Wine tourism in Catalonia: the best routes and experiences for enjoying wine
Wine is part of the soul of our land. Catalonia not only produces some of Spain’s most renowned designations of origin, but has also managed to turn this tradition into a vibrant tourist attraction.
Wine tourism in Catalonia combines culture, nature and gastronomy, offering visitors the opportunity to visit wineries, tour vineyards and discover small villages where life still revolves around the grape.
At Villa Engracia, in the heart of the Conca de Barberà region, we experience this phenomenon first-hand. Our accommodation is located next to the Monastery of Poblet and surrounded by vineyards that invite you to lose yourself in aromas, stories and landscapes. From here, it is easy to embark on routes that combine the best of wine with the most authentic essence of Catalonia.
The most notable wine tourism routes in Catalonia
Priorat: the mineral essence of wine
When talking about wine tourism in Catalonia, one must mention Priorat. This region is renowned for its slate soils, known as ‘llicorella’, which give its red wines a unique, powerful and elegant character.
Notable varieties: Grenache and Carignan.
Recommended wineries: small family-run producers in Gratallops or Scala Dei.
What to do: walk among the steep terraces and enjoy an outdoor tasting, with views that look like a painting.
Tip: autumn is the best time to visit. The colours of the vineyards and the mild climate make every walk an unforgettable experience.
El Penedès: cradle of cava and innovation
The Penedès is another must-see on any wine tourism trip in Catalonia. It is best known for producing cava, although it also surprises visitors with fresh white wines and an increasing number of organic projects.
Typical activities: electric bike routes, guided tours of modernist cava cellars and pairing workshops with chocolate or artisan cheeses.
Unique experience: many wineries offer brunch among the vineyards, where you can sample local products while enjoying a freshly uncorked cava.
Tip: if you’re travelling during the grape harvest (September), book in advance. The Penedès region is packed with visitors and exclusive experiences sell out fast.
La Conca de Barberà: authenticity next to the Monastery of Poblet
Just a few minutes from Villa Engracia, Conca de Barberà is the perfect destination for those seeking a more peaceful and authentic wine tourism experience in Catalonia. Its native variety, Trepat, is winning over international critics with its freshness and versatility.
Cultural routes: visit the ‘wine cathedrals’, modernist wineries designed by disciples of Gaudí.
Local experience: Trepat tastings accompanied by local cured meats, ideal for discovering the local identity.
At Villa Engracia, we especially recommend this route to those looking to combine wine with history, as the Monastery of Poblet, a World Heritage Site, completes the experience.
Empordà: wines with a Mediterranean breeze
In the far north of Catalonia, Empordà offers wines with a personality shaped by the tramontana wind and the proximity of the sea.
Perfect for: those who want to combine beach and wine tourism in the same trip.
Wine tourism experiences in Catalonia for all tastes
Guided tastings and local pairings
Walks among vineyards and active routes
Experience the grape harvest first-hand
Guided tastings are the basis of wine tourism. In Catalonia, many wineries offer pairings with goat’s cheese, extra virgin olive oil or even traditional sweets. Each glass thus becomes a journey of flavours.
For those who enjoy nature, there are wineries that organise walking, cycling or even 4×4 tours through the vineyards. This is recommended for those looking to connect with the landscape in a different and very special way.
Between September and October, many wineries open their doors to participate in the grape harvest: picking grapes, treading them and monitoring the start of fermentation. It is one of the most authentic wine tourism experiences, combining tradition and fun.
Gastronomy and Wine Tourism in Catalonia
Wine cannot be understood without the food that accompanies it. Catalonia is the land of calçots, coca de recapte, artisan sausages and seasonal cuisine that pairs perfectly with its wines.
In winter: nothing beats a calçot with romesco sauce accompanied by a fresh Trepat.
In summer: the white wines of Penedès pair well with light dishes such as seafood salads.
Gourmet experience: many restaurants near Villa Engracia offer pairing menus that allow you to taste the best of local cuisine alongside wines from Conca de Barberà.
Practical tips for planning your wine tourism trip in Catalonia
Ideal duration
Recommended season
Equipment
Reservations
Travelling in a group
A weekend is perfect for discovering an area, but if you want to explore several routes, book at least 4–5 days.
Spring and autumn are the seasons with the best weather and most beautiful landscapes.
Comfortable clothing, walking shoes and, in summer, a hat and sunscreen.
Although some wineries accept impromptu visits, it is best to book in advance to ensure a more personalised experience.
Many wineries offer discounts or private activities for small groups, recommended for families and groups of friends.
Some quick questions [FAQ]
Do you need to know about wine to enjoy wine tourism?
Can children participate in winery tours?
What is the average price of a visit?
No. The tours are designed for both experts and curious visitors. The important thing is to let yourself be guided and enjoy the experience.
Yes, many wineries offer tailored activities: grape juice tasting, grape harvesting workshops, or vineyard walks. Wine tourism in Catalonia can also be a family experience.
It depends on the winery and the activity. A visit with tasting usually costs between €10 and €20, while premium experiences can exceed €50.
The value of local accommodation
Experiencing wine tourism is not just about visiting wineries, but also staying in surroundings that complement the experience.
At Villa Engracia, we offer rural rooms and apartments next to the Monastery of Poblet, a strategic location for accessing the Conca de Barberà, Priorat and Penedès regions.
After a day of tastings and visits, our guests enjoy the tranquillity of the natural park and share a glass of local wine in a unique setting.
We believe that this balance between activity and rest is what makes wine tourism in our area a complete and authentic experience.
Wine tourism in Catalonia is an invitation to discover much more than just wines: it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in an ancient culture, listen to stories from winegrowers and explore landscapes that change with each season.
We encourage you to plan your route calmly, enjoy each glass and let yourself be surprised by the authenticity of our land.
Whether in Priorat, Penedès, Empordà or Conca de Barberà, there are wonderful places to admire and routes such as the Cistercian route to enjoy nature. All this, together with wine, will always be the perfect excuse to travel, learn and share.