If you are planning a trip to Italy and looking for accommodation, chances are you will come across the word agritourism, a combination of the words for “agriculture” and “tourism” in Italian. An agritourism is a farm stay, or a farm resort style vacation.
In Italy, many agriturismos i (the plural of agriturismo) are generally suitable for the whole family, and many have farm animals that children can interact with. Others are more romantic and perfect for a couple’s getaway. Despite the picturesque name, many agritourism vacations are quite luxurious.
Historia of the Italian farmhouse
From the 1950s to the 1970s, traditional small-scale farming in Italy became less profitable and many farmers abandoned their farms to seek work in larger cities.
However, Italians place great value on their agricultural traditions, especially in the small-scale production of foods such as cheese, wine, and olives. By 1985, Italian lawmakers had created a legal definition for Agriturismo, which allowed, and in some cases provided funds for, the rehabilitation and restoration of many abandoned rural buildings and properties.
Some were converted into holiday homes, and others were converted into agritourism lodgings, similar to English or American bed and breakfasts. These farm stays enabled small farmers to increase farm income by hosting vacationers and giving them the unique first-hand experience of the rural way of life in Italy.
What you will eat on an agritourism vacation
An Italian agritourism generally serves guests food that was prepared from raw materials produced on the farm or from other local merchants. Some will allow guests to participate in activities around the farm, such as picking the vegetables or milking the cows.
Despite the rural nature of the accommodation, one might expect a rustic experience; although many farmhouses are high-end and have amenities such as swimming pools. Generally speaking, accommodations can range from simple rooms with rustic furnishings and shared bathrooms to luxury suites or apartments with hot tubs and other high-end perks.
Agritourism and the Italian economy
The agritourism bid by the Italian government proved a boon for rural farmers who could no longer solely depend on their farm production for income. At least one million tourists visit Italy annually to enjoy the scenic landscape in agritourism accommodations.
Although the rural population in Italy has declined since the end of World War II, the agritourism sector has breathed new life into some areas of the country where there were few other options for the new industry.
Types of agritourism
Agritourism is so popular that there are even subcategories of agritourism accommodation. For those looking for an eco-friendly vacation, many farms offer ecotourism alternatives with total immersion in nature. Tourists looking for a bit of pampering can opt for a wellness agritourism experience on a farm offering spa services and treatments.
Would you rather be active on your vacation? You can choose agritourism accommodation that includes horse riding, climbing, swimming and other sports and activities. And if you love food (and who doesn’t want to try as much authentic Italian food as possible!), Choose a gastronomic agritourism with food tastings and themed tours around the cuisine of the area you are visiting. .
How to select an agriturismo in Italy
If you are considering agritourism or a farm stay, decide what kind of experience you want. An idyllic country retreat or a hands-on experience of Italian farm life? You will find agritourism listings (sometimes they refer to themselves in English as country houses or holiday homes) on most of the major accommodation booking sites, as well as on the Agriturismo.it website. Wherever you look, be sure to read reviews, study photos, and make sure the agritourism meets your needs. Also consider which cities or towns are nearby: will you want to explore the surroundings or will you be content to stay on the farm and enjoy a low-key stay?
Whichever agritourism you choose, you are sure to experience an authentic slice of Italian culture and rural life that you won’t find in a hotel!
Article expanded and updated by Elizabeth Heath
