the mark perfectly.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy culinary activities, vintage atmospheres, and authentic local craftsmanship. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable cultural treat will find plenty to love here. And with a reasonable price point considering the skill level and homemade treats involved, it offers more than just a sweet diversion — it’s a genuine taste of Italy’s beloved dessert culture.

Key Points

Authentic Italian craftsmanship: You’ll learn to make artisanal ice cream and organic cones from scratch, gaining skills you can replicate at home.
Vintage atmosphere: The retro decor and 60s music create a nostalgic setting that enhances the experience.
Expert guidance: Valentino’s knowledge and friendly attitude make the lessons engaging and accessible.
Tastings included: All the ice cream, cones, and brioche you make are yours to enjoy during the session.
Recipe sharing: You’ll receive all the recipes, making it easy to continue your ice cream adventures at home.
Authentic reviews: Guests consistently praise the experience, highlighting Valentino’s passion, the quality ingredients, and the fun atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting in the Vintage Cone Shop

Your journey begins in “Coneria Italiana,” a charming 60s-style ice cream shop located in the historic center of Lamezia Terme. As you step inside, the decor immediately sets a nostalgic tone — think pastel colors, vintage furnishings, and classic Italian tunes playing softly in the background. This isn’t just a practical lesson; it’s a chance to soak in a piece of Italy’s “Dolce Vita” era, which many reviewers note as a highlight.

Valentino greets you warmly and explains the plan for the next two hours. The group, typically private and intimate, is given aprons and a quick rundown of safety and hygiene. You’ll quickly realize this isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about understanding the art and tradition behind authentic gelato-making.

Making the Artisanal Ice Cream

The core of the session involves making artisanal gelato from scratch. You’ll learn about the ingredients — high-quality dairy, fresh fruit, and natural flavorings — and how to handle them properly. Valentino emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients, a point echoed in reviews where guests mention the “good quality” of everything used.

The process is hands-on: mixing, churning, and tasting as you go. Guests have raved about Valentino’s patience and clear instructions, with one reviewer noting, “He explained everything so well and made the process accessible for everyone, even complete beginners.” The focus is on non-machine components, which means you’re really getting a feel for the craft.

Creating Organic Cones and Brioche

A distinctive feature of this experience is learning to make organic cones and brioche, not just gelato. These are often overlooked in casual ice cream outings, but here, they’re integral. Guests enjoy filling their own cones with their freshly made ice cream, experiencing the pride of craft.

The walls of the shop and the music set a relaxed, joyful tone, making the process feel more like a celebration than a lesson. As one guest put it, “We loved making the cones, and the nostalgic 60s Italian music made it all the more special.”

Sampling and Sharing

The best part? At the end, you’ll sample all the products you’ve created — multiple flavors of ice cream, homemade cones, and brioche. Guests consistently praise the quality of the ingredients and the flavors. One reviewer happily states, “Everything was just delicious, and we didn’t want to leave.”

You’ll also receive the recipes, so you can continue your gelato-making at home, turning your kitchen into an Italian gelateria.

Ending Back at the Starting Point

The activity concludes right where it began, in the vintage shop, but the memories and skills stay with you. Valentino ensures you leave feeling empowered to replicate the process, and many guests say they appreciated the personalized attention and expert guidance.

Pricing and Value

At $62.63 per person, this experience offers excellent value for a two-hour, hands-on workshop led by a passionate guide. When you consider the culinary skills gained, the tastings, and the souvenir recipes, it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a genuine Italian experience.

Compared to just eating ice cream, this is a much richer activity that leaves you with new skills and delicious memories. Many reviews highlight Valentino’s warmth and expertise as adding significant value that justifies the price.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Check availability ahead of time, as the sessions run at specific times.
• The tour is suitable for most ages, but children under 3 or over 95 may not be comfortable participating.
• Dress comfortably and be prepared to get a little messy — aprons are provided, but you might want to wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit stained.
• Bring your enthusiasm and curiosity — Valentino loves sharing his passion, and guests often leave inspired.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you love culinary experiences that are interactive and authentic, this tour will delight. It’s perfect for families with older kids, couples looking for a romantic yet playful outing, or solo travelers eager to learn a new skill.

Those with an interest in vintage ambiance and Italian culture will especially appreciate the nostalgic setting. It’s also ideal for anyone wanting a personal, hands-on taste of Italy’s famous gelato—a delicious souvenir in itself.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, but children under 3 years old might not participate fully. It’s mainly geared towards older kids and adults who can handle the activity.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, typically from 10 am to 12 pm, but check availability as times may vary.

What is included in the price?
The lesson, aprons, all ingredients, tastings of the products made, and the recipes to take home.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is it a private group?
Yes, the experience is organized for private groups, ensuring personalized attention.

Do I need prior experience?
No, Valentino’s guidance makes it accessible for everyone, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook.

What language is the tour conducted in?
English is the primary language, with clear explanations from the guide.

Will I learn to make the ice cream from a machine?
No, the focus is on non-machine components, emphasizing traditional techniques.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for a hands-on activity — aprons are provided.

Can I buy the ingredients and make this at home later?
You’ll receive the recipes to try making your ice cream again, but ingredients can vary outside Italy.

This Ice Cream Laboratory in Lamezia Terme offers more than just a sweet treat — it’s a chance to learn, create, and enjoy authentic Italian gelato in a nostalgic setting. Valentino’s expertise and friendly approach make this experience both educational and fun, making it a memorable highlight for food lovers and culture seekers alike. Whether you’re a family wanting a fun activity, a couple looking for a romantic break, or a solo traveler eager to pick up a tasty new skill, this tour fits nicely into any Calabria itinerary.

The combination of high-quality ingredients, expert guidance, and vintage charm creates an activity that’s both meaningful and delicious. If you’re craving a genuine taste of Italy’s culinary heritage, this is one experience you won’t want to miss.

Note: For more unique experiences in Calabria, explore other local activities such as the Calabria 3-day Bonsai Workshop or buggy tours available on GetYourGuide.