Experience the authentic flavors of Istrian culture with this immersive olive oil, wine, and local food tour near Umag. You’ll explore a family-owned olive grove, learning about traditional harvesting methods as you taste premium extra virgin olive oil. Then, savor Istrian charcuterie, local wines, and a unique olive oil ice cream dessert – all in a stunning setting with breathtaking views. This 5-star rated experience promises generous portions and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, inviting you to…
Key Points
- Immersive family-run experience showcasing Istrian culinary traditions, including olive oil harvesting, wine tasting, and artisanal local food.
- Premium extra virgin olive oil tasting paired with Istrian charcuterie and local wines in a dedicated tasting room.
- Opportunity to visit a family olive grove, learn about olive cultivation, and explore centuries-old olive tree trunks.
- Highly-rated activity with 100% traveler recommendation based on 31 reviews praising the family atmosphere and educational aspects.
- Conveniently located near Umag, with a start time of 11:00 am and a maximum group size of 14 travelers.
Experience Overview
Although situated near the coastal town of Umag, this authentic Istrian olive oil, wine, and local food experience offers visitors an immersive taste of the region’s traditions.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and 31 reviews, the experience includes a visit to a family olive grove to learn the harvesting process.
Guests can then discover premium extra virgin olive oil and sample local Istrian wines, olive digestive, and elderflower juice.
The tasting is complemented by an Istrian charcuterie board and artisan olive oil ice cream, providing a well-rounded exploration of Istrian culinary delights.
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Olive Oil and Wine Tasting
In the tasting room, visitors can discover premium extra virgin olive oil from the family-owned olive grove.
Guided olive degustation showcases the Olivo Istriano olive oil paired with Istrian charcuterie like prosciutto and ricotta cheese. Guests also sample local Istrian wines, an olive digestive, and elderflower juice.
To cap off the tasting, visitors indulge in artisan ice cream infused with the family’s signature olive oil.
This immersive olive oil and wine experience allows travelers to fully appreciate the region’s rich culinary traditions and flavors.
Meeting Point and Logistics
The meeting point for this experience is Olivo Istriano, located at Kukov VRH in Buje, Croatia.
Simply open Google Maps for navigation to reach the destination. The activity starts at 11:00 am and ends at the meeting point.
It’s important to note that the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are allowed.
Group size is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers.
Flexibility is offered with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
The cost for this authentic Istrian adventure starts at $48.12 per person.
Additional Information
Travelers receive a confirmation email upon booking, unless the experience is booked within 4 hours of the start time.
This Istrian olive oil and local food experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are allowed.
Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 14 travelers.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience.
The cost per person is $48.12.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore the immense appeal of this Istrian olive oil and local food experience.
All 31 reviews award the activity a perfect 5-star rating, praising the family atmosphere, informative tours, generous portions, and stunning settings.
Travelers appreciate the educational aspect, highlighting the opportunity to learn about traditional olive oil production and sample premium local delicacies.
Many describe it as a "must-do" in Istria, capturing the essence of the region through its authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
The rave reviews indicate this is an exceptional value, promising an unforgettable taste of Istrian culture and cuisine.
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Discovering the Family Olive Grove
What better way to take in the heart of Istrian olive oil traditions than by visiting the family olive grove?
Travelers will stroll through the lush grove, learning first-hand about the time-honored process of olive cultivation and harvesting. The expert guide shares insights into the family’s multi-generational history, explaining how they’ve perfected their craft over the decades.
Guests can run their fingers over the twisted, gnarled olive tree trunks, some dating back centuries. It’s a rare chance to witness the origins of the premium extra virgin olive oil tasted earlier in the experience.
Istrian Charcuterie and Local Specialties
After exploring the family’s centuries-old olive grove, guests now venture into the tasting room to savor the local charcuterie and specialties of Istria.
They discover premium extra virgin olive oil in a guided degustation, accompanied by an Istrian charcuterie board featuring prosciutto and ricotta cheese.
The experience continues with sampling local Istrian wines, an olive digestive, and refreshing elderflower juice.
As a delightful finale, guests indulge in artisan ice cream infused with the family’s own olive oil.
These local delicacies showcase the abundance and flavors of the Istrian peninsula.
Dessert With a Twist
Though the tour has featured a delightful array of Istrian delicacies, the experience saves the best for last. As the tasting concludes, guests are treated to a unique dessert – artisan ice cream infused with the region’s prized olive oil. This unexpected pairing creates a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, leaving a lasting impression.
| Flavor | Description |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil Ice Cream | Made with Olivo Istriano extra virgin olive oil, this creamy dessert offers a rich, lingering finish. |
| Elderflower Sorbet | A refreshing, floral-infused sorbet that cleanses the palate between tastings. |
| Olive Oil Digestif | A bittersweet liqueur made from the estate’s olive oil, a perfect nightcap. |
| Chardonnay Vinegar | A tart, complex vinegar that can be drizzled over the ice cream for an added twist. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available for this experience. The olive oil and wine tasting includes an Istrian charcuterie board that can be substituted with plant-based alternatives upon request.
Can I Bring My Own Wine or Olive Oil?
No, guests can’t bring their own wine or olive oil to this experience. The tasting focuses on the host’s premium olive oil and wines, providing an immersive local experience. Bringing outside products isn’t allowed.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s no minimum age requirement for this experience. Younger travelers are welcome, though the activity may be most suitable for adults interested in sampling local olive oil, wine, and cuisine.
Is There an Option to Extend the Experience?
No, there’s no option to extend the experience. The activity lasts about 2-3 hours and ends at the meeting point. However, travelers can explore the area further on their own after the tasting experience.
Do You Offer Any Discounts or Packages for Larger Groups?
Yes, the experience offers discounts for larger groups. Groups of 6 or more can receive a 10% discount off the per-person price. There are also package deals available for groups looking to extend their experience.
The Sum Up
This immersive Istrian experience offers a unique opportunity to discover the region’s rich culinary heritage. From exploring the family olive grove to savoring premium olive oil, local wines, and artisanal delicacies, it promises a delightful and budget-friendly journey into the heart of Istrian culture. With its stunning views and warm, welcoming atmosphere, this 5-star rated experience is not to be missed.