A Stroll Through Time in the Olive Groves

As the train gently rolled into the Province of Vibo Valentia, I felt a familiar sense of anticipation. The rhythmic clatter of the wheels on the tracks had lulled me into a state of peaceful reflection, a feeling I often seek in my travels. This time, my journey was not just about the destination, but the promise of an experience that would take me from land to oil, with a taste of Calabria’s finest offerings.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by Adriana, our gracious host, who exuded warmth and hospitality. She had thoughtfully sent photos and a video of the olive grove beforehand, ensuring that even those with mobility concerns, like my late husband would have had, could navigate the gentle hill with ease. As we began our walk through the grove, the sun cast a golden hue over the landscape, and I was reminded of the timeless beauty of nature’s cycles.

The olive trees stood as silent witnesses to the passage of time, their gnarled branches reaching out like the arms of an old friend. As we walked, Adriana shared stories of the land and the labor of love that goes into cultivating these ancient trees. It was a reminder of the simple joys of life, much like the slow journeys I cherish across Europe.

The Art of Olive Oil

Our journey continued to the mill, where the magic of transformation takes place. Here, the olives are pressed, and the liquid gold that is olive oil is born. The process was fascinating, a dance of tradition and innovation, much like the evolution of train travel itself.

Adriana guided us through the steps of production, her passion for her craft evident in every word. We learned to discern the subtle aromas and flavors that distinguish a quality olive oil, a skill that, like the appreciation of a scenic train route, requires patience and attention to detail.

As the sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we gathered for the tasting. The table was a feast for the senses, laden with dishes crafted from the bounty of their garden. Each bite was a testament to the rich flavors of Calabria, and I found myself savoring the moment, much like I savor the view from a train window.

A Sunset to Remember

The experience culminated with a breathtaking view of the Aeolian Islands, a sight that stirred memories of past travels and the promise of new adventures. As I watched the sun dip below the horizon, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the journey that had brought me here.

The tasting was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of the land and its people. The orange-flavored olive oil was a revelation, its citrus notes dancing on my palate, while the rosemary, lemon, and onion variety was a delightful surprise. It was a reminder of the unexpected joys that travel can bring, much like the serendipitous encounters on a train journey.

As I left the grove, my heart was full, and my bags were a little heavier with the treasures I had purchased. The smaller bottles of olive oil were perfect for my travels, a piece of Calabria to carry with me on my next adventure.

This experience was a beautiful reminder of the joys of slow travel, of taking the time to savor each moment and appreciate the stories that unfold along the way. It was a journey from land to oil, but more importantly, it was a journey of the heart.