Olive Oil Tasting and Sunset Buggy Tour with Your Local Guide

Olive Oil Tasting and Sunset Buggy Tour with Your Local Guide offers a unique way to experience the scenic beauty and flavors of Coastal Istria. Whether you’re into rugged outdoor adventures, love discovering authentic regional products, or just want a memorable evening watching the sunset, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of off-road exploration and cultural tasting—you’ll get to venture into the largest olive fields in Istria and enjoy award-winning olive oils, all while cruising along scenic coastal paths. Plus, the sunset at a secret beach bar promises a relaxing end to your adventure.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour runs in the evening, starting at 7 pm, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy sunset views and warm twilight hours. Also, since it involves driving a buggy, you’ll need a valid driver’s license if you’re the one behind the wheel. For folks with kids or those wary of bumpy roads, the newer 6-passenger vehicles are a plus—making it more family-friendly than previous versions.

This tour caters well to active travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, scenic drives, and a relaxed, social vibe. If that sounds like your kind of evening, keep reading for the detailed scoop.

Key Points

• Authentic Olive Oil Experience: Visit Istria’s largest olive fields and learn about how top-quality oils are made, then taste some of the region’s best.
• Scenic Coastal and Rural Stops: Enjoy beautiful views, charming stone structures, and a legendary church along the route.
• Sunset at a Hidden Beach Bar: Cap off the tour with spectacular sunsets, a quick swim opportunity, and good vibes in a lesser-known beach spot.
• Family Friendly & Flexible: The newer 6-passenger buggies allow for family groups, and the tour is suitable for all ages who can handle off-road terrain.
• Informative Guides: From the reviews, guides are both knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience engaging and relaxed.
• Value for Money: For around $410, you get a mix of transportation, tastings, scenic stops, and sunset views—all in a 3 to 4-hour window.

Exploring the Istrian Landscape on a Buggy

This tour is about much more than just riding. It’s a chance to see Istria in a way most visitors don’t—off the beaten path and with a focus on regional flavors and sights. Starting from Bi Village in Faana, you’ll get a quick intro to driving the buggies before hitting the rural roads and dirt paths that wind through the olive groves and historic sites.

Driving a buggy through Istria’s landscape is a surprisingly smooth experience, especially with the newer 6-seater vehicles that accommodate families. According to one reviewer, “nothing too rough but you notice how capable the buggy is,” which means you can enjoy a good mix of paved and dirt roads without feeling overwhelmed.

What we especially like about this setup is the flexibility—if you’re not comfortable driving, the guide can switch into driver mode, meaning no stress about navigating. This makes the experience accessible for a wide range of travelers, from couples to families.

The Olive Oil Tasting at Oio Vivo

The first major stop is at Oio Vivo, the region’s biggest olive fields. Here, you’ll spend about 45 minutes immersed in olive oil culture. It’s not just a tasting—it’s an educational experience, too. You get to understand how award-winning oils are produced, from handpicking olives to the final product on your table.

The oils here are celebrated, and the tasting is a highlight. The reviews mention how the guides are “knowledgeable and friendly,” making the lesson both fun and informative. If you’re a foodie or just love good quality olive oil, this stop is a real treat. Plus, the scenery of endless green groves makes the tasting even more special.

Village Charm at Park Kazuna

Next, you’ll visit Park Kazuna, where iconic Istrian stone structures make for an excellent photo opportunity. Your guide will share stories about their historical significance, which adds a layer of cultural appreciation to the visual charm. It’s a quick stop—about 10 minutes—but enough to capture some beautiful shots and learn about local architecture.

Passing by the church of Sv. Foska, known for its legend of mystical healing powers, adds a touch of local folklore to your journey. It’s these small, intriguing sights that make the tour feel intimate and connected to the region’s stories.

Scenic Drive and the Legendary Church

As you cruise along, you’ll pass the church of Sv. Foska, famous in local tales. Passing by such sites gives the tour a storytelling vibe, making what could be a simple drive into a mini cultural adventure.

Depending on timing and logistics, the group may make a quick stop at Tri Kauna—a picturesque area with a minimal 10-minute visit—or head straight to the sunset spot. The flexibility is appreciated, especially if you’re eager to maximize your sunset experience.

The Sunset at the Secret Beach Bar

The finale is at Minor Beach Bar, a hidden gem where you’ll witness what many consider the best sunset views in the region. With about 15-20 minutes to soak it all in, you can take a quick swim, enjoy a drink, or simply relax and watch the sky change color.

The reviews speak highly of this moment—“the most beautiful sunset from the best spot in the region,” as one reviewer noted. It’s a peaceful, picturesque way to end your evening, with enough time to unwind and take in the coastal scenery.

Additional Stops and Return Journey

After sunset, the tour meanders through Peroj before heading back along the coast to Fazana. The evening drive is a relaxing way to reflect on your day, with views of the sunlit shoreline and ocean.

The entire experience takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on how long you linger at each stop. The tour ends back at Bi Village, leaving you with a sense of having explored Istria’s hidden gems without feeling rushed.

Cost and What You’re Getting

At $410.49 per group, this tour offers a lot—scenic drives, olive oil tastings, cultural insights, and sunset views—all in one package. The price includes the vehicle, fuel, parking, and the tasting fees. Additional costs like drinks or food at the beach bar are extra, so plan accordingly.

Given the inclusion of private transportation and knowledgeable guides, many find the price reasonable, especially for a personalized, off-road adventure with cultural and sensory highlights.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for those who love a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and regional flavors. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to explore beyond typical tourist spots and enjoy a taste of local life. Families will appreciate the newer vehicles and relaxed pace, while couples or groups of friends will enjoy the fun of driving or being a passenger.

It’s also well-suited for sunset lovers, thanks to the exclusive beach bar setting. If you’re after a day of discovery with a bit of adrenaline, good food, and stunning views, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, the person driving a buggy must have a valid standard driver’s license. Passengers can just relax and enjoy the ride.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely. With the introduction of 6-passenger vehicles, it’s now more suitable for families, from young kids to grandparents.

Can I swim at the beach bar stop?
Yes, the stops at the beach bar give you the chance for a quick swim or just to relax by the water.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation (or the guide can drive), fuel, parking fees, olive oil tastings, and lectures.

Are drinks at the beach bar included?
No, drinks and food at the beach bar are extra if you decide to order anything.

When does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 pm, making it perfect for sunset views.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on stops and timing.

Is it suitable for rainy days?
The experience requires good weather, and if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This buggy tour blends fun, flavor, and scenery into one memorable evening. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or someone simply looking to unwind with stunning views, it offers a relaxed yet engaging way to see Istria’s lesser-known treasures.