Civezza: western Liguria beyond the sea. Oil, wine, and historic villages.

Exploring Liguria beyond its famed coastlines can lead you to some truly special spots, like the quiet village of Civezza. This small, historic village offers a taste of inland Italy, where ancient stone streets wind past centuries-old olive trees and local stories. The experience I’m reviewing revolves around a one-hour immersive visit hosted by Federica at her farm shop, Assaggiatolio, blending a walk through historic Civezza with a close-up look at traditional olive oil and wine production.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personal touch of Federica herself guiding you through each step. Her passion for her land and products adds an authentic flavor to the tasting. Second, I appreciate the blend of education and tasting — you don’t just sample products but learn how to distinguish high-quality olive oil and appreciate the nuances of Ligurian DOC wine.

One aspect to consider: With a duration of just about an hour, this tour is concise, which is perfect if you’re on a tight schedule. However, some travelers might wish for a bit more time to explore the olive groves or village sights further. Still, the small group size and relaxed pace make it a truly personal experience.

Key Points & Takeaways

• Authentic local guide: Federica is passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience feel genuine.
• Hands-on learning: You’ll see the old and new techniques used to harvest and produce Ligurian olive oil.
• Tasting with context: The tasting includes high-quality Taggiasca extra virgin olive oil and Federica’s own Pigato DOC wine, plus local delicacies.
• Historic setting: The walk through Civezza’s ancient streets and olive groves offers a charming glimpse of Liguria’s inland charm.
• Video insights: Short videos about olive oil production add an engaging visual element.
• Relaxed atmosphere: The experience is convivial, with a small group size (limited to 10), allowing for questions and personal attention.

Discovering Civezza: A Village Rich in Charm and Tradition

Civezza is a little gem in Liguria’s interior, often overshadowed by the more famous seaside towns. It’s a place where history lives in the stones, and traditions are kept alive through its people and their craft. The tour begins right at Federica’s shop, Assaggiatolio, located conveniently near the bus terminal on Via Giusti 3 — a petrol blue door that hints at the authentic experience inside.

You’ll start with a brief walk through the village’s narrow, cobbled streets, taking in the ancient anti-barbarian tower and hearing Federica’s stories about the area’s past. It’s a small, intimate introduction that sets the tone, making you feel like a guest in a local friend’s home rather than just a tourist.

Olive Groves and the Secrets of Ligurian Oil Production

The highlight is the walk into the centuries-old olive groves. This is where I really appreciated Federica’s storytelling — she described the characteristics of the Taggiasca olive, renowned for producing Liguria’s prized extra virgin olive oil. The trees themselves are old and gnarled, standing as silent witnesses to generations of harvests.

During the walk, Federica explains the region’s traditional harvesting methods, contrasting them with modern techniques. It’s fascinating to see how delicate this process is, especially given Liguria’s fragile terrain. Seeing the olive trees up close made me appreciate the effort involved in producing quality oil.

Tasting and Learning: From Tree to Table

Back at the farm shop, the real tasting begins. Federica guides you through a selection of oils, teaching how to identify high-quality extra virgin olive oil — looking for aroma, color, and flavor notes. You’ll sample the Taggiasca oil alongside delicacies made from Federica’s garden produce — a simple but satisfying Ligurian-style appetizer.

She also introduces her own Pigato DOC wine, which is vinified entirely in barriques, adding a rich, complex layer to the tasting. The wine is served in a relaxed, convivial environment, often accompanied by videos illustrating olive oil production, making the experience engaging and educational.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers craving a taste of authentic Liguria — those interested in food, wine, and local traditions. It’s particularly suited to small groups, as the intimate setting allows for questions and a more personal connection. If you’re curious about olive oil, want a quick but meaningful cultural stop, or enjoy learning about regional specialties from passionate locals, this tour delivers.

While it’s not a full-day excursion, the value lies in the quality of the interaction and the authenticity of the products. Children over 8 and those over 95 might find it less suitable, given the walking involved and the focus on tasting.

Price and Logistics

At around one hour, this tour is a short but well-rounded peek into Liguria’s inland treasures. The cost includes the guided walk, tasting, and a glass of wine — which offers good value considering the personalized guidance and high-quality products. You can opt to buy Federica’s oils, wines, and delicacies directly from the shop, making it a lovely opportunity to bring home a taste of Liguria.

The meeting point is easy to find near the bus terminal, and the small group size makes the experience comfortable and flexible. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes for the short walk and be sure to communicate any dietary restrictions beforehand.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This tour is great for curious travelers who want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Liguria’s food traditions. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy tasting and learning, rather than just sightseeing. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, intimate experience with a local guide who’s passionate about her land. If you’re traveling with kids over 8 or have mobility concerns, check with the provider about suitability.

Final Thoughts

In just an hour, this experience offers a charming slice of inland Liguria, showcasing its olive oil, wine, and local history. Federica’s personal touch and passion make it stand out as a genuine taste of small-town Italy. You’ll leave not only with a better understanding of olive oil quality and Ligurian wine but also with a sense of connection to a community that treasures its traditions. It’s a modest yet meaningful encounter—one that’s worth fitting into your Ligurian itinerary if you’re after authentic, local flavor.

For lovers of regional food and wine, or anyone curious about Italy’s lesser-known inland villages, this tour provides insightful, delicious, and memorable moments — a perfect break from the often crowded coastal tourist spots.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 8 years old, as the walk involves some walking and tasting that might not appeal to younger kids.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but rich experience.

Can I buy products at the end of the tour?
Yes, Federica’s shop offers her olive oils, wines, and delicacies that you can purchase to take home.

Is the wine tasting included?
Yes, the tasting includes a sample of Federica’s Pigato DOC wine, with the option to purchase a glass for an additional €5.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for the short walk through the village and olive groves.

Are the tours wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors.

This small, authentic tour in Civezza offers a genuine taste of Liguria’s inland traditions, making it a worthwhile addition for those eager to explore beyond the coastline.