Sicilian Citrus Harvest Experience: Orange & Lemon Picking with Russian Guests
- Mario G Figlioli
- Mar 25
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 18
It was the first Sunday of March when I welcomed a small group of curious travelers from Russia. They weren’t just looking for sun and beaches — they wanted to experience the real Sicily. The Sicily of earth, stories, flavors, and simplicity.
That morning, the air was crisp and scented. As soon as they stepped out of the minivan, they all smiled. “It smells like something I’ve never felt before,” said Irina. She was right — the scent of citrus, sun, and countryside was everywhere.
Sicilian Citrus Harvest Experience: Among the Citrus Groves of Western Sicily
We headed to the countryside between Marsala and Salemi, to a family-owned citrus farm. The trees were heavy with oranges and lemons, glowing under the sun. The fields stretched far, with rows of orange, gold, and deep green.
Vito, the local farmer, greeted us with a warm smile and pruning shears in hand. Tatiana, Alexei, Dmitri, and Irina were amazed — “In Russia, fruit comes in boxes. Here, we pick it with our own hands!”
Hands in the Soil, Citrus in the Air – The Essence of the Sicilian Citrus Harvest Experience
We started picking. Each step brought new scents — sweet, sharp, fresh. Some tasted an orange on the spot, surprised by the intense flavor. Others stood quietly, soaking in the silence, the buzz of bees, and the occasional breeze.
We talked about the land, the climate, and the connection between the people and the citrus trees. These weren’t just fruits — they were a living part of Sicilian culture.
A Picnic Under the Trees: A Taste of Authentic Sicilian Citrus
After the harvest, we sat on blankets beneath the orange trees. I served a simple yet traditional Sicilian brunch:
Pane cunzato with olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, and anchovies
Local cheese and olives
Homemade orange marmalade
And of course, freshly squeezed juice from the oranges we just picked
“This is the best breakfast I’ve ever had,” Tatiana whispered with a smile.
Stories, Legends & Memories: The Rich History of Sicilian Citrus
We walked through the orchard as I shared ancient legends about oranges and lemons — how the Arabs brought citrus to Sicily, tales of hidden love carved into the trees, and how volcanic soil gives this fruit its unique aroma.
At one point, Alexei stopped and said,“Now I understand Sicily — it’s not something you see, it’s something you feel.”
A Sweet Goodbye
Before leaving, we packed some crates with the fruit they picked. The group took a photo under the trees, their hands still perfumed with citrus and their hearts full of new memories.
An Experience to Remember
That day was more than a tour — it was a connection with the land, the culture, and the rhythm of Sicilian life. The type of experience that stays with you long after the flight home.
If you’re dreaming of a Sicilian Sunday filled with fragrance, color, and authenticity, I’ll be here, waiting to guide you through it.
📍 Best time: December – March👥 Private groups – max 6/8 people🚐 Transfers included – pick-up from your accommodation
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🍋 Sicily West by Mario IGT – Discover Sicily through the eyes of someone who lives it.
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