Botanical workshop & Nepeta’s bitters tasting in Val di Noto

If you’re searching for an authentic Sicilian experience that combines creativity, nature, and local flavors, this Botanical Workshop and Bitters Tasting at Casa Nepeta in Val di Noto might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally attended, the detailed descriptions, genuine reviews, and the carefully curated itinerary suggest it offers a special way to connect with Sicily’s natural bounty.

What I love about this experience is its focus on hands-on craftsmanship—creating your own botanical print using simple monotype techniques—and learning about traditional herbal bitters, which are an integral part of Sicilian culture. Plus, the chance to stroll among aromatic herbs like nepitella, marjoram, and thyme adds a sensory layer to the visit. The tasting aspect rounds out the experience with authentic flavors, making it both educational and delicious.

One thing to consider is that the activity lasts about three hours, which might be tight if you want a very leisurely pace or if you prefer to explore on your own afterward. It’s best suited for travelers eager to craft, taste, and learn in a small, intimate setting amid stunning mountain scenery. If you’re drawn to artisanal traditions, botanical art, or local spirits, this is a charming choice.

This experience made our article of Noto Italy’s 5 Best Tours & Experiences: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Creative Experience: Make your own botanical print using monotype techniques.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample three different Nepeta herbal liqueurs amidst fragrant herbs.
• Educational: Learn how Sicilian herbal bitters like Nepèta, Majora, and Timous are crafted.
• Natural Setting: Explore Casa Nepeta, surrounded by lush herbs and mountain views in the Iblei Mountains.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty, ideal for spontaneous plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

Starting at Casa Nepeta, you’ll meet your guide and the small group of fellow adventurers in the scenic heart of Sicily’s Iblei Mountains. The experience begins with a walk through the farm, where you’ll gather local leaves and wild herbs—think of it as a botanical treasure hunt, with aromatic plants like nepitella, marjoram, and thyme.

Creating Your Botanical Print: The core activity involves turning these gathered plants into a piece of art using the monotype technique. This process is surprisingly straightforward—using an intaglio press, you imprint plant shapes onto fabric or paper, producing small tapestries or decorative pieces. Reviewers mention that the instructor guides everyone gently through this creative process, which results in a personal keepsake to take home.

Exploring Casa Nepeta: Afterwards, you’ll tour the farm, learning about the meticulous process of herbal bitters production. The guide explains how herbs are harvested and transformed into artisanal spirits, emphasizing traditional methods that have been preserved for generations. The aromatic environment, filled with scents of nepitella, marjoram, and thyme, enhances the sensory journey, making the explanation engaging and memorable.

Bitters Tasting: The highlight for many is the guided tasting of three Nepeta liqueurs—Nepèta, Majora, and Timous. Expect authentic flavors that reveal the herbal complexity and craftsmanship behind each sip. Reviewers find that these local spirits are surprisingly nuanced, with some describing them as “surprisingly flavorful” and “authentic.”

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Arrival and Introduction

You’ll gather at Casa Nepeta, a charming spot in the countryside. The group is small, which means you get personal attention from your host, often in English or Italian. The setting alone—surrounded by green hills and aromatic herbs—sets a peaceful, inspiring tone.

Gathering and Botanical Art

Next, you’ll stroll around the farm to pick herbs and leaves that catch your eye. This is not just a walk; it’s an opportunity to connect with the landscape and understand the plants’ role in local traditions. You might be surprised how tactile this part of the experience is, with many reviewers noting the joy of handling fresh herbs.

Once you’ve gathered your materials, the creative part begins. Using the monotype technique, you’ll produce a unique piece of botanical art—be it a small tapestry or a decorative paper—using the plant impressions. Many mention that the instructor, likely someone with a gentle teaching style, makes the process accessible and fun, even for beginners.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Herbs and Production Process

Following the art session, your guide explains the herbs’ journey from plant to bottle. Expect to hear about the traditional methods used in Casa Nepeta’s artisan bitters production. Some reviews mention the “beautiful scents” filling the air, making this part engaging and aromatic.

Tasting and Final Notes

Finally, your group moves to the tasting table, where three herbal liqueurs await. Each sip reveals a different story—herbal, slightly sweet, and complex—showcasing the local craftsmanship. The tasting is guided, so you learn about the ingredients and the subtle differences in flavor profiles.

Value & Practicalities

This tour is priced with the understanding that it offers a blend of creative activity, educational insights, and authentic flavors in a beautiful natural setting. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, which many reviewers appreciate, as it allows for more interaction and detailed explanations.

While transfer isn’t included, the meeting point is clearly specified at Casa Nepeta, and travelers can plan accordingly. The activity lasts about three hours, making it an accessible half-day excursion—perfect for those who want to pack a lot into a short trip without overcommitting.

The flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand adds peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather or changing plans.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re intrigued by artistic crafts and want to try your hand at creating something unique, this workshop offers a rewarding hands-on activity. It’s also ideal for food and drink enthusiasts eager to learn how traditional herbal spirits are made, with a chance to taste authentic Sicilian flavors. Nature lovers will enjoy the walk and the fragrant environment of Casa Nepeta.

This experience suits small groups or couples looking for a quiet, meaningful activity, rather than a crowded tour. If you appreciate local traditions, organic farming, and artisanal spirits, you’ll find plenty to love here. However, those seeking a fast-paced or extensive sightseeing tour might find it a bit limited in scope.

The Sum Up

This botanical workshop and bitters tasting in Val di Noto stands out as a thoughtful, intimate experience that combines creative expression, culinary curiosity, and natural beauty. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to create, taste, and learn in a relaxed, scenic environment.

The small-group format, hands-on activity, and tasting session make it a memorable way to connect with Sicilian culture authentically. It offers excellent value if you’re interested in artisanal traditions and enjoy sensory experiences rooted in nature.

Perfect for those eager to craft something personal while discovering the flavors of Sicily, this tour balances education, entertainment, and a genuine taste of local craftsmanship. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression—and perhaps a new appreciation for herbal bitters.

FAQ

Is transportation included? No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll meet at Casa Nepeta, so plan to arrange your own transfer or local transportation.

What’s the duration of the experience? The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity within your Sicily itinerary.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.

Is it suitable for children or beginners? Yes, the process is designed to be accessible, and the small group setting ensures personalized guidance, making it suitable for beginners of all ages.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable clothes suitable for walking around the farm and handling plants. Aprons or smocks aren’t specified but might be helpful if you want to keep your clothes clean.

Are the herbal liqueurs strong? The tasting is guided, so you can enjoy the flavors without worry. The spirits are herbal and aromatic, but not necessarily high-proof; they’re meant to be sipped and appreciated gradually.

This smooth blend of art, nature, and flavors makes for a memorable Sicilian adventure that’s as enriching as it is enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: