Access
Immerse yourself in the destinations and attractions you explore through exclusive access and hands-on experiences based on National Geographic’s existing relationships around the globe.
This experience meets the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria. By choosing this experience you can protect the places you love, care for the environment and support local communities.
Whether you prefer history, culture, gastronomy, conservation, nature, adventure, or photography these tours are designed to satisfy your curiosity.
© 2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPEDITIONS and the Yellow Border Design are trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license.
Tuscan olive oil is known for its quality and exceptional flavor profile. The characteristic grassy, fruity flavor is produced by pressing the olives while they are still green - before they are completely ripe.
You will find out all the secrets of Tuscany's prized ‘green gold' at Villa Campestri, a Renaissance estate in the Mugello with extensive grounds and a wonderful view of the Tuscan countryside. Not only is it a working farm producing the finest olive oil, but it is also the world's first Olive Oil Resort.
You will be exclusively welcomed at the Villa's ancient entrance by the owner, Gemma Pasquali, agronomist and qualified National Olive Oil Taster. Beginning with a stroll to the 13th century well room, your host will fill you in on the villa's rich history. Next, you'll be shown the workings of the patented OliveToLive technology, used in top restaurants globally, emphasizing its crucial role in preserving olive oil's unique properties over time. The journey continues to the olive oil mill, where Gemma will explain the evolution of oil extraction.
The tour then circles back to the villa where, descending age-old stone steps, you'll find yourself in the Oleoteca — a historic space dedicated to olive oil tastings.
The session will show you how to recognize and appreciate the qualities of Tuscan olive oil, and afterwards you can enjoy some classic Italian produce for your picnic lunch outside in the Villa's wonderful grounds, and take a walk to the olive groves which produced the oil you have just tasted.