Since 1898 in Massa Lubrense, the Gargiulo family has created a Garden of Eden nestled in a volcanic valley overlooking the Gulf of Naples where a magnificent lemon grove and many typical crops grow, open for guided tours and tastings under the stars.
The farm with agritourism La Masseria was founded in 1898 thanks to the vision and passion for his land of great-grandfather Ferdinando who was among the first farmers in the area to transplant a lemon grove and, through local traders, to manage to export lemons abroad with sailing ships.
Thanks to these “pioneers” of the territory, today the lemon groves of the Sorrento Peninsula are an attraction renowned throughout the world for their beauty and the unique traditional production method, the famous terraced “pergolas” to protect the fruits from the elements.
For 4 generations we have taken care of our garden to let you savour a centuries-old art handed down by our ancestors and that today we want to preserve to safeguard the territory.
(Gargiulo family)
Today it is the third generation, with Ferdinando together with his wife and sons Eugenio and Raffaele, who takes care of this magical place that enhances the protected denomination of the “Limone di Sorrento PGI” and many other specialties.
In addition to lemons, here, in fact, are also produced the typical Extra Virgin Olive Oil of the Sorrento Peninsula, other citrus fruits such as Oranges and Mandarins, different varieties of fruit trees and seasonal vegetables and honey.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the wonder of these fragrant gardens by booking a guided tour or one of the many activities offered by La Masseria.
Tours include a visit to the lemon grove with practical demonstrations of work and production processes, the ancient family wine cellar, the small folklore museum located in the 18th-century chapel of the estate, and the oil mill.
The visit ends with a tasting of typical products such as a fresh homemade lemonade, D.O.P. extra virgin olive oil, also flavored in different specialties, cured meats and cheeses, citrus jams and honey from their own hives to pair with artisanal bread.
In addition, lessons can also be organized to learn how to make limoncello spirit or book a lunch or dinner based on typical homemade dishes made with products grown on the farm that are organized on the outdoor terrace under rows of little lights or in the new internal dining room in the colder months.
Truly a unique combination of tradition, taste, agriculture and a landscape unique in the world.
The Secret
The true magic of the Sorrento Peninsula lemon is contained in its scent given by the essential oils that make it the best variety in the preparation of limoncello.
Useful Info
La Masseria
Via Pontescuro 10
80061 Massa Lubrense, Napoli
Tel. +39 339 4294516