Wine tourism in Priorat
Wine Tourism in Priorat: destination information, how to move in Priorat, Top Wine Experiences, Itineraries and tours, tips and secrets.
Nestled in Catalonia, the Priorat wine region is famed for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and perfect conditions for producing some of Spain’s top wines. Steep terraced vineyards on red and black slate soils, known as “llicorella,” along with a warm Mediterranean climate, create the ideal environment for bold, full-bodied red wines, particularly Garnacha and Cariñena.
With a winemaking tradition dating back to the 12th century, Priorat is a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
If you're already familiar with the Priorat wine region, feel free to skip this guide and directly start your search for wine experiences in Priorat on Winedering.com.
The Destination: Priorat
Priorat, a renowned wine region in Catalonia, is characterized by its rugged terrain and unique llicorella slate soils, which impart a distinct minerality to its wines. The steep, terraced vineyards, at elevations of 100 to 700 meters, are ideal for Garnacha and Cariñena grapes. The region’s hot Mediterranean climate, with significant day-to-night temperature swings, helps intensify the concentration and balance of these full-bodied wines. Long, hot summers and cool nights create optimal conditions for producing powerful wines rich in complexity and structure.
Priorat's history of winemaking stretches back to the 12th century, when Carthusian monks founded the Cartoixa d'Escaladei monastery, planting vineyards that would shape the region's wine legacy. Over the centuries, the influence of the monastery expanded across seven key villages, cementing Priorat’s role as a viticultural powerhouse. Despite facing setbacks during the Spanish Civil War and political unrest, Priorat achieved Denomination of Origin status in 1954 and was later granted the prestigious Denomination of Origin Qualified (DOQ) in 2000, placing it in the highest category of Spanish wine regions, alongside Rioja.
Beyond its world-class wine, Priorat offers visitors a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and culture. The region’s terraced vineyards, dramatic landscapes, steep cliffs, and deep valleys make it an ideal destination for hiking and photography, attracting wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Key places to explore in Priorat include:
Falset
The capital of Priorat, Falset, offers visitors the opportunity to explore a range of historical and cultural sites. Highlights include the Castle of Falset, which houses the Priorat Wine Museum, offering insights into the region’s rich winemaking history. The Falset old town features charming medieval streets and squares, perfect for strolling. Wine lovers will appreciate the Celler Cooperatiu de Falset, a modernist winery designed by renowned architect Cèsar Martinell. Falset also serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of the Montsant Natural Park.
Escaladei
Here you will find the renowned Carthusian Monastery of Escaladei, the birthplace of Priorat’s winemaking tradition. Visitors can explore the impressive ruins of the monastery, which include the church, cloisters, and monks' cells, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Montsant Mountains. The site offers a unique glimpse into monastic life and the early history of winemaking in the region. The surrounding area also provides stunning views and hiking opportunities.
Porrera
In Porrera, visitors can explore a mix of history and wine culture. Highlights include the Sant Antoni Abat Church, which offers a glimpse into the town's past, and Plaça de Catalunya, the central square known for its charm. The Sundials Route is a unique attraction, featuring several historic sundials around the village. Porrera is also home to renowned wineries where you can enjoy tastings. The scenic landscapes of surrounding vineyards and hills provide great opportunities for hiking and photography.
Gratallops
In Gratallops, visitors can explore several notable wineries, many of which offer tastings of the region's exceptional wines. The Iglesia de San Llorenç, a beautiful historic church, is a key landmark, while the surrounding terraced vineyards and rolling hills provide picturesque views.
Siurana
In Siurana, visitors can explore the Castle of Siurana, a Moorish fortress with incredible views over the surrounding cliffs and valleys. The Church of Santa Maria, a well-preserved Romanesque church, adds to the village’s historical charm. Siurana’s dramatic location atop a cliff makes it a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing, offering breathtaking vistas of the Siurana Reservoir and the rugged landscape. The village itself is a picturesque blend of medieval history and natural beauty, perfect for exploring on foot.
How To Reach Priorat
When planning a trip to Priorat, here are three different travel routes to fully experience the region's unique landscapes, winemaking traditions, and rich culture:
Start your journey in Falset, the capital of Priorat, where you can visit traditional wineries producing bold, full-bodied reds from Garnacha and Cariñena grapes. Explore the historic Cooperativa Falset Marçà, a modernist winery dating back to 1919. From there, head to Gratallops, home to some of the region’s most prestigious wineries. Enjoy wine tastings with sweeping views of the terraced vineyards and dramatic mountain landscapes. End your day in Scala Dei, where you can visit the ruins of the Cartoixa d’Escaladei monastery, which has deep roots in the region's winemaking history.
Route 2:
Cultural and Scenic Journey
This route combines wine with local culture and breathtaking landscapes. Start in Porrera, a picturesque village surrounded by steep vineyards. Visit small, family-run wineries and enjoy local cuisine at traditional restaurants. From Porrera, drive through the scenic roads toward Siurana, a medieval hilltop village offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and vineyards. Wander through the cobblestone streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading to Bellmunt del Priorat, where you can explore the Museu de les Mines, highlighting the area's historical connection to mining and its influence on the land.
For a quieter, more rustic experience, begin in the peaceful village of La Morera de Montsant, located at the foot of the Montsant Natural Park. Explore lesser-known wineries that focus on sustainable and biodynamic practices. From there, hike or drive into the Montsant mountain range, which offers numerous trails with panoramic views of the region. Stop by the small village of Torroja del Priorat to visit boutique wineries and stroll along the ancient streets. End your day in Escaladei, where you can relax with a glass of local wine while watching the sun set over the terraced vineyards.
Flights
For international travelers, reaching Priorat is straightforward, with Barcelona being the nearest major city. The closest international airport is Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), which is very well-connected with flights from major cities worldwide. From the airport, you can rent a car or take public transportation to reach Priorat.
Car / Ncc
After landing in Barcelona, renting a car is the most flexible option for reaching and exploring Priorat. The drive from Barcelona to Priorat takes about 2 hours (around 150 km). Take the AP-7 motorway towards Tarragona, then follow signs for Falset and the Priorat wine region via the C-37 or C-12 l, highways.
The journey offers stunning scenery as you wind through picturesque landscapes, but it's important to drive carefully — Priorat's rural roads are narrow and winding, often set on steep hillsides. Sharp bends, blind corners, and steep drops with minimal barriers are common, and while most roads are paved, some vineyard paths may be gravel or uneven. A compact car is recommended, and driving during daylight hours is safer, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking views of terraced vineyards and mountains.
If you are coming from other parts of Spain or France, the AP-7 motorway runs along the coast, connecting cities like Valencia, Girona, and Toulouse, making it a great starting point for a road trip.
Trains
From Barcelona, take a train to Tarragona or Reus, the closest cities to Priorat. Trains from Barcelona Sants station to Tarragona take about 1 hour. From there, you can rent a car or take a local bus to Priorat, though car travel is recommended for easier exploration. Both Tarragona and Reus have car rental options, and it’s about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from there to Priorat.
Bus
The company Hispano Igualadina operates direct bus routes from Barcelona to Falset, the main town of Priorat. Buses depart from Barcelona Nord Bus Station, with a journey time of approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic and stops. However, once in Falset, you’ll need a car to explore the wineries and other sites in the surrounding areas.
How to visit wineries in Priorat
To visit wineries in Priorat, renting a car is the most flexible option due to its hilly, remote terrain, and no public transportation options are available for winery visits. You can rent a car in cities like Barcelona or Tarragona and explore at your own pace, or use private transfer services if you prefer not to drive.
Another great option is to join an organized wine tour, which often includes transportation, winery visits, tastings, cultural stops, an English-speaking guide, and sometimes meals.
Here are the guided tours we offer through Winedering in the Priorat wine region.
Half-day Private Priorat Wine Tour from Barcelona
Discover the timeless charm of Priorat with a day tour from Barcelona, starting at the historic Scala Dei Winery. Explore the winery’s ancient cellars, guided by an oenologist, and enjoy a tasting of four expertly crafted wines paired with local cheeses and cold cuts. The tour also includes a visit to the remnants of the Scala Dei monastery and the picturesque village of Siurana, known for its dramatic cliffs and Moorish history. A perfect blend of wine, history, and natural beauty awaits.
Private Priorat Wine Tour from Barcelona: Exclusive Cellars, Wines and Unique Countryside
Experience the beauty and wines of Priorat with a full-day tour from Barcelona that includes visits to three wineries. You'll enjoy private tastings, learning about the region’s unique terroir, and savoring a full Catalan countryside meal with expertly paired wines. The tour offers stunning views of the region’s steep hills, river canyons, and old vines. It’s an immersive wine adventure with transportation in a modern, air-conditioned van and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. It’s a perfect choice for small groups, with a maximum of 8 participants.
Wine & Food in Priorat
The Land of Llicorella
Priorat is one of Spain’s most distinguished wine regions, known for producing powerful red wines, particularly from the recommended grape varieties Garnacha and Cariñena. The remaining authorized red varieties are Garnacha Peluda (a mutation of Garnacha which translates as "hairy Grenache"), Ull de Llebre (the local name for Tempranillo), and international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Syrah. International varieties are often found in blends with local grapes, adding more layers of complexity to the wines.
Spain’s vineyards are renowned for low yields due to the hot, dry climate, but Priorat’s vines are especially low-yielding, even by these standards. This is a critical factor in the region’s reputation for high-quality wines, as lower yields typically result in more concentrated flavors. Priorat’s low yields can be attributed to 3 main factors: climate, nutrient-poor soils, and older vine age.
Priorat is divided into 12 official subzones, each imparting unique characteristics to the wines due to variations in soil, microclimates, and elevation. These subzones, which often appear on wine labels, not only denote specific geographical areas but also adhere to stricter production criteria, ensuring the expression of each area's distinct terroir. The 12 subzones are: Vila de Bellmunt, Vila de Escaladei, Vila de Gratallops, Vila de El Lloar, Vila de La Morera del Montsant, Vila de Poboleda, Vila de Porrera, Vila de Torroja, Vila de la Vilella Alta, Vila de la Vilella Baixa, Masos de Falset, and Solones de El Molar. This zoning system, introduced in 2009, was based on a comprehensive study of the region’s diverse soils and microclimates, drawing parallels to the renowned climats of Burgundy.
Priorat wines are known for their meticulous aging in oak barrels, which adds depth, structure, and complexity. Known for their intense flavors of dark fruit, spice, and minerality, these wines often display remarkable aging potential, allowing them to mature gracefully over decades. Both small artisanal producers and larger wineries contribute to the region's diverse styles while maintaining high-quality standards. Priorat wines are highly sought after for their distinctiveness and exceptional ability to evolve, making them among the finest in the world.
Priorat wines were traditionally classified by aging designations like Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva, each with specific requirements for oak and bottle aging. However, recent updates have simplified this system. Most red Priorat wines now follow the "Vino de guarda" standard, requiring at least 12 months of oak aging before bottling. Additional terms, such as Fermentado en Barrica or Barrica, indicate the wine was fermented or aged in barrels of 600 liters or less, while the term Roble is accompanied by the duration of time spent in the barrels.
In addition to its white, rosé, and red wines, Priorat also produces several unique fortified wine styles. Vino Rancio is aged outdoors for at least five years, developing a rich, oxidized character and high alcohol content. Vino de Licor Dulce is a sweet fortified wine, while Vino Mistela (white or red) is a very sweet grape-based aperitif made by adding grape spirit to must. Vino Dulce Natural is similar to France’s Vin doux naturels, made from partially fermented sweet grapes with a minimum alcohol content of 15%.
Interesting fact...
Priorat is full of fascinating facts, and one of the most intriguing is the cultivation of "costers", or steep, terraced vineyards. These ancient terraces, some dating back to Roman times, require traditional, labor-intensive hand-harvesting because machinery can't operate on such steep slopes. This meticulous approach preserves the region’s unique landscape and enhances grape quality, producing highly concentrated, complex wines.
