Discover the world of Pelion “liquid gold” and experience what makes good olive oil so special! For centuries, olives and olive oil have been a staple in every Pelion home and a source of pride and joy for the producers. Authentic Pelion olive oil comes from specific olive varieties (Voliotiki or chondrolia) and has a pungent taste and a smell of fresh-cut grass.
During our tour we will visit the Museum of Olive and Olive Oil at the village of Ano Gatzea. The museum is situated amidst an olive grove next to the Pelion Train Station. We will discuss the history of olive cultivation, the significance of the olive tree in ancient Greece, techniques of cultivation, and the different olive varieties. During our tour of the museum you will learn about the traditional techniques used in olive cultivation and olive oil production in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Following the museum, we will visit a state-of-the-art olive oil press located in the Pelion village of Ano Lechonia. During your guided tour of the press, you will learn about the oil extraction process and how factors such as weather, time of harvest and pressing temperature (“cold pressed”) influence the quality of the final product. At the end, you will have the opportunity to sample Pelion green olive oil and organic extra-virgin olive oil. The spicy and intense Pelion olive oil you will taste barely resembles the olive oil found on grocery store shelves.
