Picnic on the lawn -aromatic garden and winery

An Authentic Taste of Sicily: Picnic on the Lawn at a Family-Owned Winery

Imagine spending a relaxing afternoon in the Sicilian countryside, surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, all while tasting some of the island’s finest regional foods and wines. That’s precisely what this Picnic on the lawn—aromatic garden and winery experience offers. Based in a stunning organic farm near Partinico, this tour combines scenic walks, wine tasting, and a laid-back picnic, making it a wonderful way to connect with Sicily’s culinary and agricultural traditions.

What I particularly like about this experience is how it manages to blend education with leisure. The small-group setting—limited to just 15 people—ensures you get personalized attention from knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their local expertise. Plus, the setting is simply breathtaking, with views that stretch down to the sea, adding a sense of tranquility that’s hard to beat.

One thing to keep in mind: While the experience is relaxed and scenic, it does involve a self-drive to the farm, which means you’ll want to plan your transportation accordingly. Also, if you’re hoping for a very structured or formal tour, this laid-back style might feel a bit more free-flowing, which I personally find refreshing but might not suit everyone.

This experience offers a well-balanced mix of nature, education, and delicious food — perfect for those looking to enjoy genuine Sicilian flavors in an authentic setting.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Beautiful Setting: The farm’s hillside location offers stunning views down to the sea, creating a perfect backdrop for your picnic and walk.
• Hands-On Experience: Enjoy a guided walk through vineyards, olive groves, and aromatic plant gardens, gaining insight into local farming practices.
• Tastings: Sample at least five traditional Sicilian appetizers, paired with organic wines—reds and whites—that highlight the warmth of the Mediterranean.
• Authentic Food: The picnic features seasonal vegetables, homemade bread, organic honey, and citrus jellies, all produced on the farm.
• Small-Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll receive personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like the friendly host make the experience memorable, sharing stories about the farm, wine-making, and local traditions.

Exploring the Details: A Deeper Look at the Sicilian Picnic Experience

Meeting Point and Journey to the Farm

The experience begins at Farm Augustali, located conveniently in Partinico. While the tour involves driving yourself to the farm, this gives you some flexibility to arrive on your schedule and enjoy the scenic drive through Sicily’s lush countryside.

Once there, you’ll meet your guide—someone like Grazier, who, according to reviews, is warm, welcoming, and full of interesting stories about the land and its produce. The small group size makes it easy to ask questions and engage with the farm’s history and practices.

Walking Tour of Vineyards, Olive Groves, and Aromatic Gardens

The first part of the experience involves a leisurely walk around the farm’s 12 hectares of organic farmland. You’ll stroll through vineyards where grapes are grown for local wines, and olive groves that showcase Sicily’s famous oil production. The guide shares insights into the different stages of wine-making, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an educational experience.

A highlight here is the aromatic plant garden, where you can see and smell herbs like rosemary and basil, and even help prepare a fragrant bouquet. This part of the tour emphasizes the farm’s organic practices and connection to local agriculture, giving you a taste of Sicily’s sustainable farming traditions.

Visiting the Wine Cellar and Tasting

Next, you explore the wine cellar, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at aging barrels and the wine production process. Tasting wines directly from the barrels creates a memorable experience, and the guide explains how different wines are crafted to reflect Sicily’s unique climate and soil.

According to reviews, the guide, possibly named Grazier, makes this part especially engaging. You’ll taste both white and red wines, each evoking the warmth and richness of the Mediterranean. The quality of the wines is often praised, along with the friendly explanations that make even novices feel comfortable.

The Picnic on the Lawn

The highlight for many is the picnic set up on the vast lawn near the cellar. It’s a casual affair—think cozy blankets, ancient olive trees, and flowering arches decorating the scene. The picnic includes five Sicilian appetizers, such as farm-grown vegetables, homemade bread drizzled with local olive oil, organic honey, and citrus jellies that highlight Sicily’s famous fruit.

The food is simple, fresh, and flavorful, with reviews emphasizing how delicious each item is. One guest mentions that every appetizer was “delicious,” and the setting makes it all feel extra special. The wines are served alongside, making for a perfect pairing with each bite.

Authentic, Relaxed Atmosphere

What makes this tour stand out is its laid-back style. It’s not a formal tasting or a structured vineyard tour but rather a gentle, authentic experience that invites you to slow down and savor Sicily’s flavors. You’ll leave with a better understanding of the land, the produce, and the people behind it all.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy good food, wine, and scenic walks. It suits those who appreciate small-group intimacy and genuine local experiences, rather than large, bus-filled tours. If you’re curious about organic farming or want a more personal look at Sicilian countryside life, this is a perfect choice.

Pricing and Value

At $52.04 per person, this experience offers excellent value for the quality of food, wine, and the intimate setting. What you’re paying for isn’t just a meal but a well-rounded, immersive introduction to Sicilian agriculture and gastronomy. The inclusion of multiple tastings and a guided walk adds depth that makes the cost worthwhile.

Who Should Consider Booking?

If you’re a foodie wanting to sample authentic Sicilian appetizers paired with local wines, this experience is a no-brainer. It’s also suitable for travelers seeking a relaxing outdoor activity, enjoying scenic views and learning from passionate guides. Those interested in organic farming, local traditions, or simply wanting a peaceful escape into nature will find this tour engaging and fulfilling.

However, if you prefer a more rigid schedule or are looking for a comprehensive vineyard tour with transportation, you might want to explore other options. The self-drive aspect requires some planning, so consider your transportation arrangements ahead of time.

The Sum Up: A Delightful Slice of Sicily’s Countryside

This Picnic on the lawn at Farm Augustali offers a genuine taste of Sicily’s rural charm. The combination of scenic walks, insightful explanations about wine-making and agriculture, and the chance to indulge in seasonal, farm-fresh appetizers makes it an authentic experience. The small-group format emphasizes personalized attention, while the setting—complete with ancient olive trees and flowering arches—creates a memorable backdrop for a leisurely picnic.

It’s ideal for those who appreciate good food, fine wine, and beautiful landscapes all in one relaxing package. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply seeking a peaceful afternoon away from crowded tourist spots, this experience delivers a satisfying glimpse into Sicily’s agricultural heart.

For travelers wanting a genuine, low-pressure chance to connect with Sicily’s land and flavors while enjoying stunning views, this picnic in the countryside is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the farm?
No, you need to drive yourself to the farm. This allows flexibility but means you should plan your routes in advance.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a cozy and personal experience.

What is included in the picnic?
The picnic features five Sicilian appetizers, such as garden vegetables, homemade bread, olive oil, honey, and citrus jellies, all served with local wines.

Are wines included in the price?
Yes, both red and white wines are tasted and served during the experience.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy each part of the tour without feeling rushed.

Is this experience suitable for children or service animals?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check specific needs beforehand.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a light jacket, depending on the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This authentic Sicilian countryside picnic offers a wonderful way to connect with the land, enjoy local flavors, and experience farm life in a relaxed setting. Perfect for lovers of food, wine, and scenic views, it’s a memorable slice of Sicily that’s both educational and delicious.