As of January 11, 2024, Puglia boasts 960 active farmhouses, experiencing a remarkable 50% growth in active companies since 2014. This surge is highlighted by a strong inclination towards catering services and, notably, tasting experiences, constituting 7% of the overall offerings. The analysis conducted by Coldiretti Puglia and Terranostra, based on the ISTAT Report on Agritourism Companies in Italy, underscores the growth of structures and the diversification of services. A striking aspect of agritourism in Puglia is the substantial female representation, with 426 agritourisms under female leadership, showcasing the pivotal role of women in agricultural multifunctionality. In total, the 960 agritourisms provide 27,948 catering seats, 15,284 lodging spaces, and host 453 diverse activities. These activities encompass educational farms, horseback riding, hiking, nature observation, trekking, cooking courses, and master classes. A noteworthy statistic reveals that 32% of Italian food and wine tourists consider Puglia among the top three regions for food and wine tourism. This appreciation is attributed not only to the region's culinary quality but also to the peasant farms offering authentic recipes rooted in regional tradition. Agritourisms are witnessing a significant increase in the number of guests, with 23% of Italian tourists planning a trip to Puglia for food and wine tourism, and over 20% having already visited specifically to indulge in food and wine experiences.

Antonio Baselice, President of Terranostra Puglia, emphasizes that agritourisms, through storytelling, historical traditions, and guided tastings, provide unforgettable experiences that create personal connections on physical, intellectual, social, and emotional levels. Agritourism emerges as a cornerstone in the deseasonalization of tourism, particularly favored by those opting for 'out of season' travel. This trend appeals to those seeking to explore the lesser-explored facets of Italy, including parks, countryside, hills, and small villages that drive food and wine tourism. Notably, 92% of typical products originate from municipalities with fewer than five thousand inhabitants. Furthermore, agritourisms have enhanced their traditional accommodation and catering offerings by incorporating innovative services for gourmets, sports enthusiasts, and environmentalists. These include visits to archaeological or naturalistic routes, as well as cooking and wellness courses. The ability to preserve food and wine traditions over time remains a highly appreciated quality of agritourisms in Puglia.

Source: https://www.galatina24.it/agriturismo-in-puglia-in-10-anni-raddoppiano-le-strutture-attive/