Explore the diverse wonders of Spain’s Almería region with this captivating 6-hour tour. Enjoy the world of premium extra virgin olive oil at the OleoAlmanzora Gourmet Shop, then venture underground to marvel at the breathtaking Pulpí Geode. This remarkable experience offers a unique blend of culinary discovery and geological wonder, promising an unforgettable adventure for all who embark on it. What hidden treasures will you uncover?
Key Points
- This 6-hour experience offers a guided tour of an olive grove, an educational tasting of extra virgin olive oils, and a visit to the Giant Geode of Pulpí.
- The tour starts at 10 AM at Tienda Gourmet OleoAlmanzora and includes exploration of the olive grove, a presentation on olive oil production, and a tasting session.
- The tasting experience features high-quality extra virgin olive oils and flavored oils, with staff providing guidance on identifying nuances in aroma, flavor, and texture.
- The Giant Geode of Pulpí, located in an abandoned mine, is the world’s largest accessible geode, with visitors descending 164 steps to explore it.
- The tour may not be suitable for all visitors due to mobility challenges and involves descending stairs, with some accessibility options available.
Tour Overview
The OleoAlmanzora Guided Tour & Tasting offers visitors a 6-hour experience, which includes a 3.5-hour tour of the olive grove and oil production facility, as well as a 90-minute visit to the Giant Geode of Pulpí.
Priced from $48.06 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.
The tour is available for booking, providing an opportunity to explore the world of extra virgin olive oil and witness the geological marvel of the Giant Geode.
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Itinerary Details
Starting at the Tienda Gourmet OleoAlmanzora, the guided tour begins with a 35-minute exploration of the olive grove, followed by a 20-minute presentation on the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) production process.
Guests then enjoy a 20-minute tasting session of various EVOOs and flavored oils. The tour concludes with 10 minutes of free time to shop at the gourmet shop.
After sampling the premium extra virgin olive oils and flavored varieties, guests can browse the gourmet shop before the tour concludes.
After the OleoAlmanzora experience, the group heads to the Giant Geode of Pulpí, where they’ll have a guided tour of the remarkable geological marvel.
The sample schedule has the OleoAlmanzora tour beginning at 10 AM, followed by free time for lunch, and the Pulpí Geode visit at 3:30 PM.
EVOO Tasting Experience
Guests savor a tasting of high-quality extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) and flavored oils during the OleoAlmanzora experience. The knowledgeable staff guide visitors through tasting and evaluating different varieties, including garlic, lemon, rosemary, black truffle, chili, and smoked.
Participants learn to identify the subtle nuances in aroma, flavor, and texture that distinguish premium olive oils. This educational tasting session provides insight into the olive oil production process, from harvesting to storage.
Guests appreciate the opportunity to sample a range of gourmet olive oils and discover their personal preferences.
Olive Tree Cultivation and Oil Production
Olive trees grow throughout the OleoAlmanzora region, thriving in the Mediterranean climate. Tour guests learn about the cultivation practices and careful harvesting that produce the high-quality extra virgin olive oils they will sample. The process involves:
| Stage | Description |
| — | — |
| Planting | Olive trees planted in well-drained soil, spaced for optimal growth |
| Pruning | Careful tending to maintain tree health and oil production |
| Harvesting | Olives hand-picked at peak ripeness, avoiding damage |
| Milling | Olives crushed into paste, then oil extracted via cold-press |
Guests gain appreciation for the skill and effort required to bring these exceptional olive oils to the table.
More Great Tours NearbyGiant Geode of Pulpí
After visiting the olive groves and learning about olive oil production, tour participants head to the magnificent Giant Geode of Pulpí.
This geological marvel, located in an abandoned mine, is the world’s largest accessible geode. Standing up to 36 feet tall and 23 feet wide, the geode’s crystalline walls sparkle under the specialized lighting.
Guests descend 164 steps, including a spiral staircase, to explore the cavern. Those with mobility concerns can use an elevator for part of the descent.
While pregnant women in the last trimester are advised against going beyond the third level, the geode offers a mesmerizing geological experience.
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Gourmet Shopping Opportunities
Upon completing the tour of the olive groves and tasting the high-quality extra virgin olive oils, visitors can browse the gourmet shop at OleoAlmanzora.
Visitors can browse the gourmet shop at OleoAlmanzora after touring the olive groves and tasting the high-quality extra virgin olive oils.
The shop offers a variety of local products, including:
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An assortment of flavored olive oils, such as garlic, lemon, rosemary, black truffle, and chili.
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Artisanal wines, beers, and honey sourced from the region.
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Specialty food items that complement the olive oil tasting experience.
Guests can peruse the selection, ask questions, and purchase their favorite products to continue their culinary journey at home.
Accessibility and Safety Considerations
Although the OleoAlmanzora Guided Tour offers a unique educational experience, it may not be suitable for all visitors.
The tour involves descending 164 steps, including a 15-meter spiral staircase, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. While an elevator is available for part of the descent, pregnant women in their last trimester are advised against going beyond the third level.
Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 8 years old. Visitors are required to wear comfortable shoes and are prohibited from bringing items like strollers, food, drinks, and high-heeled shoes.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
The OleoAlmanzora Guided Tour & Tasting has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from past participants.
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 13 reviews, the tour has delighted guests with its informative experiences, passionate staff, and high-quality tastings.
Key highlights from customer feedback include:
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Guests appreciated the depth of knowledge and enthusiasm shared by the tour guides.
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Visitors raved about the opportunity to sample a variety of premium extra virgin olive oils and flavored oils.
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Customers were impressed by the seamless organization and flow of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a total of 164 steps, including a 15-meter spiral staircase. An elevator is available for part of the descent, but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Can I Take Photos Inside the Geode?
No, cameras are prohibited inside the Giant Geode of Pulpí. The tour guidelines state that only personal items like a passport or ID, and comfortable shoes are allowed. Bringing any cameras, food, drinks, or other prohibited items is not permitted.
Are Vegetarian/Gluten-Free Options Available for the Tasting?
The tour does not specify vegetarian or gluten-free options for the tasting. Guests with dietary restrictions should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about any accommodations that may be available.
What Is the Language of the Guided Tours?
The guided tours are provided in English and Spanish. The tour operator offers multilingual guides to ensure a seamless experience for all participants, regardless of their preferred language.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary is generally fixed, but customers can inquire about customization options. The tour provider may be able to accommodate special requests, such as adding or removing activities, within reasonable limits and availability.
The Sum Up
The OleoAlmanzora Guided Tour & Tasting combined with a visit to the stunning Pulpí Geode offers a captivating 6-hour adventure. Visitors can explore an olive grove, learn about extra virgin olive oil production, and enjoy a delightful tasting session. The tour concludes with a descent into the world’s largest accessible geode, marveling at its breathtaking mineral formations. This experience provides a well-rounded exploration of the region’s natural and culinary wonders.
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