Bike Tour among the Ancient Olive Trees with EVO Oil Tasting

This Bike Tour among the Ancient Olive Trees with EVO Oil Tasting offers a charming way to explore the heart of Apulia for just $59 per person. Spanning 2.5 hours, this tour takes visitors through the Plain of Monumental Olive Trees with a focus on the region’s history and production of DOP olive oil. Suitable for all levels, the tour features a comfortable bike ride along traffic-free secondary roads and a chance to sample three distinct types of olive oil at a modern mill. It’s ideal for those interested in local agriculture, history, or simply enjoying scenic countryside at a relaxed pace.

A key strength of this experience is the combination of cultural stops and hands-on tastings, making it both informative and flavorful. While the meeting point remains a simple shop with a roller shutter, the itinerary includes significant stops like the Montalbano Dolmen and a historic farmhouse, providing a blend of prehistoric, medieval, and modern elements. The tour’s flexibility with morning and afternoon options makes it easy to fit into various schedules, though it’s best suited for those comfortable cycling outdoors, excluding babies under 1 year and anyone unable to ride a bike.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $59 per person for a 2.5-hour guided bike ride.
• Accessible for most, with wheelchair accessibility and bikes suitable for all skill levels.
• Visit historic sites including the Montalbano Dolmen and ancient olive trees.
• Learn about olive oil production from its Bronze Age origins to modern-day techniques.
• Enjoy a guided oil tasting of three different olive oils with the option to purchase.
• Tours available morning and afternoon, providing flexibility for different schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Apulia’s Ancient Olive Groves by Bike

This tour begins at a modest shop with a roller shutter, where participants rent muscle bikes suited for comfortable riding. The focus is on secondary roads with no traffic, ensuring a safe and peaceful cycling environment. The two-and-a-half-hour journey offers a leisurely pace, enabling deep appreciation for the landscape and historical sites.

Along the route, riders stop at the Montalbano Dolmen, a Bronze Age megalithic monument. This site is especially intriguing as it harks back to a time when oak forests dominated the landscape, long before olive trees became prevalent. The archaeological significance adds a layer of depth to the scenic ride, connecting participants with the ancient roots of the region.

The Via Appia-Traiana, an ancient route that once linked important Roman roads, guides the journey toward a historic farmhouse. Here, the tour emphasizes the architecture and the centuries-old olive trees hidden behind the building. This stop offers a glimpse into traditional agricultural life and the long-standing olive growing practices that continue today.

Visiting a Modern Oil Mill for Tasting and Learning

The final highlight is a modern oil mill, where visitors get to taste three different types of extra virgin olive oil. The guide explains how to recognize the organoleptic qualities such as aroma, flavor, and texture, helping participants develop a more discerning palate. The olive oils sampled represent a variety of cultivars and production styles, providing insight into the region’s diverse oil profile.

After the tasting, there is the opportunity to purchase the oils directly from the mill, supporting local producers. The tasting session is interactive, with the guide sharing knowledge about olive oil production that spans from historical uses to its current importance on the table. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by those wanting to deepen their understanding of quality olive oils.

Route Details and Key Stops

The cycling route takes visitors along secondary roads, avoiding traffic and providing a peaceful environment for sightseeing. The Montalbano Dolmen stop allows for appreciation of Bronze Age monuments, contrasting with the agricultural stops at the historic farmhouse showcasing centuries-old olive trees.

The final stop at the oil mill offers a hands-on tasting experience. Participants learn how to distinguish different olive oil qualities and appreciate regional variations. The stops are designed to balance cultural history, scenic beauty, and gastronomic experience.

Practicalities and Logistics

Participants meet at a shop with a roller shutter, where bikes are rented. The tour guide speaks Spanish, English, and Italian, making communication accessible for a broad audience. The duration of 2.5 hours fits well into a morning or afternoon plan, with starting times available upon checking availability.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but not suitable for babies under 1 year or anyone who can’t ride a bike. Comfortable outdoor clothing, closed-toe shoes, hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and reusable water bottles are recommended to stay comfortable during the ride.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience appeals to history enthusiasts, food lovers, and outdoor activity fans alike. The scenic countryside provides a peaceful backdrop, while the educational component enriches understanding of olive oil production. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, informative outing with a culinary twist.

While the biking itself is suitable for most, those who cannot ride a bike or prefer indoor activities may find this less accessible. The cost remains reasonable, especially considering the inclusion of bike rental, a guide, and a tasting.

The Sum Up: A Flavorful Ride through Olive Country

The Bike Tour among the Ancient Olive Trees in Apulia offers an authentic and enjoyable way to connect with the region’s history, landscape, and culinary heritage. The combination of scenic cycling, archaeological stops, and olive oil tasting makes it a well-rounded experience.

This tour is particularly worthwhile for those interested in local traditions and gastronomy, with the educational aspect making it more than just a scenic ride. The friendly guides and accessible setup add to its appeal, though participants should be comfortable cycling outdoors.

For $59, this guided adventure provides both cultural insight and flavorful tastings, making it a valuable outing for curious travelers eager to explore Apulia’s agricultural roots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or non-cyclists?
Only individuals who can ride a bike can participate; it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or those unable to ride.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, outdoor attire, closed-toe shoes, and a reusable water bottle.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience spans 2.5 hours, including cycling and stops.

Are there morning and afternoon options?
Yes, the tour offers both morning and afternoon departures, depending on availability.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Can I purchase the olive oil after tasting?
Yes, there is an option to buy the oils directly from the mill post-tasting.

What is the main highlight?
The guided tasting of three olive oils and the chance to see ancient and historic sites along the route.

Where does the tour start?
Participants meet at a shop with a roller shutter, where bikes are rented.

What languages are available for the guide?
The guide speaks Spanish, English, and Italian.

How do I book or check availability?
Availability and starting times can be checked online, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby