Self tour of the olive oil mill & olive oil tasting

Key Points

• Affordable experience at $6 per person for a 1-hour self-guided tour and tasting
• Located in the Luberon Regional Nature Reserve, just 30 minutes north of Aix-en-Provence
• Learn about traditional olive oil extraction in a modern mill with informational sheets
• Enjoy a guided tasting of green fruity, ripe fruity, matured, and flavored olive oils
• Receive a complimentary jar of olives or bottle of wine to take home
• Optional extension to walk through the olive grove with views over the Luberon

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Bastide du Laval Olive Oil Mill in the Heart of Provence

This self-guided tour at MOULIN BASTIDE DU LAVAL offers a chance to explore Provence’s olive-growing heritage in a setting that combines tradition and modernity. For just $6 per person, visitors spend about one hour uncovering how olive oil is extracted using contemporary machinery while gaining insight into the provencial lifestyle. The tour is perfect for those who enjoy hands-on experiences and want to learn about olive oil production at their own pace.

Located in the scenic Luberon Regional Nature Reserve, the mill is 30 minutes north of Aix-en-Provence, making it an accessible stop for anyone exploring southern France. The family-owned mill emphasizes authenticity, and the visit is complemented by a tasting of olive oils and local products, with the added bonus of taking home a jar of olives or a bottle of wine.

What Makes This Olive Oil Tour Unique in Provence?

The self-guided nature of this experience sets it apart from more structured tours. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the modern mill, see the machines in action, and review information sheets explaining the extraction process. This format allows for flexibility and personalized pacing, making it ideal for those who prefer to explore independently but with expert guidance in tasting.

A standout feature is the total immersion in Provence’s olive-growing universe, where you can discover the aromas and differences between various olive oils—ranging from green fruity to matured varieties. If desired, visitors can extend their visit by strolling through the olive grove that offers sweeping views of the Luberon landscape, adding a scenic and tranquil conclusion to the tour.

Exploring the Olive Oil Mill: Machines and Methods

The tour starts in the mill, where visitors walk through a modern facility equipped with machinery for olive oil extraction. The owners provide detailed explanations about how traditional and contemporary methods blend in their process. Visitors can see the equipment close-up, gaining a clear understanding of how olives are pressed and processed to produce high-quality oils.

While this is a self-guided tour, the owners supply information sheets that clarify each machine’s role and the steps involved. This approach makes the experience accessible for all, whether visitors are familiar with olive oil production or learning the process for the first time.

Guided Olive Oil Tasting of Diverse Flavors

Following the exploration of the mill, the guided tasting introduces a range of olive oils, including green fruity, ripe fruity, matured, and flavored varieties. The team takes the time to explain the flavor profiles and aromas of each type, helping visitors distinguish subtle differences.

Along With the oils, the tasting features other products such as wines and spread, offering a well-rounded experience of Provencal culinary specialties. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guidance that enhances their understanding of what makes each product unique.

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The Gift of Provence: Olives or Wine to Take Home

At the end of the tour, guests are offered a complimentary gift—either a jar of olives or a bottle of wine. Choices include rosé, white, or red wines, giving a taste of Provence’s rich wine culture. This thoughtful gesture leaves visitors with a lasting souvenir of their experience.

The olive jar makes a perfect culinary keepsake for home, while the bottle of wine pairs nicely with the flavors experienced during the tasting. This inclusion adds value to an already affordable tour.

Extend Your Visit with a Stroll in the Olive Grove

For those wanting to linger longer, the option to walk through the olive grove offers spectacular views of the Luberon. This scenic extension allows visitors to appreciate the landscape that sustains Provence’s famous olive oil tradition. The grove walk complements the learning experience, connecting production with scenery.

While optional, this peaceful stroll is highly recommended for anyone interested in scenery and tranquility. It provides a beautiful backdrop to the experience, making the visit more memorable.

Practical Information: Location, Accessibility, and Booking

Visitors find it straightforward to visit directly at the mill, as no advance transportation arrangements are necessary. The tour is wheelchair accessible and hosts English and French-speaking staff, with audio guides available in English, French, and German.

The duration of one hour makes it a compact but rich experience, suitable for short visits or as part of a larger day in Provence. The tour operates during opening hours, and it’s advisable to reserve in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Booking offers flexibility: you can reserve now and pay later, and full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance. This makes it easy to fit into flexible travel plans.

Why This Tour Continues to Receive High Praise

The 4.7/5 rating from 39 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction, especially for the friendly and knowledgeable staff. Visitors frequently mention the clarity of explanations, the beautiful setting, and the quality of the tasting. The passion of the owners about their products shines through, making the experience engaging and authentic.

Some reviews highlight the warm welcome and delicious olive oils, with a few noting that the tour is short but sweet. The gift of olives or wine is also appreciated as a nice touch. While some mention scheduling nuances (like needing to leave before a large group arrives), the overall feedback remains highly positive.

How This Tour Compares to Similar Provence Experiences

This tour offers an affordable and flexible alternative to larger, more structured visits. Its self-guided format and short duration make it ideal for visitors seeking a quick but meaningful introduction to Provence’s olive oil culture.

While other experiences may focus on full-day wine tours or city sightseeing, this specialized olive oil visit provides a focused, intimate glimpse into the art of olive oil making and tasting. The scenic location and local product gifts enhance its appeal, especially for those interested in culinary traditions.

Final Thoughts on the Olive Oil Mill Self Tour

The Self tour of the olive oil mill & olive oil tasting at MOULIN BASTIDE DU LAVAL stands out as an affordable, accessible, and authentic Provence experience. The one-hour format combined with informative sheets and guided tastings makes learning about olive oils both easy and enjoyable.

Guests consistently praise the friendly staff, beautiful setting, and high-quality oils and products. The additional option to stroll through the olive grove offers a peaceful conclusion to the visit, emphasizing the connection between landscape and production. This experience suits those with a curiosity about Provençal food and olive oil enthusiasts looking for an affordable, flexible activity.

While the tour is relatively short, its informative content, local charm, and generous gift make it a worthwhile stop during any trip to the south of France. Advance booking is recommended, and the full refund policy adds confidence for spontaneous plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I visit the mill without a reservation?
It’s best to visit during opening hours, and reservations are recommended to secure a spot.

How long does the self-guided tour last?
The tour lasts about 1 hour, including the tasting and optional grove walk.

What languages are available for the audio guide?
The audio guide is available in English, French, and German.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The data does not specify restrictions; it’s generally suitable for all ages given the short duration and low physical demand.

What products do I get to taste?
You’ll sample various olive oils (green fruity, ripe, matured, flavored), as well as wines and spread.

Is there an additional cost for the olive grove walk?
No, the stroll through the grove is an optional extension that can be enjoyed as part of the visit.

What is included in the price?
The self-guided tour, guided tasting, sampling of other products, and a gift of olives or wine are all included.

How do I cancel my reservation?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour a good value?
At $6 per person, it offers a comprehensive experience with educational content, tastings, and a gift, all in a scenic and accessible location.

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