Hvar Island: Slow Food Feast in an Olive Grove by the Sea

Discover the authentic flavors of Hvar with “Slow Food Feast in an Olive Grove by the Sea”, a 4-hour experience hosted by PLAMEA Hvar. This tour offers a peaceful journey into regenerative living and farm-to-table dining, set against the backdrop of centuries-old olive trees near Gdinj. For those seeking a quiet, meaningful connection to the land, this experience combines seasonal Croatian cuisine, stunning sea views, and personalized insights from local hosts Jelena and Zoran.

The tour is designed for a small group, with up to 8 participants, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate intimate settings and slow-paced experiences. While transportation is not included, it can be arranged, and the experience starts at the PLAMEA Organic Farm in Bay Tvrdni Dolac. With free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, this experience balances relaxation, culinary delight, and learning about sustainable farming practices.

Key Points

• Authentic farm-to-table experience in an organic olive grove on Hvar
• Includes seasonal dishes, homemade bread, olive oil, and wild vinegar
• Traditional peka slow-cooked under an open fire for a true local flavor
• Stunning sea views with options to swim in a nearby quiet bay
• Led by knowledgeable local hosts Jelena and Zoran
• Small group size (up to 8 people) enhances intimacy and personalized attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Hvar’s Peaceful Side at Gdinj

This tour takes you to the tranquil Tvrdni Dolac Bay near Gdinj, far from the busy tourist spots. The starting point is the PLAMEA Organic Farm, where the hosts—Jelena and Zoran—welcome guests with a homemade herbal aperitif. This peaceful setting emphasizes regenerative tourism, focusing on sustainable farming and local traditions.

The farm itself is a small operation where they grow their own food, press olive oil, and raise herbs, creating a genuine farm-to-table experience. The quiet environment allows visitors to step back from busy schedules and reconnect with nature, flavor, and sea views.

Walk Through the Organic Olive Grove and Garden

After the welcome refreshment, a short walk through the organic garden and olive grove begins. Guests learn how chemical-free farming is practiced and see centuries-old olive trees. They also get the chance to pick tomatoes and taste them fresh, experiencing the notable difference that seasonal, freshly picked produce makes.

The guides emphasize why organic farming matters, adding educational value to this serene stroll. This part of the experience makes it clear that regenerative living is at the heart of what Jelena and Zoran do — they press their own olive oil, ferment wild herbs into vinegar, and grow ingredients for their seasonal dishes.

Tasting Local Delights: Sourdough, Olive Oil, and Vinegar

Back at the farm, the culinary highlight begins. Guests taste homemade sourdough bread, crafted from handmade dough, and enjoy wild vinegar made from foraged herbs. Fresh olive oil, pressed on-site, showcases the flavor and quality of local produce.

This part of the experience underscores the importance of seasonality and local ingredients, with everything made from what is grown in the garden. The tastings are designed to highlight the difference that seasonal, organic foods bring to flavor and nutrition.

The Peka Slow-Cooked Meal: A Traditional Croatian Technique

The main course is prepared using the peka method, a traditional Croatian slow-cooking technique. An iron bell is placed over an open fire, and ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and herbs are cooked slowly under the bell.

This authentic method results in tender, flavorful dishes that fully showcase local culinary traditions. The peka is the centerpiece of the meal, bringing a sense of community and time-honored craftsmanship to the table.

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The Setting: Olive Trees, Sea Views, and Relaxation

The dining takes place under the shade of olive trees, with stunning views of the sea just steps away. The peaceful surroundings are perfect for relaxing and sharing in a seasonal meal.

Guests are encouraged to breathe deeply, enjoy the silence, and relax in this tranquil environment. After the meal, there is the option to swim or relax in a nearby quiet bay, making this experience both culinary and recreational.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour departs from Gdinj, with transportation not included but available upon request. Participants should bring comfortable shoes, casual clothes, and biodegradable insect repellent. The experience is wheelchair accessible and hosted in English.

Since the experience lasts 4 hours, it includes time for welcome refreshments, the main feast, sunset viewing, and return transport. The timing offers a relaxed pace, allowing guests to enjoy each moment fully.

The Option to Swim or Relax in the Bay

After the meal and sunset, guests can choose to swim or relax by the crystal-clear bay. This option extends the experience into a recreational highlight, with the opportunity to enjoy the quiet beauty of the Dalmatian coast.

The calm waters and secluded location make it ideal for unwinding after a slow, flavorful meal. It’s a perfect way to close a day focused on nature, land, and fresh flavors.

Pricing, Booking, and Flexibility

The tour is priced at 150 euros per person for groups of up to 8 people. Guests can reserve now with the “Reserve & Pay Later” option, offering full flexibility in planning their trip. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, ensuring a risk-free booking.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience excels in authenticity and personal connection. The hosts’ knowledge and passion for sustainable farming shine through, making it more than just a meal. Visitors appreciate the knowledge shared, the high-quality ingredients, and the stunning setting.

The small group size enhances the intimate atmosphere, perfect for deep relaxation and meaningful conversation. It’s particularly suited for those interested in slow travel, Croatian culinary traditions, or sustainable living.

Final Thoughts on the Hvar Olive Grove Feast

This 4-hour experience offers a rich blend of nature, food, and tradition. The seasonal dishes, fresh ingredients, and authentic peka make it a memorable culinary journey. The peaceful environment and spectacular sea views add to its appeal.

While transportation is not included, the option to arrange it makes this experience accessible. It’s ideal for small groups seeking a relaxed, educational, and delicious outing. Those who value local, organic food and slow living will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included but can be arranged by the hosts.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, casual clothes, and biodegradable insect repellent are recommended.

How many people can join?
Up to 8 participants can join, making it a cozy, intimate experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

What language is spoken during the tour?
English is spoken by the hosts.

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