Agriturismo takes off in Sicily
Posted on Friday 22 June 2012
in Italy
Ecotourism has become one of the fastest growing trends in travel as more vacationers opt for environmentally friendly holidays abroad. In Sicily, agritourism - literally a combination of agriculture and tourism - has been taking off in recent years, encouraging luxury travel holidaymakers to get their hands dirty and work for their evening meals.
Living like a farmer at Duca di Castelmonte
Foodies will be in heaven at Duca di Castelmonte, where they can not only pick their own vegetables and herbs, but learn how to cook delectable Sicilian meals from their host family. The farmstead only has 12 individual apartments, making the agriturismo experience intimate and educational.
Situated in the midst of the hills of Trapani, Sicily, this 19th-century farm has remained in the Curatolos family for generations. The beautiful grounds are brimming with citrus and olive groves, while cattle roam freely throughout the grounds.
Harvest dinner at Tarantola
Whether travellers want to spend their vacation touring vineyards or picking grapes and olives, Tarantola provides a taste of both sides of the fence. Perfect as an alternative to typical honeymoon travel, this farmstead is charmingly romantic. Nestled in the midst of the Alcamo wine region, guests can choose from four different varieties of grape: cabernet, syrah, chardonnay and Nero d'Avola.
This historic 19th-century complex houses a beautiful old bakery where workers still make fresh baguettes and rustic loaves. For a truly romantic evening, guests can steal away with a picnic blanket and basket prepared by the owners.
Wake up to fresh-squeezed orange juice at San Leonardello
Located in eastern Sicily, San Leonardello features a historic biological citrus garden, and guests have the option to stay in restored rustic homesteads during their holiday. From their rooms, guests can spoil themselves with panoramic views of Mount Etna, Italy's most active volcano, Taormina and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.
The owners prepare a delicious breakfast every morning made from the endless citrus groves surrounding the accommodations. With juicy kumquat and homemade orange marmalade, scones and croissants will taste like a slice of pure joy.
Honorary farmers can also enjoy their fill of delicious preserves made from lemons, limes and seasonal vegetables. Don't forget to grab a bottle of Limoncello liqueur, which is made right on the property.
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