North Corfu Olive Tour with Olive Oil Tasting and Meze

Exploring the lush landscapes of northern Corfu, this Olive Tour offers an authentic glimpse into one of Greece’s most iconic elements — the olive tree. For just $59, you get a three-hour journey through verdant groves, a visit to a traditional olive press, and the chance to taste freshly produced olive oil paired with a hearty meze. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances history, nature, and food, all led by a passionate local guide.

What really makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to walk through olive groves that have been cultivated for generations and to see a working olive press dating back to the early 20th century. Plus, the inclusion of a dedicated olive oil tasting and local delicacies makes it both educational and delicious. A potential downside is that the tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, which is outside a small shop called ICE DREAM on the main road.

This experience is perfect if you’re eager to connect with local traditions and enjoy some scenic, quiet parts of Corfu away from the busy tourist spots. It’s especially suited for travelers who love food, history, and nature, and who appreciate intimate, guided insights rather than large-group sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic Olive Experience: Walk through a traditional olive grove and learn about cultivation and harvesting.
• Historical Insight: Visit a century-old olive press, gaining a tangible connection to the island’s past.
• Tasting & Food: Enjoy a guided olive oil tasting and a hearty local meze featuring olives, cheese, bread, and other Corfiot treats.
• Expert Guide: Led by knowledgeable local guides who share stories and secrets of olive oil production.
• Scenic Walks: Explore a lush, green environment rich in flora and fauna, with views of ancient olive trees.
• Exclusivity: Access to the private olive press and a small, family-run farm, providing a more personal experience.

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A Close Look at the Tour Itself

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off outside ICE DREAM, a small shop on the main road. Look for a white mini bus emblazoned with “Elaion Private Tours” — this will be your sign to gather your small group. From there, it’s a quick 3-minute drive to the actual olive grove, which isn’t marked on any maps, adding an element of authenticity and a touch of adventure. Since the tour is in North Corfu—about 45 minutes from Corfu Town—you’ll want to plan your transport accordingly, especially if you’re relying on public transit or taxis.

The Guided Walk through Olive Groves

Once you arrive, your guide will lead you on a leisurely walk through the olive groves, explaining how olives are cultivated and why they are so central to Corfiot life. Expect to see varieties of flora and fauna, with some olive trees that have been alive for many generations, a living testament to the island’s agricultural longevity. Reviewers mention that guides like Jonathan bring passion and thorough knowledge, making even the most technical details engaging and easy to understand.

Visiting the Old Olive Press

One of the highlights is the visit to a traditional olive press from the early 1900s. This is a rare chance to see a piece of working machinery that’s been part of local life for over a century. The owner’s personal stories and explanations add depth to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing stop. Several reviewers note that this exclusive access makes the tour feel authentic, showcasing a piece of history not often seen by travelers.

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Olive Oil Tasting & Meze

After soaking in the scenery and history, it’s time for the olive oil tasting session. The guides introduce you to high-quality, freshly pressed oils, helping you understand what makes Greek olive oil so special. As one reviewer pointed out, they learned to recognize the difference between good oil and lower-quality options, a skill that enhances your future shopping.

The tasting is complemented by a meze platter — a generous selection of local cheeses, bread, olives, and other traditional products. This is where the tour truly shines, giving you a chance to sample authentic Corfiot flavors in a cozy, friendly setting. Many guests rave about the deliciousness of the food, with one mentioning how the experience was “full of new information and flavors they had never tried before.”

The Scenic Drive Back

After the tasting, your guide will escort you back to the starting point. The entire experience, from start to finish, lasts approximately three hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the surroundings without feeling rushed. Given the small group size and personalized approach, you’ll often find yourself chatting casually with your guide and fellow travelers, making it a relaxed and intimate affair.

Price & Value Analysis

At $59 per person, this tour offers strong value for those interested in local culture, history, and good food. Compared to larger, more generic tours, the personalized attention and exclusive visits — including the private olive press — make it worth the price. The tasting and delicious meze are worth their weight in gold, especially since you leave with a new appreciation for the effort behind each drop of olive oil.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the upfront cost covers transportation within the tour, guided insights, tastings, and the authentic experience of a working farm. Considering the depth of information and the quality of the products sampled, this experience provides a more meaningful connection to Corfu’s olive traditions than many quick visits or tastings at supermarkets.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits foodies, history buffs, and nature lovers wanting an authentic taste of Corfu’s olive culture. It’s ideal for those who enjoy small-group, personalized tours and are interested in learning rather than just sightseeing. If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic walk with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and sample local flavors, this tour will satisfy.

On the other hand, travelers looking for a luxury or all-inclusive experience might find the absence of hotel pickup a little inconvenient. It’s best for those comfortable with arranging their own transport to the meeting point or staying nearby.

Final Thoughts

The North Corfu Olive Tour with Olive Oil Tasting and Meze is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of Greek olive culture in a relaxed, intimate setting. The combination of walking through ancient groves, visiting a family-run olive press, and tasting fresh, high-quality oil paired with local delicacies creates a well-rounded, memorable experience.

The guides’ passion and knowledge come through, turning what could be a simple tasting into a meaningful lesson about tradition, sustainability, and craftsmanship. The scenic environment, combined with genuine local products, means you’ll walk away with not just souvenirs but a richer appreciation of Corfu’s agricultural heartbeat.

This tour is best for curious travelers who want more than just photos — they want stories, flavors, and a connection to local life. Perfect for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone simply wanting a peaceful, authentic slice of Corfiot life.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll meet outside ICE DREAM on the main road, and should plan your own transportation to the starting point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including walking, visiting the olive press, tastings, and enjoying the meze.

What languages are the guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides like Jonathan providing detailed explanations and stories.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be exploring olive groves and uneven terrain. Bring sun protection, water, and a camera if you wish to capture the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the experience is educational and scenic, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can walk comfortably and are interested in the activities.

Can I purchase the olive oil after the tour?
The reviews indicate that the guides and farm owners are passionate about their products, but the tour does not specify if oils are available for purchase online. It’s worth asking your guide during the tour.

To sum it up, the North Corfu Olive Tour blends history, nature, and culinary delights into an authentic Greek experience. It offers a genuine window into the island’s olive tradition, perfect for travelers seeking meaningful, hands-on adventures that celebrate local craftsmanship and flavors. Whether you’re a foodie eager to distinguish good olive oil or a curious traveler wanting to explore Corfu beyond the beaches, this tour promises a memorable and value-packed outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby