Olive oil is the heart and soul of the beautiful land of Jaén. The region’s bond with its “liquid gold” is so close that it is impossible to understand one without the other. If you’re fortunate enough to visit this marvellous corner of Andalusia, be sure to immerse yourself in the tradition and excellence of its star product. The luxurious Palacio de Úbeda will serve as the perfect starting point for an enriching culinary and cultural adventure, revealing the authentic essence and best-kept secret of Andalusian cuisine. Shall we begin?
Olive Oil: Jaén’s Liquid Gold
As the land of olive trees par excellence, olive oil is much more than a simple ingredient in Jaén; it is a true hallmark that defines the region’s gastronomy, culture, and economy. This area is widely recognised as the leading producer of olive oil on both a national and global scale, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food. Jaén’s distinctive sea of olive groves stretches across its fields in an almost endless landscape of ancient trees, a testament to the region’s deep connection with olive cultivation.
Olive oil is an integral part of daily life in Jaén, not only as a staple in traditional cooking but also as a symbol of the area’s cultural heritage. The people of Jaén have made olive oil a fundamental pillar of their diet and lifestyle, gracing tables in everything from the simplest dishes to the most elaborate recipes. This “liquid gold” is also celebrated in local festivals, fairs, and olive oil tourism routes, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the cultivation, production, and, of course, tasting of this gastronomic treasure.
Visits to Olive Oil Mills: The Production Process of Olive Oil
Beyond the beautiful landscapes framed by olive trees in the region, there is something fascinating that you should not overlook: the transformation process of the olive into oil is one of the secrets behind the intense and distinctive flavour of this culinary marvel.
Nestled among the olive groves, you will find unique buildings that complete the picturesque scene of rural Jaén: the olive oil mills, where the magic happens. Many of these mills offer tours and tastings, allowing you to witness firsthand how top-quality raw materials are transformed into the liquid gold you have heard so much about. Establishments like Aceites Aires de Jaén and Picualia welcome visitors to explore a magical universe where tradition and flavour are the key.
Olive Oil Tasting: A Sensory Experience
At the Ábside Restaurant and Taberna Guadiana, visitors can enjoy a unique tasting experience with the Degustación AOVE de 1ª Cosecha La Carrera, featuring extra virgin olive oils (EVOO) from the picual, frantoio, and organic varieties for just €3. This selection invites you to discover the most prominent characteristics of first-harvest EVOO, evaluating attributes such as aroma, flavour, texture, and colour. During the tasting, guests explore the fruity and herbal aromas characteristic of each variety, the intensity and complexity of the flavour, the smooth and balanced texture, and the colour nuances ranging from deep green to golden. This tasting offers a perfect opportunity to appreciate the richness and variety of local Jaén oils in a top-notch gastronomic setting.
Scenic Route through Olive Groves
A scenic route through the olive groves in Jaén is a unique experience that allows visitors to explore the majestic landscapes of centuries-old olive trees by car or bicycle. This journey offers various viewpoints and points of interest from which to enjoy panoramic views of the endless olive fields, particularly in areas such as Martos, including the castle, where Llano de Motril and Estaca Grande stand out, home to dreamy forests and ancient olive trees. The Acebuche de Las Hoyas, located in La Iruela, is an impressive wild olive tree over 350 years old, reaching 15 metres in height and with a circumference of nearly 10 metres, situated near the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park. Ideal for photography enthusiasts and those wishing to explore olive culture, these landscapes highlight the natural values and olive-growing traditions of Jaén, providing visitors with an unparalleled visual and cultural experience in the heart of Andalusia.
Local Gastronomy with Olive Oil
Olive oil is an essential ingredient in the local cuisine of Jaén, imparting unique flavour and quality to the region's traditional dishes. At the Ábside Restaurant in the Palacio de Úbeda, extra virgin olive oil is a star ingredient in recipes such as salmorejo and even flan, in contemporary preparations that enhance its aromas and textures. This restaurant is renowned for its quality cuisine, incorporating first-harvest EVOO into every dish, highlighting the culinary tradition and richness of the region.
Palacio de Úbeda: Your Gateway to Tradition and Flavour
The Olive Oil Route offers a genuine immersion into the culture of the "liquid gold" that defines Jaén and its olive-growing heritage. From the Palacio de Úbeda, a door opens to this unique experience, where luxury, history, and gastronomy intertwine to create an unforgettable getaway. Discover the flavour and legacy of extra virgin olive oil in an environment that combines tradition and elegance, making every visit a tribute to the senses.