At Agrikies Country Retreat, the olive harvest is more than an agricultural activity — it is a tradition that has been part of our family life for more than 100 years.
Every autumn, when the olives slowly change color from green to deep purple, the olive grove becomes the center of life. In Messinia, the harvest season usually takes place between October and January, depending on the weather and the maturity of the fruit.
During this special time of the year, guests have the opportunity to experience the authentic rhythm of the countryside and participate in the olive harvest tradition.
Together we walk through the olive grove, learn about the Koroneiki olive variety, and discover how olives are carefully collected from the trees using traditional methods. Nets are spread under the trees and the olives are gently harvested so that the fruit remains intact and ready for pressing.
After the harvest, the olives are taken to the olive mill where they are cold pressed to produce fresh extra virgin olive oil — the “liquid gold” of the Mediterranean.
Back at Agrikies, the experience continues with a tasting of the new olive oil, served the traditional way: on warm bread with oregano, fresh vegetables, and local wine.
The olive harvest is one of the most authentic experiences of rural Greece — a moment when nature, tradition and community come together.
At Agrikies, guests don’t just observe the harvest.
They become part of it.
