Olive Harvest in Provence

Autumn in Provence is a magical time, marked by the annual olive harvest. Visitors can enjoy this age-old tradition at the family-owned Les Pastras farm in Cadenet. Here, they’ll join local farmers in the olive groves, learning traditional picking methods amidst stunning countryside vistas. The experience promises a delightful glimpse into Provence’s rich agricultural heritage, complete with hearty local appetizers and olive oil tastings. With only 14 participants at a time, this intimate activity allows travelers to connect deeply with the essence of the region. But to truly appreciate the rustic charm and flavorful rewards of the olive harvest, one must…

Contents hide

1 Overview of the Activity

2 Location and Start Time

3 Included in the Experience

4 Meeting and End Points

5 Accessibility and Participation

6 Booking Information

7 What to Expect

8 Highlights of the Olive Harvest

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Immersive experience in traditional olive farming at the family-owned Les Pastras olive farm in Cadenet, Provence.
Participants pick olives alongside local farmers, learning time-honored practices during the 2.5-hour activity.
Hearty Provencal appetizer and Pastras wine included for a complete cultural experience.
Intimate group size of up to 14 ensures an authentic and personalized encounter.
Moderate physical activity required, with equipment and support provided for participants.

Overview of the Activity

The olive harvest in Provence offers travelers an immersive experience to learn about traditional olive farming and indulge in the region’s renowned culinary delights.

Located in the picturesque village of Cadenet, the activity takes place at Les Pastras, a family-owned olive farm. Participants will have the opportunity to don the necessary equipment and pick olives alongside the local farmers, gaining firsthand insight into the time-honored practices of olive cultivation.

Following the harvest, guests will be treated to a hearty Provencal appetizer, featuring pâté, cold cuts, cheese, and the estate’s own Pastras wine.

With a maximum of 14 travelers, this intimate experience promises an authentic taste of Provence‘s rich agricultural heritage.

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Location and Start Time

The olive harvest takes place at Les Pastras, a family-owned olive farm located in the picturesque village of Cadenet, France. The activity starts at 2:30 PM, providing participants ample time to engage in the traditional olive picking experience. Cadenet, nestled in the heart of Provence, boasts stunning landscapes and a rich agricultural heritage, making it an ideal setting for this immersive cultural encounter.

Location	Coordinates	Elevation
Les Pastras	43.7730° N, 5.3751° E	259 m
Cadenet	43.7776° N, 5.3908° E	234 m
Provence	43.9000° N, 5.9500° E	–

Included in the Experience

Participants receive essential equipment for the olive picking experience, including sturdy baskets and ladders to access the olive trees with ease.

Hearty Provencal appetizers, featuring a delightful selection of pâté, charcuterie, cheese, and the estate’s own Pastras wine, await harvesters as they take a well-deserved break during the activity.

Alcoholic beverages are also included, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the rustic charm of the Provençal olive harvest.

This all-inclusive experience ensures that guests can focus on the joy of harvesting olives, without worrying about the logistics.

With everything provided, participants can fully engage with the rhythms of the olive grove and savor the flavors of the region.

Meeting and End Points

The olive harvest activity begins and ends at the Les Pastras parking in Cadenet, France, conveniently located at the meeting point. Travelers will meet their guide here and receive their equipment before setting off to the olive groves. At the conclusion of the experience, you will return to the same location, where they can reflect on the day’s events and enjoy the Provençal appetizers and local wine.

Meeting Point	End Point
Les Pastras parking, Cadenet, France	Les Pastras parking, Cadenet, France
Travelers meet guide and receive equipment	Travelers return to starting point
Starting location for olive harvesting	Ending location for olive harvesting
Convenient and accessible location	Convenient and accessible location

Accessibility and Participation

This olive harvest experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers can be accommodated, and infant seats are available.

While not recommended for travelers with back problems, most others can participate in the activity. Participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity in an outdoor setting.

The olive grove where the harvest takes place is on uneven terrain, with some walking required. Participants will need to be able to bend, reach, and lift light to moderate weights.

Those with concerns about their physical abilities should consult with the organizers prior to booking. The experience is designed to be accessible to a wide range of travelers, as long as they can manage the physical demands of the activity.

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Booking Information

Booking this olive harvest experience comes with a confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the activity (local time).

Pricing for the olive harvest starts at $35.15 per person, and the lowest price is guaranteed. Plus, a Reserve Now and Pay Later option is available. This makes it easy for travelers to secure their spot and pay later, offering flexibility in their planning.

Whether you’re looking to learn about the scenic olive groves of Provence or simply experience the local culture, this olive harvest activity provides an opportunity to do so with confidence in your booking.

What to Expect

Travelers can expect to participate in the hands-on process of olive harvesting, learning traditional Provençal techniques from experienced local farmers.

Outfitted with the necessary equipment, they’ll traverse the picturesque olive groves, carefully hand-picking the ripe, glistening olives from the trees.

Following the harvest, a hearty Provençal appetizer featuring local pâté, charcuterie, cheese, and Pastras wine will be served, allowing participants to savor the fruits of their labor amidst the serene countryside setting.

The activity is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems.

Visitors can look forward to a unique, immersive experience that celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of Provence.

Highlights of the Olive Harvest

Participants enjoy the rich agricultural heritage of Provence as they hand-pick ripe, glistening olives from the picturesque olive groves. The earthy scent of the trees and the gentle rustling of leaves create a serene backdrop for the activity.

Travelers delight in the tactile experience of plucking the resilient fruits, learning traditional harvesting techniques from local experts. The highlight of the excursion is undoubtedly the tasting of the estate’s own olive oil, where nuanced flavors and aromas are savored.

This authentic, hands-on encounter offers a deeper appreciation for the care and craftsmanship that goes into producing Provence’s renowned olive oil.

Immersion in Provence’s agricultural heritage
Hands-on olive picking experience
Guidance from local experts
Tasting of estate-produced olive oil

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Typical Weather Conditions During the Olive Harvest?

The olive harvest typically occurs during the fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Temperatures are moderate, with sunny skies and occasional light rainfall. Conditions are generally dry, making it an ideal time for the outdoor activity.

Is This Activity Suitable for Children of All Ages?

The activity may not be suitable for young children, as it involves manual labor and the use of tools. However, the activity is stroller-accessible and has infant seats available, making it more suitable for older children and families.

Can Participants Take Home the Olives They Harvest?

Participants can generally take home the olives they harvest, as the activity includes equipment and instruction for picking the olives. However, they should check with the activity provider for any specific policies or limitations on taking the harvested olives.

Are There Any Safety Precautions to Be Aware Of?

Participants should be aware of potential slip and trip hazards when harvesting olives. Sturdy footwear, sun protection, and hydration are recommended. The activity leader will provide guidance on safe harvesting techniques to ensure an enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

Can Participants Explore the Estate Beyond the Olive Grove?

Participants can typically explore the estate beyond the olive grove if time permits, though the main focus of the activity is on the olive harvest itself. The extent of exploration may depend on the itinerary and any time constraints.