Priorat Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch from Barcelona - Why This Tour Works Well

Priorat Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch from Barcelona

A Taste of Priorat: Wine, Views, and Authenticity from Barcelona

Priorat Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch from Barcelona - A Taste of Priorat: Wine, Views, and Authenticity from Barcelona

If you’re craving an escape from the bustling streets of Barcelona and want to experience Spain’s prestigious wine region of Priorat, this full-day tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenic landscapes, intimate winery visits, and delicious local cuisine. For around $279 per person, you’ll spend approximately 11 hours exploring three distinct wineries, each with its own character and stories to tell, along with tastings and a hearty Catalan 3-course lunch. The small-group size—limited to just eight travelers—ensures a personal, relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for lovers of wine, nature, and genuine regional culture.

What we find especially appealing are the guided insights at each winery, where knowledgeable hosts share their passion alongside the specific details of Priorat’s unique terroir—fossil-studded shale soils, rugged terraces, and hand-picked grapes. The scenic drive through rugged hills and vineyards is breathtaking, and the included lunch offers a chance to savor local flavors in a convivial setting. On the flip side, the 11-hour duration can be a long day for some, especially if you prefer more leisurely mornings or are sensitive to long bus rides.

This tour is a great fit for wine enthusiasts, landscape lovers, or anyone looking for a cultural day trip out of Barcelona. You’ll likely appreciate the blend of delicious wines, stunning scenery, and the small-group intimacy, which makes every visit feel special and personalized.

Key Points

  • Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers ensures personal attention and interaction.
  • Visit three top-rated Priorat wineries, each offering a different perspective on local winemaking.
  • Learn from passionate guides about the region’s unique geology and wine production.
  • Includes a 3-course Catalan lunch, paired with wines at one of the wineries.
  • Transport is included in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey smooth.
  • Authentic, boutique wineries provide a genuine taste of Priorat’s terroir and craftsmanship.

Discovering Priorat: An Authentic Wine Adventure

Priorat Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch from Barcelona - Discovering Priorat: An Authentic Wine Adventure

The Priorat wine region is renowned for its full-bodied reds and challenging growing conditions, which give its wines a distinct character. This tour begins early in the morning, with a pickup from the central meeting point at Banc d’Espanya, in Barcelona’s historic city center. The hour-long drive out of the city introduces you to the rugged landscape—terraced vineyards carved into hillsides, fossil-rich shale soils, and a landscape that seems almost sculpted by nature herself.

First Stop: Celler Devinssi

Your journey begins at Celler Devinssi, a boutique winery that offers a wine tasting outdoors, weather permitting, with sweeping views of the surrounding hills. Here, you’ll learn about the winery’s process and their wines, which are crafted in small batches. The tasting experience in the fields is a highlight, especially for those who appreciate seeing where the grapes grow before they become wine. One review mentions the “amazing views from the hill” and the “learn about boutique winery processes”, making this a memorable start to the day.

Second Stop: Clos Figueras

Next, you’ll visit Clos Figueras, a winery run by Christopher Cannan, a pioneering figure in Priorat wine. On your way, you pass vineyard terraces, where grapes are harvested by hand—a labor-intensive process that’s often overlooked but critical in producing these high-quality wines. The tasting here includes three different Priorat varietals and a tour of the winery, giving you insight into how the region’s characteristic wines are produced. Guests praise the experience, with one reviewer calling the guide “very knowledgeable” and the lunch at this stop “spectacular,” with options to pair with wines.

Third Stop: Clos Dominic S.L.

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to Clos Dominic in the tiny village of Porrera. Here, you’ll meet Paco Castillo-Serrano, who runs this family winery. You’ll tour old-vine vineyards, which are integral to Priorat’s reputation for intense, concentrated wines. Tasting vintage samples in a vineyard setting, with beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere, is a highlight many reviews highlight as “special.” The personal nature of this visit provides a sense of connection between growers and guests.

