Oldest Olive Tree With Tasting And Lunch

A Walk Through Hvar’s Olive Heritage: Oldest Olive Tree With Tasting And Lunch

Traveling to Croatia’s stunning island of Hvar offers countless opportunities for memorable experiences. Among them, a tour centered around Hvar’s ancient olive trees and local cuisine stands out. This particular journey, organized by Hvar Life, promises more than just sightseeing; it’s an authentic taste of local tradition, nature, and coastal beauty—all packed into roughly four to five hours.

What makes this tour special? First, you get the chance to stand beneath a 2500-year-old olive tree in the tiny village of Zastraie, a living testament to the island’s long olive-growing history. Second, the combination of a local product tasting and a seaside lunch with swimming opportunities makes it a well-rounded day. A small group setting (max 16 travelers) ensures a friendly, intimate vibe, and the inclusion of transportation makes it accessible for visitors without a car.

One potential consideration is the tour’s relatively short duration—if you’re craving a full-day adventure or a deep dive into Hvar’s history, this might feel a bit light. But if you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience that’s packed with stories, flavors, and stunning coastal scenery, it’s a great fit. This tour is especially suited for travelers who appreciate local traditions, enjoy sampling regional products, and want a taste of seaside leisure.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit the private property of the Bero family to see one of the oldest olive trees in the Mediterranean.
• Tasting and Learning: Enjoy tasting traditional Croatian products while learning about local oil and lavender production.
• Scenic Coastal Stop: Vela Stiniva bay offers a perfect setting for lunch, swimming, and snorkeling.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a limit of 16 travelers, expect a personalized experience and opportunities for interaction.
• Convenience: Pickup is offered, and tickets are mobile, simplifying logistics.
• Value for Money: For around $170, you gain cultural insights, scenic beauty, and a seaside meal—all in about 4-5 hours.

Exploring the Tour Step-by-Step

The Village of Zastraie and the Ancient Olive Tree

The journey begins with a visit to the enchanting village of Zastraie. Here, you’ll meet the Bero family, whose property hosts the oldest olive tree in the Mediterranean at an impressive 2,500 years old. Standing beneath this gnarled, centuries-old tree, you’ll feel connected to the island’s agricultural past. The guide, often praised for their knowledgeable explanations, shares insights into how olive trees have shaped Hvar’s landscape and economy through the ages.

The highlight, as noted by one traveler, is the chance to “see more of Hvar island, 12th-century village church, and learn about oil and lavender production.” You’ll hear about the traditional methods used to cultivate and harvest olives, and you might even get a taste of freshly pressed olive oil, offering a genuine sense of local craftsmanship.

Tasting Local Products

The tasting experience is thoughtfully curated, featuring handmade local products. Besides olive oil, you might sample lavender-based items, homemade jams, or other regional specialties. This part of the tour is appreciated for providing authentic, homemade flavors that reflect the family’s passion for their land. One reviewer remarked, “We shared the owners’ passion,” highlighting how genuine and heartfelt the tasting truly is.

Coastal Lunch at Vela Stiniva

After soaking in the rural beauty, the group travels a short distance to Vela Stiniva, one of Hvar’s many fabulous bays. Here, lunch is served at a seaside restaurant, offering fresh, local dishes—think seafood, salads, and Croatian staples—prepared with ingredients that showcase the island’s culinary traditions.

The bay’s tranquil waters make it a perfect spot for a post-lunch swim or snorkel. With clear waters and rocky outcroppings, Vela Stiniva offers a relaxed ambiance and stunning views, making the meal not just about the food but about the experience of being beside the sea.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, a manageable time that balances sightseeing with relaxation. The group size is capped at 16, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and allows guides to give more personalized attention. This small, intimate setting is often praised for its informative guides and relaxed pace.

Price and Value

At $169.59 per person, this tour offers good value for travelers seeking a blend of cultural, culinary, and scenic experiences. The ticket includes the visit, tasting, lunch, and transportation, meaning there are no hidden costs. When you consider the quality of the experience—learning about ancient olive trees, tasting authentic products, and enjoying a seaside meal—the price is quite reasonable.

This isn’t a tour for those seeking a comprehensive historical tour of Hvar, but rather an authentic, multisensory taste of the island’s rural traditions and natural beauty. The inclusion of pickup and mobile tickets makes logistics simple, particularly for those staying in central Hvar.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear and a towel for the bay stop—it’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Wear comfortable clothes and sun protection, as a good portion of the tour involves outdoor walking and coastal exposure.
• Book in advance, especially during peak season, as the tour is limited to 16 participants and has a small but consistent demand.
• Arrive with an appetite—the lunch features fresh, local ingredients that are best enjoyed with some room for seconds.
• Expect a relaxed pace; this is more about enjoying the scenery and stories than ticking off a long itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to connect more deeply with Hvar’s local culture and natural beauty. It’s perfect if you enjoy tasting regional foods, learning about traditional agriculture, and relaxing in beautiful seaside environments. History buffs will appreciate the story of the ancient olive tree and the village’s heritage, while those seeking a leisurely, scenic day will find plenty to love.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate small-group tours and authentic experiences, this outing offers a friendly, memorable way to spend part of your time on Hvar.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is a fantastic choice for curious travelers looking for a balanced, authentic glimpse into Hvar’s rural life. It’s especially suitable for those interested in olive oil, regional products, and coastal scenery. The small group format, combined with knowledgeable guides, ensures a personalized experience that feels genuine rather than commercialized.

While it may not satisfy those craving a full day of sightseeing or a deep historical exploration, it offers a meaningful snapshot of the island’s culinary and agricultural heritage. It’s a perfect addition to a broader Hvar itinerary—particularly if you enjoy relaxed, nature-focused outings with a tasty twist.

If you’re seeking a relatively short, engaging, and informative tour with a strong local flavor, this experience checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and tickets are mobile, which simplifies getting to the starting point.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes a tasting of local products and a seaside lunch near Vela Stiniva bay.

Can I swim or snorkel at Vela Stiniva?
Absolutely, the bay’s calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling after lunch.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s especially good for those interested in local traditions, scenic beauty, and casual outdoor activity.

What is the cost?
The tour costs $169.59 per person, which covers transportation, tastings, and the meal.

How do I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

In summary, this Oldest Olive Tree With Tasting And Lunch tour on Hvar offers a meaningful, relaxed way to connect with the island’s agricultural roots and coastal charm. With its authentic focus, friendly group size, and inclusive activities, it’s a wonderful choice for travelers eager to experience a side of Hvar beyond the typical beaches and boats.