Fellow mothorhome enthusiasts, do you know one of the most magical times to travel in Italy with your motorhome, caravan, or campervan? Exactly, it’s the grape harvest season! Autumn, with its mix of warm colors, intense aromas, and unique flavors, transforms the Italian landscape into a living painting. But where to go to witness the grape harvest and perhaps, why not, take part in this ancient tradition? Italy is full of places that celebrate the grape harvest as a festival, and we at Agricamper are here to tell you about the best destinations to enjoy this special experience. All you have to do is read the article, download our app, and access the free demo version to discover where to stop throughout Italy!
Destinations to experience the grape harvest: among vine rows, nature, and tradition
Tuscany: the magic of Chianti and the Colli Senesi
When talking about grape harvesting, it’s impossible not to start with Tuscany. Imagine the sweet hills of the Senesi and the Chianti hills: the landscape is a mix of vineyards, cypresses, and ancient villages that seems designed to enchant. In September and October, these hills come alive for the grape harvest, and it’s the perfect opportunity to participate in the grape picking.
For instance, you can travel the Chianti route between Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti: stay at one of the farms affiliated with Agricamper to watch the harvest, see how grapes are turned into wine up close, and perhaps take part in a guided tasting. All while your motorhome stays parked among the vine rows.
And don’t miss the chance to explore the village of San Gimignano with its towers and savor a dish of pappardelle with wild boar or a steaming ribollita: all enriched by the view of hills ablaze with autumn colors.
Piedmont: Langhe and Roero, among Nebbiolo and breathtaking views
Let’s move now to Piedmont, where the Langhe and the Roero are enchanting places, famous for their vineyards of Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, and Barbera. Here the grape harvest is a community festival that is rooted in the history of this region. Travel the winding roads of the Langhe between Barolo and La Morra, admiring landscapes that are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
During the grape harvest, you can stop for a break at a farm and join in harvesting the Nebbiolo grapes, perhaps with a stunning view of the surrounding hills. For food-loving motorhomers, it is mandatory to stop in Bra and try the famous Bra hard cheese accompanied by a glass of Dolcetto.
Veneto: Valpolicella and the aromas of Amarone
Veneto also offers extraordinary places to witness the grape harvest. We suggest the area of Valpolicella, famous for the production of Amarone. Here, the grape picking is a very special moment and participating in it is like taking part in an ancient ritual.
Stay near Negrar di Valpolicella, and don’t miss the opportunity to take a walk along the paths of Lessinia Park, among forests and hilly landscapes full of charm. Your caravan will be surrounded by nature, while you discover the secrets of Amarone production. After a day among the vine rows, nothing beats enjoying a soft polenta with Vicenza-style salted cod.
Marche: Verdicchio and ancient villages
The Marche region is often overlooked, but it offers great emotions, especially during the grape harvest. In the heart of the region, between Jesi and Cupramontana, you’ll find the vineyards of Verdicchio, one of Italy’s most appreciated white wines. The Marche hills are gentle and welcoming, perfect for an motorhome or caravan stop.
In October, you can join the harvest and walk through historical villages like Staffolo, famous for its long winemaking tradition. After a long day, savor a dish of Vincisgrassi, a traditional Marche lasagna, paired with a glass of Verdicchio. And if you’re a nature lover, don’t forget the regional park of Gola della Rossa and Frasassi.
Sicily: the magic of Etna and vineyards on the slopes of the volcano
We could not fail to mention Sicily, which with its unique climate offers truly special grape harvesting experiences. One of the most picturesque areas is definitely around Mount Etna, where the vineyards grow directly on volcanic soils.
Imagine parking your campervan at a farm at the foot of Mount Etna, among rows of Nerello Mascalese and Carricante: the air is crisp and the landscape is dominated by the imposing bulk of the volcano. Besides grape picking, you can visit Randazzo, a beautiful medieval village built of lava stone, and enjoy typical dishes like Pasta alla Norma, a Sicilian delight.
Apulia: vines between the Valle d’Itria and Salento
Finally, a trip to Apulia during the grape harvest is an unforgettable experience. The Valle d’Itria and Salento are famous not only for their centuries-old olive trees but also for their lush vineyards. Here you can witness the harvest of Primitivo and Negroamaro, two grape varieties that produce strong and decisive wines.
We suggest you stop for a break between Martina Franca and Locorotondo, two charming towns where you can park your motorhome and immerse yourself in rural life. Participate in the harvest and then relax with a dish of orecchiette with turnip tops and a glass of Primitivo wine. If you want a breathtaking view, move towards the sea and admire the colors of the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.
Conclusion
The grape harvest season is one of the best times to explore Italy in an motorhome, caravan, or camper van. The magic of the vineyards, the autumn landscapes, and the hospitality of the farms ensure that each stop becomes a memorable experience. Thanks to Agricamper, you can stay for free for 24 hours at many farms across Italy, fully immersing yourself in the grape harvest and local traditions.
Check out which farms are waiting for you and get ready for an unforgettable journey through grape harvesting, nature, and delicious cuisine. Download our app now, purchase an annual membership, and discover how easy it is to travel with Agricamper!
