Civezza: western Liguria beyond the sea. Oil, wine, and historic villages.

If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Liguria away from the busy coastal towns, a visit to Civezza offers a perfect combination. This small village, perched just above the sea, offers the chance to learn about traditional olive oil making, sample local wines, and stroll through ancient streets with scenic views. Led by Federica herself, this experience lasts about an hour, making it a manageable addition to your Ligurian explorations.

What makes this tour really stand out is the personal touch — Federica’s storytelling makes the process of producing Taggiasca olive oil and Pigato DOC wine come alive. We loved her passion and the chance to taste niche products that aren’t usually found on tourist menus. Plus, the walk through the historic village and olive groves adds a charming, authentic dimension.

One possible consideration is the duration — just an hour, so it’s more of a highlights experience rather than an in-depth tour. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues, as it involves some walking and standing. If you’re curious about Liguria’s local traditions and enjoy good food and wine in a friendly setting, this experience is a wonderful choice.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate genuine local culture, want to learn through hands-on experiences, and enjoy tasting regional specialties. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed, small-group outing that offers insight into Liguria’s agricultural heritage.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Led directly by Federica, a local olive grower, giving you firsthand knowledge.
• Tangible Tastes: Sample high-quality Taggiasca olive oil, DOC wines, and local delicacies prepared with garden ingredients.
• Cultural Walks: Includes a short walk through Civezza’s historic streets and olive groves, adding context to the tasting.
• Educational Insights: Learn about both ancient and modern harvesting techniques, plus what makes for high-quality olive oil.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate, engaged experience.
• Convenient and Flexible: Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Civezza Olive Oil & Wine Experience

Introduction to Civezza and Its Charm

Civezza is one of Liguria’s charming hilltop villages, offering sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea and picturesque streets lined with traditional houses. This tour starts at Federica’s “Assaggiatolio” shop, conveniently located in the heart of the village, making it a perfect quick stop during a day exploring western Liguria.

Federica’s passion for her land is palpable from the start. From her shop, we set off on a short, 15-minute walk through the historic center, passing ancient stone buildings and the remains of an anti-barbarian tower. This glimpse into the area’s past adds a layer of curiosity and a sense of place that enriches the entire experience.

Exploring the Historic Village

We loved the way Federica shared stories about Civezza’s history as we wandered through its narrow streets. Her anecdotes about the village’s resilience and its connection to Ligurian traditions made the walk more than just sightseeing — it became a story about local life. The village’s preserved character makes it a perfect setting to appreciate the region’s heritage.

Into the Olive Groves

Back at the shop, we headed toward the nearby centuries-old olive groves. Federica explained how these trees have thrived for generations, producing the prized Taggiasca variety, known for its small size and intense flavor. The contrast between ancient trees and modern harvesting techniques was fascinating; Federica described how small-scale, delicate processes help preserve the olives’ quality in this fragile terrain.

During the walk, she shared stories about how climate and terrain influence the flavor of the oil. We learned that high-quality olive oil isn’t just about the variety but also about the care in harvesting and pressing.

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The Tasting Experience

Returning to the shop, the real highlight began: a guided tasting of Taggiasca extra virgin olive oil. Federica took us through the process of assessing oil quality—checking color, aroma, and flavor—teaching us how to distinguish excellent from mediocre oil. She showed videos that illustrated traditional and modern harvesting methods, giving a well-rounded view of the region’s practices.

Accompanying the oil were delicious delicacies made with ingredients from her garden — fresh vegetables, herbs, and local cheeses. These bites turned the tasting into a convivial, almost celebratory experience.

The real star was the Pigato DOC wine, a white wine vinified entirely in barriques. We savored a glass that Federica offered, appreciating its refined, nuanced profile—something you might not easily find elsewhere. For an additional €5 per glass, you could indulge in a full pour, a worthwhile splurge for wine lovers.

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is the genuine connection you gain with local producers. Federica’s hands-on approach provides insights that are often missing from larger, more commercialized tastings. You’re not just sampling products; you’re tasting the very land they come from.

At €TBA (price varies depending on booking platform), the experience offers excellent value for those wanting a meaningful, authentic taste of Liguria in a relaxed setting. It’s a short, manageable activity packed with sensory delights and cultural insights.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it easy to slot into a day of exploring Ligurian villages and coastlines. The meeting point is at Federica’s shop in Via Giusti 3, conveniently located next to the bus terminal. The group size is capped at 10, ensuring plenty of opportunities for questions and personal interaction.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes for the walk and notify the organizer beforehand about dietary restrictions. Children under 8 are not recommended, and the tour isn’t suitable for those over 95 or with mobility issues.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy local culture and culinary traditions. If you like small, intimate groups and hands-on activities, you’ll find this a refreshing change from larger, more impersonal tours. It’s especially suitable for those interested in food, wine, and regional history, with enough flexibility and charm to accommodate a variety of interests.

It’s perfect if you’re curious about how Ligurian olive oil and wines are made and want to taste products that are authentic and high-quality. If you’re seeking a quick but meaningful cultural experience, this is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a walking tour?
Yes, the experience includes a short walk through Civezza’s historic streets and into the olive groves, totaling about 15 minutes.

How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a brief but enriching addition to a day trip.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll taste Taggiasca extra virgin olive oil, delicacies made with garden ingredients, and a DOC Pigato wine. Additional wine can be purchased for €5 per glass.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 8 due to the walking involved and the nature of the tasting.

Can I buy products at the end of the tour?
Yes, Federica’s shop offers her farm’s products, including olive oil and wine, for purchase.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is available in Italian and English.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

Does the experience take place rain or shine?
While not explicitly stated, outdoor components suggest dressing appropriately for weather conditions.

For those seeking a taste of Liguria’s authentic rural life, this tour offers a charming, informative glimpse into olive oil and wine production. Led by Federica herself, it’s a chance to connect directly with a local producer and learn how her land’s unique climate influences her products.

The small-group setting and relaxed pace make it a perfect choice for curious travelers wanting a deeper understanding of regional traditions. It’s especially suited for foodies, wine lovers, and anyone interested in regional culture without a large time commitment.

If you’re after a genuine, hands-on experience that combines scenic walks with authentic flavors, this tour provides an engaging slice of Ligurian life, well worth your time.

You can check availability for your dates here: