Olive Oil Private Full-Day Tour with Tasting in Valencia

If you’re curious about olive oil, especially how it’s made, tasted, and paired like fine wine, this private full-day tour in Valencia offers a rare behind-the-scenes look. Led by Johnny Madge, the only British judge at the International Olive Oil Competition, this experience combines history, expert tastings, and lush scenery in a way that’s both educational and delightfully relaxed. It’s not just about oil; it’s about understanding a tradition that stretches back to Roman times, with plenty of authentic details and friendly guidance.

What I love about this tour is Johnny’s approachable style—he makes everyone feel like a guest rather than just a participant. Plus, visiting a mill from 1606 and seeing thousand-year-old olive trees up close is a rare treat. The second highlight? Tasting how different olive oils can match with various ingredients and hearing about the industry from a true professional. The only potential caveat? The day’s heavy focus on olive oil might not appeal if you’re looking for a more traditional sightseeing outing or prefer a less niche experience. Still, if you’re a food lover or curious about Spain’s olive heritage, this is a standout.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert Guidance: Johnny Madge’s background as an olive oil judge brings credibility and a wealth of insider knowledge.
• Historical Depth: Visiting a historic mill from 1606 and ancient olive groves with trees over a thousand years old adds tangible authenticity.
• Tasting Mastery: You’ll learn how to taste and evaluate olive oils, similar to wine tasting, and discover how each oil pairs with different foods.
• Beautiful Settings: Lunch in an olive grove surrounded by lush scenery makes this more than just a tasting—it’s a feast for the senses.
• Family-Friendly & Private: The tour is private, providing a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, suitable for families or small groups.
• Local Wine: An excellent local wine complements the olive oils, enhancing the tasting experience without feeling overly commercial or rushed.

A Deep Dive Into the Olive Oil Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins bright and early at La Ola Fresca in Benimaclet, a lively neighborhood in Valencia. Meeting at 9:00 am, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned 9-seater minibus. This setup means you get personalized attention, and the journey feels like a small adventure rather than a crowded bus tour. The fact that the tour lasts about six hours means plenty of time to savor each stop without feeling rushed. Plus, since it’s private, your group can tailor questions or stops along the way.

Visiting Ancient Olive Trees

One of the coolest parts of this experience is seeing the world’s highest concentration of 1,000-year-old olive trees. Imagine walking among trees that have weathered centuries of weather and history, providing a real sense of continuity. Johnny shares stories about how olive cultivation has been a cornerstone of the region for millennia, dating back to Roman times. As one reviewer put it, the tour offers an “olive oil awakening,” revealing how much craftsmanship and tradition go into each drop.

Exploring Historic and Modern Mills

The tour takes you to a historic mill from 1606—a treasure trove of old machinery and traditional milling techniques. Here, you get a glimpse of how oil was produced centuries ago, with manual presses and stone grinding. This contrast with a modern olive mill owned by one of Spain’s top producers showcases how technology and quality control have evolved. Seeing the old and new side by side offers a balanced perspective, highlighting both tradition and innovation.

Learning from a True Master

Johnny Madge’s expertise shines during tastings. He’s praised for making olive oil tasting accessible, explaining how to detect subtle flavors and aromas and what makes certain oils stand out. One reviewer mentioned how Johnny “opened a door to olive oil that we did not know existed,” emphasizing how much more complex and intriguing good olive oil can be. His relaxed, friendly approach makes it easy to ask questions and understand the nuances—no stiff wine-tasting room here.

Tasting and Pairing

The highlight? Learning how to taste olive oils properly. Johnny demonstrates the different profiles—fruity, bitter, pungent—and how to identify quality. You’ll taste oils that range from robust to delicate. Then comes the fun part: pairing these oils with ingredients to see how they transform dishes. Lunch in an olive grove allows you to taste how olive oil enhances local produce, with excellent local wine served alongside. The combination is a real eye-opening moment—olive oil, just like wine, has its own terroir and personality.

Scenic Drives and Local History

Throughout the day, Johnny shares engaging stories about the history of olive oil in the Castellón area—a region with a 2,000-year-old tradition of importing and producing oil. His commentary makes the scenery more meaningful, connecting landscape, history, and industry seamlessly. Expect stunning views of groves and countryside that make the drive memorable and relaxing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies, history lovers, or curious travelers who want more than just a tasting. If you’re interested in learning how olive oil is made, discovering ancient trees, or simply enjoy good company and beautiful scenery, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also ideal for small groups or families wanting a private outing—an intimate way to explore Spain’s olive heritage.

Price and Value Considerations

At $162.06 per person, this tour might seem pricey, but the value lies in the depth of knowledge, authentic experiences, and access to special places like the 1606 mill and ancient groves. The expert guidance and private setting mean you get undivided attention and tailored insights. The inclusion of a lunch with excellent local wines makes the whole day feel like a gourmet journey, not just a sightseeing trip. If you’re passionate about food or want a special way to experience Valencia’s rural side, this tour offers a memorable, educational outing worth the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy culinary adventures, historical sites, and nature will cherish this experience. It suits those willing to spend a full day exploring, tasting, and learning. Since the tour is private, it’s friendly for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized touch. It’s also well-suited for anyone interested in Spanish traditions and local industries—a true window into the heart of Valencia’s rural culture.

Final Thoughts

This olive oil tour offers a rare peek into a centuries-old craft, combined with expert guidance, stunning scenery, and delicious tastings. Johnny Madge’s personable style makes complex flavors approachable, turning a simple ingredient into a memorable experience. The visit to historic mills and ancient groves makes it clear that olive oil isn’t just cooking oil—it’s a cultural treasure.

If you’re after an authentic, educational, and enjoyable day in Valencia that immerses you in local tradition, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for food lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Spain’s olive heritage. Just come prepared to taste, learn, and perhaps even gain a new appreciation for a humble yet extraordinary ingredient.

FAQ

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 59 days ahead, and booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, making it more personalized and relaxed.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a comfortable minibus, visits to historic and modern mills, expert tastings, and a local lunch with wine.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted, but it’s best to confirm if you have specific needs.

How long is the tour?
Approximately six hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking in rural areas, and sunglasses or hats for sunny days as you’ll be outdoors.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, Johnny can tailor some aspects, but the main stops are fixed for educational value.

What makes this tour different from others in Valencia?
It’s unique because of Johnny Madge’s expertise, the visit to a mill from 1606, and the focus on authentic olive oil tasting and production.

Are meals or drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes a delicious lunch in an olive grove with carefully selected local wine.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While available most of the year, the best weather is in spring or fall, when the countryside is at its most picturesque.

This detailed exploration should help you decide if this olive oil tour in Valencia fits your travel style. It’s a special way to connect with local traditions, enjoy beautiful scenery, and learn from a true expert—all while indulging in Spain’s delicious olive oils.