Agritourism

 The territory of the Province of Milan is rich in parks and natural reserves. Immersed in wooded areas amidst green spaces are numerous agritourism estates , often farm estates which have been present for one or two centuries and which have been restructured to welcome  guests.
The architecture varies from one area to the next: the north  features single buildings with several stories, with rooms facing out from wooden balconies; in the south, buildings are constructed on four sides, with one or more internal courtyards.
Wherever possible, these farm estates have maintained their original architecture, limiting restoration work solely to modifications which improve their efficiency while respecting the environment.

 
Since 1985, agritourism in Italy has developed as an alternative source of hospitality. Tourists can truly live in contact with nature, tasting local products and getting to know the local customs and traditions. The hospitality provided by agritourism estates allows travellers to savour genuine local cuisine while meeting budgetary travel considerations.

Agritourism in the province of Milan offers  non-treated food products: meat and poultry are from animals fed with natural products, cured meats [salami] are produced locally, and local cheeses are prepared following traditional methods, as is the case of honey, preserves and jams.
Farmers organise guided tours of their production facilities and fields, allowing visitors to try out seasonal products, come into contact with farm animals, chickens, cattle, pigs, and domestic animals, as well as experiencing the various phases of the milking and cheese-making processes. School-age children are welcome, and farms offer specially designed tours suited their age group.

Some farms provide courses in environmental education, cooking, ceramic painting; others make available halls for conventions, seminars, or banquets. Many farm estates provide picnic areas or offer tastings of traditional local dishes prepared with local products.

Many agritourism locations also offer  rooms for overnight stays, or  camping  areas, and almost all farms sell their local food products directly to consumers.

Riding-schools offer horse riding in the surrounding area, as well as bicycles and some even have canoes for outings on the river or fishing. Some agritourisms offer a variety of sports and leisure activities, including bowling [bocce] and volleyball; tourists can also   take part in local festivals and celebrations organised in nearby towns and farms.