Wherever we travel, we are mostly aware of the many types of accommodation on offer. The choice is varied including hotels, motels, B&Bs, guesthouses and monasteries. Sometimes we chose to rent an apartment or house, particularly if we plan to stay in the one area for an extended period of time.
Another wonderful option for accommodation in Italy is to stay in an Agriturismo. Also known as: farm-house accommodation, farm stays, farm holidays, rural retreats
Agriturismo – a combination of the words for “agriculture” and “tourism” in Italian – is a style of vacationing in farm-house resorts codified into Italian law in 1985. These agritourismi allow the small farmer to augment the income from the farm, and for vacationers to sample the bounty of a rural life in Italy. Often they have their own vineyards so the wine you may enjoy with your meals is also locally produced.
Agriturismo, farm-house holiday accommodations, can be found in many parts of Italy and are popular with those travelling by car. Agriturismo is a great lodging option for families or groups of friends traveling together and accommodations can range from rustic to luxurious. Most farm houses offer bed and breakfast and some have a swimming pool, restaurant, cooking classes, or other special ammenities.
Agriturismi (plural) are not usually in the centre of town but are found out in the countryside on their own parcels of land. Each one that I have stayed in we needed a car to get to.
Agriturismi (plural) are also a popular place for Sunday lunch. They are a great little getaway for families and friends. It is a wonderful way to taste local foods which are prepared from home-grown produce on the farm or at least locally. Eating at an agriturismo is also a great way to meet up with people away from the busy restaurants and cafes in the cities or towns.
Each time I have stayed in the village of Pievebovigliana we have enjoyed lunch and dinner at the fabulous agriturismo Roccamaia. The welcome we receive when we arrive is like we are coming home. The owner and his wife make the choices for our dishes which keep coming for hours. Each course is washed down with a locally produced delicious wine. At this agriturismo, it is not unusual for the staff including the chef to join in for a song or two. A mid day meal at this or probably any agriturismo is usually a 4 or more hour gustation. And, don’t be surprised if you are offered a small glass of homemade grappa or limoncello before you leave the establishment. And the nicest surprise at the end of the meal is the bill, it is usually very good value.
Our experience with staying at an Agriturismo has always been very enjoyable. The evening meal and breakfast is often a family type affair, other guests and sometimes the family of the owners have joined us.
I initially purchased a book from a tabacchi on Agriturismo. This book listed hundreds of agriturismi around Italy. You can also find them online, just google – Agriturismo.
I just loved Tenuta La Boriano it was the most beautiful agriturismo for so many reasons. The vineyard the views and our wonderful hosts.
Well you know why I loved it so much as you were there my bestest bridesmaid.xxx
I smile as I read your comment. That was one of my most special times in Italy. And yes it is such a gorgeous Agriturismo xxx On 18/05/2015 10:13 AM, “Travelling Italy with Lyn” wrote:
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Thanks for sharing your experience with agriturismo.
Thanks Linda. It is good to know about these
Thank you for the valuable information:-) Really enjoyed the blog. Xx
Thanks Leah xx
I got married in one – Pian do Fiume in Bagni di Lucca and we have stayed on so many more in and around Tuscany. Love them!
My girlfriend did also near Firenze It was fabulous. Thanks for stopping by
I most agree that these are the best places to stay for experiencing genuine Italian hospitality. Very nice post Lyn.
They are a complete experience Thanks Susan
That sounds lovely, and so friendly. A great way to really enjoy the countryside and meet the people who live there.Kay
It definitely is Kay
Sounds very convivial. Great way to meet the locals and taste the flavour of Italy.
It really is Gail. I have stayed in several and they have all been enjoyable
I recently stayed in an agriturismo in Sicily and agree with everything you mentioned Lyn.As you say,because it is in the country,you do need a car,but it is so peaceful and lovely to escape from the cities.And yes, the food is fresh and tasty!
It is a great experience Mary. Happy that you have enjoyed it
Hi Lyn the info you share on your blog puts wonderful ideas and plans into our minds.
Thank you so much for your time as without your blogs it would be up to a travel agent to advise and there is no way they could save the money that your blogs do but also let us experience the real country. Really look forward to experiencing these beautiful places. Love Di x
Thanks Di for your generous comment. It is so easy for me to write about these places as I love to share the information with anyone who is interested. Lovely to hear from you xx
I didn’t know you could have Sunday lunch at agriturismi. Thanks for the tip. I’ll look out for it at our local agriturismi near Corinaldo in Le Marche.
It is a wonderful way to spend a Sunday
Ps. I do not know if all Agriturismo offer Sunday lunch but I have been to many
This is what is special about Italy, Lyn. You capture it the best!
Wow that is a fabulous comment. Thank you
:) Prego. Hope you are enjoying your holiday!
Thanks Ishita
I am so envious when people go on an Agriturismo vacation. I am enjoying your travels. It is the driving part that keeps me from not doing it. I know I’m a good driver but having experienced Italian drivers in Rome, I don’t think I can drive anywhere else in Italy :-(
Jane, I actually enjoy driving in Italy but I avoid big cities. I mostly visit and stay in regional areas now days so driving is OK. I also take lots of trains. But, you do need a car to stay in Agriturismo