San Martino !

Catholic Italy today celebrates San Martino, Saint Martin, patron saint to many groups – both animals and people – including cavalry soldiers, horses, geese, tailors, beggars and the Swiss Guards.  And vintners and wine growers.  And while we are at it, why not all of the farmers and artisans of the land ?

They so lovingly, so carefully nurture Italy’s artisan crops and food products, encouraging biodiversity and sustaining a healthy environment.

Visits to artisans of the land — in private tours, workshops, hands-on cooking classes, picking olives or grapes or foraging or cheesemaking — are central points of delight in Insider’s Italy trips.  The experiences that they share with you come from their heart. Every one is real and authentic and takes you closer to the true substance of Italy.