Experience the delights of Italy with a luxurious off-season charter
From October to December, temperatures in Italy remain mild, particularly in the south, where you can bask in the mid-twenties into November. Without the summer crowds, this is the time when the locals resurface and you can get a true feel of traditional life. Italians are famous for the passion for food and it is never more obvious than at this time of year, when the calendar is full of festivals dedicated to everything from chilli to truffles.
As well as being one of the best areas for sailing, the region of Tuscany is renowned for its history, culture and vineyards. During September and October, the hills of Tuscany are awash with the brilliant colours of autumn and the towns buzz with the excitement of vendemmia – the grape harvest. Many of the vineyards offer year-round tours where you can participate in the harvest and taste some of the Novello wines – the eagerly awaited first wines of the season. The wine culture is so important that every town hosts festivals in honour of vendemmia and one of the liveliest is at Capoliveri on the Island, where the first weekend of October is dedicated to races, games, traditional food and local wine. Take a local Chianti and schiaccia briaca – a wine soaked regional cake –back to your yacht to enjoy on the deck in the mild Etruscan evening.
See the Christmas lights
Throughout November and December, the streets of Italian towns are filled with Christmas lights and wonderful markets. There is a special charm about this time of year in Italy, the strong Italian culture can be felt as families gather to celebrate with food and drink, and the sight of twinkling lights with a backdrop of glittering seas in one direction and rolling hills in the other is truly magical. The Christmas markets are enchanting, and those of Naples are a must see. Buzzing with locals and visitors alike, the streets are filled with stalls selling food, seasonal crafts, and – of course – Vin Brulé.
Taste liquid gold
Puglia produces almost half of the country’s olive oil and, with a reputation for excellent cuisine, this is the region for foodies. Sail around the still warm waters of the peninsula, then step ashore to take in some of the history and beauty of the area. For a taste of living history, spend a few days on one of the olive groves, learning the age-old techniques of the harvest. November or December are ideal times to try your hand at picking and pressing olives, before returning to your yacht to enjoy a lunch of fettunta bread, the freshest olive oil and local wine.
Take in some culture
Sightseeing and active pursuits can be a pleasure in the off-season, without having to cut them short to avoid the summer heat. A trip to Sicily is especially fascinating at this time of year – clear skies and temperatures around 26°C into November are perfect for exploring the rich culture of the island. Sicily is a melting pot of cultures – take advantage of cooler days to wander around the ancient city of Agrigento and see stunning Greek temples, or marvel at beautiful Roman mosaics at the foot of Mont Mangone.
Discover the flavours of Autumn
The cuisine of Italy is world famous, and throughout the year the seasonal flavours transform from the warming tastes of winter, to the fresh aromas of summer, but autumn is when some of Italy’s best-known specialities are at their best. The earthy flavours of chestnuts, truffles and mushrooms can be found on every menu. Try a castagnaccio – the chestnut cake is one of Tuscany’s best kept secrets – or sail the East Coast and join a truffle hunt in Le Marche. All the restaurants in the area have a special truffle menu, but head to Osteria del Parco to sample some of the best truffle dishes.
Throughout the year there is always a reason to party, and in autumn Italians celebrate food! From September, every weekend hosts festivals dedicated to grapes, chestnuts, truffles, chillis and cheese. Visit the chilli festival in Camaiore near the port of Viareggio on October 20th, or take a scenic drive to Palaia on the last weekend of October for the festival of chestnuts, truffles and wine.
To plan your own bespoke off-season charter in Italy please contact your IYC Charter Consultant..
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