Montpellier:Journée Huile d’Olive, Vin, St Guilhem le Désert

Thinking about a day trip that combines scenic landscapes, delicious local produce, and a touch of history? This particular tour in Montpellier promises exactly that—a taste of the real South of France, wrapped into a well-organized 7-hour outing. We’ve gathered enough information from reviews and the itinerary to give you an honest look at what you can expect.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to visit an authentic olive grove and learn about the traditional process of making Occitan olive oil—a real highlight for anyone interested in regional crafts. Second, the opportunity to sip on local wines at a PDO wine estate, which is more personal and relaxed than a big commercial tasting.

But, as with any tour, there are a few things to keep in mind. The price of $170 per person might seem a little steep if you’re on a budget, but many reviewers agree that the quality of the experiences and the guides’ knowledge justify it. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable walking and sitting throughout the day.

This tour would best suit those who love culinary experiences, enjoy scenic drives, and have a curiosity about local traditions. If you’re after a relaxed, informative day with plenty of tastings and picturesque stops, this might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Authentic Learning: You get to see and taste real, local olive oil directly from the producers.
• Scenic Beauty: The tour offers stunning views of the countryside and, seasonally, the lavender fields.
• Gourmet Picnic: Enjoy a well-prepared, local produce picnic under the shade of olive trees.
• Wine Tasting: Explore a PDO wine estate and sample some excellent regional wines.
• Medieval Village: Walk through the charming, UNESCO-listed Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert.
• Small Groups: An intimate experience limited to 7 participants, allowing for personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point and Transport

The journey begins at 62 Rue de Rhodes in Montpellier, where you’ll meet your guide next to a grey minibus. From there, the group is transported comfortably through the scenic countryside in a small, intimate setting. This smaller group size (limited to 7 people) is a real advantage—it means more personalized attention from the guide and a relaxed pace throughout the day.

The drive from Montpellier takes about 40 minutes to the first stop, setting the tone for a leisurely, scenic escape into the heart of the Terrasses du Larzac. The area is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, offering plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Visit to Mas de Palat (Olive Oil Mill and Tasting)

The first major stop is Mas de Palat, where you’ll take a guided tour lasting around two hours. This part of the day is especially appealing for those interested in regional food production. You’ll learn directly from the owners, Sandrine and Sébastien Mora, about the process of making Occitan olive oil—a craft they’ve mastered with passion.

Reviews describe this experience as “very good” and praise the guide’s “sufficient information”. One traveler from Belgium appreciated the “full explanation” about how the olive oil is produced, which makes the tasting all the more meaningful. You’ll see the traditional methods up close, observe the machinery, and gain insight into the care that goes into every bottle.

After the tour, you’ll be invited to taste a variety of olive oils, tapenades, and olives, all made locally. This tasting session offers a chance to compare different flavors and discover your favorites.

Picnic Time Under Olive Trees

Next up is a delightful picnic of local produce, thoughtfully arranged and served under the shade of olive trees. Reviewers note that the picnic is “plenty” and “well prepared,” with a focus on regional specialties. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax, chat, and enjoy the lingering scents of fresh herbs and olive oil.

This casual meal adds a laid-back vibe to the day, and many guests comment that the quality of the food exceeded expectations. If you’re vegetarian, you’ll find the options accommodating, though vegans might find the cheeses and local products a bit limiting.

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Wine Tasting at Terrasses du Larzac PDO Estate

Following the picnic, the group heads to a local wine estate specializing in Terrasses du Larzac PDO wines. The guided tasting lasts about an hour and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. The hosts are described as passionate and friendly, making for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Guests frequently mention the excellent quality of the wines and the knowledgeable explanations offered during the tasting. One reviewer, Daniel from the UK, said their guide Brenda was “an exceptional guide” who made the experience both fun and educational. Many also appreciated the opportunity to explore the vineyard and cellar, gaining a better understanding of the regional wine culture.

Exploring Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

The final stop is the medieval village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, a UNESCO-listed site renowned for its well-preserved old town and cobblestone streets. You’ll have about an hour to wander freely, soak up the history, and snap photos of the picturesque scenery.

According to reviews, the visit to Saint-Guilhem is “beautiful” and “interesting”, with some noting that a short walk through the streets offers a glimpse into medieval life. The village’s charm is undeniable, and many visitors say it’s a highlight of their trip.

Return to Montpellier

After your exploration, the tour departs the village for the roughly 45-minute drive back to Montpellier, arriving at the starting point around 6 pm. The group size and relaxed schedule allow for a comfortable, unhurried day.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

The tour is priced at $170 per person, which includes transportation, all activities, tastings, and a picnic. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the guide, the delicious tastings, and the stunning scenery as adding value to the experience.

One traveler from Australia commented that Brenda, the guide, was “wonderful” and that the tour was “full and interesting.” They also appreciated the informative visit to the olive oil mill and vineyard, as well as the memorable stop at Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert.

While some might find the price a bit high for a day trip, the inclusion of local tastings, guided tours, and a personalized experience makes it a compelling choice for those who appreciate authentic, well-organized activities. The small group size enhances the overall experience, making conversation easier and the day more relaxed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for food and wine lovers who want a deeper understanding of regional produce. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic drives, historically significant villages, and authentic tastings. Travelers who value small-group tours and personal interactions with guides will find this a worthwhile option.

It’s less ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer more vigorous outdoor activities, as the tour involves some walking and standing. Also, those on a very tight budget might consider other options, as the experience leans toward a more premium, curated day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally designed for adults, and the experience involves some walking and standing. If children are curious about olive oil, wine, and scenic villages, they might enjoy it, but it’s best suited for older kids or teenagers.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, activities, guided tours, tastings of olive oils and wines, and a picnic of local produce. Personal shopping or additional purchases are not included.

How long does each stop last?
The olive oil tour is about 2 hours, the picnic is about an hour, the wine tasting lasts around 1 hour, and the visit to Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is about an hour. The overall schedule is designed to be comfortable, with enough time to enjoy each part.

Are the lavender fields available for visiting?
Yes, but only from June to July. Outside that window, the lavender fields won’t be in bloom, so that part of the experience isn’t available.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, it runs in both French and English, ensuring clear explanations and friendly guides.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a day that combines culinary delights, scenic beauty, and a dose of historic charm, this Montpellier tour offers a well-rounded experience. The emphasis on local, authentic productions—olive oil and wine—makes it particularly appealing for those interested in regional culture and foodways.

The tour’s small size and knowledgeable guides make it more personal and engaging, and the variety of stops keeps the day dynamic without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a picnic adds a relaxed, picnic-in-the-countryside vibe that many travelers find refreshing.

While the price might be a consideration, many reviewers believe the quality of tastings, the beauty of the scenery, and the friendship of the guides justify the expense. This experience is best suited for curious, food-loving travelers who enjoy a combination of scenic drives, historical villages, and authentic local flavors. It’s a day to indulge your senses and walk away with memorable stories—and maybe a new favorite olive oil or wine.

Enjoy your trip to the South of France, and if you decide to go, I hope it turns out to be one of those days you’ll be reminiscing about for years.

You can check availability for your dates here: