Boys' summer retreats situated in Monferrato, dedicated to the cultivation of blueberries, attract attendees from across Italy.
Nestled in a valley between Casale and San Giorgio, the picturesque "Mercy Between Earth and Sky" farm stands as a testament to nature's bounty and community spirit. The farm, spanning 6 hectares, is accessible via a dirt road at the top of the Sant'Anna hill, marked by a handwritten sign indicating the property.
The farm's horizon is a breathtaking sight, with well-aligned vineyards and walnut groves stretching out as far as the eye can see. But it's not just the stunning views that make this farm unique.
Blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries are cultivated here, not in the traditional fields, but in pots, due to the calcareous soil. This diverse range of red fruits is a significant part of the farm's extensive activity, which includes a connection to the diocesan Caritas organisation.
Don Marco Calvo, the director of diocesan Caritas, is linked to the idea of cultivating red fruits at the farm. The fruits' high content of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals is not only beneficial for the soil but also for the people who partake in them.
The farm has attracted the attention of teenagers from Pisa and other parts of Italy, who have flocked to the farm for a summer of nature and service. A small workshop at the farm is used for woodworking, creating benches and tables for nature-based vacations.
Meals are shared in a large courtyard at the farm, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community. The farm's philosophy is encapsulated in the signs that read, "Everything is a gift: a sincere thank you", emphasising the idea that all costs are Providence.
In addition to the red fruit cultivation, the farm is also involved in Agrigrest, an educational programme where children and young people learn to help others by making personal sacrifices and dedicating time to small manual activities.
Despite a lack of specific information about the farm's educational summer camp, blueberry cultivation, or Caritas connection in online search results, the farm continues to thrive, offering a sanctuary for nature, learning, and community spirit. For more detailed information, one may need to consult the farm's official website or contact them directly.
The average nutritional value of the home-grown fruits, such as blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries, in the pots, benefits both the soil and the people who consume them, aligning with Don Marco Calvo's vision for the farm. The food-and-drink experience at the farm, along with the interwoven garden design featuring vineyards, walnut groves, and pot-cultivated fruits, contributes to an enjoyable, sustainable, and community-oriented average lifestyle on the farm.
