A Christmas Treat – olive picking with a local farmer in the Luberon!

When you only have a limited time to enjoy Provence, authentic experiences are to be treasured.  This one came lovingly wrapped in the form of a friends’ invitation to join them for a special day.   Wrapped up cozily against the chill of a provencal winter, a lazy morning drive took us through the gentle hills and valleys of the Luberon to Opede; the dreamiest village of all!

The stillness and peace against an electric blue sky was deafening….. as we sat in the little square enjoying a cafe.  Not a soul around except for a bird or two and a lone dog on the street.  Time to move and find the field where we were due to meet the olive trees and the farmer.   A short stroll and finally a group of ten or twelve with sleeves rolled up and ladders in hand; dogs barking and children running everywhere.   We worked hard; the farmer needed this done and his friends and family were there to help.   What a treat to be part of this simple experience.  We just fitted in!    And our reward;  a barbecue in the field .   Hearty local wine, meat and sticky puddings – lots of them.  The childrens’ eyes sparkled!  Yes they complained when I told them they were going olive picking, but I’m sure it’s a memory that has been filed under ‘favourites’.