Private Tour – Hike and wine tasting at the Penedés

Explore the Scenic Countryside of Penedés on a Private Hike and Wine Tour

This private tour in Barcelona offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and wine tasting in the charming region of Penedés. Priced at $302.53 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours 30 minutes, it is ideal for those who appreciate nature, history, and good wine while enjoying a personalized experience. The tour includes private transportation and guided walks, making it a comfortable yet engaging way to explore the area’s lush vineyards, hillside hamlets, and historic churches.

What makes this tour special is its focus on local culture and scenery. You get to walk through leafy forests, visit an 11th-century church, and learn about Cava wine production at a local vineyard. The inclusion of encounters with alpacas and a traditional farmhouse lunch adds a relaxed, authentic touch. This hands-on experience is well-suited for foodies and wine enthusiasts who want a more intimate adventure outside the busy city.

Key Points

• Private guided hike through Penedés’ vineyards and mountains
• Visit the historic church of Sant Miquel with stunning views of Montmell natural park
• Wine tasting and food pairing at Can Marlés winery
• Walk through scenic forests with coastal machinery and holm oaks
• Lunch at a traditional farmhouse featuring local dishes and produce
• Meet alpacas and explore charming hillside hamlets

Starting the Day at the 11th-Century Sant Miquel Church

The tour begins at 8:30 am with a pickup in Barcelona, after which you head directly to the church of Sant Miquel, a Romanesque structure dating back to the 11th century. Inside, visitors can admire its historic architecture, while outside, panoramic views over Montmell natural park provide excellent photo opportunities. The church’s location offers a peaceful setting to relax and enjoy a quick snack before heading into the countryside.

This stop is not just about history; it sets the tone for the day’s scenic journey. The views of surrounding hills and the natural landscape make it clear why this region has been a favored spot for outdoor activities and wine production for centuries. The peaceful atmosphere also signals the start of a day filled with natural beauty and cultural insights.

Strolling Through Forests and Coastal Machinery at Can Marlés Winery

The highlight of the tour is the guided walk at Can Marlés winery, where you’ll explore leafy forests characterized by coastal machinery and beautiful holm oaks. This 1.5-hour walk offers an up-close look at the natural environment that sustains the vineyards. The walk is led by a specialized mountain guide, ensuring safety and expert insights into the local flora and fauna.

Arriving at Can Marlés, visitors enjoy a guided tour of the winery, learning about Cava wine production and the unique methods used to craft this sparkling wine. The experience culminates in a wine tasting with food and wine pairing, where you can savor local wines alongside carefully selected dishes, all while soaking in mountain views. Bottled water is provided, ensuring hydration during the walk and tasting.

Savoring the Flavors of Penedés: Wine and Food Pairing

The wine tasting experience at Can Marlés is a highlight, offering an opportunity to sample local Cava wines paired with delicious food. The guide explains the nuances of the wine-making process, emphasizing the region’s tradition of producing high-quality sparkling wines. This pairing enhances appreciation for local cuisine and wine craftsmanship.

The tasting session provides a relaxed setting to discuss flavors, learn about pairing techniques, and enjoy the scenic mountain backdrop. The food served during the pairing complements the wines, featuring local produce that reflects the region’s culinary traditions.

Encountering Alpacas and Exploring Charming Hamlets

A special feature of this tour is the chance to meet alpacas, adding a quirky and memorable element to the day. Visitors can observe these gentle animals, often a hit for animal lovers and families alike. The tour also includes visits to tumbledown hamlets, where narrow streets and rustic houses tell stories of rural life.

Walking through these small villages offers a glimpse of local customs and architecture, enriching the cultural experience. The tranquil countryside and preserved historic structures highlight the area’s authenticity, making the journey more than just a wine tour.

Lunch at a Traditional Farmhouse with Local Dishes

Midday, the group visits a traditional farmhouse to enjoy a lunch of typical local dishes and produce. The meal showcases regional flavors, often including fresh ingredients from the area. This authentic farm-to-table experience provides a hearty counterpoint to the morning’s outdoor activities.

The farmhouse setting is cozy and inviting, emphasizing the region’s culinary heritage. With no lunch included in the standard package, this meal offers excellent value and allows guests to indulge in local gastronomy in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Scenic Walks in Penedés’ Mountain and Coastal Environment

Throughout the day, the tour features approximately 2 hours of walking in the mountains, characterized by leafy forests and coastal machinery. These walks are designed to be accessible, providing ample opportunity to enjoy stunning views of hills and the sea in the distance.

The terrain offers a mix of gentle slopes and shaded paths, making it suitable for most participants. The walk not only enhances the overall experience of the landscape but also deepens understanding of how the natural environment influences local agriculture and wine production.

Visiting Historic and Cultural Sites in the Region

Besides the church of Sant Miquel, the tour takes you through tumbledown hamlets and other cultural landmarks. These sites illustrate the area’s rural history, architecture, and local customs. The stops provide a quiet, reflective counterbalance to the outdoor walking and tasting activities.

The guided aspect ensures that visitors gain insights into the history and traditions of Penedés, enriching the overall appreciation of the region’s cultural significance.

Practicalities: Transportation, Group Size, and Booking

This private tour is operated by SM Experiences, ensuring a personalized experience with private transportation. Travelers are picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable. The tour is designed for most travelers, with children allowed when accompanied by an adult.

Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received immediately. The tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for planning. The group size is limited to your party, allowing for a more intimate exploration of Penedés.

Suitability and Final Recommendations

This tour is best suited for foodies, wine lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of scenic walks, cultural visits, and wine tasting. It offers a rich overview of the Penedés region, combining educational moments with relaxed enjoyment. The private format ensures a tailored experience, ideal for those seeking a more personalized day out.

While the tour does not include lunch, the visit to the farmhouse and the wine tasting compensate by delivering regional flavors and culinary insights. The stunning views, historic sites, and encounters with animals make this a memorable way to explore the countryside around Barcelona.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate when accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, guided walk at Can Marlés, wine tasting with food pairing, visit to Sant Miquel, alpacа encounters, and insurance.

Are meals included?
No, lunch at the farmhouse is not included in the standard package but is offered as part of the experience.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The walks are approximately 2 hours in total, with terrain suitable for most participants, emphasizing scenic and leisurely paths.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended for enjoying the scenic landscapes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

How personalized is this experience?
Being a private tour, it offers a more personal and flexible exploration of the Penedés region.

What makes this tour different from other wine tours?
This experience combines hiking, cultural visits, alpaca encounters, and lunch at a farmhouse, providing a full day of outdoor activity and regional immersion.

This private hike and wine tasting tour in Penedés promises a well-rounded day exploring nature, history, and wine, all tailored to your group’s interests. It is especially recommended for those seeking a personalized, scenic, and authentic taste of Catalonia’s countryside.