San Gimignano: Winery Visit with Picnic in Olive Grove

If you’re dreaming of combining stunning landscapes with a relaxed taste of local wine and food, this Winery Visit with Picnic in Olive Grove near San Gimignano could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and experience descriptions paint a clear picture of a charming, authentic, and leisurely Tuscan escape.

What we love most about this experience is how it perfectly blends scenic beauty with culinary delight, offers a genuine look into a family-run winery, and provides an opportunity to connect with nature in a peaceful olive grove. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious picnic basket and wine pairing makes it feel like a special, personalized adventure. However, one consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to get there. This tour suits travelers seeking a laid-back yet immersive day in Tuscany’s countryside, especially those interested in local wines and authentic rural life.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Visit a family-run winery to learn about Chianti, Vernaccia, and olive oil production.
• Scenic Setting: Picnic amidst olive trees and vineyards with mesmerizing views of Tuscany.
• Culinary Delight: Enjoy a curated picnic with appetizers, cold cuts, cheese, pappa al pomodoro, and a bottle of wine.
• Expert Guidance: Friendly, knowledgeable staff provide insights into wine making and local traditions.
• Flexible Timing: Tours last around 2 hours, with different start times depending on availability.
• Value for Money: At just over $56 per person, this experience offers a memorable taste of Tuscany’s countryside and gastronomy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Setting

This experience is designed to give you a true taste of Tuscany’s rural charm. After arriving at the winery—often with clear directions—the first highlight is the visit itself. You’ll be welcomed by a young, dynamic, and knowledgeable staff who are eager to share the family’s story and passion. The fact that it’s a family-run operation makes the experience feel personal and genuine.

The visit includes a walk through the winery and the olive grove, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how their Chianti and Vernaccia wines are crafted. You’ll learn about the olive oil production process—a key part of Tuscan identity—and discover how the small olives picked from the trees contribute to high-quality extra virgin olive oil, praised for its small, tasty olives.

The Picnic in the Olive Grove

Once the tour concludes, it’s time for the best part: spreading out your picnic blanket in the olive grove. The setting is idyllic—surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, with just the gentle rustling of leaves and distant views of rolling hills. It’s a rare chance to enjoy Tuscany away from tourist crowds, immersed in the landscape.

Inside your picnic basket, you find everything needed for an authentic meal: a blanket, dishes, water, a bottle of wine, and a selection of appetizers, cold cuts, cheese, plus a serving of pappa al pomodoro (a classic Tuscan tomato bread soup). One reviewer mentioned the basket was “very tasty but modest in content”, which suggests a focus on quality over quantity—perfect if you’re looking for a flavorful experience rather than a huge feast.

Wine and Food Pairing

The staff offers a small welcome glass, setting the tone for a relaxed tasting session. They’re happy to advise on pairing wines with your picnic—whether you prefer the crisp Vernaccia or the hearty Chianti. Guests often appreciate the friendly, enthusiastic guidance, which makes the tasting educational yet approachable.

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Why It Stands Out

Unlike typical vineyard tours, this experience’s unique location in an olive grove offers a different flavor of Tuscany—more rustic and peaceful. Guests from reviews mention enjoying the “fantastic Tuscan landscape” and “tranquility” that the hills impart. It’s the kind of place where you can really unwind, breathe in the scents of olives and vines, and savor the moment.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

A reviewer highlighted her appreciation for the pleasant and welcoming staff, including a host or sommelier who was knowledgeable and friendly. This personal touch elevates the experience from a simple tasting to a memorable connection with Tuscan heritage.

Duration, Cost, and Practicalities

At about 2 hours, this is a compact but comprehensive experience. The cost of $56.82 per person is quite reasonable considering the included wine, food, and guided visit. Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrange your own way to the winery.

Guests find the experience flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” policy that makes planning easier. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed experience rather than a large-group bus tour. It’s ideal if you’re passionate about wine, olive oil, and local food, and want a peaceful escape into Tuscany’s countryside. It also suits those keen to learn about family-run wineries and enjoy a picnic in a scenic setting.

If you’re traveling with partners, friends, or even solo who appreciate small-group intimacy and personal stories, this experience can become a highlight of your trip. It’s especially rewarding if you’re looking for a low-key, environmentally friendly way to connect with Tuscany’s rural traditions.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This Winery Visit with Picnic in Olive Grove offers a taste of Tuscany that’s both authentic and picturesque. It combines the pleasures of wine tasting, local cuisine, and stunning scenery in a way that feels personal and genuine. The fact that it takes place amidst olive trees and vineyards, guided by friendly locals, makes it stand out from more commercialized options.

The modest price point for such an immersive experience means you’re getting good value—especially considering the quality of the food, wine, and insights you’ll gain. It’s a wonderful choice for anyone looking to escape the crowds and experience Tuscany’s countryside at a relaxed pace.

This experience may not be suited for those seeking a large-group tour, luxury transport, or an all-inclusive meal, but for travelers craving authenticity, tranquility, and a taste of rural life, it checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation to the winery included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to get there, but clear directions are usually provided.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 2 hours, including the visit to the winery and the picnic time.

What’s included in the picnic basket?
The basket comes with a blanket, dishes, water, a bottle of wine, appetizers, cold cuts, cheese, and a serving of pappa al pomodoro.

Can I choose my wine?
Yes, after a small welcome glass, the staff can advise you on which wine to pair with your picnic, including Chianti and Vernaccia.

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
A vegetarian option is available, but please indicate any dietary restrictions when booking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended for enjoying the experience fully.

What if it rains?
The experience will be refunded in case of rain, ensuring you won’t be left disappointed.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

In summary, whether you’re a wine lover, a lover of nature, or just after an authentic Tuscan experience, this winery visit offers a lovely balance of scenery, flavors, and culture. It’s a peaceful, unhurried way to spend a couple of hours soaking in the best of what Tuscany has to offer.

You can check if your dates are available here: