Full-day Somontano Wine Excursion and Visit Alquezar

Explore the Charm of Somontano and Alquezar in a Full-Day Tour

This full-day excursion from Zaragoza offers an engaging blend of wine tasting, cultural exploration, and culinary delights. For $283.33 per person, the tour provides approximately 9 hours of immersive experiences, including visits to Bodega LAUS, the historic castle and collegiate church of Alquezar, and a traditional local restaurant. This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts and those curious about the culture and history of Somontano.

With a maximum group size of eight travelers, the experience feels intimate, allowing for personalized attention from guides. The tour also features pickup service and mobile ticketing for convenience. The reviews highlight enthusiastic guides and a focus on quality wine and food, making it a well-rounded choice for a day out of Zaragoza. However, some physical activity is involved, so moderate fitness is recommended.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $283.33, this 9-hour tour combines cultural and culinary highlights.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to eight travelers ensure a personalized experience.
• Includes: Wine tastings at Bodega LAUS, entry to Alquezar castle, and a regional lunch with local wines.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable about wine, history, and local culture.
• Ideal For: Wine lovers, history buffs, and those interested in regional gastronomy.

Visit Bodega LAUS: A Unique Winery Surrounded by Vineyards

The tour begins at Bodega LAUS, established in 2002. This winery is described as an “island in Somontano”, surrounded by water, vineyards, flowers, and sunshine. The name LAUS comes from Latin, meaning “Praise”, reflecting the winery’s celebratory spirit. The logo features the earth in I Ching symbolism, emphasizing connection to the land and soil.

During the visit, a guided tour of the winery is included, where you learn about the winemaking process and the unique qualities of local wines. Afterward, you sample three major wines, complemented by local snacks. The admission fee is included, and the tasting experience highlights the distinctive flavors of the region’s wines, often found only in Somontano.

Discovering the Historic Castle and Collegiate Church of Alquezar

Next, the tour takes you to Castillo de Alquezar, a ninth-century fortress built by Khalaf ibn Rasid to defend against Christian kingdoms. Your guide leads you through Alquezar’s streets, where the castle and the collegiate church of Santa Maria La Mayor are major highlights.

The castle’s history shifts from military stronghold to religious institution after it was conquered by Sancho Ramírez around 1067. He established a community of Augustinian canons by 1099, and the Romanesque collegiate church was built to serve this religious community. Visitors can expect to see ancient architecture combined with stories of medieval conflict and faith, making the site both informative and atmospheric.

Tasting Regional Cuisine at Casa Pardina in Alquezar

After exploring the castle and town, the tour includes a lunch break at Casa Pardina, located on Calle Medio 13. Here, the focus is on local dishes and regional wines. The restaurant is praised for serving delicious local specialties, giving visitors a true taste of Somontano’s culinary traditions.

The lunch lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which you can enjoy a relaxed meal paired with local wines. The experience offers a chance to savor authentic flavors and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of this traditional restaurant. The meal and wine are included in the tour price, adding great value for those eager to indulge in regional gastronomy.

Logistics and Group Experience

The tour starts promptly at 8:30 am, with pickup available for convenience. The small group size of up to eight travelers ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with guides. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness since walking and some uneven surfaces at historical sites are involved.

The mobile ticket simplifies the check-in process, and cancelation is free if done 24 hours in advance. Weather can affect the experience, but in case of poor conditions, you are offered an alternative date or full refund.

Why This Tour Stands Out: Wine, Culture, and Cuisine

What makes this full-day tour special is its focus on regional wines and historic sites. The visit to Bodega LAUS allows guests to appreciate the local wine-making tradition in an intimate setting. The stop at Alquezar combines visual charm—with its ancient castle and cobbled streets—with insightful stories shared by guides.

The inclusion of a regional lunch with local wines at Casa Pardina enhances the experience, turning a sightseeing tour into a culinary journey. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially their ability to combine history, wine, and food into a seamless experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is tailored for wine lovers wanting to taste rare regional wines directly from a boutique winery. It also suits those interested in history and architecture, given the visits to Alquezar’s castle and old town. The small-group format offers a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, ideal for intimate groups or those seeking personalized attention.

While the physical activity is moderate, visitors should be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces. The tour’s average booking time of 57 days in advance suggests high popularity, so early reservation is recommended.

Final Thoughts on the Somontano Wine and Alquezar Tour

This full-day experience from Zaragoza offers a well-balanced mix of wine tasting, historical exploration, and regional cuisine. The expert guides and small-group setting provide an engaging and relaxed atmosphere. The included meals and tastings mean you enjoy authentic flavors without extra costs, and the visits to Bodega LAUS and Alquezar give a genuine glimpse into Somontano’s culture.

While physically moderate, the tour is perfect for those who appreciate wine, history, and local food. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a personalized day trip that combines culinary delights with cultural discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour departs from Zaragoza at 8:30 am.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours.

What is included in the price?
The wine tastings at Bodega LAUS, entry to Alquezar castle, and lunch at Casa Pardina with local wines are all included.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness and involves walking on uneven surfaces, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for exploring Alquezar’s historic streets and sites.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to eight travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Do I need to speak Spanish to enjoy the tour?
Guides are knowledgeable and can communicate effectively, often in English, but specific language options are not detailed.

Is the tour available in different seasons?
Weather conditions may affect the experience, but the tour operates year-round with the possibility of rescheduling in case of poor weather.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked around 57 days in advance, so early planning is advisable.