Like so many before and since, when internationally renowned designer Philippe Starck discovered Ronda some years ago he was immensely moved by the enthralling ambience and landscape surrounding the Andalusian town. Starck has described the historic municipality located high in the mountainous countryside of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park above Marbella as one of the most powerful places in the world.
Deciding to create “the most incredible object of my life” in Ronda, the Frenchman then collaborated with organic oil brand LA Organic on an ecological initiative expected to bring thousands of visitors to the area. Their joint venture promises to provide an unforgettable experience within an idyllic setting of olive groves, vineyards and farmland, where people can appreciate the history, process and production of olive oil.
The LA Organic Experience recently opened its unique doors to the public, who can now enjoy the first phase of the enterprise via a guided tour and itinerary chock full of surprises. The company describes the event as a “sustainable and gastronomic experiential project that offers a unique experience in which oil is the main protagonist.”
The final part of the development is El Toro, a Starck designed ecological museum-mill that awaits one final approval from local planning authorities. Once plans have been approved by the regional government’s Environmental Department a works licence can be issued and 90 ton capacity cranes will be transported to the site and construction can commence before summer 2020 at an estimated cost of 18 million euros.