Horseback Ride, Penedes, Wine Tasting & Tapas Private Tour

Exploring Catalonia’s Vineyards on Horseback: An Authentic Day Out Near Barcelona

If you’re looking for a way to escape the bustling streets of Barcelona and dive into the tranquil beauty of Catalonia’s vineyard landscapes, this private horseback riding and wine tasting tour offers a beautifully balanced experience. For around six hours, you’ll explore Penedès, famed for its wines and scenic hills, with a backdrop of Montserrat. The tour, priced at about $914.82 per person, is an intimate experience limited to your group, making it ideal for those craving personalized attention and local authenticity.

What we especially love about this tour is its blend of outdoor adventure—riding horses through rolling hills—and culinary delights, with tastings of award-winning wines paired with delicious tapas. Plus, the hassle-free pickup from your Barcelona hotel means you start the day relaxed. On the flip side, a consideration might be that at this price point, it’s a premium experience, so it’s best suited to travelers eager to indulge in a comprehensive, well-organized day of wine, scenery, and local flavor.

This tour is a fantastic fit for wine enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, or anyone eager to see a different side of Catalonia—beyond the city’s historic sights. If you appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts and are comfortable spending part of your day outdoors, this could be a highlight of your trip.

• Personalized Experience: Private tour for your group enhances intimacy and flexibility.
• Versatile Activities: Horseback riding, wine tasting, and local cuisine make for a well-rounded day.
• Scenic Setting: Vineyards with Montserrat as a backdrop offer unforgettable views.
• Expert Guides: Laia and other guides are praised for their kindness, knowledge, and helpfulness.
• Includes Transportation: Hassle-free pickup from Barcelona saves time and effort.
• Limited Duration: Six hours is enough to enjoy a leisurely, immersive experience without feeling rushed.

What the Tour Entails and Why It Matters

The journey begins with your pickup from your Barcelona hotel, easing the stress of logistics. The transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, takes you directly into the heart of Penedès, a renowned wine region about an hour outside the city. The small group size—limited to your party—ensures a more tailored experience, where guides like Laia make everyone feel welcome and well-informed.

The first major stop is Pares Balta, where you’ll enjoy a guided wine tour and tasting. With 1 hour 30 minutes allocated here, you’ll walk through the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the region’s finest wines. Winners in their class, these wines are a key highlight, especially if you’re a fan of well-crafted reds and whites. As one reviewer put it, “The guide Laia was so kind, helpful and full of knowledge,” which elevates the experience from simply tasting to truly understanding what makes Catalonian wines special.

Next, it’s time for horseback riding at Pacs del Penedes—a flat 1-hour ride suitable even for beginners. No experience is necessary, which means everyone from first-timers to seasoned riders can join in. The fact that admission is free here makes it accessible, and the views of vineyards and orchards are truly spectacular. We loved the way guides adapted to different levels, making sure everyone felt comfortable. The horses gently meander through the hillside, providing a relaxed yet immersive way to connect with the landscape.

The Tastings and the Tapas

After the ride, you’ll sit down for a local Catalan lunch, where good company and authentic flavors reign supreme. The included wine and tapas tasting allows you to savor local products in a convivial setting. You might find yourself enjoying award-winning wines alongside fresh, regional tapas—simple but flavorful. This part of the tour offers a taste of traditional Catalan hospitality, with plenty of opportunity to chat about the wines, the scenery, and the local way of life.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides—not just friendly but eager to share insights about wine, horseback riding, and local culture. Emaline_M called it the “Best excursion!” and highlighted the “amazing guides,” while Mary_G appreciated that “the guide was really helpful and adapted to all levels of ability,” making it suitable for a range of travelers.

The scenery, often described as “beautiful,” paired with the stunning views of vineyards and Montserrat in the distance, make this more than just a wine tour. It’s a chance to experience a slice of rural Catalonia while engaging in gentle outdoor activity.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is highly praised, it’s important to note that cancellations are non-refundable. If bad weather strikes, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, but planning ahead is wise. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but with a maximum weight limit of 100 kg, it’s not ideal for everyone. The duration is manageable—around six hours—making it a good choice if you want a full but not exhausting day out.

Although priced at just over $900 per person, the combination of activities—horseback riding, wine tasting, and a traditional lunch—is quite comprehensive. The private setting means you won’t be part of a large, impersonal group, giving you more opportunity to ask questions and savor each moment. The inclusion of transportation, guided experiences, and high-quality tastings makes this a premium but worthwhile indulgence for those eager to explore Catalonia’s serene countryside with expert hosts.

This tour is particularly suited for wine lovers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a more intimate, authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots. If you’re a curious traveler craving local flavors, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure, it’s likely to be a memorable highlight.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 6 hours, including pickup, activities, and return to Barcelona.

What is included in the price?
You get private transportation, wine and tapas tasting, guided vineyard tour at Pares Balta, horseback riding at Pacs del Penedes, and a traditional Catalan lunch.

Is horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior experience is required. Guides adapt to all ability levels, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone.

Can I participate if I don’t drink wine?
While wine tasting is part of the experience, you can choose to focus on the scenery, horseback riding, and lunch. It’s best to mention any preferences when booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor walking and riding are recommended. Closed-toe shoes are best for horseback riding.

Is pickup available from all hotels in Barcelona?
Pickup is offered from designated locations, and the details can be confirmed when booking.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour appropriate for children?
Most travelers can participate, but those under 18 should check with the provider regarding age restrictions and horseback riding policies.

To sum it up, this horseback riding and wine tasting tour combines the best of Catalonia’s scenic vineyards, flavorful wines, and outdoor adventure. It’s an ideal choice for those who want an authentic, personalized experience outside the hustle of Barcelona, especially if you appreciate good guides, stunning views, and local cuisine.