Agriturismos or farm stays are a popular way to experience the beauty and culture of Tuscany while also enjoying the peace and tranquility of the countryside. Many of these properties offer comfortable accommodations, farm-to-table cuisine, and a chance to experience farm life up close. Here are some notable agriturismos in Tuscany that come highly recommended:
Fattoria Barbialla Nuova: This working organic farm is located near the town of Volterra and offers a range of accommodations, from apartments to tents. Guests can participate in farm activities such as milking cows, collecting eggs, and harvesting vegetables, as well as enjoy the farm's swimming pool and sauna.
Agriturismo Il Rigo: This charming farm stay is located in the Val d'Orcia region of Tuscany and offers comfortable rooms and apartments, as well as a swimming pool, gardens, and a restaurant that serves traditional Tuscan cuisine. The farm also produces its own olive oil and wine.
Podere Spedalone: This historic farm is located near the town of Pienza and offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a swimming pool, gardens, and a restaurant that serves organic farm-to-table cuisine. The farm also produces its own wine and olive oil, and guests can participate in cooking classes and wine tastings.
Fattoria Poggio Alloro: This family-run farm is located near the town of San Gimignano and offers comfortable apartments, as well as a swimming pool, gardens, and a restaurant that serves traditional Tuscan cuisine. The farm also produces its own wine and olive oil, and guests can participate in cooking classes and wine tastings.
Agriturismo Le Caggiole: This charming farm stay is located near the town of Montepulciano and offers comfortable rooms and apartments, as well as a swimming pool and gardens. The farm also produces its own wine and olive oil, and guests can participate in wine tastings and cooking classes.
These are just a few examples of the many agriturismos and farm stays available in Tuscany. There are many other properties throughout the region that offer comfortable accommodations, delicious cuisine, and a chance to experience the beauty and culture of Tuscany up close.
When choosing an agriturismo, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you have the best experience possible. Here are some tips:
Location: Consider the location of the agriturismo and how it fits into your travel plans. Do you want to be close to a certain town or attraction, or are you looking for a more secluded retreat in the countryside?
Facilities: Look at the facilities and amenities offered by the agriturismo. Do they have a swimming pool or other recreational activities? Is there a restaurant on site, or will you need to travel for meals?
Accommodations: Consider the type of accommodation offered by the agriturismo. Do they have rooms, apartments, or cottages? Are they comfortable and well-maintained?
Activities: Check if the agriturismo offers any activities or experiences, such as cooking classes, wine tastings, or farm tours. These can add to the overall experience and give you a deeper understanding of the local culture.
Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of their experiences and satisfaction levels. This can give you a good indication of what to expect from the agriturismo.
To get the best experience from your agriturismo stay, here are some tips:
Plan ahead: Make reservations well in advance to ensure that you get the accommodations and activities you want.
Embrace the experience: Remember that an agriturismo is a working farm, so expect to see animals, tractors, and other farm-related activities. Embrace the opportunity to learn about farm life and the local culture.
Try the local cuisine: Many agriturismos serve traditional Tuscan cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try the local specialties and take advantage of any cooking classes or demonstrations offered.
Explore the area: Take time to explore the surrounding area and nearby towns. Rent a car or bike and go for a scenic drive or bike ride through the countryside.
Connect with the hosts: Many agriturismos are family-run businesses, and the hosts can offer valuable insights and tips for exploring the area. Take the time to connect with them and learn about their way of life.