Booming oil tourism: Exploring the allure of olive oil destinations

In the world of gourmet travel, olive oil tourism, or oleotourism, is gaining popularity. This trend sees travellers venturing to various destinations to immerse themselves in the rich history, culture, and production of olive oil. Here, we take a tour of some of the top countries in the global oleotourism ranking.

Spain, the world's largest producer of olive oil, tops the list. Olive oil is deeply rooted in Spanish culture, and its significance is increasingly being recognised as a tourist attraction. With nearly six million tons of olive oil produced annually, Spain offers a diverse range of olive oil experiences. 18 listed olive oil tastings are available for visitors, providing an opportunity to sample the finest Spanish olive oils.

Italy and Greece follow close behind Spain in the global oleotourism ranking. Italy offers the largest selection of guided olive oil tastings, with 147 offers, while Greece receives above-average positive online mentions for its olive oil tourism offerings. Greece boasts the oldest proven olive culture, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the history of olive oil production.

Australia, a niche market for olive oil, is emerging as a destination for gourmet tourists. Despite being a relatively new player in the oleotourism scene, Australia ranks tenth in the global ranking. Eleven listed olive oil tastings are available in Australia, showcasing the quality of the country's olive oil products.

Turkey and Albania are also among the top five travel destinations for oleotourism. Albania, with a cultivation area of over nine million hectares for olives, has the potential to become a significant player in the oleotourism industry. However, tourist offers have not been fully developed yet. Turkey, on the other hand, offers a rich olive oil culture and a growing number of olive oil tourism experiences.

As the popularity of oleotourism continues to grow, it's exciting to see these countries and others embracing this unique travel trend. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply looking for a unique travel experience, olive oil tourism offers a tantalising taste of local culture and tradition.