Gastronomy in Priorat
Gastronomy in Priorat is deeply rooted in its Catalan heritage, with a focus on simple, robust flavors that reflect the region’s rugged terrain and agricultural traditions. The cuisine is characterized by local, seasonal ingredients such as meats, legumes, and vegetables, often cooked in a rustic style. Many dishes pair perfectly with Priorat’s bold, full-bodied red wines. Whether enjoyed in village taverns or wineries, Priorat’s cuisine highlights the region's connection between food, wine, and tradition.
Here are some traditional dishes from Priorat that pair beautifully with its wines:
Rostit de Conill
A rustic rabbit stew slow-cooked with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. It’s hearty, flavorful, and reflects the rural traditions of the region. Wine Pairing: Priorat Garnacha – Its bold fruit and earthy notes complement the rich flavors of the stew.
Truita amb Suc
Escudella i Carn d’Olla
A Catalan meat and vegetable stew that’s hearty and nourishing, typically made with beef, chicken, and various root vegetables. Wine Pairing: Priorat Crianza – The wine’s structure complements the stew's savory depth.
Botifarra amb Mongetes
A classic dish of grilled Catalan sausage (botifarra) served with white beans sautéed in olive oil and garlic. Wine Pairing: Garnacha-Syrah blend – Its robust body and spice pair perfectly with the sausage.
Fricandó
A rich beef and mushroom stew, often prepared with a sauce made from dried mushrooms, white wine, and stock. Wine Pairing: Aged Priorat red – The wine’s complex structure and tannins work well with the umami and earthy flavors of the dish.
Panellets
These small marzipan-based sweets traditionally made with ground almonds, sugar, and sometimes sweet potato, coated in pine nuts or coconut. They’re often eaten during the All Saints’ Day celebration in Catalonia but are enjoyed year-round.
In addition to its wine production, Priorat is renowned for its Siurana DOP olive oil, particularly made from Arbequina olives. This premium oil is known for its fruity and smooth flavor, with subtle notes of almonds and green apples, making it a staple in both local and gourmet cuisine. The Siurana DOP region encompasses various areas of Tarragona, including Priorat, and adheres to strict production standards to ensure quality.
The region also produces high-quality almonds and hazelnuts, which thrive in the Mediterranean climate, as well honey and herbs, particularly rosemary and thyme, which grow abundantly in the region's natural landscapes. These agricultural products, combined with the region’s wine, showcase Priorat’s diverse and rich farming heritage.
Top 5 Wine Experiences
Here are our top 5 recommendations for wine experiences in Priorat, carefully selected by Winedering, the world's most popular wine and food experiences marketplace. These experiences, booked by thousands of customers, are the ones we highly recommend for creating unforgettable moments.
Premium Wine Tour & Tasting at Vinícola del Priorat
Embark on a journey at Vinícola del Priorat, where you’ll explore century-old vineyards and historic cellars. This tour includes a guided visit through scenic vineyards and the historic “Sindicat Agrícola” facilities, followed by a tasting of five wines paired with local cheeses, sausages, extra virgin olive oil, and chocolate (if selected). The experience offers a deep dive into Priorat's winemaking traditions and showcases its exceptional products, combining nature, culture, and flavors for an unforgettable visit.
Rating
: 4.5/5
Experience type: Vineyard and winery visit & tasting
Ideal for: couples, friends, groups
Barrel Tour and Wine Tasting at Perinet in Priorat
Perinet invites you to an exclusive experience in the heart of Priorat, offering a tour of its Gaudi-inspired barrel room and vineyard. This unique tasting includes four premium wines, with one straight from the barrel and a limited edition, paired with local cheeses and cold cuts. The experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, providing a personalized exploration of Perinet’s finest wines and winemaking process.
Rating: 5/5
Experience type: Winery, vineyard visit & tasting
Ideal for: couples, friends, and groups (up to 12 people)
PICA-PICA Wine Tasting at Celler Devinssi in Priorat
Escape to the vineyards of Priorat with this delightful experience at Celler Devinssi. This experience includes a guided vineyard tour followed by a tasting of three wines, paired with a delightful assortment of Catalan "pica-pica" such as toast, cured ham, sausage, cheese, olives, and nuts. Learn about the winemaking process while enjoying local flavors in this authentic Catalan setting.
