HERBS LAB – from plant to glass

When I first heard about the HERBS LAB from plant to glass experience, I was intrigued. It’s a tour rooted in the simple, earthy pleasures of foraging and transforming wild plants into drinks and infusions. Designed for those curious about nature’s bounty and the art of mixology, this experience promises more than just tasting; it’s about truly understanding where our flavors come from.

What really caught my attention are two things: first, the personal touch—this is a private tour with guides who are passionate and personable, making the whole journey feel intimate and authentic. Second, I love how it combines education with hands-on fun, so you’re not just watching others create cocktails but actually participating in the process.

Of course, one consideration is the duration and physicality. The tour lasts about 3 hours and involves a countryside walk, which might be a bit much for those with mobility issues or very young children. But overall, this experience seems best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, small-group activities, and local flavors. If you appreciate authentic, low-key adventures with a personal touch, this could be a highlight of your time in Puglia.

Key Points

• Authentic rural setting in the countryside of Salento, providing a genuine atmosphere.
• Personalized experience with only your group participating, guided by passionate hosts Betty and Elia.
• Hands-on learning about wild foraging, herbs, and how they’re turned into infusions and cocktails.
• Engaging storytelling with plenty of anecdotes about the plants and local traditions.
• Tasting session of wild liqueurs, spirits, and a chance to create your own wild cocktail.
• Value for the price of around $106.72 per person, considering the personalized, immersive nature of the tour.

An In-Depth Look at the HERBS LAB Experience

Setting the Scene: Countryside Charm and Personal Welcome

From the moment you arrive at the meeting point in Lequile, near Lecce, you’re greeted by Betty and Elia, a couple whose warmth immediately puts you at ease. Their countryside home, built on land that’s been in their family for generations, provides a perfect backdrop for this herbal adventure. This isn’t a commercialized tourist trap but a private, heartfelt exploration into the natural world.

The tour begins with a walk through the fields, where the guides introduce you to the local flora. We loved the way they share stories and anecdotes about the plants—like how certain herbs have been used traditionally—and how they identify them using all five senses. The walk isn’t overly long, but it’s enough to get you familiar with the landscape and the wild ingredients that will later be transformed into drinks.

The Art of Wild Foraging: Discovering Local Plants

As you meander through the countryside, Betty and Elia show you how to recognize spontaneous plants, explaining their medicinal, culinary, and beverage uses. Their passion is contagious, and they’re eager to share their knowledge. From fragrant herbs to edible seeds, each find feels like a small treasure.

One of the most praised aspects, based on reviews, is how interactive and fun this part of the tour is. Many guests mention laughing and enjoying the experience, with one reviewer noting that “you will also train your abdominal muscles by laughing because of Elia.” The guides’ enthusiasm makes the process feel natural rather than like a lesson, which is perfect if you’re new to foraging.

From Plants to Glass: Crafting Infusions and Cocktails

After the walk, the focus shifts to the transformation process. You’ll visit a special spot—probably the most intimate part of the experience—where Betty and Elia demonstrate how to turn fresh herbs into infusions, flavored syrups, liqueurs, and bitters. This is where their passion really shines through.

Guests are invited to taste some of their wild creations—think vermouth, liqueurs, and spirits—and then, the fun part: making your own wild cocktail. Elia guides you through the steps, sharing tips and tricks, so you leave with skills as well as memories. Reviewers often mention how satisfying it is to see the alchemy of nature turn into something drinkable.

Tasting and Celebrating the Flavors of Puglia

The tasting session is a highlight. You get to sample house-made wild liqueurs, which many describe as “genial” or “puro” in flavor. Betty and Elia explain how their products reflect the local environment—what’s growing in Puglia’s fields and how they capture those flavors.

A recurring theme in reviews is the authenticity of these spirits. One reviewer says, “the taste of the wild herbs is like merging with the landscape,” which perfectly captures the experience of sipping something crafted from the very soil you walk on. These are not mass-produced spirits but carefully crafted, small-batch drinks that you can purchase or enjoy during the experience.

Making Your Own Wild Cocktail

The final part is interactive—you get to create your own cocktail, guided by Elia. It’s a great way to connect with the process, learning how different herbs and infusions combine. Guests often leave feeling proud of their creation, and many reviews note that the experience is “fun and educational.”

Duration, Cost, and Overall Value

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive experience. At a cost of about $106.72 per person, it’s not the cheapest activity in Puglia, but considering the personalized guidance, the tasting, and the skills you’ll learn, it’s a fair value.

Several guests remark that the experience feels well worth the price. They leave with a better understanding of foraging, a handful of homemade spirits, and lovely memories of a relaxing, hands-on adventure. Plus, the small-group format ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd but a valued participant.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, those interested in local traditions, and anyone who enjoys crafting and tasting. It’s also perfect if you want a more relaxed, authentic day in the Italian countryside, away from crowds. However, if mobility is an issue or if you’re traveling with small children, keep in mind the walk and hands-on activities could be less suitable.

Travelers who appreciate storytelling, local flavors, and small-batch spirits will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also a fantastic choice for food and drink enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of ingredients and craft.

Final Thoughts

The HERBS LAB experience offers a unique chance to connect with nature, learn about local herbs, and enjoy some delicious, handcrafted spirits. The guides’ passion is evident, and their knowledge makes the entire process engaging and accessible.

While it’s not a quick, superficial tour, those who want to get their hands dirty—literally and figuratively—will come away with more than just souvenirs. They’ll have a richer appreciation for the flora of Puglia and the art of wild mixology.

This experience truly shines for travelers seeking something authentic, educational, and tasty. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or friends looking for a memorable, off-the-beaten-path activity that celebrates the land and its flavors.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the tour involves walking in the countryside and handling liquids. It’s best suited for older children who can appreciate the activity.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to walk, learn, taste, and create.

What’s included in the price?
Guided walk, tasting of wild liqueurs and spirits, and hands-on cocktail making. The price is around $106.72 per person.

Is it a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, making it more intimate and personalized.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended. All materials and ingredients are provided.

Can I purchase the spirits made during the tour?
The review mentions spirits created by Betty and Elia, which are part of their craft. It’s best to ask the guides if you want to buy some to take home.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
Most of the foraging happens in the countryside, so spring and early summer might offer the most abundant herbs, but the experience is available year-round, weather permitting.

Are there any physical limitations to consider?
The walk involves some outdoor activity, so those with mobility issues should check with the guides beforehand.

Is food included?
The focus is on drinks and the plant-to-glass process. The reviews don’t specify a meal, only tastings and cocktails.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your interests with Betty and Elia, and they’re usually happy to accommodate your curiosity about herbs and spirits.

If you’re looking for a genuinely engaging, educational, and delicious activity in Puglia, HERBS LAB from plant to glass offers an experience that’s as authentic as it is flavorful. It’s a little slice of the countryside, brought to life through passion, storytelling, and a good dose of wild herbal goodness.