High-End Vineyard Escape: Cava, Tapas & Wine | Private Tour

A Private Wine Journey Through Catalonia’s Hidden Gems

If you’re craving a luxurious yet authentic wine experience outside the bustling streets of Barcelona, this private tour might just be your perfect afternoon. For around $516 per person, you’ll spend about six hours exploring two boutique, family-owned wineries in the picturesque regions of Penedés and Pla de Bages. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, tastings of up to eight high-quality wines and cavas, and a delightful tapas feast in a local winemaker’s home.

What we find most appealing about this experience is how personalized and relaxed it is—thanks to the private setup, you won’t be part of a big crowd, and your guide can tailor the visit to your interests. Plus, you’ll get to learn directly from passionate winemakers and enjoy stunning vineyard landscapes that are often hidden from tourist crowds.

One thing to consider is the cost—it’s certainly on the higher end, but the value comes from exclusive access, intimate tastings, and a genuine look into small-scale Catalan winemaking. If you appreciate authentic environments, love good wine, and enjoy personalized attention, this tour is an excellent fit.

This experience suits wine lovers eager to explore boutique wineries, travelers wanting a luxury, behind-the-scenes view of Catalan wine culture, and those interested in combining scenic drives with gourmet tastings. It’s also great for visitors who value flexibility and personal guides over large group tours.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Your own guide and vehicle ensure a tailored experience.
• Authentic Wineries: Visit family-owned estates with long histories, not large commercial operations.
• Tastings and Tapas: Sample up to 8 wines and cavas paired with local cheese and cured meats.
• Historical and Scenic Settings: Explore wineries with buildings dating back to the 10th century and enjoy stunning vineyard views.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share insight into Catalan wine-making and regional culture.
• Flexible and Convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for maximum comfort.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Finca Ca n’Estella

Your journey begins at Finca Ca n’Estella, a charming estate managed by the third generation of the Vidal family, Anna Vidal. The estate is housed in an 18th-century masia, a traditional Catalan country house, which lends an authentic, rustic atmosphere. Here, you’ll learn about the small-scale wine and cava production that’s driven by passion rather than mass-market success.

The highlight? Tasting beautifully crafted sparkling wines and local foods served on the veranda of Anna’s family home. The setting encourages a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, where the focus is on quality, tradition, and family pride. The winery’s very name, Rabetllat i Vidal, promises a personalized touch, and reviews rave about the delicious cava and warm hospitality.

Expect about two hours at this stop, with guided tours revealing the processes behind their wines and plenty of time to enjoy the pairings of tapas—hot and cold dishes that showcase Catalan cuisine. This part of the tour offers a fantastic introduction to Catalan winemaking in a setting that feels both historical and intimate.

Stop 2: Oller del Mas

Next, you’ll head to Oller del Mas, a winery with a layered history and a focus on local identity. Since it remains a family-owned operation, you’ll get a richer perspective on small-scale wines compared to more commercial producers. This estate is notable for its long-standing history and its mountain location, which adds to its appeal.

Here, you’ll learn about their winemaking obsession with local terroir, and you might even get a glimpse of their organic practices. The estate’s scenic setting, with views of Montserrat mountains, makes the visit even more memorable. Expect a guided visit, tasting several wines, including sparkling cava, and an in-depth explanation of their production methods.

This stop also lasts about two hours, giving you time to appreciate the landscapes, soak in the atmosphere of a historic estate, and enjoy the delicious wines. You might find it interesting that the size of the wineries and their hands-on approach lends to a genuine, unpretentious experience—something that many reviewers highlight as a major plus.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes the use of an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the drive between wineries comfortable, even on warm days. Plus, with hotel pickup and drop-off, you avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or finding your way back after a full day of tasting.

The group is private, meaning just your party—this allows for more interaction with guides, flexibility in the schedule, and a less crowded experience. Travelers consistently mention how easy and stress-free the logistics make the day—something many reviewers appreciate.

Guides and Personal Touch

Guides like Jon, Pol, Aurora, Clara, and Javier clearly have a knack for making the day educational, engaging, and fun. They share their knowledge of wine, local traditions, and the wineries’ stories, which elevates a simple tasting into a cultural experience. Multiple reviews mention guide friendliness and expertise as a highlight, and some stories involve meeting winery owners, adding a personal dimension to the visit.

A review from Adrienne captures this well: “Our tour guide Jon was the absolute best. Not only was he very accommodating but he was very friendly and knowledgeable of the history and the wineries.” This personal touch is what makes the tour stand out from larger, more generic options.

The Wines and Tapas

You’ll sample up to 8 wines and cavas, with most reviewers describing the reds, whites, and sparkling options as delicious and diverse. The wineries pride themselves on small-batch, high-quality production, and the tasting experience reflects that.

The tapas—local cured meats, cheeses, and vegetarian options—complement the wines beautifully. Several reviews note the generous and tasty pairings, which enhance the overall value. One reviewer points out that “the tapas were to die for,” emphasizing how thoughtfully curated the food offerings are.

The Value for the Cost

While $516 may seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included: private transport, expert guides, visits to two boutique wineries, extensive tastings, and a tapas meal. The personalized approach and exclusive visits to family-run wineries make this a premium experience. Travelers repeatedly mention the quality of wines, guides, and scenery—indicators that the experience offers excellent value.

Many reviews, such as Neil’s, describe the tour as “an unforgettable journey,” justifying the price through authenticity, intimacy, and expert guidance. Plus, the comfort and convenience of door-to-door service add to the overall experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts who want to learn about Catalonia’s boutique wineries in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s perfect for those who value personalized service, scenic landscapes, and high-quality tastings. If you’re looking for a luxurious escape from the city with a focus on authentic, small-scale wine production, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It also suits visitors who appreciate local culture and history, as the wineries are rich in stories and tradition. The flexible itinerary and private guide make it a good choice for couples, small groups, or families seeking a customized experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time, visits, tastings, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
Your price covers private transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, a dedicated guide, visits to two wineries, tastings of up to eight wines and cavas, and a tapas platter.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available for the tapas.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
If you have reduced mobility, it’s best to contact the company beforehand. Some walking is involved at the wineries.

Are the wineries modern or historical?
They tend to be boutique, family-owned, with some estates dating back to the 10th century, offering a mixture of historical charm and modern craftsmanship.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, especially since there is walking involved and winery temperatures can vary.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your party participates, providing flexibility and a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, for a full refund.

Will I learn about winemaking?
Absolutely. Guides share insights into the process, history, and regional specifics, making it both fun and informative.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, authentic look at Catalonia’s wine culture, this private vineyard tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and gourmet tasting. It’s a chance to visit family-run wineries with centuries of tradition, enjoy delicious local tapas, and gain a deeper appreciation for Catalan wines.

While it’s a higher-priced experience, the personalized service, exclusive visits, and quality of wines make it a worthwhile splurge for discerning travelers. It’s particularly suited for those who want to combine scenic drives, cultural stories, and top-notch wine in a relaxed setting—and to do it all without the crowds.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to deepen your understanding of Spain’s wine-making heritage, this tour is a well-crafted, memorable way to spend part of your time in Barcelona.