Discovering Authentic Abruzzo: Grape Harvest with Pressing and a Picnic Among Olive Trees and Vineyards
Imagine stepping into a scene straight out of a rustic Italian postcard — vineyards stretching into the horizon, olive trees providing dappled shade, and a gentle breeze carrying the aroma of ripe grapes. That’s exactly what awaits you in Santa Maria Imbaro, a charming corner of Abruzzo, where you can spend about three hours engaged in a traditional grape harvest, followed by pressing your own grapes with your feet, and relaxing with a picnic under the open sky. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this experience offers a deep dive into local customs and flavors, all wrapped in a laid-back, convivial atmosphere.
What makes this tour particularly appealing are the hands-on harvesting activities and the live folk music that accompanies the entire experience. We love how it puts you right in the middle of local tradition, giving you a tangible connection to the land and its produce. The idyllic setting among olive groves and vineyards isn’t just scenic — it’s a place to slow down, taste genuine products, and enjoy a sense of community.
One potential consideration is that this activity is quite outdoor-focused, so if you’re expecting a polished wine tasting or a structured tour, this might feel more rustic and informal. Still, for those craving authenticity and a break from typical tourist fare, this experience hits the mark. It suits travelers who appreciate hands-on activities, local gastronomy, and scenic outdoor environments, especially those eager to see the process behind their favorite wines and foods.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Participate directly in grape harvesting and foot pressing, connecting you to traditional Italian winemaking.
- Scenic Setting: Enjoy the outdoors among olive trees and vineyards, perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
- Gourmet Picnic: Savor a thoughtfully curated picnic box with local delicacies, wine or water, and a sweet finish.
- Live Music: Enjoy the lively atmosphere created by folk music, adding to the sense of occasion.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with a special menu for kids and a relaxed pace.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty, with the option to reserve without immediate payment.
An In-Depth Look at the Santa Maria Imbaro Experience
How the Tour Unfolds
The experience begins with a warm welcome from your hosts, who provide a brief introduction to what you’ll do. The setting is immediately inviting — rolling vineyards and olive groves where you can breathe in the fresh, natural air. Then, you’re encouraged to participate in harvesting grapes directly from the vines. This is a real hands-on activity, where you can feel the textures of the grapes, learn about their ripening, and witness the harvest season firsthand.
Following the harvest, it’s time for the traditional foot pressing. Inside large vats, you’ll step into the grapes, crushing them with your feet — a fun, messy, and surprisingly effective way to extract juice. The live folk music, often played during this part, lends a cheerful, convivial vibe that makes the activity more memorable. Several reviews note that the guides are “knowledgeable” and “friendly,” making the experience both educational and relaxed.
What You Will Eat and Drink
A highlight of this tour is the picnic. Each person receives a box filled with local goodies, including an agricultural appetizer, a traditional dish, a rich tomato salad, a typical dessert, and fresh fruit. The picnic also includes bread and a choice of a glass of wine or water. This isn’t just a sandwich on a paper plate — the food emphasizes regional flavors and quality ingredients.
For families, there’s a special Menu Bimbo featuring pasta with tomato sauce, schnitzel, fries, a sweet dessert, and water. Many travelers mention how much they appreciated the generous portions and authentic flavors. The wine, offered at cellar prices for those interested in buying more, is considered high quality and well-suited to the local environment.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Setting and Atmosphere
The outdoor setting is what truly elevates this tour. Sitting among olive trees and vineyards at sunset or moonlight creates a magical, almost timeless scene. The live folk music adds a lively, authentic touch that makes you feel like part of a local celebration rather than a tourist spectacle. As one reviewer said, “It’s a beautiful, relaxing experience — the perfect break from busy travel days.”
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers who are curious about local food traditions, enjoy hands-on activities, and appreciate scenic, rural environments. It’s a family-friendly activity, suitable for those of all ages, especially if you want a relaxed, informal outing that emphasizes genuine regional culture. If you’re looking for a polished wine tasting or a structured winery tour, you might find this too rustic, but for those wanting to connect with the land and its traditions, it’s spot on.
Practical Details and Value
The tour lasts about three hours and costs a reasonable amount considering the personalized, intimate nature of the experience. It includes all activities, the picnic, and the live music, making it a good value for anyone interested in authentic local immersion. The tours are available in multiple languages — Italian, English, and Spanish — and are operated as private groups, enhancing the feeling of exclusivity and personal attention.
You’re encouraged to wear comfortable clothes, suitable for outdoor activity. Since the experience involves physical activity, it’s best to avoid overly fancy or restrictive clothing.
Additional Extras
On-site, you can purchase local wines, sliced meats, and other products at cellar prices — a nice opportunity to bring home a taste of Abruzzo. The experience also offers the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty, providing peace of mind for spontaneous travelers or those with unpredictable schedules.
Final Thoughts
This tour in Santa Maria Imbaro offers a rare chance to get one’s hands dirty, learn about traditional winemaking, and relax in a stunning rural setting. It’s a genuine, heartfelt experience that emphasizes local flavors, community, and connection to nature. The combination of active participation, scenic beauty, and lively music makes it a memorable outing that captures the essence of Abruzzo’s rural charm.
For those who enjoy interactive, authentic experiences and want to see how Italy’s countryside produces its famous wines, this is an ideal choice. It suits travelers looking for a relaxed, family-friendly activity that’s more about memories and flavors than formal tasting rooms or guided lectures. If you’re seeking a meaningful taste of Italy’s countryside with a dash of fun, this tour delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly. Kids up to 12 years old have a special menu and can participate in the harvesting and foot pressing activities. Many families find it both fun and educational for children.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable outing without a big time commitment.
What is included in the picnic?
Each person gets a box with an agricultural appetizer, traditional dish, tomato salad, dessert, fresh fruit, bread, and a choice of wine or water. Kids have a separate menu with pasta, schnitzel, fries, and dessert.
Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase wine at cellar prices, perfect for bringing home a souvenir or gift.
Are gluten-free or dietary restrictions accommodated?
The provided menus are standard, but it’s best to inquire in advance if you have specific dietary needs.
Is transportation provided?
The tour info does not specify transportation; it’s likely an outdoor activity at the vineyard site itself. Confirm with the provider if transportation is needed.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, as you will be walking and participating in harvest and pressing.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.
Is the experience offered in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Italian, English, and Spanish, ensuring good communication for most travelers.
In essence, this tour in Santa Maria Imbaro offers a genuine slice of rural Italy — lively, flavorful, and fun. For those eager to step beyond typical sightseeing and get a taste of local traditions, it’s an experience worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here: