HERBS LAB – from plant to glass

HERBS LAB – from plant to glass: An Authentic Puglia Experience

Imagine wandering through the Salento countryside with two passionate guides, Elia and Betty, uncovering wild plants that grow freely in the lush landscape. For around $106.72 per person, you get a roughly 3-hour journey into foraging, infusions, and mixology—a true blend of nature and craft. The tour starts in Lequile, a charming small town near Lecce, and takes you into their family-owned garden, where you’ll see how spontaneous herbs are transformed into liqueurs and cocktails.

What we really love about this experience are two main points: First, the personal attention—it’s a private tour, so you’ll get one-on-one guidance and plenty of time to ask questions. Second, the interactive element—not just learning about plants but actually picking herbs and making your own drink. The only thing to consider is that weather can influence the outdoor walking part, so a sunny day will make the experience even more enjoyable.

This tour is ideal for adventurous food lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone curious about local traditions and wild foraging. If you enjoy hands-on experiences and are keen to connect with the land through taste and smell, you’ll find this tour particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic Puglia experience combining nature and craft
• Guided by Elia and Betty, passionate locals with a wealth of stories
• Hands-on herb foraging and cocktail creation
• Tasting of wild liqueurs and unique spirits
• Private tour, perfect for personalized learning
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals

An In-Depth Look at the HERBS LAB Tour

We are always on the lookout for experiences that blend education, culture, and a bit of fun. This Herbal Lab tour hits all those marks, taking you into the very heart of Puglia’s natural and culinary heritage. Starting in the countryside of Lequile, Elia and Betty welcome you into their family’s land, a setting that feels both authentic and intimate. It’s clear from the beginning that this isn’t a commercialized activity but a genuine passion project—something you can sense in their enthusiasm and storytelling.

The Walk in the Countryside

The tour kicks off with a walk through the fields, where you’ll learn to identify spontaneous plants—some familiar, others more surprising. It’s a chance to use all five senses: you’ll smell the aromatic herbs, see their shapes and colors, and maybe even taste a leaf or two. Reviews highlight that Elia and Betty share fascinating anecdotes and ancient uses of the plants, which adds depth to the experience.

One reviewer mentions, “We learned so much about wild plants with all 5 senses,” and another emphasizes the joy of discovering herbs that are often overlooked. The foraging part allows you to pick your own herbs, giving you a tangible connection to the land and to what you’ll later turn into liquors and infusions.

The Transformation Process

Back at their special herb garden or sit-down space, Elia and Betty guide you through the transformation of plants into drinks. You’ll see how infusions, flavored syrups, liqueurs, and bitters are made using the fresh herbs you’ve gathered. This process is both educational and inspiring, showing how simple ingredients can become complex, flavorful spirits.

Tasting and Cocktail-Making

The highlight for many is the tasting session. You’ll sample wild liqueurs, which capture the essence of the local flora, and learn how these spirits are crafted. One reviewer raves, “The spirits taste like the woods and the Mediterranean, a true reflection of the land.”

After tasting, you get to try your hand at making a “wild cocktail” under Elia’s guidance. Expect to blend your own infusion, add syrups, and find your favorite combination. The act of creating your drink makes this tour stand out—it’s interactive and memorable.

Who Will Love This

This tour is perfect if you’re curious about local traditions, eager to learn about wild foraging, or simply want an authentic taste of Puglia’s herbs. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group, personalized experiences. Reviewers note that the guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate, making the entire process both fun and educational.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is offered by Il Giardino sotto il naso, with free cancellation up to 24 hours—a flexible option if your plans change. It’s climate-dependent, so good weather is recommended for the walking part, but the indoor tasting and cocktail-making can be enjoyed rain or shine.

The meeting point is in Largo Castello, Lequile, and the activity ends back at the start. It’s a private experience, which means you get personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The duration of about 3 hours makes it an appropriate length for those wanting a meaningful but not overly long activity during their trip.

What’s Included and Not

While the tour covers herb gathering, infusions, tastings, and cocktail-making, it doesn’t specify if snacks or a meal are included, so it’s best to plan accordingly. Also, service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with pets.

Why Choose HERBS LAB – From Plant to Glass?

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that Elia and Betty are more than guides—they’re passionate storytellers and artisans dedicated to sharing Puglia’s natural bounty. Guests love their authenticity, enthusiasm, and willingness to share their personal knowledge. The experience offers a rare blend of education, sensory exploration, and genuine local flavor.

Travelers who appreciate small, intimate tours will find this enriching. It’s also ideal for those interested in food and beverage creation, especially if you want to understand how herbs can be transformed into spirits. Families, couples, or solo travelers will all enjoy the personalized, hands-on approach.

Final Thoughts

The Herbs Lab tour provides a unique window into Puglia’s herbal traditions. It’s well-priced considering the personal guidance, hands-on activities, and quality tastings involved. You’ll come away with more than just a souvenir—you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the land, the plants, and the art of wild mixology.

For adventure seekers, culinary curious, or nature lovers looking for something different, this experience offers a meaningful connection to local culture. It’s a chance to learn, taste, and create in a relaxed, welcoming environment that feels like visiting friends’ countryside home.

If you’re after authenticity and a good story to tell, this tour will leave you with both—a memorable, flavorful insight into the heart of Puglia.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a private experience, so you can adjust the pace. Since it involves walking outdoors and some hands-on activities, younger children and active seniors will enjoy it most.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including walking, foraging, and tasting. It’s a comfortable length for a morning or early afternoon activity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking in the countryside are recommended. Dress for the weather, as parts of the tour are outdoors.

Are the herbs and spirits included in the price?
Yes, the tour covers herb gathering, infusion, and tastings, including your own cocktail creation, all included in the fee.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. It’s a flexible option if your schedule shifts.

Is there any food involved besides the spirits?
The focus is on herbs, infusions, and spirits. While some reviews mention a friendly atmosphere, there’s no specific mention of meals or snacks included.

In summary, the HERBS LAB tour offers a genuine, hands-on exploration of Puglia’s herbal treasures. It’s perfect for those who seek authentic local experiences and want to bring home a taste of the land. With passionate guides, stunning scenery, and memorable flavors, it’s a wonderful way to connect with the roots of Italian tradition in a fun and engaging way.