Experience type: Vineyard visit & tasting
Ideal for: couples, friends, and groups (up to 10 people)
Atavus Origins - Premium Wine Experience at Atavus in Priorat
Atavus invites you to explore their philosophy of crafting organic, low-intervention wines with the Origins Wine Experience in Priorat. The tour includes a guided visit to the winery’s production areas, followed by a tasting of 7 wines from two appellations. The tasting is accompanied by local cold cuts, cheeses, and hazelnuts, all enjoyed with stunning 360º views of Priorat's landscape. This experience offers a deep dive into natural winemaking and the unique flavors of the region.
Rating: 5/5
Experience type
:
Winery tour & tasting
Ideal for: Couples, friends, groups
Priorat Wine Tasting between stones and mountains with Cellers Capafons-Ossó
At Celler Capafons-Ossó, you’ll enjoy a tasting of 7 to 9 unique wines, including breezy whites, bold reds, and rare old vintages not available on the market. The experience allows you to taste current varietals and explore how different vintages evolve, influenced by varying weather conditions. This immersive visit invites you to dive deep into the world of Priorat wines. Guests loved the warm and welcoming atmosphere at Cellers Capafons-Ossó, making them feel at home and eager to return.
Rating: 5/5
Experience type
: Wine tasting
Ideal for: Solo visitors, couples, groups (up to 12 people)
Itineraries and Wine Tours
in Priorat
If you need some inspiration for your next trip or looking to adjust your current reservations in the Priorat wine region, check out our top two itineraries recommended by Winedering for the world-famous Priorat. The Winedering team has meticulously curated these tours to offer an exceptional experience.
Tour #1: Half-Day Priorat Wine Tour from Falset
Enjoy a delightful half-day journey through the stunning Priorat wine region. You'll explore two exceptional wineries, touring the cellars and vineyards while sampling a diverse selection of their distinct wines. At one of the stops, you'll experience a unique barrel tasting, getting a firsthand look at how the wines develop over time. Pair these exquisite wines with local delicacies, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region, for a truly immersive Priorat experience.
/
11 am
At 10.30 am, depart from Falset by car or private driver.
/
2 pm
Transfer to Celler Devinssi, the ride takes around 30 min.
/
5.45 pm
Arrive at
Celler Devinssi
for a
guided vineyard tour followed by a tasting of 3 wines, paired with a delightful assortment of Catalan tapas.
Duration
: 1 h 45 min
/
6 pm
Return to Falset. Total duration: around 7,5 hours.
Tour #2: Full-Day Priorat Wine Tour from Tarragona or Reus
Explore the rich wine heritage of Priorat on this full-day tour, visiting three exceptional wineries. Throughout the day, you'll taste around 19 distinct local wines, paired with regional snacks at two wineries. Enjoy guided cellar tours at two of the stops, an immersive vineyard visit at one, and a detailed tasting session at the third. This comprehensive experience offers a deep dive into Priorat’s winemaking traditions, showcasing its unique terroir and exceptional wines.
/
11 am
Depart from Tarragona at 10 or from Reus at 10.20 am
.
/
1 pm
Drive just 2 minutes to reach Vinícola del Priorat for your next wine experience.
/
4.30 pm
Transfer to Cellers Capafons-Ossó. The drive takes around 15 minutes.
/
7 pm
Arrive at Cellers Capafons-Ossó for a guided tasting of 7 to 9 unique Priorat wines.
Duration: 2 hours
/
7.45 pm
Return to
Tarragona
or
Reus
.
Total duration: 8 hours
Enjoy Wine Experiences
in Priorat
With detailed itineraries and insider tips, your adventure through the Priorat wine region will be both seamless and enriching.
Remember to take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and soak in the warm hospitality of the local winemakers and residents. Here's to many memorable wine experiences in Priorat, that you can easily book online on Winedering.com, the best online wine tourism marketplace worldwide.
Buen Viaje and salud to an unforgettable adventure in Priorat!