E.V.O. oil of Lake Como tasting+ food pairings

Lake Como Olive Oil Tasting and Food Pairing Tour: A Flavorful Peek into Italy’s Agricultural Charm

If you’re craving a taste of authentic Italy that combines scenic beauty with culinary tradition, the E.V.O. oil of Lake Como tasting and food pairing tour offers a delightful experience. For around $81 per person, you spend roughly an hour exploring an olive grove, learning about olive oil production, and tasting high-quality extra virgin olive oil in a historic setting. Led by a knowledgeable host, Alice, this small-group activity typically books about two weeks in advance, which speaks to its popularity. Located in the charming town of Azzano, just a short drive from Lake Como’s most celebrated spots, this tour mixes natural beauty with culinary craftsmanship.

What makes this experience especially appealing are two key features: first, the personalized attention — with a maximum of 10 travelers, you get a relaxed, intimate environment to ask questions and savor the flavors. Second, the spectacular setting — the historic 17th-century building with panoramic lake views provides a perfect backdrop for tasting and relaxing.

However, a consideration worth noting is the relatively limited amount of food sampling — some reviews mention that the tasting portion might be lighter than expected, which could be disappointing if you’re hoping for a full meal. Still, for those interested in a genuine, in-depth olive oil experience paired with regional wines, this tour hits the mark.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy food and wine experiences, have a curiosity for olive oil craftsmanship, and appreciate beautiful scenery. It’s particularly ideal for those looking for a calm, educational activity amid their busy Lake Como itinerary.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit an actual olive grove and learn about traditional olive oil production.
• Expert Guidance: Alice, the host, shares her knowledge clearly and warmly.
• Spectacular Setting: Enjoy tastings in a historic building with breathtaking lake views.
• Quality Tasting: Sample high-quality extra virgin olive oil with proper sensorial techniques.
• Regional Wines: Complement your tasting with local wines, enhancing the flavors.
• Small Group: Up to 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

This experience made our article of Lake Como’s 10 Best Food Tours: Which To Choose?.

A Close Look at the Lake Como Olive Oil Tasting Tour

If you’re traveling to Lake Como and looking for an activity that combines culinary discovery with scenic beauty, this tour might be just what you need. It begins with a visit to a working olive grove outside the town of Azzano, where you get to see the olive trees that produce the region’s prized extra virgin olive oil. Alice, the host and owner, warmly guides you through her farm, which is adorned with herbs, fruits, and vegetables. The tasting center, housed in a beautiful 17th-century building, offers a peaceful, almost magical place to learn and taste.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The main event is the olive oil tasting, where you’ll learn the correct sensorial techniques to evaluate the quality of extra virgin olive oil. Alice shares her expertise in a friendly manner, helping you distinguish the subtle flavors and aromas that make this olive oil special. As one reviewer put it, “Alice does a lovely job sharing her olive oil making process and explaining how to tune one’s taste for olive oil,” which makes the experience both educational and practical.

Following the tasting, you get to pair the oils with various local ingredients—cheeses, bread, or perhaps some regional vegetables—plus a glass of regional wine to complement the flavors. Many visitors appreciate that the experience is more about quality and authenticity than quantity; some reviews mention that the portions of food are modest but flavorful, emphasizing the quality of each element.

The Setting: A Historic Gem with Lake Views

The location is a highlight: the historic building and its garden offer sweeping views across Lake Como, which, even on a cloudy day, lend a fairy-tale atmosphere. The decor is described as thoughtful and charming, contributing to a calm, relaxed vibe that makes the tasting feel special. Several reviews mention that “even in the rain, we had a wonderful time,” emphasizing that the experience is weather-proof and adaptable.

The Group Size and Duration

With a maximum of 10 guests, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing Alice to give personalized insights and answer questions comfortably. The duration of about an hour makes it a perfect short activity—don’t expect a full meal but rather a focused, quality experience. This also makes it suitable for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting a peaceful, educational interlude.

Price and Value

At $80.95 per person, you might wonder about the value. Considering the personalized attention, the historic setting, and the chance to learn proper tasting techniques, many find it worthwhile. However, some reviews suggest that the food portion could be larger for the price, noting that the tasting mainly emphasizes olive oil with small food pairings. If your priority is a hearty meal, this might feel light, but if you’re after a culinary focus on oils and local flavors, it’s quite satisfying.

What Past Guests Say

Nearly all reviews are positive, praising the knowledgeable and friendly guidance of Alice and the beautiful location. One reviewer called it a “serene oasis” and “not to be missed,” highlighting how relaxing and educational the experience is. Another enjoyed the tour of the farm and the chance to see herbs and vegetables growing — an added bonus that enriches the understanding of regional agriculture.

A minor critique from one traveler notes that the quantity of food could be more generous, but most agree that the quality and atmosphere compensate for this. The fact that it’s a small group makes it feel personal and enjoyable, even when the weather isn’t ideal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This olive oil tasting experience is best suited for food lovers and wine enthusiasts who value authentic regional products. It’s perfect for those interested in learning about olive oil production in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate a personal touch and a peaceful, contemplative environment. If you’re hoping for a full meal or a large tasting, you might find this experience somewhat limited, but for a short, educational taste of local tradition, it’s a lovely choice.

Final Thoughts

The E.V.O. oil of Lake Como tasting and food pairing tour offers a wonderful way to connect with Italy’s culinary roots while enjoying spectacular views. Alice’s passion and knowledge shine through, making the experience both educational and memorable. While the food portions are modest, the focus on quality, authenticity, and scenery makes this a valuable addition to any Lake Como trip—especially if you’re eager to deepen your appreciation of regional olive oil.

It’s a peaceful activity that pairs well with exploring nearby towns or simply relaxing in the scenic landscape. For travelers who cherish small-group experiences, expert guidance, and authentic regional flavors, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes about an hour, making it a perfect short activity to include in your day.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll taste extra virgin olive oil and enjoy it paired with regional products, along with a glass of local wine.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the historic building and garden provide a sheltered space, so rain won’t dampen the experience.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personal atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 15 days in advance to secure your spot.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is Via del Riale, 4/5, Azzano, and it finishes there as well.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included, but the meeting point is accessible by public transport.

What is the price?
The tour costs $80.95 per person.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for adults or children comfortable with tasting experiences.

This detailed look at the olive oil tasting experience aims to help you decide whether this charming, scenic activity fits into your Lake Como adventure. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful, authentic moment, it promises a taste of Italy’s tradition and beauty.