Olimp: Clos des Colombes Winery Tour and Wine Tasting

Imagine wandering through a beautiful Romanian vineyard, led by a passionate guide, with a glass of fine wine in hand, surrounded by the scent of grapes and the sea breeze. That’s exactly what you’ll get with the Clos des Colombes Winery Tour in Constanta County, costing around $42 per person for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of engaging exploration. This experience offers a rare glimpse into the story of a French-born woman who transformed an abandoned communist-era estate into a boutique winery, blending tradition, innovation, and a touch of artistry.

What we love about this tour is how it combines history and scenery with excellent wine. You get to walk through stone cellars and see the artisanal winemaking process, all while soaking in the tranquil views of vineyards and the distant sea. The chance to taste three signature wines guided by the only female certified sommelier in the region adds a personal and professional touch. Plus, the story of a woman leaving France to build her dream in Romania adds a layer of inspiration that sticks with you.

A potential consideration is that part of the tour is outdoors, so comfortable shoes are essential, especially if the weather isn’t kind. Also, the experience is tailored for those 18 and older, so it’s less suited for families with young children or pregnant women. This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone interested in authentic stories of dedication and transformation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Storytelling: The founder’s journey from France to Romania adds depth and inspiration.
Quality Wines: Recognized for their exceptional quality, the three tastings are a highlight.
Scenic Setting: Vineyards with views of the sea create a peaceful, picturesque backdrop.
Educational Experience: Guided tour of cellars and artisanal winemaking offers insight into the craft.
Cultural Blend: A mix of French tradition and Romanian terroir makes for a unique experience.
Value for Price: At $42, it offers a comprehensive, intimate look at boutique winemaking.

Exploring the Clos des Colombes Experience

The first impression of the tour is the setting itself. Located in Olimp, Romania, the winery is a transformative project—a story in bricks and vines. The founder, a woman born into a family of winemakers in France’s Champagne region, left her homeland to rebuild what was an abandoned estate by the sea. We loved the way she restored the stone cellars and created a space that feels poetic and elegant. The view of the vineyards and the sea breeze makes you realize how much passion and effort went into this place.

The tour kicks off with an introduction to the winery’s history, emphasizing its journey from a communist farm to a boutique vineyard. The guide explains how this former estate was rebuilt step by step, turning neglected structures into inviting cellars. It’s a story of dedication, resilience, and a desire to craft something meaningful—a theme that resonates deeply with visitors.

The Cellars and Winemaking

Walking into the stone cellars is like stepping into a different world—cool, dark, and fragrant with grape aromas. Here, the artisanal process is laid bare. The guide describes how the wines are made with a focus on quality and innovation, ensuring you understand what makes Clos des Colombes wines so special. You’ll see the fermentation areas and learn about their handcrafted methods, which contrast with mass-produced wines.

The guided visit also offers a peek at the production area and the cellar, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how they turn grapes into wine. We appreciated the insights into their artisanal approach, which emphasizes small-batch production and attention to detail. It’s clear that craftsmanship is central to their philosophy.

Vineyard Walk and Optional Carriage Ride

Weather permitting, you might enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the vineyards—an evocative way to see the rows of vines and feel the connection between the land and the wine. The outdoor portion of the tour offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to breathe in the sea air, enhancing the experience’s serenity.

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Tasting and Food Pairings

The end of the tour features a tasting of three signature wines, guided by Olga, the sole female certified sommelier in the area. She brings professionalism, passion, and a touch of humor to her explanations, which makes the tasting both educational and enjoyable. The wines are well-regarded, and many reviews mention they are “exceptional” and “distinctive.”

The tasting includes small bites and pairing snacks like homemade bread and light accompaniments, enhancing the wine flavors without overwhelming them. We found this pairing to be a thoughtful addition, making each sip more memorable.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour costs around 160 RON, making it a good value considering the depth of experience and quality of the wines. It is available in Romanian and English, with French on request, accommodating most travelers.

Group sizes are generally small, creating an intimate atmosphere. The tour is flexible, with bookings allowing you to reserve and pay later, which is helpful if your plans are still evolving.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience caters best to wine lovers looking for a genuinely authentic taste of Romanian boutique winemaking. It’s also perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in stories of women breaking barriers—Olga’s journey is inspiring. If you’re a scenery lover who delights in vineyard vistas, you’ll find this trip especially rewarding. However, if you prefer indoor, air-conditioned environments or are traveling with very young children or pregnant women, this may not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Stands Out

The Clos des Colombes Winery Tour offers more than just a tasting; it’s a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and passion set against a stunning landscape. For around $42, you gain not only a selection of outstanding wines but also a narrative about transforming abandoned land into a thriving boutique winery. It’s a chance to connect with Romania’s evolving wine scene and witness the dedication of a woman who dared to dream big.

This experience is perfect for adventurous wine lovers seeking an authentic, personal glimpse into Romanian winemaking, with the added charm of scenic vineyard walks and a compelling backstory. Whether you’re savoring the wines, exploring the cellars, or just enjoying the peaceful surroundings, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking and a story worth sharing.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving ample time to explore the cellars, walk through the vineyards, and enjoy the tasting.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour, access to the production area and cellars, tasting of three wines, and light bites like homemade bread and snacks.

Are there options for other languages?
Yes, the tour is offered in Romanian and English, with French available on request, ensuring most visitors can follow along comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption and outdoor activities.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes since part of the tour takes place outdoors on uneven surfaces. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour price covers everything listed; however, artisan cheese platters and extra bread are not included and can be purchased separately.

What about the weather?
The outdoor portions depend on good weather; check the forecast and plan accordingly. The indoor cellar visit remains unaffected by weather.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small group sizes and personalized guides make it a friendly experience for solo visitors or couples.

This tour combines the pleasure of great wine with the story of a driven woman and the beauty of the Romanian landscape. It’s a genuine, engaging experience that balances education, scenery, and flavor—ideal for anyone eager to experience more than just a tasting, but a story in every glass.

You can check availability for your dates here: