Guided Tour of Montesdeoca Cheese Factory with Cheese Tasting

If you’re visiting Tenerife and have a curiosity for local food and authentic craftsmanship, the Guided Tour of Montesdeoca Cheese Factory with Cheese Tasting offers a delightful peek into the island’s artisanal cheese scene. This experience promises a chance to see over a thousand goats in action, learn how traditional cheese is made by hand, and enjoy generous tastings that highlight Tenerife’s finest flavors.

What we love about this tour is its authenticity and attention to detail—you’re not just watching someone make cheese but stepping into a working farm with a family that truly cares about their craft. Plus, the international recognition and awards, including nine consecutive wins at the World Cheese Awards, speak volumes about the quality of the cheese you’ll sample.

A potential consideration is the tour’s duration, which is approximately an hour—enough to satisfy curiosity but not necessarily a comprehensive farm experience. Also, note that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point on your own. This tour suits travelers who are interested in local food traditions, farm life, and hands-on experiences—those looking for a genuine, flavorful slice of Tenerife.

Key Points

• Authentic farm visit with a family-run operation renowned for quality
• Hands-on cheese-making demonstration by master cheesemakers
• Multiple awards for the cheese, including nine consecutive World Cheese Awards wins
• Generous cheese tasting, with a variety of flavors and accompaniments
• Educational insight into goat farming, milking, and artisanal cheese production
• Affordable price for a memorable, authentic experience

What You’ll Experience on the Tour

The Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Quesería Montesdeoca, located at Km44 TF82 in Tijoco Bajo, near Adeje. The farm’s exterior may seem unassuming, but behind its simple façade lies a farm rich in tradition and award-winning cheese. Arriving on your own is straightforward, but remember, no transportation is included. The tour is capped at 30 travelers, giving it a cozy, personable atmosphere without feeling crowded.

The Farm and Livestock

Once you arrive, the first thing you’ll notice is the vast herd of goats—more than a thousand—grazing and being milked daily. Watching the goats being milked by hand, as the cheesemakers do, offers a rare glimpse into the manual, artisanal methods that distinguish Montesdeoca. Several reviews highlight the thrilling nature of observing such a large herd with care and precision.

Cheese Making Demonstration

Next, your guide will lead you through the cheese production process, from curdling to shaping. The master cheesemakers are proud to share their expertise, often engaging visitors with stories about their craft. This direct view into the artisan process makes the cheese taste even more meaningful.

The Tasting Experience

The highlight for many is the cheese tasting, included in the tour. Expect a generous sampling of various cheeses, accompanied by complementary jams and condiments. One reviewer mentioned that the large quantities of cheese for tasting truly impressed, with some calling it the “best tour” they’ve experienced. The flavors are celebrated for their quality and authenticity, reflecting the farm’s award-winning standards.

The Shop and Additional Products

After the tour, you’ll find a shop with fairly priced products, making it easy to take home some of the delicious cheese or related items. Many visitors comment on the friendly staff and the opportunity to purchase high-quality local products.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The History and Awards

The farm’s nine consecutive awards at the World Cheese Awards, along with recognition at the Pinolere Cheese Fair, set it apart from other cheese experiences. These accolades demonstrate consistently high quality and craftsmanship. Knowing that the cheese has garnered over 40 international and 21 island awards provides extra assurance for cheese lovers.

The Family and Authentic Atmosphere

Reviews emphasize the family farm’s warmth and dedication. Visitors often describe the guides as brilliant and friendly, making the experience both educational and personable. It’s clear this is not a commercialized tour but a genuine family operation sharing their passion.

The Educational Value

Beyond just tasting, you’ll learn about goat feeding, milking, and cheese production, gaining insights into the artisanship that goes into each wheel. For those interested in sustainable and traditional farming practices, this provides a satisfying look at rural life in Tenerife.

The Practicalities

Price and Value

At $23.26 per person, this tour offers very good value, especially considering the comprehensive experience—a guided farm visit, cheese-making demonstration, and ample cheese tasting. Given the high quality of the cheese and the small group size, it’s an experience that’s often praised as fairly priced.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about an hour, making it manageable even for those with busy schedules. The maximum of 30 travelers ensures a friendly, interactive atmosphere, allowing you to ask questions and get personal attention from your guide.

Booking and Availability

On average, the tour is booked 17 days in advance, so it’s wise to reserve early during peak seasons. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand, adding flexibility to your plans.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies, cheese lovers, and those curious about local traditions. It appeals to travelers wanting more than just sightseeing—those who enjoy learning about local craftsmanship and tasting authentic products. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find it rewarding, especially if you appreciate small-group, hands-on experiences.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This guided cheese farm tour checks many boxes: authenticity, quality, educational value, and delicious food. The chance to see over a thousand goats in action, witness handmade cheese production, and sample award-winning cheeses makes it a memorable highlight for those interested in Tenerife’s agricultural side.

While the tour is short, it’s packed with genuine insights and flavors that will linger well beyond your visit. It offers an affordable way to connect with local culture and enjoy some of the best cheese the island has to offer.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy authentic, small-scale food experiences and are willing to arrive prepared to explore a working farm. If you appreciate learning from passionate artisans and savoring delicious cheese, you’ll find this tour both enjoyable and meaningful.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to make your way to the farm at Km44 TF82 in Tijoco Bajo.

How long does the tour last?
The guided experience lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a manageable stop during your day.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided visit to the cheese factory, cheese tasting, and all admission fees.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience’s nature suggests it’s family-friendly, especially since it involves observing goats and tasting cheese, which most children find engaging.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended—most bookings are made about 17 days ahead—to secure your spot, particularly during peak seasons.

To sum it up, the Montesdeoca Cheese Factory tour offers a sincere taste of Tenerife’s rural life and culinary craftsmanship. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting an authentic, interactive experience, coupled with delicious cheese and insightful storytelling. Whether you’re a dedicated cheese lover or simply curious about local food traditions, this tour promises a flavorful window into Tenerife’s artisanal heritage.