Extraordinary Portofino & Olive Oil Tasting at Splendido Hotel
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Port
Genoa, Italy
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$280
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 6 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Learn the secrets of 'liquid gold' and how the olive has been used in Ligurian recipes for centuries.
An hour's drive from Genoa, discover the famous town of Portofino. Leave the coach and follow your knowledgeable guide on foot, heading into the heart of the village to the Piazza Martiri dell' Olivetta. As you stroll, you'll be charmed by the exclusive shops, boutiques, cafés and restaurants situated around the central piazza.
Climb up to the famous Church of San Giorgio, dedicated to the Roman soldier known for slaying a fire-breathing dragon. Take time to marvel at the magnificent views from here. Enchanting pastel-colored houses hug the shoreline; others cling to the olive tree-studded cliffs. Fishing boats and yachts bob on crystalline green waters in the harbor, making for picture-postcard photo ops.
Back down in the town, board a minibus for the short trip to the Hotel Splendido. Originally an ancient Benedictine monastery, the hotel has the look and feel of a private villa and, since its rebirth as a luxury hotel in 1901, has seen its share of celebrities and nobility; in fact, the first person to sign the visitors' guest book was the Duke of Windsor.
Upon arrival, you'll learn the history of olive oil production while sampling a number of different oils, all served with wine and focaccia bread, flavored with olives and aromatic herbs. Then, sit back, relax and savor wonderful panoramic views as you enjoy a Ligurian lunch.
After lunch, re-board the minibus for the drive back to Genoa.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.You are required to carry your original picture ID with you on this tour.