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

Exploring Liguria Beyond the Coast: A Taste of Olive Oil, Wine, and Historic Villages

This tour in Civezza offers a refreshing glimpse into the less-touristy side of Liguria—beyond the popular seaside resorts, into the heart of its traditional villages and lush olive groves. While not a full-day experience, it packs a rich punch of local flavors, history, and authentic countryside charm that appeals to those craving genuine Ligurian culture.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll be guided by Federica herself, an olive grower who shares her passion and expertise firsthand. Second, the tasting of niche products like Taggiasca olive oil and Pigato DOC wine promises a truly local experience. Third, the relaxed, convivial atmosphere encourages genuine connection and discovery.

One potential consideration? The tour duration is just about an hour, so it’s more of a tasting and storytelling experience than a full exploration. Also, it’s not suitable for very young children or those over 95, so it’s best suited for older kids (8+) and adults.

This experience is perfect for anyone interested in food, wine, local history, or simply looking for a peaceful escape into Liguria’s scenic countryside.

Good To Know

• Authentic Guidance: Led directly by Federica, an olive grower invested in sharing her craft.
• In-depth Tasting: Sample high-quality Taggiasca olive oil and DOC wine, with expert explanations.
• Cultural Insights: Walk through historic Civezza and learn about its heritage and stories.
• Hands-On Learning: Discover traditional harvesting techniques and what makes Ligurian oil and wine special.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Small group (limited to 10) ensures intimacy and personalized attention.
• Added Value: Videos about olive oil production and delicacies made from local ingredients enhance the experience.

A Closer Look at the Tour in Civezza

Starting Point and Location
The tour begins at Federica’s “Assaggiatolio,” conveniently located at Via Giusti 3, right next to the bus terminal and marked by a distinctive petrol blue door. This central spot makes it easy to find and ideal for travelers arriving by public transport. From here, the experience smoothly transitions into the village’s historic core.

Walking Through Historic Civezza
After meeting Federica, the group enjoys a short walk into the village, which lasts about 15 minutes. During this stroll, you’ll explore an ancient anti-barbarian tower—one of the notable remnants of Civezza’s long history—and hear stories about the village’s past. The walk provides a peaceful yet fascinating introduction, setting the scene for what’s to come.

The scenic village itself is typical of Ligurian towns—stone houses, narrow alleys, and a slower pace that invites travelers to breathe in the atmosphere and picture daily life here centuries ago.

Olive Grove Visit and Storytelling
Following the village walk, the tour ventures into the centuries-old olive groves near Civezza. Federica shares her knowledge about the “Taggiasca” olive variety, renowned in Liguria for its delicate flavor and high-quality oil. You’ll learn about the traditional and modern harvesting techniques, with a focus on how fragile this land is and the importance of sustainable farming.

Guests often comment on how Federica’s storytelling is both informative and engaging. One reviewer noted, “She explained the harvesting process in a way that made me appreciate the effort behind every drop of oil.” The walk through the olive trees not only offers exceptional photo opportunities but also provides context on the region’s long-standing olive oil tradition.

Tasting Experience at Assaggiatolio
Back at the shop, the highlight is the guided tasting of Taggiasca extra virgin olive oil, complemented by homemade delicacies crafted from Federica’s garden produce. Expect a generous sampling with explanations about what distinguishes high-quality oil—such as aroma, color, and taste. The emphasis on understanding the nuances helps travelers recognize premium oils when shopping.

The tasting also includes a glass of Federica’s Pigato DOC wine, vinified entirely in barriques, adding a special touch. While you’re encouraged to purchase products afterward, there’s no pressure—just a chance to bring a piece of Liguria home.

A Relaxed, Convivial Atmosphere
The small group size fosters a warm, informal environment where questions are welcomed, and conversations flow easily. Visitors often mention how Federica’s warmth and enthusiasm make the experience more memorable.

Assessing the Value and Experience

Pricing and Duration
At approximately one hour, this tour provides a compact, focused experience—ideal for travelers with limited time or those seeking an authentic, intimate encounter. While the cost covers the guided walk, tastings, and educational content, the real value lies in the personalized insights and the chance to taste genuine local products.

What’s Included and What’s Not
Included are the village walk, olive grove visit, olive oil tasting, and a small glass of DOC wine. An additional €5 allows you to get a full glass of wine if you desire. Products from Federica’s farm can be purchased but are not compulsory, affording flexibility for those on a budget or just wanting the experience without the shopping pressure.

Accessibility and Suitability
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive. It’s best suited for those over 8 years old, as children under that might not fully appreciate the tasting nuances. The relaxed pace makes it suitable for older adults, especially those with an interest in culinary traditions or local history.

Why This Tour Shines for the Right Traveler

This experience offers more than just a tasting; it’s a slice of Ligurian life. If you love exploring off-the-beaten-path villages, learning about traditional crafts, and savoring authentic regional flavors, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially appealing for foodies, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature and history.

While some might find the one-hour length a bit brief, the depth of storytelling and quality of products make it well worth the price, especially given the small-group intimacy and expert guidance by Federica herself. The relaxed vibe ensures you leave feeling more connected to Liguria’s rural soul.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Liguria’s countryside and culinary heritage. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small-group tours, personalized storytelling, and high-quality local products without the hassle of long touring days. Food and wine enthusiasts will enjoy the detailed insights into olive oil production and DOC wine, while history buffs can appreciate the village’s ancient structures.

It suits visitors looking for a peaceful, educational escape into Liguria’s traditional way of life. Those with mobility limitations should confirm accessibility details beforehand, but overall, this is a heartwarming experience that offers genuine connections and flavors.

For anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of Ligurian culture while sampling some of Italy’s best produce, this tour delivers with charm and authenticity.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 years old are not recommended, mainly because the tasting and storytelling are tailored for an older audience who can appreciate the nuances.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour, including the walk, explanation, and tasting.

Can I purchase products after the tour?
Yes, Federica’s products, including olive oil and wine, can be bought at the shop, but there’s no obligation to do so.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

What is the meeting point?
It’s at Federica’s “Assaggiatolio,” located at Via Giusti 3, right next to the bus terminal, marked by a petrol blue door.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the village and olive groves.

Is there an option for a larger glass of wine?
You can pay an extra €5 for a full glass of Federica’s DOC wine.

Does the tour include a visit to the farm?
No, the tour does not include a visit to the Oltrealmare farm but focuses on the village walk, olive groves, and tasting.

Are there any dietary restrictions to mention?
Yes, it’s advisable to communicate any allergies or intolerances before the tasting to ensure suitable options.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personal and relaxed experience.

This tour offers a genuine, flavorful taste of Liguria’s countryside, perfect for those eager to explore beyond the coast and into the heart of its local traditions.