In the Shade of the Olive Trees
A tractor ride in the shade of the olive trees in search of « My Grandfather's Gold ».
At the heart of the olive grove
The Pic Saint-Loup evokes for many the fine wines, the preserved landscapes, and this little mountain of 658m that stands on the horizon and delights hikers. There are also other riches here that man has been exploiting for decades: the olive! We take you on a stroll unlike any other at the Domaine de l’Oulivie...
Domaine de l'Oulivie
Combaillaux
Domaine de l’Oulivie – A unique and gourmet experience in the heart of the olive grove!A few steps from Montpellier, discover a true jewel...
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Tractor ride
A spring-like weather forecast in the middle of October, one should not miss the opportunity to go out and breathe fresh air with family this weekend! It's still too early to go mushroom picking in the Cévennes, we want an original outing that would allow both children and ourselves to have a moment of fun and enrichment: it's perfect with a tractor ride at the Domaine de l’Oulivie!
A family story
Upon our arrival, we quickly understand that the Vialla family has been nurturing the culture of olive for generations, as Peter reminds us, who will be our guide this morning. Once aboard the trailer, we begin the journey with a stop in a permaculture garden.
This practice is primarily a philosophy that places nature, species, and people at the heart of all concerns. It is understood that each species of plant is essential to the other, that each has its importance in an ecosystem where biodiversity and earth can thrive. A bit like in a family after all...
Further along, Peter passionately explains his proud work as a farmer, which requires a certain humility when managing such a large farm with 30 hectares of olive trees. The technique of pruning, which shapes the tree and the landscapes, the ripening of the olive, and the harvesting period starting in September with « the Lucques », are part of a perpetual cycle that rhythm the life of the estate.
Deseeding, rinsing, salting, a whole process that is carried out in the workshop where machines assist humans. Several of these machines are visible at the end of the walk, just next to the small museum that traces the history of this estate which has experienced several lives since 1957...
"Each oil possesses its own identity..."
As we approach the end of the loop, we are struck by the tranquility of the place and the beauty of the landscapes, with the Pic Saint-Loup in the background watching over this culture that fits perfectly into its environment.
The much-anticipated tasting moment arrives, delighting our boy, already a fine gourmet! Each oil has its own identity and a unique taste that leaves us imagining the potential pairings we could make on the plate... the basil olive oil seduces us right away and we already know that our salads will no longer have the same flavor as before!
