Fall Edition
Fall Edition
Day 1: Arrival and Immersing in History
• Evening: The first evening invites you to indulge in a chef-prepared dinner at the Baglio, where the estate’s talented chefs create a meal showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a selection of traditional Sicilian dishes, thoughtfully prepared using local produce. Dine in the historic courtyard or under the stars, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the estate.
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Day 2: Olive Oil Production Tour: A Day in the Life of Olive Harvesting and Oil Making
– Breakfast provided at the Baglio.
• Morning: Begin the day immersed in the olive groves, surrounded by rows of trees stretching across the landscape. The morning will focus on the process of olive harvesting, starting with an introduction to the different types of olive trees and the significance of factors such as soil quality, climate, and the age of the trees. Guests will engage in traditional hand-picking, gently selecting the ripest olives from the branches. The timing and care taken during the harvest will be emphasized, as it plays a crucial role in determining the quality of the oil.
– A lunch break follows, featuring a tasting of fresh olives and local delicacies under the shade of the trees
• Afternoon: The afternoon will be spent at the olive mill, where harvested olives are processed into oil. The visit will provide a step-by-step look at the transformation, beginning with the cleaning of the olives, followed by the crushing, pressing, and separation of oil from the pulp. The cold-pressing technique, vital for producing high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, will be demonstrated, showing how temperature control and timing are key to preserving flavor and nutrients. The tour of the mill will highlight both traditional stone presses, which are still in use, and modern machinery, offering insight into how old and new methods coexist in production. The experience concludes with a tasting session, where participants can sample various olive oils, learning to distinguish differences in taste, aroma, and texture. This final touch provides a deeper understanding of what makes a great olive oil and the intricate process behind it, offering a rich, sensory experience of the olive oil-making journey.
• Evening: As the day ends and the sun sets over the olive groves, you’ll enjoy a relaxing dinner prepared by our chef. Using fresh, local ingredients, each dish will highlight the olive oil you’ve experienced throughout the day—making it a perfect end to the journey.
Day 3: Artisan Cheese and the Timeless Charm of Erice
• Morning: Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Sicilian tradition with Margherita Aleo, a passionate and knowledgeable cheesemaker, as she takes you through the timeless process of crafting artisanal cheese. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the sight of her goats and sheep grazing in the sun-drenched pastures. Here, amidst the serene landscapes, the story of cheese-making begins. Margherita invites you to witness the first crucial step—milking the animals. With gentle hands and deep respect for her animals, she explains how the quality of the milk is key to creating rich, flavorful cheese. As the fresh milk is collected, you’ll hear Margherita’s stories about her family’s tradition and commitment to sustainable farming practices, ensuring that each drop reflects the essence of the land. Next, you’ll step into the cheesemaking area, where the transformation from milk to cheese happens. Margherita will explain the delicate process of curdling, shaping, and aging, offering insights into the centuries-old methods that have been passed down through generations. The tour culminates with a tasting of the farm’s finest cheeses, each bite bursting with the flavors of the island.
– Lunch at guest’s leisure.
• Afternoon: Next, you’ll travel to Erice, a mystical medieval hilltop town perched above Trapani. Erice’s narrow cobblestone streets are steeped in history, with highlights such as the impressive Venus Castle, offering breathtaking views of the Trapani coastline. As you explore the town’s historic architecture and charming corners, you’ll discover its hidden treasures, from ancient churches to traditional Sicilian sweet shops.
• Evening: After your day of exploration, return to Baglio Fontanasalsa for another delightful chef-prepared dinner. Savor a selection of local specialties, carefully paired with regional wines, as you unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences.
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Day 4: Ruby Red Gems in the Heart of the Orchard and Wines in Marsala.
– Breakfast provided at the Baglio.
• Morning: As the soft morning light filters through the trees, you’re warmly greeted by Salvatore, a passionate farmer who has spent years perfecting the art of pomegranate cultivation. Your journey begins with a leisurely stroll through his orchard, where Salvatore shares the stories of his land and his dedication to nurturing each tree with care. You’ll discover the secrets behind growing these ruby-red gems, from planting to pruning, all while soaking in the peaceful Mediterranean surroundings. Then, the harvest begins. Under Salvatore’s guidance, you’ll pick the ripest pomegranates straight from the trees, savoring the quiet joy of being immersed in nature—the gentle rustling of leaves, the sun on your skin, and the weight of the fruit in your hands. The experience culminates with a hands-on juicing session, where you’ll press your freshly picked pomegranates and taste the vibrant juice. As you sip, gazing over the orchard, you’ll feel a deep connection to the land and the simple, sweet rhythms of life on the farm.
• Late Morning: Your next stop is Marsala, a city famed for its fortified wine and historic charm. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the old town, visiting landmarks such as Piazza della Repubblica and Porta Garibaldi, while soaking in the lively yet timeless atmosphere of this coastal city.
– Lunch at guest’s leisure.
• Afternoon: Join Dario Foderà, the passionate owner of Cantine Foderà, for an unforgettable wine tour through his family’s historic vineyards in Marsala. As a fifth-generation winemaker, Dario’s deep connection to his land and craft shines through in every bottle he produces. During the tour, you’ll walk through the picturesque vineyards, where Dario will share insights into the unique terroir of the region, from its sun-drenched soils to the ancient winemaking traditions that have shaped the winery. Learn about the grape varieties that thrive here—like Grillo, Nero d’Avola, and, of course, Marsala—and how the climate and history of Sicily infuse every sip. The highlight of the experience is a guided tasting of six of Dario’s exceptional wines. Each pour is perfectly paired with local Sicilian delicacies, allowing you to taste the harmonious balance between the rich flavors of the wines and the island’s culinary treasures. From the bold, expressive reds to the delicate whites and fortified Marsala, this tour offers a complete sensory immersion into Sicily’s winemaking heritage.
• Evening: Return to Baglio Fontanasalsa for an exquisite chef-prepared dinner. Indulge in a carefully crafted menu that highlights the estate’s finest produce and the culinary traditions of Sicily. Dine in the cozy atmosphere of the Baglio’s dining area or outside, surrounded by the olive groves.
Day 5: Salt Pans of Nubia, Relax & Busiate Cooking Class
– Breakfast provided at the Baglio.
• Morning: Head to Nubia, to the Saline Culcasi, a picturesque stretch of ancient salt pans that have been producing sea salt for centuries. Walk among the windmills and salt mounds, learning about the traditional harvesting methods that have shaped this landscape, and enjoy a tranquil moment as the setting sun casts golden light over the water.
– Lunch at guest’s leisure.
• Afternoon: After a morning of exploration, return to the baglio. Enjoy some time unwinding in the courtyard or garden, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the countryside. As the afternoon unfolds, gather in the kitchen for a hands-on cooking class to master the art of making busiate, the local, spiral-shaped pasta. You’ll begin by mixing and kneading the dough, then hand-roll and twist the pasta into its iconic shape. While the dough rests, prepare a classic pesto alla trapanese, a flavorful Sicilian sauce of tomatoes, almonds, garlic, and basil. • Evening: Enjoy the dinner you’ve created, dining on your freshly made busiate with pesto, all paired with local wine. The meal offers the perfect blend of your culinary efforts and the flavors of Sicily, a relaxed and delicious conclusion to the day.
Day 6: Exploring Trapani and the Ancient Temple of Segesta
– Breakfast provided at the Baglio.
• Morning: Spend the morning discovering the historic heart of Trapani, where you’ll explore landmarks such as the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Torre di Ligny, a historic watchtower offering panoramic views of the sea. Meander through the old town’s bustling streets, stopping by local shops for souvenirs or treats.
– Lunch at guest’s leisure.
Enjoy seafood dishes that highlight the bounty of Sicily’s waters.
• Afternoon: Your next stop is the magnificent Temple of Segesta, an ancient Doric temple surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes. Walk among the temple’s majestic columns and explore the nearby amphitheater, imagining the ancient rituals and performances that once took place there.
• Evening: After a day of exploration, return to the Baglio for a chef-prepared dinner. Enjoy another evening of exquisite cuisine, with dishes that showcase the flavors and traditions of the Trapani region, all made with fresh, local ingredients.
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Day 7: Yoga Among the Olive Trees & a Final Sicilian Feast
– Breakfast provided at the Baglio.
• Morning: Begin your day with a yoga session on the estate, surrounded by nature and the tranquil beauty of the Baglio. With each breath, you’ll feel more connected to the peaceful rhythms of the land, leaving you refreshed and centered.
• Lunch time: Enjoy a special lunch in the olive fields, an alfresco feast set among the estate’s ancient trees. With dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients, this is the perfect way to celebrate the essence of Sicilian cuisine in a serene, natural setting.
• Evening: Spend your final evening at the Baglio with a farewell chef-prepared dinner, enjoying one last sumptuous meal as you reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past week.
Day 8: Departure and Fond Farewells
After a leisurely breakfast, it’s time to check out of Baglio Fontanasalsa and say goodbye to the enchanting estate that has offered you an unforgettable journey through the heart of Sicilian tradition.
Experience includes
7 nights at the farmhouse
7 extraordinary breakfast
2 olives grove lunches
7 exclusive chef prepared dinners
Personal garden boots and cooking apron
Unique experiences access with the farmers
Private cooking class
Local bilingual guide
Wi-Fi
Not included
- Tips for the staff
- Pre and post travel planning expenses
- Arrival lunch and 4 tour day lunches
- Roundtrip airfare
- Ground transportation service outside the tours
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Enquire
Request availability and additional information for this experience