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

Planning a visit to Italy and want to add a unique, peaceful touch to your trip? This Pic-Nic under the Centuries-Old Olive Trees experience near Matera offers a blend of scenic beauty, tasty regional food, and a chance to connect with the land in a genuinely relaxing way. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from what we see, it’s a lovely option for travelers who appreciate slow moments in nature paired with good local flavors.

What stands out most? The stunning views of Basilicata’s rolling landscapes and the chance to walk among ancient olive groves—these are the highlights that make this experience special. Plus, the local food and wine included make it feel like a true taste of the region. On the flip side, it’s a countryside picnic, so you’ll be sitting on cushions on the ground, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

If you’re someone who enjoys peaceful outdoor settings, loves good regional food, and doesn’t mind a bit of walking, this tour could be just right. It’s especially suited for those looking to unwind in nature rather than rushing through a city itinerary.

Key Points

• Serene setting among centuries-old olive trees offers a peaceful escape.
• Guided tour provides insight into olive production and local stories.
• Inclusive meal features cured meats, cheeses, olive oil, focaccia, and regional wine.
• Breathtaking views of Basilicata’s landscapes, including Piccole Dolomiti Lucane.
• Casual, outdoor picnic sitting on cushions on the ground.
• Private group experience with flexible booking and cancellation options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

When you think of Italy, images of bustling cities, historical sites, and art-filled streets might come to mind. But this experience shifts gears—it’s about slowing down to appreciate the land and its produce. From the moment you arrive at Azienda Agricola Mantenera, about 3.5 km from Tricarico village, you’re embraced by the quiet, expansive beauty of the olive groves.

The Setting and Atmosphere

Walking through the grove is meant to be relaxing—and it really is. We loved the way the guide explains the stories behind the trees, connecting them to local tradition and history. The route takes you through a landscape that offers breathtaking views of the Piccole Dolomiti Lucane and Gallipoli Cognato Park, adding a visual feast to the experience. As you stroll, you get to see both the ancient, gnarled trees and the younger ones growing tall—highlighting the ongoing cycle of nature.

What You’ll Learn

The guide also shares fascinating tidbits about olive oil production—how these centuries-old trees have been cultivated and cared for over generations. This isn’t just a walk; it’s an educational experience that underscores healthier eating habits and the importance of local, organic agriculture. Many reviews mention how informative and engaging the guide is, making the walk not just scenic but meaningful.

The Picnic and Food

The highlight for many is the meal prepared beneath the olive trees. You’ll sit on cushions and mats placed on the ground, with a low table holding your food. It’s a rustic setup, but it’s all about the experience—being in nature, enjoying local cured meats, cheeses, and the region’s famous olive oil. The focaccia baked in a wood-fired oven, along with tomato bruschetta and local olives, makes for a simple, tasty spread.

The dessert, made with homemade jams, adds a sweet finish. To wash it all down, you have local Aglianico del Vulture red wine and water included. Reviewers note that the food quality is good, and the focus on local, organic ingredients makes it stand out.

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Duration and Group Size

This experience lasts roughly 2.5 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings without it feeling rushed. It’s organized as a private group, which means you’ll likely have a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

Accessibility and Considerations

It’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for everyone—no baby strollers, wheelchairs, or people with mobility issues. The picnic area is in the countryside, sitting on cushions on the ground, and insects may be present since no repellents are used. So if you’re sensitive to insects or uncomfortable sitting on the ground for a couple of hours, this might not be perfect.

Full Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Azienda Agricola Mantenera

Your day begins here, a quaint farm about 41 km from Matera. The setting is peaceful, with parking available right in front of the gate. The initial meet-up is straightforward, and from there, you’ll be taken into the olive grove.

Guided Tour of the Olive Grove

This part of the tour is where you really get to connect with the land. The guide explains the stories of the trees, their history, and how they’re cultivated. You’ll learn about olive oil production—something many travelers find surprisingly interesting—and gain a greater appreciation for the regional delicacy.

Picnic in the Olive Grove

After the walk, you’ll settle in for a countryside picnic. The food is based on cured meats, cheeses, and Focaccia, all prepared on-site or sourced locally. The meal is served on the ground with cushions, in the shadow of ancient trees, which adds to the authenticity.

Breathtaking Views and Relaxation

Throughout the experience, you’ll enjoy the panoramic scenery—the hills, groves, and distant parks all contribute to a calming atmosphere. Many reviews mention how serene and beautiful the setting is, perfect for unwinding.

Return to Starting Point

At the end of the 2.5 hours, you’ll head back to Azienda Agricola Mantenera, feeling refreshed and with a newfound understanding of Basilicata’s olive heritage.

Is This Experience Worth the Price?

At $74.02 per person, the experience offers a combination of scenic beauty, education, and regional tasting that many travelers find valuable. Considering the guided tour, a full picnic with local products, and included wine and water, the cost is reasonable—especially if you value authentic, intimate experiences over large group tours.

The inclusion of water and regional wine enhances the meal, and having a guide explain the stories behind the olives adds depth to the experience. The fact that this is a private group makes it feel more special and flexible compared to larger, more generic tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic, and educational outing in the countryside. It suits those who enjoy good food and wine and appreciate a peaceful outdoor setting. It’s ideal for anyone interested in local agriculture, organic produce, and traditional methods.

If you’re traveling with someone who prefers active city sightseeing, this might be a quieter, more contemplative choice. It’s not suitable for very young children, those with mobility issues, or anyone uncomfortable sitting on the ground in an outdoor setting.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 2 years, and the picnic involves sitting on cushions on the ground, which might not be ideal for little kids or those with mobility issues.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours, including the guided walk and picnic.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended—avoid sandals or flip flops as walking in the grove can involve uneven ground. Dress appropriately for the weather, as you’ll be outdoors in the countryside.

Is there any transportation involved?
The tour starts at Azienda Agricola Mantenera, which is accessible by car. There’s free parking right in front.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water and local Aglianico del Vulture wine are included during the meal.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the experience suitable for people with insect allergies?
Since no repellents are used and insects might be present, it might not be suitable for those with insect allergies.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
The menu focuses on cured meats, cheeses, and regional fare, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to check in advance.

How do I find the meeting location?
It’s about 3.5 km from Tricarico Village, with clear directions available via Google Maps.

Is the experience accessible for wheelchairs?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchairs or electric wheelchairs due to the outdoor, uneven terrain.

If you’re after a quiet, authentic taste of Basilicata’s land and truly enjoy natural scenery combined with regional flavors, this picnic among ancient olive trees offers a distinctive experience. You’ll get the chance to learn about olive cultivation, enjoy breathtaking views, and share a meal immersed in nature—all without the crowds of typical tours.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate slow travel and aren’t fussed about formal dining settings. The rustic setup and outdoor setting create a genuine sense of connection to the land, making it a memorable highlight for lovers of peaceful landscapes and good, honest food.

While it might not be the best fit for travelers requiring accessibility or sitting on cushions, for others, this offers a lovely balance of education, scenery, and culinary delight in a relaxed, natural environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: