Olbia: visit a myrtle-making factory with tasting

Exploring Sardinia often means uncovering its wild, rugged landscapes or ancient ruins, but this experience offers a delightful sensory journey into the island’s aromatic side: a visit to a traditional myrtle-making factory in Olbia. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered enough details to paint a vivid picture of what you can expect—an intimate glimpse into a centuries-old craft paired with flavorful tastings and stunning views over the Gulf of Marinella.

What draws me to this experience is the mix of nature, tradition, and sensory discovery. First, you stroll through carefully cultivated myrtle plants in a picturesque setting—overlooking the shimmering waters of Marinella, no less. The next highlight is exploring the production workshop, where you witness firsthand how these berries transform into aromatic liqueurs and bitters. And of course, the tasting session is the crown jewel. You’ll sample four distinct kinds of myrtle liqueurs, complemented by Sardinian cheeses, dark chocolate, and craft ice cream, all while connecting aroma with flavor in a way that’s both educational and delicious.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour requires a car to reach—public transport isn’t an option, and the final stretch involves a steep, unpaved road. This could be a concern if you’re traveling in a sporty or low-clearance vehicle. Also, the experience is tailored for adults 18 and older for the tastings, but children aren’t left out, as they are offered juices, local snacks, and ice cream, which keeps the family-friendly appeal alive. Overall, it’s a small-group tour that promises personalized attention and an authentic Sardinian flavor experience.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Sardinian Craftsmanship: You’ll see how local berries turn into aromatic liqueurs, a craft passed down through generations.
• Stunning Location: The myrtle cultivations overlook the Gulf of Marinella, offering beautiful scenery and photo opportunities.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Antonio, enrich the experience with insights about the plants and process.
• Sensory Tasting: The tasting includes four types of myrtle liqueurs paired with Sardinian cheeses, chocolates, and craft ice cream, appealing to both nose and palate.
• Family Friendly: Kids are not left out; they get local juice, snacks, and ice cream, making it a family-friendly outing.
• Limited Accessibility: Reaching the farm requires driving along a steep, unpaved road—best suited for those with a car and comfortable with a bit of adventure.

The Experience: What You’re Getting Into

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at via Sannai, 51 in Olbia, with a clear recommendation to reach the location by car. The host, Escursì – experience Sardinia, limits the group to only 10 travelers, which ensures a more personal experience. The tour lasts roughly one hour, making it a manageable addition to your day without feeling rushed.

The Drive and Arrival

Getting to the farm is part of the adventure. The final stretch involves a steep, unpaved road, which is noted in reviews as a potential challenge for sports cars. A tip from previous travelers is to avoid arriving in a low-clearance vehicle or sports car. Once you arrive, ringing the Mirto Sannai bell signals your presence, and you’re welcomed into a charming setting.

Exploring the Myrtle Cultivation

The core of the tour is a walk through the mature myrtle plants, cultivated with love and tradition. The views here are stunning—overlooking the Gulf of Marinella—and make for an excellent backdrop for photos. The guides, who are well-versed, explain the different varieties and how each is carefully nurtured across generations.

The attention to detail in cultivation is easy to appreciate—this is not mass-produced. Instead, it’s a story of passion, patience, and respect for the land, which I find makes the final product all the more meaningful.

Inside the Production Workshop

The next step is peeking behind the scenes into the production process. Here, you’ll learn how the berries are distilled and turned into the aromatic liqueurs that Sardinia is famous for. One reviewer mentioned a guide named Antonio who was gracious and informative, enriching the experience with his knowledge.

Tasting the Flavors of Sardinia

The highlight for most visitors is the tasting session. You’ll sample four different types of myrtle liqueur, each offering a unique aroma and flavor profile. These are paired with Sardinian pecorino cheese, dark chocolate, and craft ice cream, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and herbal notes.

Plus, there’s an olfactory test with essential oils produced on-site, which helps you understand the aromatic complexity of myrtle and its significance in Sardinian culture. This sensory component makes the experience memorable and educational.

Family and Accessibility Considerations

Children are not excluded from this experience; they are offered juice, cheese, sausage, and ice cream, making it a family-friendly outing. Pets are allowed on a leash in open spaces but not inside the production lab, so travelers with animals should plan accordingly.

Price and Overall Value

At a cost of $72.35 per person, this experience might be considered a bit of an investment, but it’s worth it for the intimacy, authenticity, and sensory richness. Small groups and personalized guides mean you get your questions answered and a closer look at local traditions. Compared to other Sardinian activities, this offers a tangible connection to local craftsmanship that you’ll remember long after your trip.

Who It’s Best For

If you enjoy discovering authentic local flavors, appreciate beautiful scenery, and want a hands-on cultural experience, this tour is perfect. It’s also suitable for families, given the kid-friendly offerings, and for those who love sensory experiences — the aroma test is a highlight.

Who Should Skip This

Travelers in a hurry or those without a car might find it inconvenient, as public transit isn’t available. Also, if you’re not comfortable with unpaved, steep roads or are looking for a large-group tour, this personalized experience may not suit you.

Final Thoughts

This visit to a Sardinian myrtle-making farm offers a rare blend of natural beauty, craftsmanship, and flavor. The guides, especially Antonio, make sure your understanding goes beyond simple observation, turning it into a true sensory adventure. The scenery alone makes the journey worthwhile, and the tasting encapsulates the essence of Sardinian herbal tradition.

If you’re seeking an authentic, intimate peek into Sardinian culture—beyond the usual tourist spots—and you’re prepared for a short drive and a small group, this tour hits the mark. It’s a thoughtful, flavorful experience that captures the spirit of Sardinia’s artisanal heritage.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate in the experience, receiving juice, local snacks, and ice cream, making it family-friendly.

Do I need a car to join this tour?
Yes, public transportation isn’t available, and reaching the farm requires driving along a steep, unpaved road.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately one hour, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll taste four types of myrtle liqueur paired with Sardinian pecorino cheese, dark chocolate, and craft ice cream. An olfactory test of essential oils is also included.

Are pets allowed on the tour?
Yes, pets on a leash are permitted in open spaces but not inside the production lab.

Is the experience outdoors or indoors?
The walk through the plantations is outdoors, with the production workshop being indoors.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $72.35 per person, which includes guided tasting and a visit to the facilities.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and possibly a hat for shade. No specific dress code is required.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This experience is an inviting peek into Sardinia’s aromatic tradition, perfect for those who want to taste the island’s unique flavors and learn about its local craft. It’s a small-scale, high-quality outing that combines scenery, scent, and flavor into a memorable adventure.