Vita Italian Tours
03 9080 3440
  • About Us
  • Small Group Tours
  • Tailor-Made Travel Tours
  • Educational School Tours
  • Testimonials
    • Small Group Tour Testimonials
    • Tailor-Made Travel Testimonials
    • Educational Tours Testimonials
  • Travel Blog
  • Contact Us

Destination Molise: Undiscovered Beauty

Posted 16 November, 2021 By Mario

Rolling countryside of the region of Molise, Italy.

Mario’s homage to the forgotten Italian Region of Molise, where family roots run deep.


Several weeks ago, my aunt in Italy died. I wasn’t close to Zia Liliana. She lived in Puglia, the neighbouring region of my native town of Larino in Molise. Not many people would visit Molise, it is squashed between the recent tourist juggernauts: Abruzzo and Puglia.

Nevertheless, during our COVID restricted world, the death of my aunt made me reflect on how much I missed visiting Italy. But most of all, I started romanticising my early life in my hometown: Larino. I make a point of returning to my birthplace as frequently as work allows me. It is not a medieval gem and apart from its magnificent 13th century cathedral and Ducal Palace, it does not possess any memorable architectural heritage. It does have, however, many reminders of its importance as a centre during Roman times. Notwithstanding its shortcomings, it remains a very special place to me.

It is where my roots are present and alive. I still vividly remember most of my early years. I was nine when mum decided ‘enough is enough’ and we left Larino to join dad in Melbourne, Australia in 1959. I returned there in my early twenties with my wife Viny and it has drawn me back ever since.

It is the place where all my ancestors are from. It is where I still have several aunts all in their nineties and who all have a rich tapestry of the family history and a grounding of what life was like when they were young. Meeting my countless cousins in the piazza feels like you are a local. Nothing changes, you are part of the bigger family. People know me as Francesco’s son, and I am treated with all the genuine hospitality and warmth. It is where my ancestors are resting. I know this all too well. In one of my early visits, Zia Elvira made sure that I knew where I came from. She took me to a florist and asked me to buy several big bunches of flowers. You never questioned Zia why so many flowers? She would just say “do it, you’ll see” We visited the local cemetery. And I was given an historical lesson of my family. As we slowly walked the carefully manicured aisles of graves full of fresh flowers, we stopped in front of “this is your grandfather”, “here lies your mums’ mother” and also my uncle Nick’s grave who I knew very well. Interestingly, there was also a plaque remembering two great uncles lost during the WWI. One wonders what happened to them. They were all there: great grandparents, uncles, cousins, and family friends. It was like she knew everyone personally and had stories about each of them. There was even a plaque remembering my dad who died and is buried in Australia. I placed a flower on each grave. There was another lasting impression during this memorable visit: most of the families were broken up or separated by migration and I sensed how much my aunt missed my dad, her only brother. And that saddened me very much.
Zia always told us to conduct tours in Molise and bring our tour groups to her place for lunch. She could not fathom why tourists wouldn’t like the 3-day festival celebrating the feast day of the Larino’s patron saint: San Pardo. Zia’s lunch would be memorable. It would be a unique experience full love, laughter and an abundance of delicious local food.

What to see and visit in Molise?



Molise is the perfect destination to get away from it all. Beautiful rolling hills with unique towns perched on mountain tops make up this little-known corner of Italy. Obviously, I would be delighted if travellers visited the historical centre of Larino or from many vantage points experience the cultivated valleys and on a clear day the crystal waters of the Adriatic. From the same vantage points the winter offers incredible views of the majestic snow-capped mountains of the Apennines. Termoli, only a short drive from Larino, is a summer tourist destination with its golden beaches. Its main attraction is the Borgo Antico with its ancient walls. The narrow streets are lined with pastel-coloured houses which have been turned into boutique B&Bs and restaurants. Termoli also has a port from which you can discover in less than an hour the stunningly beautiful Tremiti Islands by charter boat or ferry.

The Region’s capital Campobasso is also worth a visit. There is a sense of glamour and a rich historical heritage. Very close by is the town Ferrazzano with its wonderful panoramic views and known as the birth place of Robert de Niro’s ancestors. On the western part of the region is the provincial city of Isernia with its cathedral dedicated to San Pietro and wonderful roman ruins.

Molise also rewards the traveller in search of age old traditions and crafts passed through the generations. There are the world famous bell manufactures of Agnone, where hand made bell casting techniques have been passed down for more than a thousand years. Many villages are also sought after for their metal handicrafts such as Frosolone which is also well known for the most exquisite merletto/crochet patterns. Molise more than any other region in Italy has maintained centuries old traditions. You will stumble across festivals of all kinds throughout the year proudly reenacted by the local communities.

Agnone
Campobasso
Termoli

What to eat in Molise?


