Fav Reads On Italy This Week: Oct 25

Favorite Reads on Italy (FRI) is a weekly roundup published on Fridays featuring interesting articles, fascinating experiences, and handy resources that I’ve come across that week.

Postcard from Italy: Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily

This week’s roundup covers several articles on the Cinque Terre, from the vendemmia (grape harvest) to how to make the most of your visit to this spectacular coastline, the fabulous region of Piedmont that boasts some spectacular gems, an alternative activity in Tuscany and more.

Culture / Travel

Venice gondola builders strive to keep tradition alive by Reuters – Always heartbreaking to read about thousand-year old traditions dying out. This is one artisanal trade that is at risk.

How (not) to visit the Cinque Terre by Little Paradiso – Great tips about how to get the most out of your visit to Cinque Terre and fully appreciate the towns and places off-the-beaten-path. That means staying there for at least 2 days – not a day trip so that you can just cross it off your list.

Rafting in Tuscany by Around Tuscany – When you think about Tuscany, the image of rolling hills is what will most likely come to mind. Want to experience a different Tuscany? Then this is for you. I’m certainly going to look into this next summer!

A Sicily Trip Isn’t Complete Without Visiting Agrigento by Huffington Post – I couldn’t agree more. We were there last summer and despite the scorching heat, we had to visit this incredible archaeological site.

Strolling around in the heart of Parma by Travel Emilia Romagna – Autumn is here but fortunately, we are still experiencing wonderful sunny days, making it perfect to head out for walks. Here are some sights not to miss if you are in Parma, regardless of season!

Traveller’s Guide: Piedmont by The Independent – Boasting rich history, amazing food and fabulous moutains, there’s no reason to visit Piedmont. I’m making plans to be there next summer!

Marvelous Marche, Part 1 by Girl in Florence – We head to Le Marche almost every summer and love this region. Here are more reasons to visit this region which is still off-the-radar for most visitors.

Cinque Terre hiking: avoid the crowds on these trails nearby by Italy Beyond the Obvious – There’s already a post shared on Cinque Terre about getting off-the-beaten-path and this post complements the other one perfectly. Here are four trails where to avoid crowds.

Italian Food and Drinks

Sciacchetrà Wine – Harvesting in Le Cinque Terre by Italy Magazine – This article was published at the end of September but it was just a fantastic read that I was compelled to share it here. “Sharon Boeckle, co-director with Krista Lee Weller of the documentary film “Vendemmia”, shares their experience filming in the Cinque Terre and how it extends far beyond winemaking and is more about life in general in this stunning stretch of coastline.

Round and round by Rachel Eats – I’ve come to love the combination of sweet and savory. This recipe by Rachel of pears poached in sweet wine goes perfectly with salty pecorino cheese. Sounds divine!

Alle Testiere (Venice) by Elizabeth Minchilli – Elizabeth is at it again – that is she is doing some serious eating research to uncover the best places to eat in Venice. You’ve been warned – there are some mouth-watering photos in this post. I hope to visit Venice next month and this is on the top of my list.

Cin Cin with a Bellini: Raising Your Glass with Peaches and Prosecco by Select Italy Blog – Can’t make it to Venice to enjoy a Bellini? It’s easy to make them at home and this post shares a recipe.

My Favorite Wine Bar in Florence by Tiana Kai – Headed to Florence? You can’t go wrong with a local’s recommendation. Just make sure you invite her along if you head to this wine bar!

Have you come across any great reads or resources on Italy this week? Share them with us in the comments below.