Matera: Pic-Nic under the Centuries-Old Olive Trees

Planning a trip to Italy’s southern regions often means exploring iconic sights like Matera’s Sassi or the fairy-tale landscapes of Alberobello. But sometimes, the most authentic experiences are found a little off the beaten path. This tour, offered by Azienda Agricola Mantenera, invites you to enjoy a relaxed, scenic picnic in a sprawling olive grove, surrounded by centuries-old trees and breathtaking views of Basilicata’s natural parks. It’s a perfect blend of gentle walking, cultural insights, and delicious regional fare, all wrapped into a comfy 2.5-hour experience.

What draws us most to this experience is its focus on nature and local culture — a chance to unwind in a quiet setting while learning about olive oil production and tasting genuine regional flavors. The chance to sit beneath ancient trees and enjoy a picnic of cured meats, cheeses, and homemade jams sounds idyllic, especially when paired with a glass of the regional Aglianico del Vulture red wine. However, a potential consideration is the outdoor setting on the ground, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or allergies to insects.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a laid-back, authentic experience that combines nature, culture, and culinary delights. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic views, local food, and peaceful surroundings, but less so for visitors looking for fast-paced sightseeing or indoor activities. Now, let’s explore what makes this olive grove picnic such a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Authentic setting: Enjoy a picnic beneath centuries-old olive trees with stunning views of Basilicata’s natural parks.
• Educational component: Learn about olive oil production and the importance of healthy eating from knowledgeable guides.
• Local flavors: Savor cured meats, cheeses, focaccia, and a homemade dessert, all featuring regional products.
• Inclusive experiences: Water and regional red wine are included, adding to the authenticity of the tasting.
• Relaxed pace: The 2.5-hour tour offers a gentle walk and a leisurely meal in a peaceful countryside setting.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues, insect allergies, or young children under 2.

Discovering Basilicata’s Olive Heritage

The tour begins at Azienda Agricola Mantenera, situated about 3.5 kilometers from Tricarico and roughly 41 km from Matera. From the moment you arrive, the vibe is relaxed. The company’s focus on organic practices and natural settings means no synthetic repellents are used, so insects might be around—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive or allergic.

Walking through the olive grove, you’ll notice the impressive range of trees, from ancient, gnarled specimens to younger saplings. The guided tour walks you through the story of olive cultivation, emphasizing how the land and people have intertwined over centuries. The guide, likely multilingual (English, French, Portuguese), shares insights into the production process of extra virgin olive oil, explaining what makes the local products special.

Guests often comment that the views are truly spectacular. On a clear day, you can see the Piccole Dolomiti Lucane and Gallipoli Cognato Park, offering a panoramic backdrop that turns the picnic into a visual feast. The slow, contemplative atmosphere of wandering among these ancient trees makes for a peaceful retreat from busy itineraries — perfect for anyone craving a moment of calm.

The Picnic Experience: Food, Drink, and Atmosphere

After the educational part of the tour, your group settles on cushions and mats in the countryside. The setup is simple but charming: a low table laden with locally produced cured meats and cheeses, along with wood-fired focaccia, all flavored with the estate’s own extra virgin olive oil. The focus on organic, local ingredients means every bite is fresh and authentic.

You’ll also get tomatoes bruschetta and olives, which are classic complements to the regional fare. For dessert, expect a homemade jam-based treat, offering a sweet conclusion to your meal. The red wine “Aglianico del Vulture” and water are included, allowing you to indulge without extra expense, and encouraging a true taste of Basilicata’s wine culture.

Guests have remarked that the food is simple but delicious, highlighting that it’s a genuine regional experience rather than a fancy gourmet affair. The casual setup—sitting on cushions on the ground—encourages a friendly, communal vibe, making it easier to relax and chat with fellow travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The real highlight here is the combination of scenic beauty and local flavor. The views of the surrounding parks and the gentle walk through the olive grove make for a memorable, calming experience. The fact that the tour includes an educational element about olive oil production adds value, especially for those interested in food origins and sustainable practices.

Reviews emphasize the authenticity and warmth of the guides. One traveler noted, “The guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about olives and olive oil, which made the experience even richer.” The small group setting ensures you don’t feel rushed, and you get plenty of time to soak in the scenery and ask questions.

Considering the price of $74.02 per person, the experience offers excellent value. It’s not just a picnic; it’s a taste of local tradition, a peaceful walk, and an immersive cultural moment, all in one package.

Practical Details and What to Keep in Mind

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day. Since it begins at Azienda Agricola Mantenera, you’ll need to arrange transportation—it’s around 41 km from Matera, so consider renting a car or booking a transfer. Parking is free in front of the estate, but public transportation options are not specified.

The experience is offered in multiple languages, including English, French, and Portuguese, which helps make it accessible to international visitors. It’s a private group experience, meaning you’ll enjoy a more personalized setting with fewer strangers.

Important to note: The picnic takes place outdoors on cushions and mats, so insect repellents are recommended because organic practices mean no chemical deterrents are used. The ground sitting might be uncomfortable for some, and it’s not suitable for children under 2 or those with mobility issues, as it involves walking in uneven terrain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers and those interested in local culinary traditions. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a relaxing, scenic activity that combines gentle walking, learning, and eating. It’s also a good choice for foodies wanting to taste genuine regional ingredients paired with local wine.

However, travelers looking for a quick sightseeing fix or indoor activities might find this slow-paced outing less appealing. If you have mobility restrictions, insect allergies, or young children, it’s worth considering whether the outdoor setup will suit your needs.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, “Matera: Pic-Nic under the Centuries-Old Olive Trees” offers a genuine taste of Basilicata’s tranquil countryside, paired with insightful stories about olive cultivation and regional flavors. The views are stunning, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the food is authentic—what’s not to love?

This tour is a great way to slow down and connect with the land and local culture. Whether you’re a foodie, nature enthusiast, or simply in need of a peaceful break, it’s an experience that delivers both scenic beauty and meaningful cultural insight. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable, engaging outing, ideal for those who want an authentic, memorable taste of Basilicata.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years old, and the outdoor nature of the picnic may not be comfortable for very young kids or those with insect allergies.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a relaxed activity that fits nicely into a day’s itinerary.

What is included in the price?
The guided tour of the olive grove, picnic with cured meats, cheeses, focaccia, tomatoes bruschetta, olives, dessert with homemade jams, regional red wine, and water are all included.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Azienda Agricola Mantenera, located 3.5 km from Tricarico and 41 km from Matera. Parking is free in front of the estate.

Is the experience available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, and Portuguese.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking in uneven outdoor terrain.

What should I bring?
Insect repellents are recommended; comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are advised, and a sense of curiosity.

Is there an age limit?
The tour is not suitable for children under 2 or for party groups, but there is no specified maximum age.

To sum it up, this olive grove picnic blend of scenic views, cultural storytelling, and regional delicacies is perfect for travelers wanting a peaceful taste of Basilicata’s land and traditions. It’s a genuine, authentic experience that’s both relaxing and enriching — a true highlight for those seeking to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the land.