Pedaling Through Tradition: Our Agritourism Journey in Peschici, Italy

As part of our ongoing Bike Agritourism project, our team joined partners Igor Vitale International and the Municipality of Patmos for a pilot mobility in the picturesque town of Peschici, Italy. Over three days, we met with community leaders and young people from a local VET school, learned how to cook with local ingredients from chef Domenico Cilenti of the Porta di Basso Restaurant, and explored the stunning Umbra Forest on two wheels experiencing firsthand how agritourism can connect people, nature, and local heritage.

Meeting with the Mayor of Peschici

Day 1: Meetings and Meaningful Beginnings 

Our mobility began with an organizational meeting where partners came together to plan upcoming project phases and reflect on our shared vision for sustainable rural tourism. We also had the pleasure of meeting the Mayor of Peschici, who warmly welcomed us and expressed support for initiatives that combine environmental awareness, local development, and cultural exchange. His encouragement reinforced the importance of community partnerships in building a more sustainable future for tourism.

Meeting with the Community

Day 2: Connecting with Youth and Cooking Local 

The second day focused on community engagement. We met with young people from a VET school in Peschici to discuss the goals of the Bike Agritourism project, from promoting eco-friendly travel to celebrating local traditions. The conversation sparked exciting ideas about how youth can play a role in shaping the future of sustainable tourism in their region.

Cooking with Chef Cilenti

Later that day, we took part in a hands-on cooking class led by Domenico Cilenti, a local Michelin Star chef heading the Porta di Basso restaurant, who taught us how to prepare regional dishes (orecchiette and pancotto) using fresh, local ingredients. It was more than just a meal, it was a lesson in sustainability, creativity, and cultural identity. Each dish reflected the richness of the Gargano region and how tourism activities can highlight local food production and tradition.

Our Biking Team

Day 3: Cycling Through the Umbra Forest 

On our final day, we took our bikes to the nearby Foresta Umbra, a UNESCO-recognized natural reserve famous for its diverse plant life and tranquil atmosphere. Riding through its winding forest paths allowed us to fully embrace the project’s goal of promoting tourism through reconnecting with nature and agricultural areas. The experience reminded us that sustainability begins not only in how we travel, but in how we engage with the places and institutions we encounter.