20 March 2019 Head to the hills in Campania for breathtaking nature, stunning views, rich culture, and amazing wine. Everyone dreams of the Amalfi Coast. Glittering blue waters shimmy against cliff faces where bright pastel homes cling to the crevices. Neat rows of striped umbrellas cast exclusive shade on beach loungers and gleaming boats wave to the shore. It is a postcard image and one of Italy’s top destinations. However, we want to take a moment to argue for Campania’s mountainous interior. Essentially, where the sea meets land the Apennine mountains immediately rise up and roll eastward towards the Adriatic coast. These are the reasons why you should venture to Irpinia in Campania. Easy to get to Vines, Feudi di San Gregorio, Campania. Irpinia doesn’t ‘truly’ exist anymore. In so far as that the area is now called the Province of Avellino, but you’ll still hear it referred to as Irpinia in reference to the ancient tribe that once lived among these hills. The region may be landlocked, but it is not far from the sea. Most of the sites are under an hour away from Naples by car. And thanks to an extensive highway system, you can roam from little village to little village with comparative ease. Outdoor adventures all year long Vineyard tour, Feudi di San Gregorio, Campania. Unlike the lapping shores of the Mediterranean, the stunningly pristine nature in Irpinia can be enjoyed year-round. Head to the Laceno ski resort in the more blustering months for a bit of winter fun. Or roam through the Monti Picentini Regional Park in search of the two natural oases in warmer weather. The bonus after all the physical exertion? A wine tasting or dinner at nearby Feudi di San Gregorio. This historic winery is nestled in the hills of the Irpinia region and is dedicated to bottling ancient varieties of wine for the modern drinker. It is also home to a Michelin-starred restaurant and sweeping views of the countryside. Campania’s food capital Homemade pasta at Marenna, Feudi di San Gregorio, Campania. It is in these hills that the region’s most famed foods and wine are made. Large pastures feed the buffalos whose milk becomes creamy and slightly tangy mozzarella. San Marzano tomatoes soak up the sun and later are spread as a paste on pizza. Hazelnuts, black truffles, cherries, chestnuts and olive oil all make their seasonal appearances. And of course, vineyards spring up on steep slopes which are pressed and made into the region’s best: Fiano di Avellino, Greco di Tufo, and Aglianico. Who could ask for more? Explore the ancient wine destination of Irpinia in Campania with The Grand Wine Tour.