Given the amount of rich farmland, mountain and coastal areas in Molise, food lovers will not be disappointed with a rich tapestry of traditional cuisine. There is no shortage of meat and one of the must try delicacies of Molise is salsiccia di fegato a celebrated pork sausage made around the mountainous area close to Isernia in the west of the region. Ventricina is another cured sausage which is very well known in Molise and can also be found in neighbouring Abruzzo and Puglia. It is typically made with the best cuts of pork and cured with salt, chilli and spices.

Pasta dishes feature prominently with Molise being the home of Fusili spiral pasta as well as cavatelli or cavetiell in the local dialect. Of course you may have noticed the aptly named La Molisana (The one from Molise) in your supermarket pasta aisle, they have been producing and exporting pasta around the world from their base in the region’s capital Campobasso since 1912. Cheese is also a staple of the region with the most famous being the Caciocavallo from the town of Agnone made from cows milk as well as Caprino di Montefalcone nel Sannio made from milk of an indigenous bread of goats the Grigia Molisana.

The cuisine is complimented all year round by the abundant sea food provided by the many small ports along the Adriatic coast. The ancient fishing method of using trabocchi is still in operation. These traditional rickety-looking piers with small huts overlooking the crystal blue waters make for a memorable experience during the warmer months to enjoy an incredibly fresh seafood meal straight from the sea.

Caciocavallo Cheese
Cavatelli Pasta
Traditional Trabocco


I tend to think that my aunt was right. We should have a tour of my home region of Molise, as it has so much to offer. I am confident that it will not disappoint the curious traveller looking for an experience in the undiscovered beauty of the least visited region in Italy.

Interested in a tour or private self-drive itinerary to discover the region of Molise?

Contact us today.

Written by. Mario Vitellone – Founder/Director of Vita Italian Tours

Mario of Vita Italian Tours
Share this story
Previous
Next
Michelangelo's monumental dome at St Peter's Basil Michelangelo's monumental dome at St Peter's Basilica in Rome. A must see when visiting the Eternal City. Probably more well known for his works of sculpture and fresco, but did you know in his later years the Renaissance genius was a self taught architect? The ailing artist never saw the domes completion as his design was realised by Giacomo della Porta. The Dome of St Peter's Basilica remains one of the largest in the world and arguably cements Michaelangelo's legacy as one of the greatest and most influential artists of the Italian Renaissance.
The local inhabitants of the Cinque Terre may have The local inhabitants of the Cinque Terre may have originated as farmers and grape growers on their famed steep terraced plots of land but they also live in harmony with the sea. Local fisherman still ply their trade using the traditional wooden boats called ‘Gozzi’. Anchovies are most commonly caught but on our most recent tour of the Cinque Terre we met this local fisherman in the town of Vernazza who had brought back in a ‘Pagello Fragolino’ which is a local bream destined for a local restaurant.
Surrounded by imposing mountains, rolling valleys Surrounded by imposing mountains, rolling valleys and picture-perfect villages, it is little wonder that Lake Misurina in Italy's Veneto region is often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Dolomites'. This natural basin has crystal clear water and is a gateway for hikers, mountain bikers and sightseers to the famed Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the most famous mountain group in the alps. Lake Misurina is always a favourite stop for travellers on our Northern Lakes & Dolomites small group tour. For more info on this tour check the link in our bio.
Lake Garda is at the foot of the northern alps and Lake Garda is at the foot of the northern alps and surrounded by mountains. The protection of the mountains give Italy's largest lake a unique microclimate that allows for typical Mediterranean style vegetation to flourish like olive trees, vines, citrus, palms and bougainvillea. Houses such as this covered in vines is a common sight around the lake. The beautiful landscape and ideal climate make Lake Garda such a favourite stop for travellers at any time of year.
Rome more than any other city of the world is ador Rome more than any other city of the world is adorned by fountains large and small. The popes restored many Roman aquaducts and built monumental fountains in the highly decorative Baroque style. In our latest travel blog we take you on a walking tour of Rome's most famous fountains. Check out the link in our bio.
Tagliatelle ai funghi di bosco is always a favouri Tagliatelle ai funghi di bosco is always a favourite for us when travelling in Le Marche Region. Wild foraged mushrooms have so much flavour and work perfectly with hand made pasta. Simplicity at its best. If you would like to find out more about Le Marche Region, check out the link in our bio. Buon appetito!
One of the most beautiful and unique urban centres One of the most beautiful and unique urban centres in all of Italy. Piazza del Campo is the heart and soul of Siena and the home of the famous horse race Il Palio. The Torre del Mangia towers over the piazza and the city. It is 400 steps up a winding staircase to the very top of the tower which rewards travellers with unparalleled views of the city.
Molise is the perfect destination to get away from Molise is the perfect destination to get away from it all. Beautiful rolling countryside with quaint hill-top towns make up this little-known corner of Italy. 

In our latest travel blog article Mario pays homage to the forgotten Italian Region of Molise where, family roots run deep.

Check out the link in our bio.

