Wild experience: discover, cook & eat the local wild flora

Wild experience: discover, cook & eat the local wild flora

Imagine wandering through the countryside of Catalonia, foraging for wild herbs, and then turning those found treasures into delicious, healthy tapas—all in just three hours. That’s exactly what this Wild Flora Tour offers, guided by knowledgeable locals in the scenic Alt Penedès region. With a price of $397 for a group of up to five, it’s a cozy, hands-on experience that goes beyond typical wine tasting or sightseeing.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines educational fun with practical skills: not only do you learn the nutritional and medicinal properties of local plants, but you also get to cook with them. Plus, the setting at the Arrels Voladores farm offers a peaceful rural backdrop that feels authentic and inviting.

The only possible drawback? The activity requires a minimum of 7 participants to run at the standard rate, but it can be adapted for smaller groups at a slightly higher cost—something to keep in mind if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. This tour suits those eager for a hands-on, eco-minded, culinary adventure that reveals a completely different side of Catalonia—beyond its renowned wines and beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Educational and tasty: Learn about wild plants’ uses while cooking and tasting.
• Authentic local scenery: Experience rural Catalonia at Arrels Voladores farm.
• Flexible options: Can be tailored for small groups, with a higher price.
• Family-friendly: Kids under 5 get free entrance; older kids get discounts.
• Guided by locals: Berta, the guide, is highly praised for her knowledge.
• All-inclusive: Includes herbal teas, water, wild tapas, and a cooking workshop.

The Experience in Detail

A Walk Through Catalan Flora

We begin at the Arrels Voladores farm, a charming rural property that feels both rustic and welcoming. The guide, Berta, quickly sets a relaxed tone, explaining that the walk will be adapted to the group’s needs, which means you’ll get a personalized experience whether you’re a botany buff or a complete novice.

The ethnobotanical walk takes us into the local landscape, where we learn to recognize wild plants that grow freely in the region. Berta’s knowledge shines as she shares the nutritional, medicinal, and culinary properties of each plant. Expect to find some hidden gems—plants that are often overlooked but are packed with flavor and health benefits.

During the walk, you’ll see how locals have historically used these plants, giving you insight into traditional Catalan herbal remedies. We loved the way Berta explained how certain herbs can serve as superfoods—a perfect way to elevate your home cooking with ingredients that are free and natural.

Cooking with Wild Ingredients

After the walk, it’s time to get hands-on. The cooking workshop takes place in a cozy kitchen setup where you’ll prepare wild tapas—a delightful mixture of plant-based, gluten-free options inspired by the ingredients you collected. The focus on local, sustainable, and healthy food means you’re not just eating wild herbs but also learning how to incorporate them into everyday meals.

The reviews mention how delicious the snacks turned out and how helpful Berta was in guiding the process. One guest remarked, “We prepared delicious snacks in a home kitchen,” emphasizing the approachable and fun nature of the cooking part. Plus, you get to taste three wild tapas on the spot, washed down with herbal teas and water, giving you a real taste of rural Catalan flavors.

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A Picnic in the Countryside

The experience concludes with a picnic or a tasting in the farm’s porch, offering a relaxed atmosphere to savor your creations. It’s a perfect setting to share your impressions, ask questions, and soak in the natural surroundings. The wild tapas tasting is highly praised, with guests noting the quality and originality of the flavors.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts about three hours, making it a great half-day activity. It’s available in English, Spanish, and Catalan, with a live guide leading the way. The experience is private, ideal for families, small groups, or friends traveling together.

Transport-wise, the farm is about an hour from Barcelona and Tarragona, accessible via country roads, which adds to the rural charm but requires some careful driving—normal cars can reach it, but slower speeds are advisable. There’s also a note that the activity can be done anywhere in Catalonia with a small extra transport fee of 0.35/km.

The cost of $397 for up to 5 people offers good value considering the personalized attention, the hands-on cooking, and the unique learning experience. For smaller groups, the activity can be tailored at a slightly higher price, which makes it flexible for different travelers.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of Berta, with comments like “Fabulous! Berta was super knowledgeable” and “She is excellent.” Many mention how the experience exceeded expectations, with one traveler noting they would definitely repeat the tour.

The culinary aspect gets high marks: “We prepared delicious snacks,” and the wild tapas tasting is described as both original and flavorful. Families appreciate the fact that kids under five are free, and older children receive discounts, making it accessible for all ages.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits nature lovers, foodies, and eco-conscious travelers who want to go beyond the typical Catalonian attractions. It’s an excellent choice if you’re curious about local flora, want to learn practical herbal uses, or enjoy cooking classes with a rustic twist.

It’s particularly appealing to those who appreciate small-group, personalized experiences, and are comfortable with rural settings and country roads. If you’re traveling with children or as a couple seeking an authentic, hands-on activity, this tour will deliver.

The Sum Up

This wild flora experience offers a refreshing alternative to standard Catalonian tours. It combines learning, eating, and exploring in a way that feels genuine and personal. The guidance from Berta elevates the experience, making even the most novice plant foragers feel confident and engaged. You’ll walk away not only with new knowledge but also with tasty wild tapas and a new appreciation for the plants growing just outside your doorstep.

If you’re into nature, local food, and sustainable living, this tour is a great value—especially considering the intimate setting and expert guidance. It’s perfect for those who want to connect with the land, learn practical skills, and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal in the countryside.

However, be mindful of the group size requirements and the need to drive on rural roads. If you’re flexible and curious, this experience will be a memorable highlight of your Catalonia trip.

FAQ

Can I join this tour if I am traveling alone?
Yes, but note that the standard rate is based on a group of seven. Smaller groups are possible but at a slightly higher cost, making it more suitable for small groups or families willing to share.

Is transportation included?
No, transport isn’t included. The farm is about an hour from Barcelona and Tarragona, accessible via country roads. The tour can be adapted to other locations within Catalonia for an extra fee.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for walking outdoors and bring sturdy shoes. The walk is adapted to your group’s needs, but comfortable footwear is advised.

Are the cooking options gluten-free?
Yes, the wild tapas are plant-based and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. Kids under five get free entrance, and older children can join at reduced rates. It’s a family-friendly activity.

What do I need to bring?
All tools, water, teas, and tasting are included. Just bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure!

This Wild Flora Tour offers a genuine, tasty, and educational taste of Catalonia’s natural environment—perfect for travelers eager to explore local traditions in a hands-on way.

You can check availability for your dates here: