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Tartus Olive Groves
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The olive groves of Tartus form a vital part of Syria's agricultural heritage, covering the coastal hills with silvery-green canopies. Cultivation methods have changed little since antiquity: trees are pruned by hand, and harvesting uses cloths spread beneath the branches. The region’s olives are pressed into extra virgin oil, much of which is exported to Europe. The oldest trees are estimated to be over 2,000 years old, dating to Phoenician times. The groves also serve as a buffer against coastal erosion and support a rich understory of wildflowers. In recent years, organic farming initiatives have gained traction, and some producers have obtained international certification. The annual olive festival in Tartus celebrates this cultural cornerstone.
- Location: Syria
- Nearby: Tartus (13 km)
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Tartus Olive Groves cover the hills and plains of the Tartus Governorate with centuries-old olive trees providing high-quality oil. For visitors, they are a symbol of Syrian agriculture and offer insights into traditional olive oil production.
Visiting
The olive groves are largely freely accessible, as they stretch along public paths and roads. Visitors can walk among the trees and admire the centuries-old trunks, though entering private plantations requires the owner's permission.
Where to view it
A particularly beautiful viewpoint is the elevation at Al-Qadmus, offering a panoramic view over the silver-green olive groves to the Mediterranean Sea. Along the coastal road north of Tartus, scenic views of the terraced slopes also unfold.
Local products
In the region, extra virgin olive oil of the highest quality is pressed, sold at local markets and oil mills. Alongside, marinated olives, olive soap, and traditional herbs like za'atar are typical products of the area.
Active season
Olive harvest takes place from October to December, when the groves are bustling and the oil mills run at full capacity. During this time, visitors can witness the harvest and taste fresh olive oil.
Nearby
A visit to the olive groves can be excellently combined with a trip to the Crusader castle Krak des Chevaliers or the historic city of Tartus with its port. Also, a drive along the Syrian coast to the beaches of Banias is recommended.
Geography
Facts
- The groves cover approximately 15,000 hectares.
- Annual olive production is about 50,000 tons.
- The oldest trees exceed 2,000 years in age.
- Harvest season runs from October to November.
- Extra virgin olive oil output is around 10,000 tons per year.
- Some producers have obtained organic certification since 2015.
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Sights in the town Tartus Olive Groves (1)
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Frequently asked questions
How old are the olive trees in Tartus?
Some trees are centuries old and define the landscape.
Can one visit the olive groves freely?
Most areas are privately owned; please stick to the paths.
When is the olive harvest?
The harvest usually takes place from October to December.
Is the olive oil from Tartus recommended?
It is considered high-quality and is a very popular regional souvenir.
Are there hiking trails through the groves?
There are no official trails, but quiet country roads are suitable.
Tartus Olive Groves: where is it located?
Tartus Olive Groves is located in Syria.
Tartus Olive Groves: why is it worth visiting?
The olive groves of Tartus form a vital part of Syria's agricultural heritage, covering the coastal hills with silvery-green canopies.
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Nearby cities
Tartus
Tartus is the second most important port city of Syria and a major center for trade and tourism on the Mediterranean coast.
Baniyas
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Safita
Safita is a city in the Tartus Governorate built on three hills and known for its Crusader fortress.
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Al-Hishe
A coastal area in the Tartus Governorate of Syria, known for its vacation resorts and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Ain az-Zarqa
A picturesque coastal village in Tartus Governorate, known for its natural freshwater spring right by the sea.
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Hamidiyah Beach
A coastal town south of Tartus founded by Cretan Muslims, known for its unique culture and sandy beaches.
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Kafroun
An idyllic village in Tartus Governorate, known for its religious significance and natural beauty.
Mashta al-Helou
A popular Christian mountain resort near Tartus, known for its pleasant climate.
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