Experience the journey from olive to oil at LaMarina Farm. Visitors can hand-pick Marina olives from ancient trees, learning about their historical significance since the 16th century. Witness the cold extraction process that produces high-quality extra virgin olive oil, then savor this exquisite oil on bruschetta with local cheeses and cured meats. Discover the tradition and passion behind this age-old process, where quality and authenticity reign supreme.
Key Points
- Participate in the hand-picking of centuries-old Marina olive trees and learn about the history of this unique olive variety.
- Observe the cold extraction process that preserves the exceptional flavor profile of the Olio Marina extra virgin olive oil.
- Enjoy a tasting of the Olio Marina olive oil, accompanied by bruschetta, local cheeses, and cured meats in an intimate setting.
- Discover the cultural significance of the Marina olive and its central role in the local agricultural identity and culinary traditions.
- Immerse in a 45-minute to 4-hour experience with a small group of up to 10 participants, located in the San Paolo district of San Donato Val di Comino.
Experience Overview
Nestled in the San Paolo district of San Donato Val di Comino, LaMarina Farm offers an immersive olive harvesting and oil tasting experience lasting 45 minutes to 4 hours.
Limited to 10 participants, guests hand-pick centuries-old Marina olives and observe the cold extraction process at the on-site olive press. Instruction is provided in Italian.
Priced from Kč 1,122 per person, the experience includes a tasting of the farm’s herbaceous, slightly spicy olive oil paired with bruschetta, local cheeses, and cured meats.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in San Donato Val Di Comino.
Harvesting at LaMarina Farm
The olive harvesting experience at LaMarina Farm begins in early November. Participants hand-pick Marina olives from centuries-old trees, learning about the history of this unique olive variety introduced in the 16th century.
Guests enjoy the ancient tradition of olive harvesting, a vital part of the local culture. The activity takes place in the San Paolo district of San Donato Val di Comino, where the farm is located.
Participants can expect to spend 45 minutes to 4 hours picking olives, depending on group size and individual pace. The hands-on experience is suitable for all ages, though children must be accompanied by an adult.
History of the Marina Olive
The Marina olive is a unique variety that was first introduced to the San Donato Val di Comino region in the 16th century.
This heritage olive boasts a rich history, having been cultivated in the area for centuries. The Marina olive is renowned for its complex flavor profile, showcasing herbaceous notes, a slight tomato hint, and a spicy finish.
Visitors to LaMarina Farm have the opportunity to learn about the history and significance of this exceptional olive, which is central to the region’s agricultural identity and culinary traditions.
Olive Harvesting Tradition
Participants at LaMarina Farm have the opportunity to enjoy the ancient tradition of olive harvesting. They hand-pick Marina olives from centuries-old trees, learning about the history of this unique variety introduced in the 16th century.
The harvest begins in early November, allowing visitors to experience the rhythm of this timeless ritual. Participants get to witness the care and expertise required to gently pick the olives, ensuring the delicate fruit remains intact.
This hands-on experience connects visitors to the land and the generations who’ve preserved this agricultural legacy.
More Great Tours NearbyVisit to the Olive Press
After the hands-on olive harvesting, visitors move on to LaMarina’s olive press to observe the cold extraction process.
They witness the milling of freshly picked Marina olives, learning how LaMarina preserves the oil’s organoleptic and nutritional characteristics.
The high-quality Olio Marina is known for its herbaceous notes, subtle tomato hint, and spicy finish – a result of the meticulous cold extraction.
Visitors appreciate the bright green color and complex flavor of the freshly pressed oil as they enjoy bruschetta, local cheeses, and cured meats, seeing the traditions of olive oil production.
Olive Oil Extraction Process
At LaMarina’s olive press, visitors witness the meticulous cold extraction process that preserves the oil’s distinct flavor profile.
They watch as freshly harvested Marina olives are milled, turning them into a thick paste. This paste is then slowly pressed, allowing the golden liquid to flow out.
The entire process is carried out at low temperatures to maintain the oil’s herbaceous notes, subtle tomato hints, and spicy finish.
The meticulous cold extraction preserves the oil’s herbaceous notes, subtle tomato hints, and spicy finish.
Guests gain an appreciation for the care and attention required to produce LaMarina’s high-quality, extra virgin olive oil, which is celebrated for its exceptional organoleptic and nutritional qualities.
Tasting the Olio Marina
Bruschetta topped with LaMarina’s rich, golden olive oil and accompanied by local cheeses and cured meats awaits guests as they settle in to savor the fruits of their labor.
After participating in the olive harvest and observing the pressing process, visitors gain a deep appreciation for the complexity of the Olio Marina.
With its vibrant green hue and notes of herbs, tomato, and a pleasant spicy finish, the freshly pressed oil presents a delightful tasting experience for olive oil enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The intimate setting encourages guests to discuss the nuances of this exceptional local product.
Practical Considerations
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and warm, weather-appropriate clothing for the outdoor olive harvesting experience.
Hats, biodegradable sunscreen, and rain gear are also recommended to protect against the elements.
The activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with food allergies.
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
While the physical activity is moderate, a willingness to participate in variable weather conditions is required.
Guests should expect to be active and prepared for the olive harvest, which takes place in the San Paolo district of San Donato Val di Comino.
Ask Away
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tasting?
The experience is not suitable for those with food allergies. Participants will enjoy bruschetta with Olio Marina, local cheeses, and cured meats, so any dietary restrictions should be communicated in advance.
Can I Bring My Own Olive Oil to the Farm?
Unfortunately, visitors cannot bring their own olive oil to the LaMarina Farm experience. The tasting is focused on enjoying the farm’s signature Olio Marina, so bringing outside oils is not permitted. Participants will sample the freshly pressed olive oil during the visit.
Is There an Option to Purchase Olive Oil On-Site?
Yes, participants can purchase Olio Marina, the farm’s high-quality olive oil, on-site. After the harvesting and tasting experience, visitors have the opportunity to buy the freshly pressed, award-winning oil to take home.
What Is the Dress Code for the Harvesting Activity?
The dress code for the olive harvesting activity is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and bring a hat to protect against the variable weather conditions they may encounter during the hands-on harvesting experience.
Can I Take the Olives I Pick Home With Me?
Unfortunately, you cannot take the olives you pick home with you. The olives are intended for immediate processing at the olive press to produce the high-quality Olio Marina oil you’ll get to taste during the experience.
Final Words
Enjoy the time-honored traditions of olive harvesting and oil production at LaMarina Farm. Engage with the history and process, culminating in a tasting of the exceptional Olio Marina. This enriching experience offers a unique glimpse into the heritage and craft behind this celebrated extra virgin olive oil.
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