Authentic food experience is more than just a trendy phrase. It’s something you can truly live in the heart of the Sorrento Peninsula. In the hills of Massa Lubrense, Il Turuzziello is a family-run farmhouse where food, tradition, and nature come together in the most genuine way. Here, you don’t just taste local products—you discover the stories, the people, and the passion behind every bite.

A Warm Welcome to the Countryside

The experience begins the moment you arrive. The air smells of lemons and fresh herbs, and the setting is nothing short of idyllic: olive trees, lemon groves and a breathtaking view that stretches all the way to the island of Capri. This is where an authentic food experience truly starts—with sincere hospitality and deep-rooted tradition.

Guests are greeted by members of the Ruoppo family, who have been farming this land for generations. Their passion is infectious. Right away, you feel like you’re stepping into something real—no glossy façade, just sincere hospitality and genuine pride in what they do.

A Walk Among Lemons: A Taste of the Garden

Before diving into the cheese and culinary part of the experience, we were invited on a slow, fragrant walk through the heart of the property: the lemon grove. The citrus scent was everywhere—fresh, intense, and unmistakably southern Italian.

As we wandered between ancient trees heavy with bright yellow fruit, our guide explained the importance of lemons in the local culture—not just for cooking, but for medicine, tradition, and even cleaning. Every tree seemed to tell a story, rooted deeply in the volcanic soil and kissed by the sea breeze of the Gulf of Naples.

What made this moment special wasn’t just the scenery—it was the taste. We stopped under the trees to sip on freshly squeezed lemon juice, tart and refreshing, and sampled an array of homemade lemon-based products: marmalade, lemon cream, honey, and even lemon-scented olive oil. Each bite captured the essence of the land—sun, soil, and tradition.

It’s a multisensory experience: the texture of the citrus leaves under your fingers, the golden light filtering through the branches, the zing of fresh juice on your tongue. It’s the kind of moment that makes you feel like time has slowed down.

This lemon grove walk is not just a lovely detour—it’s a central part of the experience, a way to connect deeply with the terroir and understand how much the local lifestyle revolves around this iconic fruit.

An Unexpected Ride: The Ape Adventure

ust when I thought I had seen it all, it was time to head toward the second part of the experience—the mozzarella-making show. But this wasn’t your usual stroll or shuttle ride.

Waiting for us at the end of the lemon grove were a few Ape Cars—those tiny, three-wheeled vehicles that are iconic in southern Italy. I had seen them buzzing around town before, but I had never ridden in one. Let me tell you: it was an adventure in itself.

We hopped in, and off we went through the narrow, winding alleys of Massa Lubrense. And when I say narrow, I mean barely-wide-enough-for-a-bicycle narrow. The drivers, clearly used to this kind of challenge, navigated sharp corners and sudden inclines like acrobats. We laughed the entire way, holding on tight as the Ape zipped between stone walls, fig trees, and sleepy cats sunbathing on the roadside.

It was chaotic, hilarious, and absolutely unforgettable. Riding an Ape through these backroads is like being part of a Fellini movie—unexpected, quirky, and uniquely Italian.

By the time we reached the farmhouse, the adrenaline had kicked in, and I was already grinning ear to ear. The mozzarella hadn’t even started yet, and I was already in love with this place.

Mozzarella-Making Show: The Star of the Experience

One of the highlights of the visit is the live mozzarella-making demonstration. In a rustic, open-air space, the cheesemaker shows how fresh milk is transformed—step by step—into the region’s most iconic product.

Watching the mozzarella being pulled and shaped by hand is oddly mesmerizing. You can see the steam rise, smell the warmth of the curd, and—best of all—taste it while it’s still warm. This isn’t something you’ll find in a restaurant or supermarket. This is mozzarella at its freshest, made before your eyes, and served with pride.

The demonstration also includes an overview of how other local cheeses are made, like provolone del Monaco and ricotta. It’s educational, but in the most engaging and delicious way possible.

The Tasting: A Flavourful Celebration

After the demo, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of the farm—literally. The tasting is generous and beautifully arranged, featuring:

• Fresh mozzarella (of course)
• Creamy ricotta and caciottina
• Aged provolone del Monaco DOP
• Homemade salami and local cured meats
• Bread with extra virgin olive oil
• Seasonal vegetables from the garden
• Lemon marmalade made with their own citrus
• Limoncello (handcrafted on site)

Everything you taste is made or grown here, and every bite tells a story. It’s not a rushed snack or quick tour—it’s a moment to slow down and savor, surrounded by nature and good company.

Pizza School: Ending on a High (and Tasty) Note

To top off this authentic food experience, the final activity is as fun as it is delicious: a hands-on pizza school led by a local pizzaiolo. You’ll learn how to stretch the dough, choose your toppings, and bake your own pizza in a wood-fired oven—then, of course, enjoy your creation fresh and hot. It’s the perfect ending to a day full of flavors, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

Who Is It For? Perfect for Families, Foodies, and Curious Travelers

This experience is especially suited for:

• Families with kids – Children love seeing the animals, learning how cheese is made, and enjoying fresh food.
• Couples – It’s a romantic and authentic way to discover local life.
• Small groups and friends – Fun, interactive, and full of shared moments.
• Food lovers – If you’re into slow food, cheese, or traditional farming, this is a must.

It’s also ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and dive into something more meaningful than a standard sightseeing tour. And anyone looking for a break from tourist traps will find that this authentic food experience reconnects you with real Italian life.

Why Choose This Experience?

In a region filled with food tours and tastings, this one stands out because it’s real. It’s about stepping into a family’s world, learning from them, and tasting what they proudly produce. You’ll walk among lemon trees, ride through secret alleys, make mozzarella, and share a meal made with love.

It’s not just a tour—it’s an authentic food experience that stays with you long after you leave.