- Wine Tour Destinations
With a mix of modern and historic, Barcelona uniquely combines both modernity and history in one considered area. Modernist architecture took off in the city in the 19th century and has since become a key reason for bringing visitors to Barcelona from all over the world.
A bustling city with a large population, there is truly some aspect to Barcelona that will suit everyone. You’ll find Spanish culture in abundance with lively tapas bars, plenty of great foodie spots and some fantastic galleries and museums. With a unique balance of energy and excitement in the city centre, paired with continual sunshine and beaches stretching along the 4.5km of coast, an escape to Barcelona promises the perfect combination of both activity and relaxation.
There are few cities which have evolved as well as Barcelona. The city manages to be remarkably historic and culturally rich while modern and forward-thinking.
The Gothic Quarter is an area once inhabited by the Romans many centuries ago, and today it is still home to many of Barcelona’s most well-known spots. Here, there are layers of history to unfurl – it’s not hard to catch a glimpse of the city’s glorious past. You’ll also find plenty of tree-lined avenues and the quaint, lively alleyways that make Barcelona into the bustling, modern city that it is today.
Gaudí’s renowned Parc Guell can be found in the Gracia neighbourhood, which combines ever-trendy bars and cafes with market squares and an abundance of options for places to eat. For those after that modern, dynamic atmosphere, the El Born district is filled with independent boutiques and art galleries as well as beautiful historic churches and the famous Picasso museum.
Once a fishing community, Barcelona’s 4.5km coastline promises a stretch of wonderful, sandy beaches, so an escape to Barcelona is not lacking whether you’re a city dweller or you simply want to relax. Take a stroll around the harbour and along the seafront promenade, perhaps stopping to sample some of Barcelona’s fresh seafood.
The whole city is a gastronomic hub for Catalan cuisine, and you’ll find something to whet the appetite whether it be sampling gastronomic fare (the city has more than 40 Michelin stars), or a casual stop in a lively tapas bar.
The allure of Priorat begins with its rugged, terraced vineyards that grace the slopes of the Montsant mountain range. Ancient Garnacha and Cariñena vines cling tenaciously to the land, weaving the story of this unique terroir into every bottle. Family-owned wineries and historic cellars dot the landscape, their roots reaching back through generations. Here, it’s not just about the wines but also the stories and customs passed down through time. The wines of this region are renowned for their character, a testament to the dedication of both the land and the families who have nurtured it.
The lively town of Sitges is situated on Spain’s eastern coast, just slightly further south from Barcelona (only 40 minutes by car or train). Home to no less than 17 beaches, the region proudly boasts more than 300 days of sun per year, as well as a buzzing nightlife and brilliant array of restaurants. Its 17th-century church, Església de Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, is quite literally balanced precariously on a rock over the Balearic ocean.
A wine fair and grape harvest festival take place annually in Sitges over the first weekend of October, showcasing a fascinating time to visit the region and discover the significance of winemaking in the surrounding areas.
The wider Penedès and Priorat region is home to a whole host of quaint villages, tucked away on rocky outcrops. This is the true Spanish countryside. Siurana is one example of a village you’ll spend some time in on our Exclusive Priorat tour. A legendary destination for climbers and hikers alike, this fairytale village of quaint houses and cobblestone streets is crowned by a Romanesque-style church, complete with epic views over the surrounding landscape. It was the last stronghold of the Muslim resistance in Catalonia, making for some extremely interesting history.
We had our second trip with Grape Escapes to Northern Spain and like the first, it was fantastic. We love how they tailor the trip to your desires and budget. So many moving parts that worked out seamlessly. My wife and I would highly recommend Grape Escapes.
Rob - London, UK
Around half of our trips are completely bespoke. Our expert team would be delighted to discuss your requirements and create your perfect trip.
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