Montpellier: Olive Oil, Wine, St Guilhem the Desert Day

| | | |

Montpellier’s natural and cultural wonders are on full display during this immersive small-group tour. Visitors will explore an olive grove, learn the artisanal process of olive oil production, and sample award-winning oils. A locally-sourced picnic offers a taste of the region’s bounty before a visit to a family-owned winery reveals its intricate winemaking techniques and distinctive varietals. The highlight, however, may be wandering through the UNESCO-listed medieval village of Saint-Guilhem-the-Desert, where visitors can marvel at the picturesque architecture and rich history. For those visiting during the peak season, the vibrant lavender fields that dot the surrounding countryside promise to elevate the quintessential Provençal experience.

Key Points

  • Explore the artisanal olive oil production process, including hand-picking, washing, and cold-pressing to preserve natural nutrients, during a visit to a local farm.

  • Enjoy a guided tour of a family-owned winery with a rich winemaking heritage, sample the signature offerings, and gain an appreciation for the art of winemaking in the Languedoc region.

  • Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Saint-Guilhem-the-Desert, known for its picturesque architecture and historical significance as a key stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.

  • Indulge in a locally-sourced picnic featuring crusty bread, creamy cheeses, juicy tomatoes, and a selection of regional wines, immersing in the culinary traditions of the Languedoc region.

  • Witness the dedication and artistry of local producers, gain firsthand insights into the meticulous processes and centuries-old traditions that define the exceptional flavors of the region’s olive oils and wines.

You can check availability for your dates here:
Contents

Overview of the Tour

This small-group tour whisks visitors on an 8-hour journey to explore the natural and cultural wonders surrounding Montpellier, from an olive grove to a medieval village. Priced at $155.21 per person, the tour is limited to just 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Kick off the day with a visit to an olive grove, where you’ll learn about the artisanal process of olive oil production. Indulge in a picnic featuring local delicacies before touring a winery and sampling the region’s acclaimed wines.

The highlight of the day is the exploration of Saint-Guilhem-the-Desert, a picturesque medieval village. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers an immersive, hassle-free experience.

Olive Grove and Olive Oil Production

Montpellier: Olive Oil, Wine, St Guilhem the Desert Day - Olive Grove and Olive Oil Production

The tour starts at an olive grove, where participants get an inside look at the artisanal process of olive oil production.

Visitors will learn from the local experts about the meticulous techniques used to extract the finest, most flavorful olive oil from the grove’s carefully tended trees.

Guests are shown how the olives are hand-picked, washed, and then cold-pressed to preserve the oil’s natural nutrients and distinctive taste.

The group samples the farm’s award-winning olive oils, comparing the subtle differences in aroma and flavor profile.

This intimate experience provides a deep appreciation for the skill and care required to produce high-quality, small-batch olive oil.

Picnic of Local Produce

Montpellier: Olive Oil, Wine, St Guilhem the Desert Day - Picnic of Local Produce

After exploring the olive grove and learning about olive oil production, the group sits down to a locally-sourced picnic, savoring the fresh flavors of Montpellier’s bountiful regional cuisine.

The colorful spread includes crusty bread, creamy cheeses, juicy tomatoes, and crisp greens, all sourced from nearby farms and artisanal producers. Guests delight in the burst of flavors and the opportunity to connect with the land and its people.

The picnic also features charcuterie, olives, and a selection of regional wines, allowing the group to fully enjoy the culinary traditions of the area. It’s a true taste of the Languedoc region, enjoyed in the serene setting of the countryside.

Winery Tour and Wine Tasting

Following the relaxing picnic, the group makes its way to a nearby winery where they’re welcomed by the vintner for an immersive tour and tasting of the estate’s acclaimed wines.

The vintner shares the family’s rich winemaking heritage, guiding your through the vineyards and production facilities as they learn about the intricate process of cultivating, harvesting, and crafting the distinctive varietals of the Languedoc region.

The group samples several of the winery’s signature offerings, exploring the complex flavors and aromas that reflect the terroir. They’re impressed by the vintner’s passion and dedication, gaining a newfound appreciation for the art of winemaking in this picturesque corner of southern France.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Saint-Guilhem-the-Desert

Bidding farewell to the charming winery, the group ventures forth to explore the medieval village of Saint-Guilhem-the-Desert, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its picturesque architecture and rich historical legacy.

Wandering through the narrow, winding streets, they admire the limestone buildings and marvel at the Romanesque abbey, a magnificent example of Languedoc architecture.

The group delves into the village’s storied past, learning about its founding by a Benedictine monk and its role as a key stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.

With each step, the allure of this enchanting medieval haven becomes more palpable, leaving a lasting impression on the travelers.

Lavender Fields (June-July)

As the tour winds its way through the countryside, the vibrant lavender fields that dot the landscape come into view, their striking purple hues casting a serene and picturesque spell over the surrounding terrain.

The tour participants are captivated by the aromatic splendor of the lavender, which blooms in abundance during the summer months.

Visitors can:

  • Stroll through the fragrant rows, taking in the calming scent and breathtaking scenery
  • Photograph the undulating waves of violet flowers against the backdrop of the rolling hills
  • Learn about the history and significance of lavender cultivation in the region from the knowledgeable guide

This quintessential Provençal experience adds a delightful element to the already diverse and engaging day tour.

Artisanal Olive Oil Tasting

After exploring the lavender fields, the tour participants now turn their attention to the artisanal olive oil tasting.

At the olive grove, they’ll learn about the intricate process of olive oil production and have the chance to sample the rich, complex flavors that characterize high-quality, locally-sourced olive oils.

The expert guide will explain the importance of factors like olive variety, soil, climate, and harvesting methods in determining the unique taste profiles of each estate’s offerings.

Participants will be able to discern the subtle nuances between the fruity, peppery, or grassy notes of the different olive oils, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and terroir that goes into these artisanal products.

Meet Local Producers

Throughout the tour, participants have the opportunity to meet the passionate local producers who pour their hearts and souls into crafting the region’s renowned olive oils and wines.

They’ll gain firsthand insights into the meticulous processes and centuries-old traditions that define these artisanal products, learning how the unique terroir and skilled craftsmanship shape their exceptional flavors.

Participants will:

  • Engage in captivating conversations with the olive oil producers, uncovering the nuances of their harvesting and pressing techniques
  • Explore the winemaking secrets of the local vintners, exploring the delicate balance of climate, soil, and grape varietals
  • Witness the dedication and artistry that goes into each bottle, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. Participants of all ages are welcome, though the activities may not be suitable for very young children. It’s recommended to inquire about age suitability when booking the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions. Participants should notify the tour provider in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made for the picnic and any other food-related activities during the excursion.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers flexibility in their plans. This policy ensures customers can easily modify their bookings without incurring additional fees.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour’s website doesn’t mention any discounts for group bookings. However, it does state the tour is limited to 7 participants, so booking as a group may ensure availability.

How Long Is the Drive From Montpellier to the Tour Sites?

The tour departs from Montpellier and it’s about a 30-minute drive to reach the first stop at the olive grove. The drive time may vary slightly depending on traffic, but it’s a relatively short journey to the tour sites.

✨ Book This Experience

Montpellier: Olive Oil, Wine, St Guilhem the Desert Day



5.0

(7 reviews)

“This was such a well-curated trip with a variety of interesting stops. Both the winery and olive farm were high quality providers with excellent ta…”

— Everett, Nov 2025

From $171/person


Check Availability

Recap

This immersive small-group tour offers a captivating glimpse into Montpellier’s natural and cultural wonders.

Visitors can explore the artisanal production of award-winning olive oil, savor the distinctive flavors of local wines, and explore the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Guilhem-the-Desert.

Depending on the season, they may even marvel at the vibrant lavender fields that dot the surrounding countryside, embodying the quintessential Provençal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:
More Great Tours Nearby