Grape Harvest with Locals in Sicily

The grape harvest in the South of Italy takes place between the end of August through September, depending on the weather that year. In Sicily, this activity allows local families to be together. The task needs to be accomplished in one day and often continues with a crush. For the occasion, the entire extended family (grandparents, parents, sons, uncles, and so on) help, out and celebrates with a special lunch. You will start the day as the locals do — very early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day. Be ready to get up before the sun and enjoy a gorgeous sunrise surrounded by acres and acres of grapes. Harvesting grapes is hard work, but you can choose to participate or just observe. Either way, it is an unforgettable experience for the senses.

An exquisite breakfast will be served in the middle of the grape fields and before you and your Local go visit a winery to learn more about the crush and the different local varieties. You will walk around the fields with the locals to learn more about their craft, traditions, and work. As usual, we recommend that you work up a good appetite to join the local family for lunch where the “vino” will be flowing happily and generously. Italians are famous for making sure that in their home you have had enough to eat. Mangia, mangia!