In Greece, time seems to move with the rhythm of nature, and nothing captures that better than an olive tree.
Long considered a symbol of peace, wisdom, and longevity, olive trees have been at the heart of Greek life for thousands of years. In 2025, owning a home with an olive grove isn’t just a romantic dream. It’s a real, tangible investment that offers lifestyle value, financial potential, and a deep connection to the land.
Why Buy a Home with an Olive Grove in Greece?
Let’s begin with the obvious: There’s something uniquely grounding about waking up to the sound of cicadas, the sight of sunlit olive branches swaying gently, and the scent of wild herbs in the air. A home with its own olive grove allows you to live in tune with Greece’s natural pace, whether you’re in the hills of the Peloponnese, on the slopes of Crete, or tucked into a coastal valley in the Ionian region.
But it’s not just about lifestyle. There are practical benefits, too.
Olives as a Lifestyle and Low-Maintenance Crop
Unlike other agricultural investments, olive trees are famously resilient. They require little water, thrive in rocky soils, and need minimal maintenance, especially in established groves. For part-time residents or those living abroad, this makes them an ideal option. With basic seasonal care, pruning, and harvesting, your trees will reward you year after year.
And yes, you can produce your own olive oil. Many buyers are drawn to the idea of bottling their own extra virgin olive oil or partnering with local mills. A small grove of 30–50 trees can yield 30 to 150 liters of oil per year, depending on tree age and climate.
How Much Land Do You Need?
A typical small olive grove attached to a home covers 1,000 to 4,000 square meters.
In rural areas, larger properties with 0.5 to 2 hectares (5,000–20,000 sql) are common and may come with hundreds of mature trees.
Some buyers choose to harvest and maintain the grove themselves; others hire local caretakers, with annual costs typically ranging from €300 to €1,000, depending on the size and services needed. Also, some buyers make arrangements with local farmers who take care of their olive trees and give the owner a part of the harvest (oil and/or olives) in return.
Is It Legal to Own and Harvest as a Foreigner?
Yes, foreign buyers can legally own land with olive groves in Greece. In 2025, the process remains straightforward: You’ll need a Greek Tax Number (AFM) and legal support to verify land use, boundary clarity, and possible protected area restrictions.
If you’re planning to sell oil commercially, you’ll need a local tax presence or company.
Starting in 2025, all olive grove owners (including those using the land solely for personal consumption) are required to register their property in the national Olive Registry (Elaiokomiko Mitroo). This includes submitting an annual online declaration of harvest, even if no olives are collected or sold. From 2026, Greece will implement full digital traceability of olive oil production, with strict penalties for failing to register or report harvests.
While the system is designed to ensure transparency and combat illegal trade, it applies universally, including foreign, part-time, and non-commercial landowners.
Where to Look: The Best Regions for Homes with Olive Groves
Peloponnese: Known for its sweeping hills and fertile lands, especially around Messinia and Laconia. Expect a blend of tradition, sea views, and excellent roads.
Crete: Some of the oldest olive trees in the world grow here. Rethymno and Chania regions are especially popular with international buyers.
Ionian Islands (Lefkada, Corfu): Lush greenery and a unique microclimate produce silky, aromatic olive oil.
Central Greece (Evia, Pilio): A cooler climate, stone-built homes, and year-round charm.
Conclusion
A home with an olive grove in Greece is more than a real estate purchase. It’s a personal retreat. A step closer to the Greek lifestyle so many dream of. At Elxis – At Home in Greece, we help you find homes that are more than beautiful- they’re rooted. If you’re curious to explore what’s available, whether it’s a stone house in the hills of Crete or a sunny villa among the trees in the Peloponnese, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
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