Tour tra i Templi dell’Olio e gli Olivi Patriarchi

Exploring the Olive Groves and Traditions of Matera: A Detailed Look at the “Tra i Templi dell’Olio e gli Olivi Patriarchi” Tour

If you’re planning to visit Matera and want a deeper, more authentic experience beyond the famous Sassi, the Tour tra i Templi dell’Olio e gli Olivi Patriarchi might catch your eye. This three-hour journey takes you out into the scenic countryside of Basilicata, focusing on the ancient olive trees, local foods, and musical traditions that give Matera its soul. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines nature, history, and culinary delights—all in a relaxed, intimate setting.

What really stands out about this tour is how it blends walking through rustic olive groves with tasting traditional Matera bread and preparing a classic dish, “la cialledda.” Plus, the inclusion of local Primitivo wine and Slow Food products makes it feel like a genuine taste of Lucanian culture. Another plus? The tour’s small-group vibe and exclusive visits promise a more personalized experience.

On the flip side, a consideration is that this experience isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves walking through countryside and caves. So, if you’re up for some gentle outdoor activity and want to connect deeply with local traditions, this could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who love food, history, and a touch of rural Italy away from busy tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience: Walk among ancient olive trees and explore private, exclusive places, offering a glimpse into traditional Matera life.
• Culinary hands-on: You’ll taste Matera bread baked in a wood-fired oven and even make “la cialledda” from scratch.
• Local flavors: The tour includes tasting Primitivo wine and slices of Slow Food Presidium products like Caciocavallo Podolico, oven-baked olives, and Pezzente salami.
• Cultural immersion: Enjoy traditional music and songs from the Matera region, adding atmosphere to your experience.
• Scenic views: You’ll get a view of the Gravina di Matera canyon, providing striking landscapes along the way.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now with the option to pay later, making it easy to plan.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at F. Torraca School—a modest meeting point that’s easy to find. From there, you’ll spend around three hours immersed in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Matera’s countryside. The timing varies, so checking available slots will help you plan accordingly.

Walking Through Olive Groves

The main feature involves following the “call” of the patriarch olive tree—a poetic way to describe walking among centuries-old trees. The guide leads you through the Murgia countryside, where you’ll encounter these living witnesses to history. The walk isn’t strenuous but involves some outdoor wandering, so sturdy shoes are recommended. This is not a tour for those with mobility issues, as it involves uneven terrain and caves.

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Visiting the Ancient Farmhouse and Caves

Next, you’ll explore the interior of an old farmhouse, which allows you to relive daily life from times past. These caves are more than just scenic—they’re storytelling portals, revealing how people lived and worked in the past. As one reviewer highlighted, Francesco, the guide, adds a friendly, humorous touch that makes these stories come alive, making the visit both informative and engaging.

Tasting Matera Bread & Making “la cialledda”

One highlight is tasting Matera bread, baked in an authentic wood-fired oven. This bread, seasoned with extra virgin olive oil from the very trees you walk among, offers a taste of local craftsmanship. Then, you’ll get a chance to prepare “la cialledda,” a traditional Lucanian dish that combines stale bread with fresh vegetables and herbs. It’s a simple, hearty dish that’s been a staple in Matera for generations and is best enjoyed during a communal meal.

Savoring Local Products and Wines

The meal is complemented by Primitivo wine—a local varietal—and a bundle of Slow Food Presidium products, including Caciocavallo Podolico, oven-baked olives, and Pezzente salami. These items aren’t just snacks but represent the local food traditions and sustainable farming practices. The pairing elevates the tasting experience and gives you a genuine flavor of the region.

Music and Atmosphere

Adding to the charm, you’ll indulge in the sounds of traditional instruments and songs from Matera’s musical heritage. This musical backdrop enhances the authenticity and creates a memorable ambiance, making the experience feel like a step back into a rural Italian festival.

Unique and Exclusive Access

What sets this tour apart is its focus on private and exclusive locations, giving you a sense of intimacy and connection that larger tours often miss. The views of the Gravina di Matera canyon are a stunning bonus, adding a visual element that complements the culture.

How the Experience Measures Up for Travelers

Based on reviews, this tour has garnered high praise, with a perfect rating of 5 out of 5 from two satisfied travelers. Katrin described Francesco as “a very friendly and open person who, with his competent and humorous manner, gave us a wonderful and unique tour through his olive trees.” That personal touch seems to be a recurring theme, making the experience feel genuine and welcoming.

The small-group setting also allows for a relaxed pace, plenty of questions, and personalized attention. It’s clear that the focus on local, Slow Food products appeals to those interested in authentic culinary experiences rather than touristy gimmicks.

Analyzing the Value

At $48.97 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the inclusion of tastings, the hands-on cooking, private visits, and scenic views. The price is reasonable for an experience that combines outdoor activity, cultural storytelling, and culinary delights, all guided by knowledgeable locals.

It’s worth noting that the experience is more about immersing in local traditions and landscape than about sightseeing in the traditional sense. If you’re someone who loves food, history, and rural charm, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic taste of Matera’s countryside and food culture. It’s perfect if you’re interested in hands-on activities like bread-making and enjoy local wines and traditional music. Keep in mind it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or those looking for a fast-paced, sightseeing-focused tour.

If you’re traveling with a curiosity for rural Italy and the patience to enjoy a slower, more personal experience, this tour should fit right in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking outdoors and exploring caves, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility difficulties.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in both English and Italian, with a live guide leading the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the experiential tour, tastings of typical dishes, visits to private locations, and scenic views of the Gravina di Matera.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 3 hours, making it a manageable, immersive experience without taking up an entire day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at F. Torraca School and ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Is transportation provided between sites?
No, the tour involves walking through the countryside and caves; transportation isn’t included.

What if I want to learn more about local food traditions?
The tour offers a hands-on opportunity to understand and taste local specialties like “la cialledda” and Slow Food products.

How scenic is the countryside?
You’ll enjoy stunning views of olive groves and the Gravina canyon, perfect for photography and soaking in rural Italy’s beauty.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a meaningful way to connect with Matera’s rural roots, this tour offers a blend of culture, food, and scenic beauty that feels genuine and enriching. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy culinary adventures, outdoor exploration, and discovering lesser-known facets of Italy’s landscape.

While it’s not suited for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or seeking a quick sightseeing fix—it’s a wonderful choice for those who want to slow down, taste real local flavors, and experience the countryside with friendly guides. The small-group format and exclusive locations promise an intimate, memorable outing that will linger in your mind long after your trip.

If this kind of authentic, hands-on experience sounds appealing, I’d say it’s worth considering. It’s not just a tour; it’s a small taste of Matera’s living traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: