For many of you vacation time may already be over. But for those still unsure of their August plans, we have ten great destinations where you can spend the end of summer! 

August in Italy is synonymous with sunshine and vacation, vacation, vacation. Events abound and tourism is at its absolute peak. Whether the sea or mountains, the entire country offers a myriad of possibilities to fulfill your holiday dreams!

Slightly off the beaten track, our Top 10 destinations steer away from the traditional tourist hubs so you can best enjoy the peace, relaxation and beauty Italy offers.

Remember: staying on a farm is the perfect solution for those seeking the serenity of countryside accommodations in close proximity to the art, history, culture and landmarks each town and city has to offer.

Our Top 10 travel destinations for August 

Gulf of Poets in Liguria

English poet, Lord Byron, spent so much time seeking inspiration on this rocky seafront that a cave bears his name. In fact, many artists were enchanted by the Gulf of La Spezia, earning it the moniker: Gulf of Poets.

This is the last stretch of the Ligurian Riviera di Levante, almost at the border with Tuscany. Between Porto Venere and Lerici, it passes through La Spezia and a succession of seaside villages, medieval castles, pastel-colored houses and pretty beaches lining the beautiful blue sea.

 

 

 

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Fascinating Porto Venere also includes the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto - great destinations for boat trips, walks and coastal dives. On the mainland, you’ll find the Church of St. Peter which was built on the ashes of the temple of Venus - a site sure to enchant you.

Lerici is a hilly area with breathtaking panoramic routes. Two hamlets are absolutely worth a visit: Tellaro, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, and San Terenzo, where the sea seems to merge with the hills.

In August, Liguria dresses up in the colours, sounds, rhythms and tastes of a myriad of events.

In San Terenzo you can participate in Carnemare, a summertime carnival that winds along the seafront on August 7th, and on Tuesday the 27th visitors can groove to Music Boat, a jazz concert by the sea where a typical Ligurian gozzo (boat) acts as the stage. The following day a live concert is dedicated to the famous television series, Games of Thrones.

Our farmhouses in the Gulf of Poets

2. Val di Non

Val di Non is a valley in Trentino situated in the north-western part of the autonomous province of Trento. The pretty stretch of land is famous for its altitude, certified local apple varietals and unspoiled nature.

Val di Non boasts a plethora of pretty lakes. Lake Tret is one of the most beloved by locals. You can get there in about an hour's walk, have a swim in the cool waters, and then continue your excursion on foot.

Picturesque Lake Tovel is surrounded by forests in the Brenta Dolomites, and Lago Smeraldo (Lake Emerald) can be reached from the village of Fondo by walking through the rocky canyon of Rio Sass. Lakes Coredo and Tavon are great spots to swim, relax, sunbathe, go fishing or hiking.

 

 

 

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Another pleasant detour includes visiting four of Trentino’s castles  - Castel Ossana, Castel Caldes, Castel Valer and Castel Thun. The timeless beauty of Thun castle is captivating, and its gardens are a lovely place for a stroll with spectacular valley views.

For an easy walk, cross the endless expanse of lush green meadows in Pradiei on the flat path. Bordered on one side by the Brenta mountains and on the other by Maddalene, the scenery is utterly breathtaking. 

Finally, take a ride on the "Trento-Malè" railway which connects the Valley of Non to Val di Sole. The line is open every Saturday in August.

Our farmhouses in Trentino-Alto Adige

3. Salento

So beautiful are the sun-kissed beaches and unbelievably crystalline waters of Salento, the Apulian region is often referred to as the Italian Maldives. But Salento is even more than that. It’s also a place of serene countryside, scented Mediterranean scrub, ancient villages and typical trattorias where you can sit and relax for hours over plates of traditional food. 

Santa Maria di Leuca is dreamy. On the southernmost tip of Italy’s heel, it’s the point where the Adriatic touches the Ionian Sea, where the land ends and an infinite blue horizon begins.

Grecìa Salentina, on the other hand, is a secluded area outside the usual tourist circuit.  Composed of nine municipalities, its characteristic villages are small hidden treasures where people maintain their traditions and authenticity. In fact, the inhabitants here all speak griko, a dialect of Greek origin. In August, the village of Melpignano comes alive with the annual “Night of the Taranta”, a unique festival that takes place during the first three weeks of the month.

 

 

 

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For a romantic rendezvous, we recommend visiting the Punta Plascìa lighthouse at dawn. The easternmost point of the bel paese, it offers an unforgettable spectacle at sunrise. 

Nature in Puglia is surprising. It’s a region laden with olive trees, which produce an extraordinary extra virgin olive oil. In the heart of Lecce, visit the Parco dei Paduli (Park of the Marshes) where you can immerse yourself in the vast greenery. 

And then there are the festivals... Unique and exciting, they feature top-notch street food and a chance to experience the province’s genuine traditions such as pizzica, a typical folk dance. Among the many happenings, we suggest the festival dedicated to San Rocco in Ruffano. Also known as “the swords", the all-night dance-a-thon mimics a fencing duel and will have you tapping your feet until dawn.

Our farmhouses in Salento

4. Arezzo villages

Come with us to the heart of Tuscany where you can visit the most enchanting villages in the Arezzo province: Anghiari, Castelfranco di Sopra, Poppi and Loro Ciuffenna 

Anghiari

Let's start in Anghiari, a village situated in an ancient border land that was once an important trade junction. Here the churches of Badia and Santa Maria delle Grazie reign. The Praetorian Palace, home to the Documentation Centre of the Battle of Anghiari, hosts countless antiques and activities. Stroll along the ancient walls and enjoy a magnificent view of the valley below.

Castelfranco di Sopra

Even before arriving in the village you can admire the famous crags of Le Balze dell’Acqua Zolfina, portrayed in many paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, as well as the tower of Castelfranco. The village has a beautiful central square from which the most important streets fan out geometrically. The most important church is San Filippo Neri, dating back to the 17th century. Don’t miss its elegant palaces such as Palazzo Renzi, Palazzo Sassolini and the Convent of the Augustinians.

 

 

 

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Poppi

Nestled in the beautiful valley of Casentino, Poppi is a small medieval hamlet at the foot of Castello Conti Guidi. The castle is open to the public and contains the Biblioteca Rilliana library and chapel of the counts. In addition, we recommend visiting the oratory of the Madonna del Morbo, Abbey of San Fedele and Augustinian Monastery, as well as walking atop the village walls which overlook the beautiful Tuscan countryside.

Loro Ciuffenna

The wonderful valley between the Arno river and the Apennine massif of Pratomagno boasts a small medieval jewel classified one of the most beautiful hamlets in Italy: Loro Ciuffenna.

Along the main street you’ll find the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, followed by the Basilica of Our Lady, frescoed with biblical scenes, as well as the Town Hall.

Our farmhouses in Arezzo

Maremma Park in Tuscany

In Tuscany’s Grosseto province you can relax between the sea and the countryside, amidst wild animals and the scents and colors of the Mediterranean. A green oasis stretching nine thousand hectares between Principina a Mare and Talamone, Magliano in Toscana and Orbetello, Maremma Park is framed by the Uccellina mountains and the coastal ridges and beaches hugging the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Maremma Park extends for 25 kilometers and is characterized by long sandy beaches, green hills, marshes, pine forests and pastureland. The wild setting offers one breathtaking landscape after another where you can walk, canoe, ride horses or even donkeys along a myriad of trails.

 

 

 

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Our farmhouses in Maremma

6) The surroundings of Catania in Sicily

Crystal clear seas, centuries-old history and time-honored  traditions are the calling cards of Catania, the second largest city in Sicily. Animated and vibrant, rich in grandiose and sumptuous architecture, it stands out for its Roman ruins and Sicilian Baroque style.

Nearby Etna rises, one of the largest active volcanoes in the world with a summit that reaches 3,323 meters in height. We recommend hiking in Etna Natural Park where you can observe its lush vegetation and native fauna, as well as guided tours to the top of the volcano. 

Along its slopes you’ll find incredible places steeped in Sicilian tradition. A visit to the romantic Cyclops Riviera is a must, as is Acicastello, with its characteristic Norman castle perched on a lava coast.

 

 

 

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Stop in Acitrezza, the fishing village described by Giovanni Verga in his work “Malavoglia" and immortalized by Italian director, Visconti, in "La Terra Trema". We suggest a walk along the seafront and taste of Catania’s local cuisine, including a refreshing almond granita. Here you’ll also find the Cyclops Islands, the original rock formations made famous by Homer in the Odyssey. This is right where Polyphemus, son of Poseidon, captured Ulysses and his companions.

Baroque Acireale is dominated by the Cathedral in the main square. Delight the whole family with a masterful showcase at the Puppet Theatre, followed by a treat from one of the tempting pastry shops, such as petite cakes decorated with marzipan.

For a naturalistic excursion, the La Timpa Nature Reserve’s overlying lava rocks, lemon and orange trees and cobalt blue sea are certainly worth seeing. Catania also boasts many charming seaside villages where the rhythm of life has seemingly stood still in time: Santa Tecla, Pozzillo, Capomulini, Santa Maria la Scala or Stazzo, to name just a few.

Our farmhouses in Catania

7. Oristano

 

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Sardinia definitely merits a spot on our Top 10 list in August. This time we’re headed to the central-western part of the island, Oristano.

In addition to sun and sea, make the very most of your August break by attending one of Oristano’s summer events to soak up some local culture.

For example, in August, Cabras hosts the Bottarga Festival. Bottarga, a Mediterranean dish of cured, pressed and dried roe, is considered a true local delicacy. During the festival, tourists can taste bottarga in a myriad of dishes prepared by local chefs. 

