From Split: Olive picking on Island Brac

Traveling to Croatia, especially the Dalmatian coast, often means indulging in stunning scenery, historic towns, and delicious seafood. But one of the most genuine experiences you can have here is participating in traditional olive harvesting on Brač Island. This guided tour, offered by Explore Brač, promises a full day of scenic beauty, hands-on activity, and cultural insight—all wrapped into an 8-hour adventure.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? We love that it combines local interaction with the chance to learn about a cornerstone of Croatian life, the olive tree. We also appreciate that it includes a traditional brunch right in the olive groves, giving you a taste of genuine island hospitality. Plus, the opportunity to press your own olive oil and take home a bottle of “liquid gold” makes this a memorable keepsake.

Of course, a possible consideration is the physical activity involved—olive picking in uneven, sometimes prickly terrain might not suit everyone. But for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, this tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and culinary delight. It’s best suited for travelers curious about local traditions, food lovers, and those looking for a hands-on experience off the beaten path.

Good To Know

• Authentic local experience with olive picking guided by experienced locals
• Hands-on participation in the olive harvest and oil processing
• Tasty traditional brunch in the olive groves, featuring local products
• Scenic drive exploring hidden olive groves with panoramic views
• Memorable souvenir: your own bottle of freshly pressed olive oil
• Small group setting (limited to 8 people) for a more personal experience

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Pickup and Transportation

The day begins with a pickup from Split’s ferry port at 9 am if you’re arriving via ferry, or directly from your accommodation on Brač, such as in Supetar, Postira, Sutivan, Milna, or Bobovisca. This flexible pickup arrangement means you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics—it’s included in the price. During the drive, you’ll enjoy scenic views and a panoramic ride across the island, setting the tone for a relaxed yet engaging day.

Visiting Olive Groves

Once on Brač, you’ll be taken to hidden olive groves—places that most travelers won’t see. The guides, like the knowledgeable staff from Explore Brač, will share stories from the island’s past and explain how olive trees thrive in the rocky, poor soil, extracting all the goodness from their environment. We loved how the guides emphasized this resilience, making the harvesting feel even more meaningful.

Olive Picking Experience

Armed with all necessary gear, you’ll get into the olive trees and start picking the ripe, sun-kissed olives. The experience is designed to be accessible and educational; expert supervision ensures you’re doing it right, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a first-timer. Reviewers mention that the activity is a lovely blend of hands-on fun and cultural insight, with some noting that it’s a surprisingly physical activity—so comfortable shoes are a must.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Learning at the Olive Mill

After collecting your olives, you’ll visit an olive mill and oil factory. Here, you’ll see the traditional process of turning olives into oil—a fascinating glimpse into local craftsmanship. The guides will tell stories about the island’s olive oil heritage, enriching the experience beyond just pressing olives. The smell of fresh oil and the sight of shiny machinery make this part especially memorable.

The Traditional Brunch

What’s better than enjoying a home-cooked meal in the middle of nature? The tour includes a traditional brunch served directly in the olive groves, featuring local products from the family farm. Guests rave about the delicious local delicacies and tapas-like offerings, which perfectly complement the fresh olive oil. It’s a true taste of Brač life, with stories from the hosts adding warmth to the meal.

Processing Your Olives into Oil

Once you’ve finished your harvest, you’ll process the olives into oil on-site. The guides walk you through each step, allowing you to see how the fresh olives become the precious liquid that you’ll soon take home. Several reviewers mention that this hands-on part is both educational and fun, with some describing it as a “highlight of the day.”

Return and Drop-Off

After an enriching day, the tour concludes with a drive back to your accommodation or the ferry port, ensuring a smooth end to your experience. The entire day is carefully timed, allowing you to savor every moment without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers great value considering its all-inclusive nature. The price of $216 per person covers:

• Guided olive picking and exploration of hidden groves
• Entry and education at the olive mill
• A hearty, local-style brunch with drinks
• All necessary gear for olive harvesting
• Transportation, including pickup and drop-off
• An insurance policy for peace of mind

What’s not included? There are no hidden costs, which means you can enjoy the day without surprises.

The Value of This Experience

While $216 might seem a bit steep at first glance, it’s a comprehensive package offering hands-on cultural engagement, local cuisine, and a personalized guide. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) enhances the feeling of intimacy and allows for detailed storytelling and interaction. The opportunity to press your own olive oil and take home a bottle** makes this a tangible memory of Croatia that you won’t get from a typical sightseeing tour.

Many guests appreciated the authenticity and personal touch—from stories shared by local guides to tasting the farm’s homemade products. The scenic drives and peaceful grove visits provide a relaxing break from busy tourist towns, making it particularly suited for travelers seeking meaningful local experiences.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who crave an authentic taste of Croatian rural life. If you’re interested in food and traditions, especially in a scenic setting, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples wanting a more personal, immersive outing.

However, if you prefer quick, low-effort sightseeing or are concerned about physical activity, this might not be the best fit. The tour involves some walking and outdoor activity—but the effort is well rewarded with cultural insights and delicious food.

This olive picking tour offers a well-rounded, meaningful experience that combines nature, history, and gastronomy in an unforgettable way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off, depending on your location. You’ll be picked up either at the ferry port or your accommodation on Brač.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sports shoes, and a reusable water bottle are recommended. The activity involves outdoor walking on uneven terrain.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 8 hours, with specific starting times subject to availability. Check the schedule when booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the activity involves outdoor physical work, so it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with some activity.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides drinks during the meal and throughout the day.

What kind of food is served during brunch?
Guests enjoy a traditional Croatian brunch with local products and homemade delicacies, all served directly in the fields.

Can I make my own olive oil?
Yes, part of the experience involves processing the olives you picked into oil, which you can then take home as a souvenir.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexible planning.

To sum it up, this olive picking tour on Brač Island offers a rare chance to experience Croatian rural traditions firsthand. It’s perfect for curious travelers who love good food, authentic stories, and scenic outdoor activities. The combination of hands-on participation, local hospitality, and stunning vistas makes it a worthwhile addition to your Dalmatian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: