Matera: Pic-Nic under the Centuries-Old Olive Trees

Matera: Pic-Nic under the Centuries-Old Olive Trees

The Matera: Pic-Nic under the Centuries-Old Olive Trees tour offers a unique chance to explore the serenity of an olive grove in Basilicata, Italy. Priced at $74.02 per person and lasting 2.5 hours, this experience combines a guided walk through a historic olive plantation with a delicious picnic in nature. The tour is ideal for lovers of organic produce and stunning landscapes, providing a relaxing escape that emphasizes authentic regional flavors and scenery.

Starting from Azienda Agricola Mantenera, this private group experience invites you to enjoy walking amidst centuries-old olive trees, learn about olive oil production, and savor a hearty picnic featuring cured meats, cheeses, and wood-fired bread. With water and local Aglianico del Vulture wine included, it offers a balanced mix of education, outdoor leisure, and regional gastronomy. This tour is best suited for those seeking tranquility and a taste of traditional Basilicata life, though it involves sitting on cushions outdoors, which may require some physical comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Guided tour of an authentic olive grove in Basilicata
• 2.5-hour experience combining nature, education, and food
• Picnic with cured meats, cheeses, focaccia, and local glass of Aglianico del Vulture wine
• Views of Piccole Dolomiti Lucane and Gallipoli Cognato Park
• Includes water and wine, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Private group experience with multilingual guides (English, French, Portuguese)

Explore the Olive Grove in Basilicata

This tour begins at Azienda Agricola Mantenera, located about 3.5 km from Tricarico and 41 km from Matera. The setting offers a peaceful environment where the guide leads you through centuries-old olive trees along a scenic path. During the walk, you’ll hear stories about the land and its people while gaining insight into olive oil production and the importance of healthy eating.

The olive grove’s landscape provides breathtaking views of the Piccole Dolomiti Lucane and Gallipoli Cognato Park, offering a great backdrop for relaxation and photography. This part of the experience highlights the natural beauty of Basilicata and the cultural significance of its ancient olive groves.

Learning About Olive Oil Production and Local Life

The guided tour emphasizes the production process of extra virgin olive oil, explaining its importance and the methods used in this organic setting. The guides also focus on healthy eating practices, making this not just a scenic walk but an educational journey on traditional agricultural techniques.

You’ll get a close-up look at olive trees of different ages, including the younger growth alongside the ancient specimens. This contrast illustrates the long-standing history of olive cultivation in the region and the care involved in maintaining these living monuments.

The Picnic in the Shade of Ancient Trees

After the walk, the group settles in for a picnic prepared directly beneath the trees. The meal features locally produced cured meats and cheeses, tomato bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil, and wood-fired focaccia. For dessert, there is a sweet touch with home-made jams.

The food is served on cushions and mats on the ground, with a low table for easy access. As the setting is outdoors, expect some insects, and the tour recommends bringing personal insect repellents since no chemical repellents are used.

The local red wine, Aglianico del Vulture, and water are included in the price, enhancing the experience with regional flavors. This laid-back meal allows for a genuine connection to Basilicata’s culinary traditions surrounded by nature.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Views of Basilicata’s Natural Landmarks

Throughout the experience, guests enjoy stunning vistas of the Piccole Dolomiti Lucane mountain range and Gallipoli Cognato Park. These protected natural areas provide a spectacular backdrop to the olive trees and the picnic setting. The landscape’s peaceful ambiance complements the slow pace of the tour, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a quiet moment in nature.

The views also serve to deepen the appreciation of the land’s agricultural heritage, with the olive groves blending seamlessly into the broader natural environment.

Logistics and Meeting Details

The tour departs from Azienda Agricola Mantenera, which offers free parking in front of the gate. The journey involves walking in the countryside, so comfortable shoes are recommended, but sandals or flip-flops are not allowed for safety reasons. The activity suits most adults but is not designed for children under 2 years, wheelchair users, or individuals with insect allergies or altitude sickness.

The tour is conducted in English, French, and Portuguese, and is offered as a private group experience. You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation allowed up to 24 hours before. The activity concludes back at the starting point.

What Makes This Tour Special

What sets this experience apart is its combination of educational storytelling, relaxing outdoor setting, and gourmet picnic. Visitors get an authentic look at Basilicata’s olive-growing tradition, paired with a chance to enjoy regional wine and local delicacies in a tranquil environment.

The scenic views of the surrounding mountains and natural parks elevate the picnic from a simple meal to a memorable moment of connection with nature. The guided walk enhances understanding of the land’s history and agricultural practices, making it more than just a meal outdoors.

Considerations and Limitations

While the experience offers spectacular scenery and delicious regional food, it involves outdoor sitting on cushions. Insects may be present, so personal repellents are recommended. The activity is not suitable for very young children, those in wheelchairs, or individuals with certain allergies.

Since the picnic takes place on the ground, it is best suited for those comfortable with sitting outdoors for an extended period. The 2.5-hour duration strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation, but it might feel long for some.

Summary of the Experience

This guided olive grove tour in Basilicata offers a peaceful retreat into nature with a focus on local agriculture and regional flavors. The scenic views and authentic food make it ideal for those wanting a slow-paced, educational, and flavorful experience in Italy’s less-traveled corners. The private group format and multilingual guides ensure a personalized touch, and the full refund policy adds peace of mind when booking.

This tour appeals to nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a break from busy sightseeing to enjoy simple pleasures and beautiful landscapes. It’s a memorable way to connect with Basilicata’s land and traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the picnic held indoors or outdoors?
The picnic takes place outdoors, sitting on cushions and mats under the ancient olive trees.

What is included in the tour price?
The guided tour of the olive grove, picnic with cured meats, cheeses, focaccia, dessert, local Aglianico del Vulture wine, and water are included.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is 2.5 hours.

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

Is this experience suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 2 years and not recommended for infants or those with insect allergies.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, French, and Portuguese.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Azienda Agricola Mantenera, a location with free parking.

Is there any physical requirement?
The activity involves walking outdoors and sitting on cushions, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It is not wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring personal insect repellents, and dress in comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for walking and sitting on the ground.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include walking through centuries-old olive trees, learning about olive oil production, enjoying regional flavors, and taking in breathtaking views of Basilicata’s mountains.

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