Self Tour of the Olive Oil Mill & Olive Oil Tasting

Nestled in the Luberon Regional Nature Reserve, the Bastide du Laval offers a self-guided tour showcasing Provence’s rich olive oil heritage. Visitors can explore various olive oil flavors, from green fruity to ripe fruity, and learn about traditional production methods. The tasting experience highlights the nuances of Provence’s gourmet offerings, including olive oils, wines, and specialty spreads. The tour is fully accessible, and an optional olive grove stroll enhances the immersive experience. With positive customer feedback and a 4.9-star rating, this tour provides a comprehensive understanding of the olive-growing universe.

Key Points

• Self-guided tour of the traditional olive oil production process at Bastide du Laval in the Luberon Regional Nature Reserve.
• Opportunity to explore the diversity of olive oil flavors, including green fruity, ripe fruity, matured, and flavored oils.
• Hands-on experiences and informative placards provide insight into the intricate steps of olive oil extraction.
• Comprehensive tasting experience showcases the culinary traditions of Provence, including wines and specialty spreads.
• The tour and olive grove stroll offer a fully accessible and immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate Provence’s olive oil heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Olive-Growing Universe

The olive-growing universe of Provence offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

At the Bastide du Laval, located in the Luberon Regional Nature Reserve, guests embark on a self-guided tour that immerses them in the secrets of traditional olive oil production.

Through informative displays and hands-on experiences, they discover the aromatic diversity of olive oils, from green fruity to ripe fruity and matured varieties.

The tour also unveils the intricate processes behind olive oil extraction, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved Provençal product.

With a focus on quality and tradition, the Bastide du Laval invites travelers to explore the very heart of Provence’s olive-growing legacy.

Discovering Aromatic Olive Oil Varieties

At the Bastide du Laval, visitors explore the aromatic universe of olive oil, uncovering a captivating array of flavors and nuances. The tasting experience showcases a diverse selection of olive oils, each with its own distinctive character. From the bright, grassy notes of green fruity oils to the mellow, mature profiles of aged varieties, the exploration of these liquid gold elixirs promises to delight the senses.

Olive Oil Varieties	Flavor Profiles
Green Fruity	Grassy, peppery
Ripe Fruity	Nutty, buttery
Matured	Mild, rounded
Flavored	Herbs, spices

The tasting also includes other regional delights, such as wines and specialty spreads, further immersing visitors in the culinary traditions of Provence.

Traditional Olive Oil Production Secrets

Visitors explore the secrets of traditional olive oil production during the self-guided tour.

They’ll discover the painstaking process of extracting olive oil from freshly harvested olives. First, the olives are washed, then crushed into a paste using a mill. The paste is then slowly stirred to release the oil. Finally, the oil is separated from the solid matter through a centrifugal process.

Guests marvel at the artisanal methods used to preserve the distinctive flavors and aromas of the different olive varieties.

This authentic experience provides a deep appreciation for the traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations of olive oil producers in Provence.

Olive Oil and Artisanal Product Tasting

After the enlightening exploration of traditional olive oil production, guests come upon the tasting area where they can indulge in a sensory journey through the diverse world of olive oils and artisanal products.

The tasting includes a variety of olive oils, from the green fruity to the ripe fruity and the matured, as well as flavored oils. Guests can also sample the estate’s selection of wines and savory spreads.

To complement the tasting, visitors receive a free tapenade of their choice, be it black, green, Provencal olive delight, or pistou olive delight.

This comprehensive tasting offers a delightful way to discover the nuances and complexities of Provence’s acclaimed olive oil and gourmet offerings.

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Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

The Bastide du Laval, located within the picturesque Luberon Regional Nature Reserve just 30 minutes north of Aix-en-Provence, is fully wheelchair accessible.

For those who prefer audio guidance, the self-guided tour is available in English, French, and German.

Visitors can extend their experience by strolling through the olive grove and taking in the breathtaking views.

The self-guided tour also includes informative sheets detailing the machines and extraction methods used in the traditional olive oil production process, providing a comprehensive understanding of the olive-growing universe of Provence.

Extending the Experience: Olive Grove Stroll

A leisurely stroll through the picturesque olive grove offers visitors an opportunity to further enjoy the serene ambiance of the Luberon Regional Nature Reserve.

Meandering along the winding paths, guests can admire the gnarled olive trees and breathe in the earthy fragrance that permeates the air.

This self-guided tour provides informative placards detailing the various stages of olive cultivation, from flowering to harvesting.

Visitors can pause to take in the stunning vistas of the surrounding hills, a perfect complement to the insightful olive oil experience.

This optional add-on allows guests to fully appreciate the essence of Provence’s cherished olive oil heritage.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Visitors to the Olive Oil Mill Tour and Tasting overwhelmingly praise the experience, awarding it an impressive 4.9 out of 5-star rating based on 8 reviews.

Positive comments highlight:

• The knowledgeable staff who provide in-depth insights into the olive-growing universe of Provence.
• The quality and variety of the olive oils, wines, and other artisanal products available for tasting.
• The overall enjoyable and immersive experience that leaves guests with a deeper appreciation for traditional olive oil production.

The consistently excellent customer feedback underscores the mill’s commitment to delivering a memorable and educational tour that connects visitors with the rich heritage and flavors of the region.

Sum Up

Explore Provence’s olive-growing heritage at the Bastide du Laval olive oil mill. Explore the mill’s facilities, learn about traditional production methods, and savor a tasting of diverse olive oil varieties. Complement the experience with a stroll through the picturesque olive groves. Accessible and engaging, this self-guided tour offers an enriching encounter with the region’s olive-centric culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: