Picnic on the lawn -aromatic garden and winery

If you’re dreaming of spending a relaxed afternoon in Sicily, tasting local wines, and nibbling on regional delicacies amid stunning scenery, this picnic experience might just be what you’re after. Based on reviews and descriptions, it’s an opportunity to enjoy the countryside in an intimate, small-group setting, with plenty of chances to savor authentic Sicilian flavors and learn about local agriculture.

What really stands out for us are the combination of a walking tour through vineyards and olive groves, coupled with a laid-back picnic on a lush lawn, all served with local wines that capture the essence of the Mediterranean. Plus, the chance to explore an organic farm where they grow vegetables, citrus, and herbs adds a layer of freshness that’s hard to beat.

That said, keep in mind that the tour involves driving yourself to the farm—so if you’re not comfortable with self-driving or prefer a more guided approach, it’s something to consider. Also, this experience is ideal for those who appreciate a peaceful rural setting and love tasting regional foods and wines in a relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a lover of good food, or simply looking to soak in Sicily’s countryside away from busy city streets, this tour could be a lovely addition to your itinerary.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 15 people) ensures a personalized experience and more interaction with your guide.
• Includes a scenic walk through vineyards, olive groves, and aromatic plant gardens, providing genuine insight into local farming practices.
• Tasting at least five traditional Sicilian appetizers paired with regional wines offers a true taste of the area’s flavors.
• Drive-yourself setup gives you flexibility, but might require some planning if you’re not comfortable with self-driving.
• Perfect for lovers of relaxed, scenic outings who want to combine gentle walks, food, and wine in a beautiful setting.
• Great value at just over $50 per person, considering the combination of food, wine, and authentic experiences.

A Closer Look at What to Expect

This tour centers around a leisurely journey through a beautiful Sicilian farm, situated in a hillside landscape that once delighted Emperor Frederik II. As you arrive, you’ll immediately notice the welcoming atmosphere: lush greenery, the scent of aromatic herbs, and the chance to breathe in fresh country air. The farm extends over twelve hectares, sloping gently down to the sea, making it an ideal setting for a relaxed day of exploring.

The Walking Tour Through the Farm

Your guide will lead you on a scenic walk through the property, which features vineyards, olive groves, and an aromatic plant garden. This isn’t just a stroll; it’s an educational experience. You’ll hear about how the farm is run organically, and learn about the different stages of wine production as you explore the wine cellar. The cellar itself is a highlight, where you can get up close to wooden barrels and possibly taste wines right from the source.

Discovering the Olive Groves and Aromatic Garden

Next, you’ll wander among ancient olive trees, which are a staple of Sicilian agriculture, and admire the flowering arches and traditional farming tools on display. The aromatic plant garden is a sensory highlight, where you might help prepare a fragrant bouquet—an engaging way to connect with the local flora.

The Picnic on the Lawn

After the walk, it’s time to relax on a cozy lawn near the cellar. Here, a spread of five Sicilian appetizers will be laid out, featuring vegetables grown right on the farm, homemade bread drizzled with olive oil, organic honey, and citrus jellies. These simple yet flavorful bites showcase the farm’s produce and culinary traditions.

Wine Tasting and Local Flavors

The food is paired with both white and red wines, which are described as tasting of the warmth of the Mediterranean. The reviews echo this sentiment, with visitors mentioning how delicious the appetizers are and how well the wines complement the flavors.

What the Reviews Tell Us

One review from Etienne_H captures the essence perfectly: “Our host was lovely, welcoming us with a delicious glass of sparkling wine. The vineyards and olive groves are beautiful, and it was very interesting to hear about the different stages of the wine making process. Finally, the picnic was fantastic—every appetiser was delicious, and topped off by the beautiful setting.” That positive feedback points to a genuine, authentic experience with a knowledgeable host and a stunning setting.

Another reviewer highlighted the overall enjoyment: “Couldn’t be happier with this experience! The farm was beautiful, and the small group made it feel personal. The food and wine were top-notch, making it a special afternoon.”

Highlights Worth Noting

• Knowledgeable guides really enhance the experience, offering insights into local farming and wine-making.
• The scenic views of rolling hills and sea views make the walk a visual treat.
• The quality of the wine and appetizers is notably high, giving good value for the price.
• The small group setting allows for more interaction and a relaxed atmosphere.

Considerations

The tour involves driving yourself to the farm, which might be inconvenient if you’re relying on public transport or prefer guided transfers. Also, as it’s about 2.5 hours long, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a gentle pace and outdoor activities.

The Itinerary in Detail

The experience kicks off at the farm’s meeting point: Farm Augustali, Partinico. From there, you’ll start with a walk through the lush farmland, soaking in the sights and smells of Sicily’s countryside. The vineyards and olive groves are not just beautiful—they serve as real examples of the sustainable, organic farming practices that the farm promotes.

As you stroll, your guide will share stories about the history of the estate, including its connection to Emperor Frederik II, and explain the intricacies of wine production. The visit to the wine cellar provides an up-close view of the process, with the chance to taste wine from the barrels, adding a tactile dimension to your understanding.

Afterward, the tour moves to the aromatic plant garden, where herbs like basil, thyme, or lavender might be found—perfect for preparing your own aromatic bouquet. This hands-on activity adds a fun and fragrant element to the experience.

Finally, the picnic is set up on the lawn with a selection of regional appetizers. The emphasis on local, seasonal produce and homemade touches makes the meal feel authentic and satisfying. The wines, described as recalling all the warmth of the Mediterranean, complement the food perfectly.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $52 per person, this experience offers a good balance of food, drink, and learning. The small group size, personalized attention, and scenic setting make it a valuable option for those interested in authentic Sicilian rural life. We believe the quality of the food, wines, and guide’s knowledge justify the cost, especially if you’re looking for an experience that combines nature, culture, and gastronomy.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxed outdoor experiences and want a taste of Sicily’s agricultural traditions. It suits those interested in wine tasting, local cuisine, and scenic walks—but it’s not overly strenuous, so most people should find it comfortable. The intimate group size makes it suitable for couples, friends, or anyone who appreciates a more personal, immersive experience.

It’s especially good if you’re curious about organic farming, want to learn about Sicily’s citrus and olive production, or simply want a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots.

FAQ

Do I need to drive myself to the farm?
Yes, the tour starts at the farm’s location, and you’ll need to drive yourself there. The experience ends back at the same point, so plan accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is generally open to most travelers, and service animals are allowed. However, since it involves walking and outdoor activities, consider whether children are comfortable with that environment.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including walking, tasting, and relaxing on the lawn.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, which offers flexibility if your itinerary shifts.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the guided walk, visits to the vineyard and cellar, the aromatic garden, and a picnic with five appetizers and wines.

Is this experience good value?
Considering the personalized nature, quality of food and wine, and scenic setting, most travelers find it worth the price.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a laid-back, authentic taste of Sicily’s countryside, this Picnic on the Lawn at the Aromatic Garden and Winery offers a delightful blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll gain meaningful insights and enjoy a relaxed, memorable experience.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, good food, and wine, and want to see a slice of rural Sicilian life in a beautiful setting. While the self-driving requirement might not suit everyone, most will find the effort worthwhile for the charming scenery and genuine flavors. Whether you’re a wine lover or just want a peaceful escape, this tour offers a satisfying way to connect with Sicily’s rural soul.

Happy exploring!