At the Vernaccia Festival in Baratili San Pietro you can taste certified DOC dessert wine and participate in traditional Sardinian folkloric events such as dancing and costume parades. To mark the August bank holiday, “Ferragosto”, visit Torregrande where you can gawk at Sardiglidda, a wonderful historical re-enactment of a typical horse race and showcase of thrilling stunts on horseback. 

Finally, an event for all the foodies: the S.M. Cracaxia Village Festival. Held in Mogoro during the last week of the month, it’s the ideal occasion to sample Sardinian pig!

Browse through a long list of accommodation options in the province of Oristano

8) Pollica in Campania

In the province of Salerno in lower Cilento, beautiful Pollica stands at the foot of Monte Stella. A fishing town, it’s home to seaside resorts, Acciaroli and Pioppi, two perfect destinations for a family vacation!

An ancient and mythological land, Pollica offers plenty of entertainment and opportunities for relaxation. It’s won the prestigious Blue Flag award several times over, the highest recognition for clean water and excellence in tourism services.

The village consists of a small port, the church of San Nicola - a beautiful 17th century structure with valuable marble interiors - the Franciscan Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and a watchtower.

 

 

 

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In addition to the splendid sea, take advantage of the spectacularly verdant National Park of Cilento, Vallo Diano and Alburno. The protected natural area consists of over 180,000 hectares and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During walks through the park you can observe different specimens of local flora and fauna and discover archaeological sites.

Lastly, enjoy an evening under the starry Cilento sky on August in Acciaroli. Guided by experts, you can observe the heavens with telescopes set up along the seafront promenade.

Our farmhouses in Cilento

9) Valley of the Moon in Sardinia

A mythical place, Cala Grande is a small valley in Santa Teresa di Gallura in northern Sardinia. Better known as the Valley of the Moon, a name that was given to it by a hippy community in the '60s, this slice of paradise lost between granite rocks and Mediterranean vegetation is a destination that has allured curious tourists fascinated by its unspoilt nature and solitude.

The geographical conformation of the valley is stunning: imposing rock walls formed over years by the wind and sea have created incredible natural caves - once a haven for the hippies to live in.

 

 

 

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There’s an inexplicable energy here - ideal for meditating, relaxing, reading and getting in touch with nature. Breathe in the scent of myrtle, strawberry tree and heather, listen to the melody of waves breaking on the rocks, and enjoy the sense of freedom and carefree spirit only such a place can give.

To reach the Valley of the Moon you have to walk along a narrow path full of plants and rocks, impassable by car. An enchanted world awaits you among its hidden coves, a unique setting where you can enjoy breathtaking views or go scuba diving. 

Visit the entire promontory including Rena di Ponente, Rena di Levante, Santa Reparata, Rena Bianca, the dazzlingly coloured beach, La Marmorata and the picturesque Cala Sanbuco. Also of note are the granite pools in Valle dell'Erica, windsurfing beach in Porto Liscia-Sciumara and the fascinating Conca Verde.

Our farmhouses in Gallura

10) Aspromonte National Park in Calabria

We end our August roundup with one last suggestion on where to spend a great holiday in Italy: the National Park of Aspromonte in Calabria. Along with the sea, the park boasts a vast wilderness, culture, food and wine, plus amazing itineraries on foot, by bike or on horseback.

National Park of Aspromonte’s rich biodiversity includes an array of animals and plants that can be observed on its many trails. History and art reign supreme in villages like Bagaladi, Bova, Gerace and Mammola, and you can enjoy the timeless ambiance of mountain-top hamlets such as Africo, Novigrad, Sant'Eufemia d'Aspromonte, Delianuova, Oppido Mamertina and Santo Stefano.

 

 

 

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In addition to its artistic heritage, the medieval village of Gerace is home to an important cathedral, churches and other Byzantine sites. In Mammola you can also admire ancient churches and noble palaces, and don’t miss the Sanctuary of San Nicodemo on the plateau of Limina, once inhabited by a monk. Also of note is the tiny church of San Leo ad Africo, Norman castle and ancient medieval churches in Bova’s historical centre, plus the medieval castle, Monastery of San Domenico and Church of San Francesco in San Giorgio Morgeto.

Give in to the gastronomic temptations the area offers. Taste the stocco - a stockfish prepared in various ways - smoked ricotta, goat cheese, cold cuts, pizzata bread made with corn, caciocavallo, and granita served with a brioche.

Finally, don’t depart without paying a visit to the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Montagna di Polsi in the Aspromonte mountains. At the end of August the Madonna is celebrated during a sacred procession animated by local inhabitants in ancient pagan costumes.

Our farmhouses in Reggio Calabria

And that’s a wrap! All that’s left to do is choose the dream destination for your final summer fling and book your accommodations. You’re just one click away from peace and quiet, sun and fun, in magical Italy!