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What began as a concept of quiet family-run farm stays in the Italian countryside has now blossomed into a worldwide movement bringing the experience of traditional life in rural areas to every type of traveler. Part working farms, part hotels, agriturismi have been rapidly expanding in popularity the past two decades as visitors prioritize authentic and sustainable experiences. Truly, there are farm holidays for every kind of wanderer, from the backpacker who wants to get their hands dirty volunteering to the honeymooners seeking an upmarket, serene holiday.
With organic farm-to-table food and activities like horseback riding, hiking, and natural wine tastings for guests to enjoy, there is a lot to look forward to when you visit any of these incredible agriturismi in Europe.
Italy: Borgo Santo Pietro
Italy is home to the most agriturismi, so it makes sense to start here with your search. As a working farm spread across 120 hectares in the Tuscan countryside, the idyllic Borgo Santo Pietro is a jewel of a property with an 800-year-old farmhouse featuring twenty well-appointed bedrooms. The menu of activities on offer here ensures there will never be a day when guests aren’t learning. In addition to being able to tour the organic farm, guests can book experiences like a hot air balloon ride, cooking classes at the Borgo Cooking School, or go on a truffle hunting excursion. There are two on-site restaurants, one of which earned two-Michelin-stars for its innovative seasonal cuisine featuring their own delicious wines, homemade olive oil, artisan cheeses, free range chickens and more. For some R&R, guests can head to the organic spa on-site, featuring Borgo’s own line of natural skincare, Seed to Skin, that has been developed in their state-of-the-art lab with ingredients like fresh sheep’s milk and raw honey from their apiary. Even if you aren’t staying at the property, you can still enjoy visiting the most scenic luxury agriturismo Italy has to offer by taking a cooking class or a wine-tasting course on the estate.
Spain: Atzaró, Ibiza
A dreamy place to relax and rejuvenate, Atzaró is a beloved five-star agriturismi nestled within sprawling orange groves in the heart of Ibiza. With thirteen hectares of enchanting grounds bursting with bougainvillea, it is an oasis of peace and tranquility for all who visit. After taking a dip in their 43-metre freshwater pool, you can savor the heavenly dishes at their farm-to-table restaurant featuring vegetables grown on-site in their garden. Whether you are staying for a week in one of their twenty-four luxurious bedrooms or attending an event at night, you are in for an authentic Ibizan experience at Atzaró.
France: Le Domaine Du Castellas
Life is slow at the Le Domaine Du Castellas, just as they wish it to be. Situated in the South of France, tucked into the valleys of the Grand Luberon, this one-of-a-kind agriturismi is a breathtaking paradise for travelers. At the center of the hamlet sits the original stone farmhouse, which was built in 1720 and has been lovingly taken care of over the years. With minimalist, yet comfortable decor, the property’s ten suites prove the beauty of simplicity. During waking hours, there are plenty of bucolic activities on offer, from wine tastings to fruit picking, croquet on the lawn, swimming, and seasonal cooking classes. As if all of this wasn’t enticing enough, the panoramic views of the sun setting from East to West every night is nothing short of soul-inspiring.
Portugal: Herdade dos Grous
There is a lot to learn at the Herdade dos Grous about traditional agricultural practices and cultivation in the Alentejo region of Portugal. This working farm truly does a bit of everything, from animal husbandry to organic farming. Finding yourself in the center of it all, you’ll have the opportunity to ride horses through the stunning landscape, taste award-winning wine made from their delicious bold grape varietals like the ’Trincadeira’ and ’Arangonez,’ and savor the flavors of fresh oil pressed from their olive groves.
Greece: Eumelia
If you’re looking for an immersive, life-on-the-land experience, head to the Peloponnesian region of Laconia, Greece to the agriturismo known as Eumelia. This incredibly unique farm stay puts eco-technologies first, and as a result, they are the most environmentally friendly hotel and farm in the country. Adhering to principles of biodynamic farming and permaculture, they produce delicious organic vegetables, olive oil, and wine on-site. Guests are encouraged to participate in the production of everything, from the picking to the processing and cooking. For those looking for a little R&R while at Eumelia, don’t worry – there is also plenty of downtime for yoga classes and massages at your leisure.
Germany: ROSSO
An enchanting loft farmhouse with the slogan, “Der Hof der Möglichkeiten,” which means “A farm full of possibilities,” ROSSO is more than just your average farm stay. Located in the charming region of Bavaria, Germany, this agriturismo is structured to promote a sense of community with the other guests as well as a oneness with the stunning natural surrounding. From the design-forward, rustic decor to the Swiss pine sauna, meditation studio, and sun terrace, this beautiful property is a place of rest for weary wanderers. You’ll feel like you’re a world away as you go for hikes, take yoga classes, and perhaps even visit the famous Castle Neuschwanstein, which is less than an hour away.
United Kingdom: Guardswell Farm
With its lush setting and luxurious amenities, this 170-acre grassland family-run farm is a scenic countryside outpost in Perthshire, Scotland. Guardswell Farm dates back to the 17th century, and the estate includes a working farm with Hebridean sheep, Angora goats, and a regenerative, chemical-free market garden. It’s a peaceful place to unwind and turn off your phone as you let the healing power of nature wash over you.
While there are endless incredible places to stay in Europe, visiting an agriturismo is the best way to get an authentic feel of life in rural areas. From picturesque five-star properties in Italy to rustic farms in Spain, there’s an agriturismo experience for everyone. Best of all, with sustainability at the heart of the agriturismi movement, you’ll rest easy knowing that you’re not harming the environment the next time you go on vacation.
