Nestled in the heart of Portugal, the quaint town of Rio Maior boasts a rich cultural heritage that captivates visitors from around the world. Join this immersive tour and uncover the secrets of the region’s prized olive oil and natural salt flats. From the artisanal flavored oils to the striking geometric patterns of the salinas, this unique experience promises to tantalize your senses and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the region’s natural wonders. Prepare to embark on a journey that seamlessly blends culinary delights and breathtaking scenery – a true feast for the senses.
Good To Know
- Guided 6-hour tour of Rio Maior Olive Oil Mill, featuring immersive exploration of traditional olive oil production and tasting options.
- Visit to the unique Salinas de Rio Maior, the sole remaining inland salt production site in Europe, offering a peaceful experience.
- Convenient pickup from Almada and Lisbon, with a 1.5-hour van ride to the estate and a 10-minute drive to the Salinas.
- Two tasting packages available: Gold (€20/person) and Premium (€25/person), showcasing exceptional olive oils, flavored oils, and artisanal culinary items.
- Tours offered in both Portuguese and English, catering to diverse linguistic backgrounds and ensuring a seamless culture.
Overview and Pricing
The Rio Maior Olive Oil Mill offers a captivating olive oil experience, inviting visitors on a 6-hour guided tour that delves into the mill’s rich heritage and the art of olive oil production.
Priced at €8,852 for up to 8 participants, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of olive oil, including visits to the mill, tastings, and exploration of the nearby natural salinas.
Guests can choose from two tasting options – the Gold package (€20 per person) or the Premium package (€25 per person) – both of which offer a delightful array of olive oil-based products.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this olive oil adventure is a must-do for any discerning traveler.
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Itinerary Details
Pickup locations for this captivating olive oil experience include Almada and Lisbon, where guests will embark on a 1.5-hour van ride to the Azeite Fonte da Bica estate.
After exploring the olive oil mill, the tour proceeds to the enchanting Salinas de Rio Maior, located just 10 minutes away, offering a chance to marvel at Portugal’s only operational inland salt flats.
Guests will have the opportunity to freely explore and photograph the stunning natural landscapes before being dropped off back in Almada and Lisbon.
The itinerary is subject to change, but this immersive journey promises to delight the senses and provide a unique glimpse into the rich heritage of Portuguese olive oil and salt production.
Olive Oil Experience
Guests embark on an immersive exploration of a traditional olive oil estate, delving into the captivating world of olive oil manufacturing. They’ll learn the intricate process firsthand and savor the flavors through guided tastings featuring a delectable selection of products.
The ‘Gold’ tasting offers a guided tour and olive oil sampling, while the ‘Premium’ experience adds on Fonte da Bica’s signature products.
Taste an array of artisanal offerings, from different olive oils and flavored varieties to seasoned olives, olive tapenade, mushrooms in oil, and even olive oil-infused biscuits and chocolates.
This sensory journey unveils the nuances and complexities that make exceptional olive oil a true delight for the palate.
Visit to Natural Salinas
After exploring the captivating world of olive oil, guests venture to the only operational inland salt flats in Europe – the Natural Salinas of Rio Maior. Approximately 30 km from the sea, these unique salt flats hold great significance as the sole remaining inland salt production site on the continent. Visitors can marvel at the striking geometric patterns of the salt ponds, created by the slow evaporation of the mineral-rich water. The tranquil surroundings offer a peaceful respite, allowing guests to fully enjoy the timeless traditions of salt harvesting. This natural wonder provides a fascinating contrast to the earlier olive oil experience, completing a truly memorable day in the heart of Portugal.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Approximately 30 km from the sea |
| Significance | Only operational inland salt flats in Europe |
| Highlights | Striking geometric patterns of the salt ponds, Peaceful surroundings, Timeless traditions of salt harvesting |
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
The tour conveniently offers pickup from both Almada and Lisbon, allowing guests to easily access the experience from their preferred location.
The transportation to and from the sites is provided by a comfortable van, which makes the 1.5-hour journey to the Azeite Fonte da Bica olive oil estate and the short 10-minute drive to the Salinas de Rio Maior salt flats.
After the olive oil mill and salt flats explorations, travelers are then returned to their original pickup points, completing the immersive day trip.
This seamless logistics ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing visitors to focus on the fascinating insights and flavors that await them throughout the day.
Duration and Cancellation Policy
The tour lasts a full 6 hours, providing ample time to take in the olive oil and salt flats experiences.
Guests can conveniently cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a complete refund, ensuring flexibility in planning their day. Plus, a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option is available, making it easy to secure a spot on this captivating excursion.
Whether one is a seasoned olive oil enthusiast or simply curious to explore Portugal’s unique natural wonders, this comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich heritage and flavors of the region.
With convenient pickup and drop-off locations, the experience is both seamless and unforgettable.
Tasting Options and Inclusions
During the olive oil experience, visitors can choose between two tasting options that offer a delightful exploration of the estate’s diverse offerings.
The ‘Gold’ package includes a guided tour and olive oil tasting for €20 per person, payable on-site, while the ‘Premium’ option adds access to the Fonte da Bica product range for €25 per person.
The tasting experience showcases the estate’s exceptional olive oils, flavored oils, seasoned olives, olive tapenade, shiitake mushrooms in olive oil, olive oil biscuits, cheeses in olive oil, and even olive oil chocolates.
This immersive culinary journey allows visitors to savor the nuances and complexities of the estate’s artisanal olive oil production.
Host Languages
With a focus on ensuring a seamless experience for all guests, the Rio Maior Olive Oil Mill offers tours and tastings in both Portuguese and English, catering to visitors from a diverse range of linguistic backgrounds. Whether you’re fluent in the local language or prefer to explore in your native tongue, the knowledgeable hosts are ready to guide you through the olive oil production process and the enchanting natural salinas.
| Host Languages |
|---|
| Portuguese |
| English |
The multilingual approach showcases the mill’s commitment to inclusivity, allowing guests from around the world to fully enjoy the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of this captivating destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary to your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the activities and schedule based on your interests and needs, ensuring you have a personalized and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups?
Yes, there are discounts available for larger groups. The tour price starts at €8,852 for up to 8 participants, so larger groups can enjoy significant savings per person. The tour company offers flexible group pricing to accommodate your party’s size.
Is the Transportation Comfortable and Air-Conditioned?
The transportation provided is a comfortable, air-conditioned van, ensuring a smooth and pleasant journey. Participants can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive to the tour destinations.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks on this tour. The itinerary allows for plenty of free time to enjoy your own refreshments while exploring the scenic natural sites. Just don’t forget to pack a picnic!
Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Requirements for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for this immersive tour. Participants should come prepared to get a hands-on experience exploring the olive oil mill and natural salt flats.
The Sum Up
This immersive tour of Rio Maior’s olive oil heritage and natural salinas offers a delightful blend of culinary exploration and breathtaking scenery.
Visitors can savor exceptional olive oil tastings, learn about artisanal production, and marvel at the geometric patterns of Europe’s only inland salt flats.
With convenient pickup and a full-day itinerary, it’s a must-visit experience for food and nature enthusiasts alike.
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