Cultural, Patron Saint Celebrations & Grape Harvest Experience in Abruzzo

Your Italian adventure begins with a pick-up from Rome Fiumicino airport at 2:30 pm. From there, you'll journey to the ancient Roman town of Vasto, crossing the stunning Abruzzo mountains and taking in the breathtaking landscapes, hilltop villages, and castles. Upon arrival in Vasto, you'll check into the charming and family-run Hotel dei 7 (or similar) located in the historical downtown. After settling in, you'll meet your guide and learn more about the exciting week ahead. The day concludes with a group dinner at a traditional restaurant in the heart of Vasto.

Start your day with a leisurely traditional Italian breakfast at the hotel. Then, we'll take a walk to Vasto's vibrant market to pick up fresh, seasonal products. Next, we'll drive to the beautiful countryside of Vasto for an exclusive cooking class with Fabrizio's family. After a delicious lunch featuring the dishes we've prepared, we'll explore the historic center of Vasto, including the Loggia Amblingh, the medieval Castle, and Piazza Rossetti. We'll also meet local artisans before you enjoy some free time in the evening to explore the city's culinary scene on your own.

After breakfast, we'll explore the famous Trabocchi coast, starting with a short walk inside the beautiful Punta Aderci Nature Reserve. We'll then visit a trabocco, a unique fishing platform, where we'll learn about the history and techniques of local fishing. Weather permitting, we'll enjoy a fresh seafood lunch prepared by our hosts. In the afternoon, we'll visit the enchanting San Giovanni in Venere Abbey before returning to Vasto for a group dinner at a traditional restaurant.

After breakfast, we'll drive to an award-winning winery nestled between a marine park and the mountains. Here, we'll meet the winemakers, learn about Abruzzo wines, and even help with the grape harvest. We'll then enjoy a wine tasting and a traditional picnic lunch in the vineyards. The afternoon is yours to explore Vasto at your own pace. You could visit the city's museums and art galleries, do some shopping, or simply relax on the beach. In the evening, you're free to dine at one of the many local restaurants.

After breakfast, we'll head to a local farmhouse where you'll get a taste of authentic Italian farming. You'll have the opportunity to milk a sheep or a cow, learn how to make traditional bread and ricotta cheese, and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch with fresh vegetables from the garden. In the afternoon, we'll drive to the charming village of Roccascalegna, known for its stunning hilltop castle. After a day of exploration and culinary delights, you'll have the evening to enjoy Vasto's vibrant dining scene on your own.

After breakfast, we'll visit a family-owned olive grove where you'll learn about the production of Italy's 'liquid gold'. Next, we'll drive to the hilltop village of Lentella to visit Ettore's 'Art Farm'. Here, you'll have the opportunity to create your own postcard using natural colors from leaves and flowers. After an aperitif and traditional lunch with Ettore and his wife, you'll have some free time to relax or do some last-minute shopping. In the evening, we'll have a farewell party with Fabrizio's family, where you'll enjoy Abruzzo wines and food in a relaxed atmosphere.

After breakfast, we'll depart for Rome Fiumicino airport or your next destination. As we say 'arrivederci' to Italy, you'll take with you the unforgettable memories of a truly immersive cultural and culinary experience. Please ensure to book an afternoon flight due to the 3.5-hour drive from Vasto to Rome Fiumicino airport.