Olive Oil Farm Tour with Tasting from Seville

Explore the Secrets of Olive Oil in Seville

The Olive Oil Farm Tour with Tasting from Seville offers an authentic look into one of Spain’s most treasured products. Priced at $103.34 per person, this 4-hour experience combines a visit to a renowned olive oil factory and a stroll through sun-dappled olive groves. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s a convenient way to deepen understanding of olive cultivation and production, especially suited for those interested in culinary traditions and local craftsmanship.

This tour is well-rated, earning a 4.5 out of 5 from 52 reviews, with 90% recommending it. The experience is particularly praised for its knowledgeable guides and delicious tastings, making it ideal for visitors eager to learn about olive oil’s history, varieties, and the art of making high-quality oils. While the tour is engaging and informative, it’s worth noting that it has a maximum group size of 30 travelers and requires booking at least 34 days in advance.

Key Points

• Price: $103.34 per person for a 4-hour tour with hotel transfers
• Duration: Approximately 4 hours, including transport and visits
• Includes: Pickup, drop-off, entrance fees, guided tour, and tastings
• Focus: Visits to an olive oil factory and olive groves with tastings of different oils
• Highlights: Learn about olive cultivation, see the oil production process, and purchase oils at the factory shop
• Best for: Food lovers, those interested in local crafts, and travelers wanting an educational experience beyond typical sightseeing

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from C. Trajano, 6, Casco Antiguo, Seville, with pickup services arranged to pick you up at your accommodation or nearby. The air-conditioned minivan makes the roughly 20-minute ride to the olive oil farm comfortable and convenient. After the tour, travelers are returned directly to the starting point, making planning simple without the hassle of additional transportation.

The tour typically operates with a minimum of 2 participants, but it is capped at 30, ensuring a cozy, intimate group setting. Booking is recommended 34 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited capacity.

A Visit to Basilippo Oleoturismo: Olive Groves and the Family-owned Factory

The tour takes place at Basilippo Oleoturismo, a small olive oil mill located in the Los Alcores countryside. The hacienda, called a Cortijo in Andalusia, has been carefully restored as a working olive oil mill and museum. Its charming setting and traditional architecture set the scene for an authentic experience.

Here, the owner guides visitors through the olive harvesting process, explaining how olives are picked by hand, a method still used today in Andalusia. The guides share insights into the history of olive-growing in the region, which dates back to Roman times, emphasizing the passion and craftsmanship behind each bottle of oil.

The pressing area and quality control department are open for exploration, where visitors see how freshly harvested olives are turned into extra virgin olive oil using modern techniques. Though the farm produces only a small quantity annually, its oils are recognized as some of the best in the world.

Walking Through Olive Groves: An Educational Stroll

A key part of this experience is a leisurely walk through the olive groves, where the sunlit trees and aromatic air create a memorable backdrop. The owner provides explanations about different olive varieties and shares details on harvesting seasons and tree care.

This guided walk is an opportunity to see how olives are cultivated in the Andalusian landscape, with references dating back to Roman times. The hand-harvesting technique is demonstrated, highlighting the tradition and sustainability still used today.

While the walk is mostly accessible, prospective visitors should consider their mobility, as the terrain is typical for farmland. The scenic views and informative commentary make this a highlight for those curious about agricultural practices.

Watching the Oil-Making Process at the Factory

At the core of the tour is a visit to the factory, where harvested olives are processed into premium olive oil. The small-scale operation allows visitors to see the stages of production up close — from crushing the olives to extracting the oil.

Despite its limited output—only a few liters per year—the factory’s oils are highly regarded internationally. The owners take pride in showcasing their state-of-the-art equipment alongside traditional methods, emphasizing the art and science behind quality production.

This part of the tour is particularly engaging because it offers a behind-the-scenes look at how olive oil is made, enabling visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship involved.

Olive Oil Tasting and Local Appetizer

Following the production process, the tasting session features a selection of olive oils with varying flavors, bitterness levels, and spice notes. The guides explain how flavor profiles are influenced by factors like olive variety and harvesting time.

The tastings are complemented by a local appetizer, adding a culinary touch to the experience. Visitors get to swap notes and learn how to distinguish between different grades of olive oil, including how to identify extra virgin quality.

If desired, guests can purchase oils directly from the shop, supporting the family-run farm. The quality of the oils and the knowledge of the guides make this tasting a highlight for foodies.

The Charm of Basilippo’s Family-Owned Farm

Basilippo Oleoturismo retains a personal and welcoming atmosphere, thanks to the family ownership. The passion of the owner and guides shines through during the tour, making it more than just a factory visit.

Guests consistently praise the passionate explanations about olive classification standards, comparing their oils to world-class products. The beautiful setting and informative narration create a memorable experience that combines education, culture, and delicious flavors.

Practical Details and Optional Purchases

The tour includes all entrance fees, tastings, and hotel pickup and drop-off. However, food and drinks outside of the tasting are not included. Visitors have the option to buy oils at the factory shop—perfect for souvenirs, gifts, or personal use.

The booking process is straightforward, but it’s recommended to reserve at least a month in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. Weather conditions can affect the outdoor components, but the indoor factory provides shelter in case of rain.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This olive oil farm tour stands out because of its small-scale, family-run approach combined with professional guidance. The insights into traditional and modern techniques and the exclusive tastings distinguish it from larger, more commercial olive oil visits.

The small group size fosters a relaxed environment where questions are encouraged, and the passionate guides share authentic stories. The scenic countryside location and the hands-on experience with production make it an engaging and educational outing.

Limitations and Considerations

While the experience is highly positive, potential visitors should be aware that the tour’s length is about 4 hours, which might be too long for those with tight schedules. The walking portions involve outdoor paths, which may be challenging for people with limited mobility.

A few reviews mention initial logistical issues with pickup arrangements, so confirming details ahead of time is recommended. The small production scale means the amount of oil produced is limited, but its quality and authenticity compensate for this.

Final Verdict: A Must-Do for Olive Oil Enthusiasts

The Olive Oil Farm Tour with Tasting from Seville offers a highly educational, delightful, and authentic insight into the world of olive oil. It is best suited for food lovers, those interested in local traditions, and travelers seeking a unique cultural experience outside the typical sightseeing circuit.

The combination of a scenic farm visit, factory insights, tastings, and personalized guide makes this tour well worth the price. While it requires some advance planning and is best suited for those with a curiosity for culinary crafts, the passion and quality make it a memorable highlight of any trip to Seville’s surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers are included, making transportation easy and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including visits, tastings, and transportation.

Can I buy olive oils during the tour?
Yes, guests can purchase oils from the factory shop at their own expense.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Booking at least 34 days in advance is recommended due to high demand and limited spots.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks outside the tasting are not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The walking involved may be challenging for those with mobility limitations, but the scenic outdoor walk is not lengthy. Children are generally welcome.

What makes this tour special?
The family-owned farm, small-scale quality production, and educational tastings set this tour apart from larger, commercial operations.

Can I customize or cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled 24 hours in advance. Changes or cancellations less than 24 hours before are not refundable.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides, including the owner, speak excellent English and are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

Is this tour suitable for those interested in history?
Definitely. The tour explores the history of olive cultivation in Andalusia and the traditional methods still used today.