A Journey Through Time Among Centenary Olive Trees

As the train gently rolled through the picturesque landscapes of Sardinia, I found myself lost in a reverie of days gone by. The rhythmic clatter of the wheels on the tracks was a comforting reminder of the many journeys I’ve taken across Europe, each one a tapestry of memories woven with the threads of discovery and nostalgia. This time, my destination was the charming village of Escolca, nestled in the heart of the Province of South Sardinia, where I was to embark on a guided tour of centenary olive trees and taste award-winning olive oil.

Upon arrival, the air was filled with the sweet scent of olive groves, a fragrance that seemed to whisper stories of the past. The landscape was a sea of green, with ancient olive trees standing as silent sentinels, their gnarled trunks bearing witness to centuries of history. Our guide, a passionate custodian of this verdant heritage, welcomed us with a warmth that felt like coming home. As we strolled through the groves, he shared tales of four generations of olive cultivation, each story a testament to the enduring bond between the land and its people.

The Art of Olive Oil Making

The tour led us to the heart of the olive oil production process, where tradition and modernity danced in harmonious balance. The old mill, with its rustic charm, stood alongside a state-of-the-art facility, a symbol of the evolution of olive oil extraction through the ages. Our guide explained the meticulous process, from the careful harvesting of the olives to the delicate art of oil extraction, each step a labor of love.

As we moved through the facility, I was struck by the dedication and craftsmanship that went into every bottle of olive oil. The air was thick with the rich aroma of freshly pressed olives, a scent that seemed to envelop us in a warm embrace. We were treated to a mini tasting course, where the complexities of extra virgin olive oil were unveiled. Each sip was a revelation, a symphony of flavors that danced on the palate, leaving a lingering note of the land’s essence.

A Taste of Sardinian Hospitality

The tour culminated in a delightful tasting session set amidst the olive trees, a scene that could have been plucked from a bygone era. The table was adorned with an array of local delicacies, each dish a perfect partner to the flavored oils we were about to sample. As we savored the exquisite combinations, the sun began its descent, casting a golden glow over the landscape.

In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth of Sardinian hospitality, I felt a profound connection to the land and its people. The experience was more than just a tasting; it was a journey through time, a celebration of tradition and innovation, and a reminder of the simple joys that travel can bring. As I boarded the train back to my temporary abode, I carried with me not just the taste of award-winning olive oil, but a piece of Sardinia’s soul.