If you’re headed to Lake Garda and looking for a laid-back, authentic experience that combines nature, local flavors, and scenic views, the San Felice Olive Oil Tasting tour might just be worth your time. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and details, it’s an experience that captures the essence of the Garda Hills — simple, flavorful, and memorable.
What immediately draws us in is the focus on local olive oil—a staple of the region—and the chance to pair it with genuine local cheeses, honey, and wine. The small-group setting feels intimate, and the setting itself sounds stunning, with views over Rocca di Manerba and Lake Garda. On the flip side, keep in mind that transportation to the estate isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan your trip there.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love food and drink, enjoy scenic walks, and want a relaxed, authentic taste of local culture without the fuss of larger, more commercial experiences. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates good food, stunning vistas, and a peaceful vibe, this could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Authentic experience at a family-owned estate, offering genuine insights into olive oil production.
- Beautiful views of Lake Garda from the olive groves, providing a picturesque backdrop.
- Diverse tasting options, including cheese, honey, bread, focaccia, and wines like Lugana and Chiaretto.
- Flexible options for traditional and more indulgent tastings, tailored to your preferences.
- Small group size (limited to 10), ensuring a personalized and friendly atmosphere.
- Cost-effective at $36 per person, offering a lot of value for a sensory and scenic experience.
What to Expect from the Olive Oil Tasting Tour
This experience kicks off with a walk through the estate’s olive groves, where you’ll enjoy the chance to see the very trees that produce the extra virgin olive oil you’ll sample later. The estate is family-run, and the guides are passionate about sharing their love for agriculture, making the tour both educational and personal.
You might find yourself gazing over Lake Garda from the estate, a view that’s frequently highlighted in reviews as a highlight. The peacefulness of the surroundings makes it a lovely spot for a leisurely walk, learning about the different olive varieties cultivated here, and understanding how the oil is produced.
The main event is the olive oil tasting itself. You’ll savor their extra virgin olive oil, which many reviewers say exceeds expectations in flavor and quality. To complement the oils, you’ll enjoy artisanal bread and focaccia, perfect for dipping, alongside a selection of local cheeses and homemade Millefiori honey that adds a sweet touch.
Wine is also a key part of the experience, with options of Lugana and Chiaretto—both regional favorites. You’ll get to sip these wines while soaking up the views, creating a relaxed, almost Mediterranean atmosphere.
The Tasting Options: Traditional vs. Special
Depending on your preference, you can opt for a traditional tasting or a more elaborate special tasting. The standard version includes a generous olive oil tasting, a glass of wine, bread and focaccia, cheeses, and honey. For a bit more indulgence, the special tasting adds a charcuterie board, vegetables for dipping, and two glasses of wine per person, or a shared bottle.
Reviewers seem to appreciate the value here. They mention that the appetizers and cheeses are delicious and that the view and atmosphere elevate the experience. One reviewer says, “The appetizers were beautiful overlooking Lake Garda,” which gives a sense that this isn’t just about the food but also the environment.
The Practicalities
Duration is about 2 hours, making it a manageable and relaxing activity. The tour is small group, limited to 10 participants, which means you’ll get more personalized attention and plenty of time to ask questions.
Pricing is quite reasonable at $36 per person, especially considering the quality of the experience—local food, wine, stunning views, and an intimate setting. While transportation to the estate isn’t included, you’ll find that the meeting point is straightforward: near via Porto S. Felice, with parking available.
The tour guides speak German and English, with French available upon request, making it accessible for many travelers. It’s also wheelchair accessible (though not for the toilet), and dogs are allowed, which is great if you’re traveling with pets.
Flexibility in booking is a plus—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later for added convenience.
The Experience in Real Life: What Travelers Say
Reviewers have consistently praised this experience, calling it “a beautiful place with culture and tradition” and mentioning the friendly staff who made everyone feel welcome. One traveler noted, “The olive surpasses my expectations and the appetizers were delicious,” highlighting the quality and flavor of the tastings.
Another mentioned that the tour was very informative and appreciated the tips on local specialties, making it a rewarding experience for food lovers. The views and the relaxed atmosphere appear to be high points, with many noting how peaceful and scenic the estate is.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Is This Tour Best For?
This is a great choice if you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic taste of local Garda life. It’s suited for those who enjoy good food, wine, and beautiful landscapes but prefer a more intimate experience over large tours. If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends, you’ll likely find this a welcoming and memorable outing.
It’s not the best fit if you’re seeking a highly active or extensive tour, as the experience is centered around tasting and enjoying the scenery. Also, since the tour involves tasting local cheeses and honey, people with food allergies or specific dietary restrictions should communicate in advance, although vegetarian options are available.
Final Thoughts
All in all, the San Felice Olive Oil Tasting tour offers a genuinely authentic slice of Garda Hills life. For a modest price, you get a mixture of scenic views, educational insights, and delicious regional foods and drinks. It’s an experience that feels both relaxing and enriching — ideal for travelers who want to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of Italy.
While transportation logistics are on your side, the small-group size and the quality of the tastings make it worth planning a little ahead. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly hosts, and tasty food makes this a solid, heartfelt experience that many visitors seem to cherish.
If you’re after a relaxed, tasty, and scenic activity that takes you off the beaten path, this tour might just be the highlight of your Garda trip.
San Felice: Olive Oil Tasting with local food on Garda Hills
“A beautiful place with culture and tradition. The staff and people in charge made us feel special. Very loving and helpful. Olive surpassed my expe…”
FAQ
Is transportation to the estate included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to organize your own way there, whether by taxi or car.
What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak German and English. French is available on request with advance notice.
Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian options are available. However, the tour cannot accommodate vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-free diets, so communicate your needs ahead of time.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the estate is wheelchair accessible, though the toilets aren’t.
Are dogs allowed on the tour?
Yes, dogs are permitted, making it a pet-friendly outing.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the tastings and scenery.
What’s included in the tasting?
Depending on your choice, it includes olive oil, regional wine (Lugana or Chiaretto), bread, focaccia, local cheeses, honey, and possibly charcuterie and vegetables for dipping.
Is the experience suitable for families?
While not specifically geared toward children, it’s a relaxed setting that could be enjoyed by older kids with an interest in food and nature.
What’s the price?
The experience costs $36 per person, offering good value considering the quality and variety of tastings.
If you’re craving a peaceful, flavorful break amidst stunning scenery, this olive oil tasting tour could be just what you need. It’s a perfect way to connect with local culture, enjoy some outstanding views, and leave with a fuller belly and a happy heart.
You can check availability for your dates here:
