Pizza and Outdoor Skills Program at Abbey Gardens
- Abbey Gardens
- Apr 22
- 3 min read
Are you ready for an adventure that blends culinary creativity with vital outdoor skills? The Pizza and Outdoor Skills Program at Abbey Gardens promises a unique experience. Participants will unleash their inner chefs by making delicious pizzas, all while learning how to navigate the beautiful outdoors. Set against the stunning backdrop of Abbey Gardens, this program allows attendees to enjoy nature while acquiring valuable cooking and navigation skills.
Designed for up to 20 participants, this program offers a hands-on, intimate environment where everyone can engage deeply with the activities. Priced between $35.00 and $37.00 per participant (2024 rates), this memorable day combines fun and education, making it a perfect fit for those interested in sustainable practices and nature exploration.
Morning: Pizza-Making Workshop
The day kicks off at 10:00 AM with a warm welcome at the Food Hub, where participants embark on their culinary adventure.
From 10:00 to 10:45 AM, participants dive into sauce preparation. Led by the Hub Kitchen Lead, they will create a seasonal sauce, such as wild leek pesto or a fresh tomato sauce. This session is not just about cooking; it also sparks discussions on the importance of ethical food sourcing and sustainability in our selections. A 2021 study indicated that up to 39% of consumers prefer local ingredients, and this workshop cultivates that appreciation.
Next, from 10:45 AM to 12:00 PM, the program transitions to the art of pizza-making. Guided by the talented staff of Into the Blue Wood Fired Pizza, everyone will learn the techniques for stretching and rolling their own pizza crusts. Participants choose from a variety of toppings, including freshly made pesto, locally sourced cheese, and cherry tomatoes. The grand finale is the moment when they see their pizzas bake in a wood-fired oven and then savor their creations over a well-deserved lunch together.
Lunch is set from 12:00 to 12:30 PM on the porch. Participants will enjoy their personal pizzas alongside a giant chocolate chip cookie and refreshing apple cider made right in the kitchen.
Afternoon: Outdoor Navigation Skills
After lunch, the focus shifts to essential outdoor navigation skills from 12:30 to 3:30 PM, led by expert Rick Whitteker. This segment aims to arm participants with abilities for confidently exploring the great outdoors.
The session starts with learning the basics of using a compass. Next, participants engage in a photo orienteering game, where they use compass bearings to locate various points throughout Abbey Gardens. This interactive challenge emphasizes navigation skills while enhancing teamwork. Did you know that nearly 70% of outdoor enthusiasts feel more confident in their abilities after participating in similar activities?
To further deepen their understanding, participants will also attempt a “blind walk,” which sharpens their accuracy in using a compass in real-world situations.
At the end of the navigation segment, attendees can choose a final activity to put their new skills to the test. They can either embark on a Compass Challenge Course, rigorously evaluating their navigation proficiency, or join a Spring Nature Hike, practicing map reading while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Abbey Gardens.
Additional Notes for Participants
Before signing up, remember to bring water and an afternoon snack to keep up your energy for the exciting day ahead.
Adult leaders and supervisors can join for free, although they'll need to cover the costs of ingredients used during the pizza-making workshop. This added benefit makes the program not just affordable but also accessible for families and groups seeking a fun outing.
The Pizza and Outdoor Skills Program at Abbey Gardens offers a fantastic opportunity to blend creativity with essential outdoor skills. The program fosters teamwork, enhances cooking abilities, and promotes a deeper understanding of sustainable food sourcing practices.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Whether you are an individual looking to boost your cooking and navigation skills or part of a group eager for an interactive outdoor experience, the Pizza and Outdoor Skills Program is sure to create unforgettable memories.
With a perfect mix of culinary artistry and outdoor adventure, participants will leave feeling accomplished and connected to nature. This program not only nurtures a passion for cooking and exploring but also underlines the significance of sustainability in our daily lives.
Be sure to secure your spot in this incredible 2024 program and prepare for a day overflowing with learning, fun, and of course, pizza!
Download Information Package Below
For more information or to book your class visit, contact our Education Coordinator at irene@abbeygardens.ca or call (705) 754-4769.
Abbey Gardens is a not-for-profit charity providing economic and recreational opportunities for our community. Everything we do on site helps further our mission to create opportunities to learn about living more sustainably. Located just 10 minutes from the village of Haliburton at 1012 Garden Gate Drive, Abbey Gardens welcomes visitors year-round.
