We first saw Podere Salicotto on a late summer afternoon in 2000 after a search of almost 3 years. It was love at first sight, thanks to that golden light of the setting sun that reflected on the old tiles of the crumbling farmhouse. Was it possible to fall so much in love with an abandoned ruin in a place where you knew no one and had no roots????
Yes, and it was an extraordinary experience because we had to overcome our limits as busy, self-absorbed city people to immerse ourselves in a completely new life and occupation; abandon old habits and ways of thinking, empty ourselves of all what was familiar to make room for new experiences and rhythms. And it all took place slowly, in a silence that was foreign and sometimes deafening but now friendly and nourishing.

The first important change effected our senses. Vast spaces redefined our concept of sight when we were easily lost in the infinite expanse of overlapping hills. Artificial light gave way to natural sources: the moon, stars and fireflies. A far cry from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The sounds of nature alert us when winter has passed and spring has arrived: the buzz and chatter of the insects, the mating calls of bucks, the trill of larks are all beautiful when life returns and the hills suddenly explode with activity. In the spring you can remove your gloves without freezing and go into the garden without sinking into the earth and we are made aware of what nature feels like. The air has a different fragrance in every season. In winter it is woody, the autumn moist and musky, spring sweet and fresh, while in the summer dry with an air of olives. Flavors change with the seasons. It's a completely different thing to pick a ripe, firm tomato from the garden. The sweet taste is so delicate that one can eat the entire crate without stopping, a bit like cherries! And we now make homemade bread, cookies and serve our neighbours' homemade marmelades.
The next big change was our concept of time. When we lived in the city every moment was occupied and scheduled. Here time has acquired a new dimension. It is not an external element against which we have to fight, rather it is an internal rhythm that reflects nature and the movements of the day, the weather and the seasons. Nature reminds us each day that everything matures according to the elements. We can do our best to prepare and plant the garden but can only wait and hope that the fruit will grow.

At Salicotto we can pause occasionally to enjoy the sunset while offering a relaxing experience in a tranquil environment in the company of our international travellers and guests. We welcome you to our world.