Alt Penedès, the birthplace of some of the best cava sparkling wines in the world, is one of Catalonia’s leading regions for wine history and traditions. Located less than an hour from the city of Barcelona, it’s known for its beautiful landscape dotted with vineyards and for its eagerness to share wine culture, making it a must-see destination for wine tourism enthusiasts. But the Alt Penedès region has many surprises in store, including exceptional natural sites and numerous family activities and opportunities to unwind in a rural setting that’s committed to sustainable tourism.
A journey into the heart of wine culture
One of the Alt Penedès region’s top attractions, of course, is wine tourism. Here, vineyards aren’t just a feature of the landscape; they’re part of the heart and soul of the region that leave their mark on its every nook and cranny. The best way to discover it is the Penedès Wine Route, which offers experiences all year round, including visits to wine cellars, strolls among vineyards and wine tastings, along with activities featuring the best of local cuisine, rural accommodation and cultural attractions.
Following the grape harvest, in the autumn, the vineyards become a tapestry of vibrant colours, with shades of orange, yellow, red and gold making the landscape especially beautiful. This is undoubtedly one of the best seasons to explore the region and admire nature at its most magical.
Those interested in learning more about wine history and culture can’t miss the VINSEUM, the Catalan Wine Cultures Museum, located in Vilafranca del Penedès. This museum provides an in-depth look at the past and present of Catalan wine, from its beginnings to its current global prestige. Vilafranca also hosts a unique event: Most, the Wine International Film Festival, which every November features films about wine and cava culture, accompanied by tastings and related activities that immerse participants in this world from an artistic perspective.
Discover the region through its nature
If you’re looking to explore the Penedès countryside, one great itinerary is the Miravinya Route, which connects five lookout points boasting spectacular views of the region’s vineyards and landscape. Each lookout point also has unique artistic and architectural features, as well as QR codes linking to stories, legends and fun facts about the area.
To delve even deeper into the nature of the Alt Penedès region, you can’t miss its natural parks, which offer countless outdoor activities. The Parc dels Talls in Vilobí del Penedès, Les Deus and the Parc Comarcal d’Olèrdola are the perfect places to go hiking, learn about local biodiversity and relax amidst nature. Water is at the heart of Les Deus, with grottos, ponds and springs in a perfect setting for adventure tourism or splashy family fun. Another destination to check out is the Parc del Foix, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Montserrat mountain.
Respecting the environment
The Penedès Tourism Consortium is spearheading several projects to ensure that tourism in the area is environmentally friendly and aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). One of their key initiatives has been promoting the use of bicycles, with numerous paths for those interested in exploring the region’s countryside on two wheels.
The region has also embraced the Destination Barcelona Commitment to Sustainable Tourism, with several restaurants, accommodations, wine cellars and service companies signing on to the initiative and showing that their practices contribute to responsible economic and social development.
With its rich wine culture, stunning landscapes and strong commitment to sustainability, the Alt Penedès region offers visitors an authentic way to create an unforgettable experience while enjoying responsible tourism.
