Garda Olives: The Green Treasure of the Lake

Garda olives are one of the most authentic symbols of this territory, combining tradition, flavor and quality. Grown on the hills surrounding the lake, these olives give life to a unique extra virgin olive oil, appreciated throughout the world for its delicacy and its beneficial properties. Discover the history, characteristics and indissoluble bond between Lake Garda and its precious green gold.

A Unique Territory for the Cultivation of Olives

Thanks to the mild climate of Lake Garda, influenced by its waters and the winds that temper the temperatures, the cultivation of olives is an integral part of the landscape.

• Perfect climate: The hills around the lake, with their calcareous and well-drained soil, offer ideal conditions for centuries-old olive trees.

• Millenary tradition: The cultivation of olives on Lake Garda dates back to Roman times, when olive oil was already considered a precious food and a symbol of prosperity.

Characteristics of Garda Olives

Garda olives give life to an extra virgin olive oil renowned for its delicate and balanced flavour.

• Main varieties:

• Casaliva: The most widespread on Garda, it produces an oil with fruity notes and a light hint of almond.

• Leccino: A resistant olive, with a softer and more versatile oil.

• Frantoio: Variety with a strong flavour, often used in blends to enhance the structure of the oil.

• Unique taste: Garda extra virgin olive oil is characterised by a harmonious flavour, slightly fruity and with a hint of spiciness, ideal for enhancing delicate dishes.

Garda DOP Oil: A recognized excellence

Olio del Garda DOP is a symbol of quality and authenticity, produced according to strict standards that guarantee its origin and traditional processing.

• Production area: Includes the provinces of Verona, Brescia, Mantua and Trento, with olive groves that extend along the hills that embrace the lake.

• Health Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids, Garda oil is a valuable ally for cardiovascular health and skin beauty.

How to Discover Garda Olives

• Visits to the oil mills: Discover how Garda oil is made by visiting the many oil mills in the area, such as the Frantoio di Riva del Garda or the Frantoio Montecroce .

• Unique experiences: Take part in guided tastings, discover the cold-pressing processes and learn to distinguish the characteristics of a quality oil.

• Olive and Oil Festivals: Don't miss events like the Garda Oil Festival in Torri del Benaco or the Olive Festival in Gargnano, where you can taste freshly pressed oil.

Garda Oil in the Kitchen

Thanks to its delicate flavour, Garda oil is perfect for enhancing simple and refined dishes:

• Usage tips:

• Raw on lake fish or grilled vegetables.

• To dress salads with fresh, local ingredients.

• To prepare desserts such as olive oil cake, a traditional local specialty.

Curiosities about Garda Olives

• The olive groves of Garda are among the northernmost in the world, thanks to the unique microclimate of the lake.

• The olive trees on Lake Garda are often centuries old and some specimens date back to the Middle Ages.

• Garda oil has often received international awards for its quality and unique taste.

Epilogue: Bring Garda to Your Table with FeelGarda

Garda olives represent the essence of this territory, combining tradition, quality and taste. With FeelGarda , you can take home the best extra virgin olive oil and other local specialties, to relive the authentic flavors of the lake every day.

Discover the green treasure of Garda: among centuries-old olive groves, historic oil mills and an unmistakable flavour, Garda oil is an experience that conquers the palate and the heart.