Montpellier, a vibrant city in southern France, offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s captivating agricultural heritage. This guided tour promises an enchanting experience, combining a visit to the stunning lavender fields with an exploration of an authentic olive oil mill. Explore the traditional olive oil production process and engage with local producers, Sandrine and Sébastien MORA, as they share their expertise. With award-winning olive oils and tapenades awaiting your palate, this four-hour adventure promises to captivate nature and foodies alike, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of the region.
Key Points
- Four-hour guided tour starting and ending at O’Sullivans Pub in Montpellier, with a van ride to Moulin du Mas Palat for a 2-hour olive oil mill tour.
- Tour offers a chance to explore vibrant lavender fields during peak bloom season (June-July) and visit an authentic olive grove.
- Guided tour provides insights into traditional Occitan olive oil production, including local olive varieties, harvesting methods, and quality control.
- Opportunity to meet local producers, Sandrine and Sébastien MORA, and sample award-winning olive oils, tapenades, and olives during a tasting session.
- Flexible booking options, with a 4.6/5 overall rating based on customer reviews praising the tour guide’s competence and lavender farm experience.
Tour Overview
The tour offers an opportunity to visit lavender fields and an olive oil mill in the Terrasses du Larzac region.
It’s a 4-hour activity that starts and ends at O’Sullivans Pub in Montpellier. The group size is limited to 7 participants, and the tour is available in French and English.
Guests will depart at 9 am from Place de l’Europe, arriving 15 minutes early to receive equipment.
The tour includes a 45-minute van ride to the Moulin du Mas Palat for a 2-hour guided tour, followed by a 45-minute return trip to the starting point.
Itinerary
Guests depart from Place de l’Europe at 9am, arriving 15 minutes early to receive necessary equipment.
They then travel by van for 45 minutes to reach Moulin du Mas Palat, where a 2-hour guided tour of the olive oil mill awaits.
During this tour, guests will learn about the traditional Occitan olive oil production process.
After the tour, the group returns to Montpellier by van for another 45-minute journey, arriving back at the starting point, O’Sullivans Pub Montpellier.
Lavender Fields and Olive Grove
Visitors can explore the lavender fields during the peak bloom season of June to July.
The tour includes a visit to an authentic olive grove, where participants can learn about traditional Occitan olive oil production.
The highlights of this experience include:
- Seeing the vibrant purple hues of the lavender fields.
- Touring the olive grove and learning about the local production process.
- Meeting the local producers, Sandrine and Sébastien MORA.
- Sampling the local olive oils, tapenades, and olives.
This immersive experience offers a chance to connect with the region’s agricultural heritage and appreciate the natural beauty of the Terrasses du Larzac.
Olive Oil Production
At the Moulin du Mas Palat, visitors embark on a guided tour to explore the traditional Occitan olive oil production process.
They learn about the local olive varieties, the harvesting methods, and the time-honored techniques used to extract the precious liquid.
The tour guides share insights into the importance of quality control and the careful selection of olives to ensure the best flavor profiles.
Guests have the opportunity to sample the freshly pressed olive oils, tapenades, and other local delicacies, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and heritage behind this beloved Mediterranean staple.
Local Producers
Guided by the knowledgeable tour leaders, visitors meet Sandrine and Sébastien MORA, the local producers who’ve dedicated themselves to preserving Occitan olive oil traditions.
During the tour, guests learn about the Mora family’s olive grove and their commitment to sustainable practices.
The experience offers a unique opportunity to:
- Gain insight into the history and cultural significance of Occitan olive oil production.
- Witness the traditional methods used to extract and process the precious liquid gold.
- Sample a variety of the Mora’s award-winning olive oils, tapenades, and olives.
- Appreciate the passion and expertise of these local artisans dedicated to their craft.
Tasting and Sampling
After learning about the Mora family’s dedication to preserving Occitan olive oil traditions, visitors can now indulge in the fruits of their labor.
They’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of local olive oils, tapenades, and olives. The knowledgeable guide will lead the tasting, explaining the unique flavors and production methods.
Participants can expect to discover the nuances between different olive oil varieties and appreciate the artisanal craftsmanship behind each product.
This tasting experience complements the tour of the olive oil mill, providing a well-rounded understanding of the region’s prized culinary heritage.
Booking and Pricing
The tour is priced from $72.55 per person, offering a flexible booking option that allows visitors to reserve now and pay later.
Cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The booking information includes the following:
- Price: From $72.55 per person.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now & pay later; cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Includes: Pick up and drop off at Place de l’Europe, water bottles.
- Customer Feedback: Overall Rating of 4.6/5 based on 7 reviews, with positive comments on the tour guide’s competence and the experience at the lavender farm.
Customer Feedback
What do the reviews say about the tour? Based on 7 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5.
Customers praised the competence of the tour guide and the experience at the lavender farm. However, it’s important to note that the lavender fields may not be available outside the June to July season.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to visit an authentic olive grove, learn about traditional olive oil production, and sample local products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be the best choice for young children, as the itinerary includes a 45-minute van ride each way and a 2-hour guided tour, which could be challenging for some kids. However, the tour is suitable for older children.
Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated?
Dietary requirements can be accommodated on this tour. Travelers should notify the tour provider of any special dietary needs when booking. The provider will work to ensure participants’ needs are met during the olive oil tasting and sampling.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
The tour offers a private option, but group size is limited to 7 participants. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Flexible booking and cancellation policies are also available.
Are Professional Cameras Allowed in the Fields?
Professional cameras are allowed on the tour, though participants should be mindful of the delicate lavender fields. The tour guide can provide guidance on responsible photography practices to ensure a pleasant experience for all.
How Early Should I Arrive for the Tour?
According to the tour overview, participants should arrive 15 minutes early for equipment at the starting location, Place de l’Europe, before the 9am departure time.
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Sum Up
This enchanting tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Montpellier’s captivating lavender fields and discover the traditional olive oil production process. Visitors can engage with local producers, sample award-winning olive oils and tapenades, and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a food lover, this 4-hour adventure provides a memorable and immersive experience.