Agrigento: Valley of the Temples Gardens Picnic Experience

Key Points

• Unique picnic experience in the Valley of the Temples, inside the Kolymbethra Gardens
• Duration: 1.5 hours, ideal for a quick yet memorable stop
• Includes a basket of traditional Sicilian foods, like focaccia, burrata, pistachio pesto, and cannoli
• Meeting point is inside the Valley of the Temples, next to the Dioscuri Temple
• Not suitable for people with mobility impairments
• Private group with English-speaking hosts, offering a personalized experience

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Discover the Hidden Charm of the Kolymbethra Gardens

This tour offers a 1.5-hour picnic experience set within the Kolymbethra Gardens, a small yet captivating oasis inside the Valley of the Temples in Sicily. The gardens are a rare archaeological jewel, blending nature with ancient history. You’ll find yourself wandering among archaeological finds and hypogea excavated over 2,500 years ago. The contrast of Greek ruins and lush greenery makes this experience truly unique.

The picnic area is carefully prepared, with a basket of high-quality local products, including focaccia with mortadella, burrata and pistachio pesto, and a seasonal fruit selection. The delicate sound of flowing water and the shade of an ancient laurel tree create a peaceful setting, perfect for relaxing and savoring traditional Sicilian flavors.

This experience is ideal for those looking for a short, intimate break in an unexpected location. While it provides a good overview of local cuisine and archaeological charm, it’s best suited for visitors who don’t require mobility assistance, as the terrain isn’t accessible for everyone.

Meeting Point and Practical Details

The tour begins inside the Valley of the Temples, right next to the Dioscuri Temple. You’ll see a large signboard indicating the entrance to the Kolymbethra Garden. After descending the stairs, you’ll find the ticket office and your host awaiting. The exact coordinates are 37.29158020019531, 13.581852912902832, making it easy to locate.

Guests are advised to arrive punctually at the Picnic area to receive their food basket and set up comfortably. The experience is private, with English-speaking hosts, ensuring personalized attention and hospitality.

What’s Included in the Picnic Basket

The prepared picnic basket features local Sicilian specialties crafted by skilled hands. The highlight dishes include focaccia with mortadella, burrata paired with pistachio pesto, and rizzuola with Bolognese sauce. The meal also includes a mixed salad, seasonal fruits, and cannoli with ricotta cream.

A bottle of wine and water are part of the package, offering a chance to enjoy these delicacies in the tranquil garden setting. The quality of products is frequently praised, with reviews highlighting the generous portions and authentic flavors.

The Garden and Archaeological Walk

Once inside the Kolymbethra Gardens, visitors can explore at their own pace. The gardens preserve beautiful colors, flavors, and smells of the land, merging botanical beauty with the archaeological environment. The hypogea and excavated ruins offer a glimpse into the ancient past, adding a layer of history to the visual pleasure of the lush greenery.

A quiet walk among the olive trees and orange groves complements the meal, making this a peaceful retreat amid the famous Greek temples. The calm atmosphere allows for reflection and enjoyment of the surrounding nature.

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The Experience of the Hosts and Service

The hosts are known for their friendly approach, providing informative explanations about the garden’s history and local products. Multiple reviews mention the kindness and helpfulness of the staff, which elevates the experience beyond just a meal in the gardens.

They also demonstrate attention to detail, such as packaging leftovers if the portions are too large, and offering personalized communication regarding food preferences or allergies.

Pacing and Duration

The 1.5-hour duration makes this experience suitable for a short stop within a broader sightseeing itinerary. The paced walk through the gardens and the laid-back picnic ensure a relaxed experience without feeling rushed.

Guests can expect to spend time leisurely enjoying their food, the surrounding ruins, and the serene garden environment. The timing is flexible, but punctuality guarantees a smooth experience.

Accessibility and Group Size

This tour is designed for private groups, providing a more personalized experience. However, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the terrain and stairs involved in reaching the garden area.

The private setting means that the pace and attention are tailored to your group’s needs, making it a more intimate and comfortable encounter.

Comparing This Experience to Other Tours

Unlike traditional guided tours of the Valley of the Temples, this experience focuses on culinary delight and relaxation in an archaeological setting. It offers a rare opportunity to enjoy local Sicilian food amid historical ruins in a peaceful garden.

While other tours may emphasize walking through ruins or guided storytelling, this picnic-style experience emphasizes flavor, scenery, and tranquility, making it stand out for those seeking a slow-paced, sensory journey.

Value for Money and Reviews

With most reviews rating this experience around 4.1 out of 5 stars, it’s considered a good choice for those wanting a short, quality local food experience with friendly service. Many review comments highlight generous portions, delicious food, and knowledgeable hosts.

However, some reviewers point out that the portion sizes might be small for some, and not suitable for those with mobility issues. The price (around 55 Euros per person) is seen as fair for the quality of food and setting, though opinions vary on the value relative to portion sizes.

Best Suited For and Final Advice

This private picnic experience is perfect for couples, small groups, or families eager to enjoy authentic Sicilian flavors in a stunning archaeological setting. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate peaceful outdoor environments and local culinary traditions.

Participants should arrive on time to maximize their stay and communicate any dietary restrictions beforehand. Though it offers a relaxed pace, travelers with mobility challenges should consider alternative options, as the terrain may be difficult.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the picnic experience last?
The picnic lasts around 1.5 hours, including time to enjoy the food and walk through the gardens.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet inside the Valley of the Temples, next to the Dioscuri Temple. Look for a large signboard at the entrance to the Kolymbethra Garden.

What is included in the picnic basket?
The basket features focaccia with mortadella, burrata with pistachio pesto, rizzuola with Bolognese sauce, mixed salad, seasonal fruit, cannoli with ricotta, water, and a bottle of wine.

Is this tour accessible for everyone?
No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to terrain and stairs involved in reaching the garden.

Can I customize my food preferences?
Yes, prior to the experience, you should inform the organizers about food intolerances, allergies, or dietary preferences.

How large is the group?
This is a private experience, tailored to your group size, ensuring a personalized setting.

What do reviews say about this experience?
Most reviews praise the friendly hosts, delicious local food, and the beautiful garden setting. Negative comments mention portion sizes and the terrain being unsuitable for some.

Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I reserve my spot?
Reservations can be made online, with pay later options available to keep your plans flexible.

What makes this experience stand out?
This experience’s combination of archaeological ruins, lush gardens, and authentic Sicilian cuisine creates a memorable and peaceful outing perfect for a short, quality escape.

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