📷 @antonio.cangianiello
The stunning coastline of Torre del Orso in Puglia The stunning coastline of Torre del Orso in Puglia known as the Caribbean of Salento.
Puglia has some of the most beautiful stretches of Puglia has some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in all of Italy. White limestone cliffs and cyrstal clear blue water. It is a must for all travellers to southern Italy. Discover this and other stunning areas of Italy on our small group tour the Spectacular South. Link in our bio.
San Gimignano is one of those magical places where San Gimignano is one of those magical places where you feel like you are walking back in time. From the moment you set foot through the medieval gates, you are greeted by impeccably preserved stone houses and palaces, small cobbled alleyways, piazze, fountains and of course towers. 

Check out our latest travel blog about this enchanting Tuscan hill-town. Link in our bio.
We love to introduce our travellers to the abundan We love to introduce our travellers to the abundance of fresh seasonal produce and traditional local food that the Italian cuisine has to offer. The Mediterranean diet is such a key part of Italian cuisine and indeed the Italian way of life. It is about sharing a meal together with family and friends paired with a nice glass of Italian wine.
Piazza della Madonna in the town of Loreto in Le M Piazza della Madonna in the town of Loreto in Le Marche Region. This beautiful fountain in the piazza graces the entrance to the Basilica della Santa Casa, an important site of religious pilgrimage. The beautiful colonnaded Palazzo along with Basilica were both realised in the high renaissance style by master architect Donato Bramante who was born in the nearby town of Fermignano. 

Loreto is a beautiful hill-town that we have been taking travellers to for many years. It is located very close to the Regions seaside capital Ancona. This seldom visited town also has a number of great little trattorias as well as sweeping view of the surrounding hills, the seaside and Ancona's famous Monte Conero which dominates the costal landscape. 

Check out our website for our small group tours visiting many small and interesting hill-towns off the beaten track in Le Marche Region. Link in bio.
One of the most pictureque fortresses in Italy, Sc One of the most pictureque fortresses in Italy, Scaligero Castle in Sirmione, Lake Garda. Located on a narrow peninsula at the southern end of Lake Garda the castle was built by the powerful ruling Della Scala family of nearby Verona in the 13th century. Known as the 'floating castle' this fortress  appears to be resting on water as it is completely surrounded by the lake, moats and a small harbour. Sirmione becomes quite a popular spot in the summer months as travellers flock to Italy's largest lake for recreation  and relaxation so if you prefer to avoid the large crowds try visiting in early spring or late autumn.
Travellers are always searching for the unique and Travellers are always searching for the unique and the unusual. Alberobello in the southern Italian region of Puglia with it's iconic trulli is certainly one of those places. Check out our travel guide of this must visit destination. Link in bio.
Puglia in the south of Italy is famous for it's 'c Puglia in the south of Italy is famous for it's 'cucina povera' (humble cuisine). The characteristics of this regional cusine is simplicity, seasonal freshness and quality. Vegetables, cheese, pasta, legumes, seafood and arguably the best bread in all of Italy. 

A standout dish from our small group tours in Puglia was this Gnocchi with vongole and pistachio sauce. Few ingredients done to perfection. 

Buon appetito!
Assisi stands without a doubt as one of Umbria's m Assisi stands without a doubt as one of Umbria's most stunning medieval centres. It is in a perfect setting surrounded by valleys and forests glistening against the backdrop of Mt Subiaso. Check out our travel tips and highlights of this picturesque hill-town. 

Click the link in our bio.
Dreaming of Italy and the Duomo di Firenze. One of Dreaming of Italy and the Duomo di Firenze. One of the great things to do in the renaissance city is to climb Filippo Brunelleschi's magnificent dome for a view of all of the rooftops of Florence. It is indeed the mother roof of the City with no structure built taller in more than half a century.
Window to Paradise. View through to the Grotto Bry Window to Paradise. View through to the Grotto Bryon named for the famous English poet who spent time in the seaside city of Portovenere on the Ligurian Riviera. Lord Byron famously swam across the Gulf of Poets in 1822 to visit his friend and fellow poet Shelley. An annual swimming challenge, The Byron Cup, is held in August to commemorate this amazing feat.
Piazza del Popolo in the seaside provincial city o Piazza del Popolo in the seaside provincial city of Pesaro. Picturesque, historic and charming are just some of the words we would use to describe this beautiful city. Find out more about this and other fantastic destinations in Le Marche Region to start dreaming about in our latest travel blog. Check out the link in our bio.
  • Sign up for updates and offers

Menu
  • Small Group Tours
  • Tailor-Made Travel
  • Educational School Tours
  • Travel Blog
Contact
1/25 Little Oxford Street
Collingwood VIC 3066
Australia
Ph. 03 9080 3440
Em. [email protected]

Vita Italian Tours Logo

Pronto Travel Logo

ATAS LogoATAC LogoMember of CATO

We accept the following cards:We accept Visa, Matercard and American Express

© 2022 Solito Investments Pty. Ltd. Trading as Vita Italian Tours
Pronto Travel ABN 49 585 472 899