Private guided tour, olive grove in Salon de Provence.

A Quiet Corner of Provence: Olive Groves in Salon de Provence

If you’re looking to experience a slice of authentic Provence without the crowds, a private tour of the olive grove at Mas des Bories offers a quiet, enriching glimpse into the region’s agricultural soul. For just under $12 per person, you get about 45 minutes of guided exploration through a beautifully maintained estate that showcases both the landscape and the centuries-old tradition of olive oil production. The tour begins at a modest meeting point in Salon de Provence and is led by a knowledgeable guide—perhaps a passionate owner, given the reviews—who takes you through the history, cultivation, and craftsmanship behind high-quality Provençal olive oils.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the focus on sustainable practices and artisanal craftsmanship. We loved the way the tour highlights manual harvesting and cold extraction—the methods that preserve the flavor and aroma of the oils—offering a taste of authenticity you’ll rarely find in mass-produced products. The setting itself adds to the charm: 2000 olive trees sprawling over a scenic terroir, with traditional stone huts (called Bories) scattered throughout, giving you a real sense of Provençal rural heritage.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth or extensive experience, this short guided visit might feel a bit limited—it’s only about 45 minutes. Also, the tasting, while pleasant, might seem simple for aficionados seeking complex flavor profiles. Nevertheless, for travelers seeking a quick, authentic, and affordable introduction to Provence’s olive tradition, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits those who appreciate scenic landscapes, want a behind-the-scenes look at artisanal food production, or simply enjoy small-group, personalized tours. It’s especially ideal for travelers staying in or near Salon de Provence and looking for a meaningful, yet time-efficient activity.

Key Points

• Authentic Provençal experience: Learn about local heritage and traditional olive oil production practices.
• Beautiful setting: Surrounded by 2000 olive trees and traditional stone huts, offering picture-perfect views.
• Expert guidance: Tour led by knowledgeable guides who explain each step of the process.
• Quality oils: Sample award-winning, high-quality oils—monovarietal, flavored, and signature blends.
• Sustainable practices: Emphasis on manual harvesting and eco-friendly methods.
• Affordable and intimate: At just over $11 per person, with a small group maximum of 15 travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Olive Grove Tour in Provence

The Location and Setting

The tour takes place at the Mas des Bories estate, located in the scenic region of Salon de Provence. This area is known for its preservation of rural heritage and agricultural tradition. As soon as we arrived, we were struck by the expansive olive grove that stretches across the estate, covering a landscape dotted with historic stone huts—Bories—that lend the place its distinctive character. The estate’s surroundings seem to whisper stories of centuries past, with wild, mineral-rich nature giving a sense of place that’s both peaceful and inspiring.

The Guided Presentation

The experience kicks off with a presentation on the estate’s history and its role within the broader agricultural landscape of Provence. Our guide, whose passion was evident, took the time to explain how the estate has maintained sustainable and ethical practices for generations. The focus on manual harvesting was particularly interesting—it’s a practice that respects the integrity of the olives and ensures the best quality in the final product.

We appreciated how the guide personalized the explanation, making the history accessible without overwhelming us with technical jargon. This part of the tour set the tone, emphasizing the importance of tradition and quality, and helped us understand why Provençal olive oils are prized worldwide.

The Educational Visit to the Olive Grove and Mill

Next, we moved into the olive grove itself. Our guide pointed out different olive tree varieties, explaining how each contributes to the flavor profile of the oils. The fact that the estate has about 2000 trees is impressive, and they’re all cultivated with great care. The manual harvesting process involves picking the olives by hand, which is labor-intensive but preserves the fruit’s quality.

A visit to the oil mill revealed a modern, yet artisanal, approach to oil extraction. The olives are processed on the same day they’re harvested—crucial for maintaining freshness—using cold extraction methods. This process, explained step-by-step, clarified why the oils produced here are recognized for their excellence and have won awards both in France and internationally.

Tasting the Olive Oils

The grand finale is the tasting session. Here, we sampled a variety of oils, from single-varietal to flavored and signature blends. The oils were fragrant, fresh, and vibrant—true representations of the estate’s craftsmanship. Though the reviews mention the tasting can seem “simple,” we found it quite satisfying, especially as a beginner. The opportunity to compare different oils side-by-side provided an educational moment and a flavor experience that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

The estate also has a small shop on-site, making it easy to purchase bottles of your favorite oils as souvenirs or gifts. This adds value if you’re looking to bring a taste of Provence home.

The Overall Experience and Practical Details

At just under an hour, this tour is a quick but meaningful peek into Provençal agriculture. The small group size (limited to 15 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere. The tour’s timing—Monday mornings at 10:30 am—is convenient for most travelers, and the cost is very reasonable when considering the quality of the experience and the opportunity to taste award-winning oils.

The tour’s main drawback is its brevity; if you’re expecting a lengthy or in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit light. Weather can also be a factor—since the experience is outdoors, poor conditions could lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable visit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in authentic Provençal culture, local agricultural practices, or gastronomic experiences, this tour fits well. It’s suited for curious travelers who enjoy scenic views, small-group settings, and learning about sustainable farming. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing, educational activity will find value here. It’s especially perfect if you want a quick, affordable taste of Provence’s artisanal food traditions without the commitment of a full-day excursion.

This tour is also ideal if you’re planning a visit to Salon de Provence or nearby and want to incorporate a meaningful local activity into your trip. For those enthusiastic about olive oils, the opportunity to sample award-winning products and learn the production process firsthand makes this experience particularly worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick but worthwhile activity for a morning or afternoon.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a guided explanation of the estate’s history, a visit to the olive grove and oil mill, and a tasting of different extra virgin olive oils, including monovarietals and flavored options.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Given the outdoor nature and walking involved in the olive grove and mill, it’s best suited for able-bodied participants. Children who are comfortable with outdoor activities should enjoy it, but the focus is mainly on adult learning.

Can I buy olive oil after the tour?
Yes, there is a point of sale on site where you can purchase bottles of the estate’s award-winning oils, making it a great souvenir or gift.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable outdoor clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if the weather is warm or if you plan to walk through the grove. Sun protection or a hat might be helpful during sunny days.

Is this experience offered year-round?
Yes, the tour operates from February 2023 through June 2026, with scheduled times on Mondays at 10:30 am, provided weather conditions are suitable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about a month in advance is recommended, as the tour tends to fill up quickly due to its popularity and limited group size.

In the end, this private olive grove tour at Mas des Bories offers a charming, authentic taste of Provence’s rural heritage. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful scenic break, this experience provides a meaningful connection to the land and the tradition of high-quality olive oil. Its modest price and intimate setting make it a smart choice for those who value authenticity over mass tourism. Just remember, a short visit means you’ll want to savor every moment—and every drop of that delicious extra virgin oil.