Penedes
L'Alt Penedès, Barcelona, Catalonia
Home to more than 300 wineries, Spain’s Penedès region produces some of the country’s best cava, a sparkling wine made with the same method that’s used to make French champagne. The historic town of Vilafranca del Penedès is filled with medieval and Modernista architecture, as well as restaurants pouring locally made wines.
The Basics
Many travelers visit Penedès on a day trip from Barcelona. Though wine tasting is at the top of the activity menu, there are tours for all types of travelers. Cycle through picturesque vineyards on a guided bike tour of the region, take a food tour to sample local artisan olive oils and cheeses, or combine an afternoon of wine tasting with a morning visit to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage-listed Montserrat Monastery.
Things to Know Before You Go
Penedès is a must-visit for wine lovers and foodies.
You can pair your wine tasting with other activities such as a bicycle ride, Segway tour, or a Monastery visit.
Penedès day trips from Barcelona can last seven to 10 hours, depending on the activities that are included.
Don’t forget to bring sun protection, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
How to Get There
Penedès is 45 minutes from Barcelona. To get there, take the Renfe train from Plaza Catalunya or Estació de Sants.
When to Get There
One of the most exciting times to visit Penedès is during the autumn grape harvest, which happens during September and October. Fall and spring both offer cooler temperatures perfect for touring the vineyards. July and August tend to be the busiest months at popular wineries and Montserrat Monastery.
Famous Winemakers of Penedès
This wine region has hundreds of wineries to choose from, but a few are such big names that you’re likely to see their labels at your wine store back home. Among those that offer tours are Codorníu with its grand Modernista building, Freixenet (the biggest cava producer in Spain), and Torres, a 17th-century family-owned winery.
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