The Lunch Experience

Throughout the day, a three-course Catalan lunch is included, giving you a chance to enjoy local specialties. The lunch is often described as “spectacular”, with the opportunity to sample regional dishes paired with wines. Guests mention the “fantastic lunch” and the “delicious food”, which adds a convivial element to the day. The combination of wine tasting and regional cuisine embodies the spirit of authentic Catalan culture.

The Journey Back

After the last winery visit, you’ll relax during the return drive to Barcelona, often with time to reflect on the day’s experiences. The tour concludes back at the meeting point, making the logistics straightforward.

Why This Tour Works Well

Priorat Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch from Barcelona - Why This Tour Works Well

The small-group format ensures you aren’t just another face in a crowd but rather a participant in an engaging, personalized experience. Guides like Samuel, Jose, and Mariela are praised for their knowledge and personable manner. Their insights turn what could be just a wine tasting into an educational journey that enhances appreciation for both the wines and the landscape.

Travelers consistently remark on the stunning scenery, from vineyard terraces to breathtaking mountain vistas. The boutique wineries visited are praised for their authenticity and the opportunity to interact directly with winemakers and family owners, making the experience more genuine than large commercial tours.

The value of this tour extends beyond just the wine tastings. It’s about learning the local stories, seeing the diverse landscape, and tasting regional foods in charming settings. The 11-hour length might be lengthy for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or less travel time, but for those eager to fully explore Priorat, it’s a comprehensive package.

Practical Details and Considerations

The price of $279.09 includes transport, guiding, tastings, and lunch, offering great value considering the depth of experience. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, particularly since one review highlights the short hike to a vineyard. There’s no hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the designated point at Banc d’Espanya.

The tour is most suitable for travelers aged 18 and over, given the wine tastings, but it’s open to most travelers who can handle the 11-hour day. Vegetarian options are available—just be sure to specify when booking if needed.

What Travelers Should Know

  • Booking typically requires about 60 days in advance, underscoring its popularity.
  • The tour runs from 8:30 am and ends back at the meeting point.
  • It’s a full-day commitment, ideal for those who want an immersive experience rather than a quick visit.
  • The group size is capped at 8, which helps create a close-knit, interactive environment.

In The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For wine lovers eager to explore the best of Priorat’s boutique wineries, this tour delivers a personal and educational experience amid stunning scenery. The expert guides like Samuel and Jose keep the day engaging, sharing stories that deepen your appreciation for the region’s unique terroir. The scenic drive, vineyard visits, and authentic tastings make it a well-rounded, memorable outing.

If you value small-group intimacy, genuine regional hospitality, and delicious regional cuisine, this is a fantastic choice. The long day suits travelers who want to make the most of their time out of Barcelona and are prepared for a full, engaging adventure. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to taste distinctive Priorat wines directly from the producers, and everyone will leave with a better understanding of what makes this rugged, beautiful landscape so special.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or have mobility concerns, consider whether a half-day tour better suits your style. Otherwise, for those seeking a comprehensive introduction to one of Spain’s most acclaimed wine regions, this tour checks every box.

FAQ

Priorat Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch from Barcelona - FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guiding by a local expert, tastings at three wineries, and a 3-course Catalan lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 11 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Barcelona by evening.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available; just be sure to specify when booking.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits group size to 8 travelers for a more personal experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 60 days ahead. Confirmations are received immediately after booking.

Are there any age restrictions?
The minimum age is 18 due to wine tasting regulations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, especially if you plan to walk in vineyards or hilly areas.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point at Banc d’Espanya.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours before the tour’s start, for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of small-group intimacy, authentic boutique wineries, and stunning landscape views creates a truly memorable experience for the curious traveler.

This detailed look into the Priorat Wineries Tour should help you decide if it’s the right fit for your trip. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply eager to see a stunning corner of Spain, it promises a day filled with good company, great wine, and unforgettable scenery.