ibenik: Awarded Olive Oil, Local Wines & Food Experience

If you’re dreaming of a taste of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast that goes beyond the usual tourist fare, this culinary tour in Grebastica might be just what you’re looking for. Designed for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and those keen to explore authentic local traditions, it offers a chance to sample award-winning olive oil, regional wines, and regional specialties in an intimate setting.

We’re drawn to experiences that combine taste, culture, and scenery—this tour delivers all three in spades. Two standout features are the chance to taste Olive Oils awarded at the 2025 New York Olive Oil Competition, and the welcoming atmosphere hosted by a family deeply rooted in Dalmatian gastronomy. The only potential downside? With such a focus on food and wine, it’s less about sightseeing and more about savoring—so if your travel style is all about active exploration, this might be a slower-paced complement to your trip.

This experience suits travelers who love authentic local food, want to learn directly from passionate hosts, and are happy to sit back, enjoy small-group intimacy, and indulge in regional flavors. It’s especially ideal for those who value quality over quantity—and who appreciate discovering a less commercial side of Croatia.

This experience made our article of Croatia’s 12 Top Wine Tours (With Prices).

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Hosted by a local family, you’ll get an intimate look at Dalmatian food traditions.
Award-Winning Olive Oil: Taste the best olive oils of 2025, a highlight for olive oil aficionados.
Local Wines & Food: Carefully curated wines paired with regional delicacies enhance the tasting.
Regional Specialties: Sample cheeses from Pag, Dalmatian ham, and fresh, organic ingredients.
Beautiful Setting: The small-group experience in Grebastica offers scenic coastal views.
Flexible Payment & Cancellation: Book now, pay later, and cancel 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting and Approach

Imagine arriving in the charming village of Grebastica—a peaceful stretch of Dalmatian coastline dotted with traditional stone houses and Mediterranean greenery. The tour, hosted by OPG Bacelic, emphasizes a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for those wanting a genuine taste of local life.

The group size is limited, which ensures a personalized experience. The hosts—passionate about their heritage—share stories about their family’s involvement in Dalmatian gastronomy, making every tasting feel like visiting friends rather than a commercial operation. This personal touch is a hallmark that many reviewers appreciate. One recent comment noted, “You can tell they really love sharing their traditions and their family recipes.”

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The Olive Oil Tasting

The tour kicks off with a guided tasting of two extra virgin olive oils, including an award-winning silver-medal olive oil from 2025. This isn’t just about sipping; it’s about understanding the craftsmanship behind each drop. The hosts walk you through traditional production methods—how olives are harvested, pressed, and turned into the prized oil that’s a cornerstone of Dalmatian cuisine.

Expect to learn about the nuances of high-quality olive oils—how they differ from mass-produced options, and why Croatian oils are gaining international recognition. You’ll get to taste the oils neat, then paired with regional bread and delicacies, highlighting their flavor profiles.

Food and Wine Pairings

The true highlight lies in the carefully curated local delicacies. Dishes like cheese balls with olive powder and dough baskets with chickpea and sun-dried tomato spread showcase regional ingredients in their freshest form. These bites are more than appetizers—they’re a window into Dalmatian farm-to-table traditions.

The tour includes a guided tasting of local wines, selected to complement the food. Whether you prefer a crisp white or a more robust red, the wines are chosen to enhance the flavors of each dish. One reviewer mentioned, “The wine was perfectly paired with the goat cheese and the grilled fish—it made the flavors pop.”

The main course is a highlight, with options like grilled dorada or sea bass with garlic-infused olive oil, or roast beef tagliata with arugula and cherry tomatoes—each served with a piece of regional cheese from Pag. The choice allows for dietary preferences while maintaining the focus on regional ingredients.

Desserts and Final Touches

No Dalmatian meal is complete without a sweet finish. The tour’s dessert of bourbon vanilla ice cream drizzled with lemon-infused olive oil and salt embodies the creative use of local ingredients. It’s a memorable way to end the meal, leaving you with a lingering sense of Dalmatian freshness and hospitality.

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Duration, Cost, and Practicalities

Priced at $35 per person, this experience offers solid value for the depth of tasting and cultural insight provided. The tour runs for several hours, giving ample time to relax, chat, and savor each bite.

While the price doesn’t include additional meals or drinks outside the scheduled experience, what’s included—local delicacies, olive oil and wine tastings, and a welcoming environment—are worth the cost for lovers of regional food. Note that transport, pickup, and drop-off aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying outside Grebastica or prefer private arrangements.

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Authenticity and Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the authenticity of this experience. One review states, “It’s more than just tasting; it’s about understanding and appreciating Dalmatian traditions.” Multiple reviewers mention the stunning coastal views and how the small-group setting fosters genuine interaction with hosts.

Some also note that the menu might change based on seasonal ingredients, which keeps the experience fresh but might slightly alter expectations. Regardless, the focus remains on regional, organic, and fresh produce, which is what makes this tour stand out.

This culinary journey caters best to travelers who seek authentic local flavors and enjoy relaxed, intimate settings. If you’re a food enthusiast, a wine lover, or simply want to experience Dalmatian hospitality firsthand, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s less about sightseeing and more about savoring—perfect for those who want to slow down and appreciate regional traditions.

It’s also an excellent option for small groups or couples wanting a personalized, meaningful experience in Croatia. Given the focus on organic ingredients and traditional methods, it offers insight into the genuine flavors of Dalmatia, away from heavily commercialized tours.

This awarded olive oil, local wines, and regional food experience in Grebastica offers a delightful way to deepen your understanding of Dalmatian culture through its most delicious components. For around $35, you gain not only tasting opportunities but also a chance to connect with passionate local hosts and learn about their culinary heritage.

We believe it’s a perfect fit for those who appreciate good food, authentic experiences, and scenic coastal settings. The emphasis on high-quality olive oil and regional delicacies makes this tour stand out as a genuine taste of Dalmatia’s culinary soul.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, flavorful, and educational journey, this experience will leave your palate satisfied and your heart warmed by Dalmatian hospitality.

What is the price of the tour?
The experience costs $35 per person, offering a comprehensive tasting and cultural insight.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu includes fish and beef options. Vegetarians might need to check with the provider if alternative dishes are available, as the menu may change seasonally.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything?
No special preparation is needed. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to enjoy regional flavors in a relaxed setting.

Are drinks other than wine included?
The tour includes a warming-up welcome drink and a glass of local wine. Additional drinks are not included and can be purchased separately.

What is included in the experience?
You’ll enjoy local delicacies, guided olive oil tastings, a glass of Dalmatian wine, and a specially prepared main course with regional ingredients.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to and from the site is not included, so plan accordingly.

How long does the experience last?
The specific duration isn’t stated, but it typically lasts a few hours, allowing time to relax and savor each course.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, children who enjoy tasting and exploring local foods might find it enjoyable, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine taste of Dalmatia’s culinary traditions through high-quality products and warm local hospitality. It’s ideal for those wanting a slow, flavorful exploration of Croatian regional food, paired with stunning coastal scenery and personal stories from passionate hosts.