Italian Farm Vacations

Book excerpt: A new title in the Touring Club of Italy's Dolce Vita series, Italian Farm Vacations shows travelers how to sample the classic pleasures of Italian country life. Sites range from rustic working farms and villas to elegant castles and wineries, with accommodations from simple bed and breakfast to separate houses. Visitors can expect a warm welcome and a high level of hospitality at these typically family-run operations. The farm experience may include dining with the host family, assisting in the grape harvest, or merely enjoying the beauty and serenity of the countryside. In addition, travelers may pursue individual interests such as horseback riding, swimming, mountain biking, and hiking. Rates at these lodgings fall well below the cost of a stay at an average hotel in major cities such as Florence, Siena, or Venice, yet many of the farms are located close enough for day trips to these historic cities. Organized by region, with detailed area maps and in-depth information on every accommodation including prices, directions, and nearby attractions, Italian Farm Vacations helps travelers plan a vacation that will truly capture the rural Italian experience.