Olbia: visit a gin-making factory with tasting

Imagine learning how a truly special gin is born, right in the heart of Sardinia’s scenic northeast. This tour isn’t just about sipping drinks; it’s about exploring the craft behind a medley of flavors, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Gulf of Marinella. It’s a different kind of experience—intimate, authentic, and bursting with local character.

What we really like about this tour is the genuine focus on artisanal distillation, especially the process involving myrtle berries, which are key to the gin’s distinctive flavor. Plus, the setting is pretty much perfect—an atmosphere that combines craftsmanship with spectacular scenery. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the journey to the distillery involves reaching a location only accessible by car, with a sloped road in the last stretch. So, if you’re not comfortable with a bit of a drive or uneven terrain, it’s worth planning ahead.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy learning about local production methods, fans of craft spirits, or those simply after a relaxed, scenic outing that combines nature, culture, and a generous tasting. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate authentic flavors and want to see how a unique Sardinian gin is made from scratch.

Key Points

• Authentic distillation process: Learn how myrtle berries are transformed into gin in an artisanal still.
• Spectacular views: Enjoy your tasting with a stunning Gulf of Marinella backdrop.
• Expert guidance: The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who explains the process clearly.
• Tasting experience: Includes four oysters, olives, and a couple of drinks—perfect for those who enjoy pairing drinks with local delicacies.
• Family-friendly options: Non-alcoholic alternatives and snacks are available for younger guests.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, making for a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Getting to Know the Gin Factory

The tour begins at a specifically chosen location near Olbia, where you’ll meet your guide—probably Antonio, based on glowing reviews about his friendliness and thorough explanations. The journey starts with a visit to the artisanal still—the heart of the production—where the raw material, fermented myrtle berries, is carefully distilled. We loved the way the guide explained each step, making complex processes feel approachable.

The still is where the magic happens, and you get to see firsthand how the raw berries are transformed into a fragrant, pure gin. It’s fascinating because it’s not a mass-produced industrial setup—this is small-scale, authentic craftsmanship. The process involves extracting flavors from the berries, which are then transformed in the laboratory into the finished product. If you’re into spirits or just curious about how things are made, this part is pretty captivating.

Following the still visit, you’ll move into a cozy laboratory setting where the final transformation takes place. The guide’s explanations help demystify the process, and you get an appreciation for the effort and passion that goes into each batch. It’s this part that elevates the experience from simple tasting to genuine understanding.

The Tasting and Food Pairings

After the educational part, it’s time to savor what the tour is really about—the tasting. This isn’t just a quick sip; you’ll enjoy four oysters and olives, along with two drinks: a 1 cl shot of pure gin and a gin tonic with 3 cl of gin in tonic water. The tasting is set against the backdrop of breathtaking Gulf views, making it a memorable moment of relaxation and indulgence.

The gin itself is made from fermented myrtle berries, which gives it a distinctive aroma and flavor profile that sets it apart from typical gins. The reviews highlight how much visitors appreciated the authenticity and care in the drinks, often remarking on the love and passion the host puts into his craft.

For those traveling with children or non-drinkers, there are options—juice, a small snack with cheese and sausage, and ice cream. Water and Carasau bread are also provided, rounding out the tasting experience and making it accessible for all ages.

The Location and Atmosphere

The place where all this happens is, quite frankly, stunning. The panoramic view of the Gulf of Marinella creates a relaxing, almost magical atmosphere. Many reviews mention the breathtaking scenery — a perfect complement to the sensory experience of tasting unique Sardinian flavors.

The entire setting feels personal and warm, thanks to the small group size (max 8 people). This means you get plenty of time to ask questions, enjoy the views, and connect with your guide. It’s a lovely way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you’re after something more intimate than a large, commercial tour.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a relatively short but rich experience. It’s best suited for adults aged 18 and up for the tasting, but kids and teens aren’t left out—they receive juice, snacks, and ice cream, making it family-friendly in that regard.

Getting there requires a car, as public transportation isn’t available, and the last stretch involves a slope that isn’t ideal for bikes. The meeting point’s coordinates are provided, so plan your route accordingly.

Pricing-wise, the experience offers good value considering the personal guide, the educational aspect, the tasting, and the stunning views. The small group size enhances the experience’s intimacy and allows for more interaction.

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What Reviewers Say

Multiple visitors have expressed how much they enjoyed the tour, often highlighting the friendly host Antonio and the spectacular views. Sabrina from Germany called the explanation “super detailed,” while Sonja praised the “dreamlike” scenery and the delicious gin and liqueurs. Others appreciated the authentic nature of the tasting and the passion behind the craft.

One reviewer summed it up well: “Antonio has so much heart in his gin,” and many found the experience “unforgettable” thanks to the combination of learning, tasting, and scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you enjoy learning about local craft spirits or want a relaxed, scenic outing. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate authentic flavors and a more personal, less commercial atmosphere. While not specifically targeted at families, the availability of non-alcoholic options means it can be a nice outing for a small group of friends, couples, or even a curious solo traveler.

If you’re after a unique, memorable activity that combines education, taste, and scenery—this is a solid pick. Just remember the logistics: a car ride and a bit of a slope in the last stretch.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children and young people aged 6 to 17 are welcomed with juice, snacks, and ice cream. However, the tasting is only for adults 18 and over.

Do I need to bring anything?
Most essentials are provided, but bringing a camera or sunglasses might enhance your experience—especially for the scenic views.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, non-alcoholic options like juice and snacks are available for younger guests or non-drinkers.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 1 to 1.5 hours, a manageable time to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for people with allergies or dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian and vegan options are available; for allergies or specific needs, contact the guide ahead of time using the phone number on your booking voucher.

How do I get to the meeting point?
You’ll need a car, as public transport isn’t available, and the last part of the drive involves a slope. Coordinates are provided to help navigate.

Is it family-friendly?
While the tasting is for adults, the tour itself might appeal to families with children who can enjoy the scenery and non-alcoholic treats.

What makes this gin special?
It’s distilled from fermented myrtle berries, giving it a unique profile that captures the essence of Sardinia’s natural flavors.

Can I buy the gin afterward?
The tour description doesn’t specify sales, but many artisanal producers do offer bottles—check with your guide to confirm.

This gin factory visit in Sardinia offers a genuine peek into local craftsmanship, paired with spectacular views and delicious tastings. It’s perfect for those who love to understand the story behind their drinks while soaking in the beauty of the island. If you’re after an experience that combines education, flavor, and scenery—all in a small, friendly setting—this might just be your next memorable stop.

You can check availability for your dates here: