Barcelona: Marimurtra Blanes Costa Brava /+ Wine Tour +Tapas

Discovering the Costa Brava: Marimurtra, Blanes, and Wine

This tour is a well-balanced day trip from Barcelona that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and a taste of Spain’s fine wines. For $205 per person, you’ll spend a day exploring the spectacular Marimurtra Botanical Garden, perched high on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, then enjoy a leisurely one-hour free time in the coastal town of Blanes. The experience includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance to the garden, and the option to add a wine tasting and tapas at a charming seaside winery.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning coastal views and the diversity of over 4,000 exotic plants at Marimurtra make it a treat for nature lovers. Second, the optional wine tour offers a relaxed way to sample some of Spain’s best wines in a beautiful setting.

One aspect to consider: if you’re not a big fan of guided tours or prefer more flexibility, this might feel a bit structured. But for those seeking an easy, scenic day with knowledgeable guides taking care of logistics, it’s a winner.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a blend of natural scenery, cultural discovery, and some local indulgence—perfect for those who appreciate well-organized outings that remove stress and allow them to soak in beautiful vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful Location: Marimurtra Botanical Garden offers breathtaking sea views and over 4,000 exotic plants.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, making logistics simple.
• Flexible Free Time: One hour in Blanes to explore, relax, or enjoy the beach.
• Optional Wine & Tapas: Add a wine tasting experience at a seaside winery for a relaxed, flavorful end to the day.
• Personalized Experience: Private guides available upon request for a more in-depth tour.
• Value for Money: The price includes transport, garden entrance, and free time, with optional extras available.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This day trip from Barcelona offers a seamless blend of coastal beauty and cultural charm. Once you’re picked up from your hotel, the journey begins with a relaxed ride toward the Costa Brava, a region celebrated for its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and scenic villages. Your first stop is the Marimurtra Botanical Garden, where you’ll experience a lush landscape perched high on cliffs with panoramic sea views. As you walk among over 4,000 exotic plant species, you’ll appreciate the combination of horticultural beauty and dramatic natural scenery.

The garden itself is a highlight. Its terraced layout offers different vantage points, so expect plenty of opportunities for photos—whether of the vibrant plant collections or the sweeping vistas over the Mediterranean. The guide (if included) will probably share insights into the garden’s history and how it was designed to maximize the natural landscape.

After about an hour in the garden, you’ll have time to stroll through Blanes, a charming coastal town. Here, you might choose to relax at a beach cafe, wander through the narrow streets lined with local shops, or simply enjoy the seaside ambiance. The free time is generous enough for a quick snack or a walk along the promenade, giving you a taste of local life.

For those interested in wine, a highlight addition is the visit to a beautiful seaside winery for a tasting session. This optional component is a relaxing way to end the day, savoring premium Spanish wines paired with tapas. The review from Ashley notes how guides make the experience comfortable and enjoyable, with thoughtful recommendations throughout.

If capturing the memories is important, some tours offer a photo shoot option (for a small additional fee), so you can leave with professional-quality images of your trip highlights.

The tour usually lasts about a full day, with a focus on comfort and ease. The transportation is in a private car or minivan, which means less hassle and more space to relax. The small group size (based on a group of four) ensures a more personalized experience.

What We Like

We loved the spectacular views at Marimurtra, especially how the garden’s layout offers nooks for quiet reflection or stunning photo ops. The guided commentary (if included) can deepen your understanding of the garden and region, adding value beyond just sightseeing.

The free time in Blanes is another highlight, giving you enough opportunity to soak in the local vibe without feeling rushed. Whether you choose to lounge at a cafe or explore the streets, this flexibility helps tailor the day to your interests.

What to Keep in Mind

One consideration: the tour’s price is based on a group of four. For smaller groups or solo travelers, there may be an additional charge. Also, if you’re not a fan of guided tours or want more time at each stop, the schedule might feel a bit tight.

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Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an easy, well-organized day that combines natural beauty with cultural exploration. If you love gardens, scenic coastal views, or trying local wines, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s especially suitable for those looking for a comfortable, hassle-free way to explore outside Barcelona without needing to organize transport or tickets themselves.

It’s also a solid choice for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate meaningful sights paired with relaxed free time. The optional wine tasting adds a special touch for those who enjoy savoring regional flavors in a beautiful setting.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around a full day, with time allocated for the garden visit, free time in Blanes, and optional wine tasting.

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it convenient and stress-free.

Can I join if I’m traveling alone?
The listed price is based on a group of four, so solo travelers or smaller groups might pay an extra fee. Check with the provider for details.

What is included in the price?
Your price covers transportation, entrance to Marimurtra Botanical Garden, and one hour of free time in Blanes. The wine tour and tapas are optional extras.

Is the wine tasting worth adding?
Absolutely, if you enjoy wines and want a relaxing end to your day. The wine tour offers top-quality wines and a beautiful seaside setting.

Can I get professional photos during the trip?
Some tours offer a photo shoot for a small extra fee, which is perfect if you want high-quality memories of your trip.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Guides speak Catalan, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for kids, the outdoor garden and free time in Blanes can be enjoyable for families. Check with the provider about specific age restrictions.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a lovely blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and culinary delights, all in a comfortable package. The stunning views at Marimurtra make it worth the trip for anyone wanting a visual feast, and the wine tasting provides a relaxed way to wind down while tasting some of Spain’s best wines. It’s a great choice for those who prefer organized, hassle-free excursions that still leave room for personal exploration.

If you’re after a balanced day that combines scenery, culture, and flavors, this tour will leave you with plenty of memorable moments. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and easy logistics, making your day in the Costa Brava one to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: