Catalonia: A Winemaker’s Table, a Luxury Food & Wine Journey

Welcome to Catalonia, a land where sun-drenched vineyards meet Mediterranean charm. Upon arrival at Barcelona airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our local sommelier before you are taken to a boutique hotel set amid the rolling vineyards of the Penedès wine region. Take the afternoon to unwind, explore the estate, or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings. As evening falls, we’ll gather for welcome drinks and a seasonal dinner at the estate’s restaurant, a perfect introduction to the flavors, wines, and spirit of Catalonia.

After breakfast at our charming wine estate, we set off to meet one of Catalonia’s most fascinating artisans, an amphora craftsman whose passion for clay and wine intertwine beautifully. Invited into his home and workshop, we’ll witness how he shapes the very vessels that some of the region’s most respected producers entrust with their wines. His work with diverse clays, each chosen for its unique mineral character, subtly influences the wines’ texture and expression. We’ll sample his own small-batch creations, beloved by past Amble guests, and even have the chance to get our hands into the clay ourselves.

Returning to the estate, we’re welcomed by one of our local legends, whose company celebrates the soul of Catalan gastronomy, where food, culture, and people come together in harmony. Over a relaxed lunch, we’ll savour a curated selection of artisan products, thoughtfully paired with local wines, each telling its own story of place and tradition.

The afternoon is yours to unwind and enjoy the estate, perhaps a stroll through the vines or a dip in the pool, before we reconvene for an unforgettable evening. Dinner tonight is at a Michelin-starred and Green-starred restaurant, where sustainability meets culinary excellence. Here, every plate reflects a deep respect for the environment, showcasing organic, locally sourced ingredients and the creativity of a chef devoted to ethical gastronomy.

It’s a day that celebrates the artistry of the land, from clay and craft to cuisine and connection.

This morning, we delve into one of Catalonia’s most beloved traditions, vermouth. At a family-owned distillery whose winemaking roots trace back to the 1800s, we’re welcomed by the fifth generation of artisans keeping this craft alive. During a private, sensory experience, we’ll explore the aromas and botanicals that make this fortified wine so alluring, touching, smelling, and tasting the ingredients that give each vermouth its distinctive personality.

From there, we continue our journey to a boutique olive oil mill tucked amid rolling groves. Here, time seems to slow as we meet the producers and learn how their meticulous process transforms olives into liquid gold. A light lunch on the estate grounds allows us to savour their oils in their purest form, paired with local ingredients that highlight their depth and character.

The afternoon invites rest and reflection back at our wine estate before a truly memorable evening unfolds. We are welcomed into the home of a local winemaker, whose family has cultivated these lands for more than four centuries. Their philosophy of respect for the soil and the rhythm of the seasons shines through in every bottle. Over dinner in their private dining room, we’ll enjoy dishes prepared by the winemaker and their team, each course thoughtfully paired with their estate wines.

A day steeped in heritage, flavour, and the personal stories that make Catalonia’s gastronomic culture so enduring.

After breakfast, we say goodbye to our vineyard estate and make our way to the beautiful seaside town of Sitges. Once we arrive and check in, the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Wander along the promenade, explore the town’s winding lanes filled with boutiques and cafés, or simply relax by the Mediterranean. Sitges invites you to slow down and soak in its timeless coastal charm.

As evening approaches, we venture inland to Vilafranca del Penedès, the heart of Catalonia’s wine country, for an unforgettable immersive experience. Here, local producers gather to share the flavours that define their region, from oyster farmers and jamón curers to artisanal cheesemakers. Guided by our local sommeliers, we’ll taste how the wines of Penedès beautifully complement each of these local delicacies, revealing the deep connection between land, craft, and cuisine.

The evening culminates in a truly special cultural encounter, an up-close look at one of Catalonia’s most extraordinary traditions: the castellers, or human towers. Witnessing this breathtaking act of balance and unity offers a powerful glimpse into the spirit of community that defines the region and its people.

A day that moves from seaside serenity to the heart of Catalan culture, blending flavour, tradition, and unforgettable connection.

This morning, we embrace the rhythm of coastal life with an unforgettable sea-to-table experience. Hosted by a local fisherman who brings in the day’s freshest catch, we’ll watch as he prepares and cooks right before us, sharing the stories, traditions, and deep respect for the sea that have defined his way of life. Over a long, leisurely lunch, we’ll savour each bite paired with local wines, including the cherished Malvasia of Sitges, a historic varietal once at risk of disappearing but lovingly preserved by the community. Its revival is a true testament to the town’s devotion to heritage and craftsmanship.

As the golden light of evening settles over the town, we’ll meet our local guide, a lifelong Sitges resident whose passion for her hometown brings its stories vividly to life. She’ll share the fascinating history of the Americanos, locals who returned from the Americas in the 19th century and infused the town with prosperity, grand architecture, and a cosmopolitan flair that still defines it today.

Our evening concludes with an intimate private dinner in a hidden gem of a restaurant, owned by a couple who embody the spirit of modern Catalan cuisine. The chef, once at the helm of a Michelin-starred restaurant in Barcelona, chose to leave the city behind in pursuit of a more personal connection with his guests. Here, in a warm and welcoming space, we’ll savour beautifully crafted dishes that reflect both his mastery and his devotion to authenticity , a true taste of the Catalan way of life.

A perfect day that captures the heart of Sitges, its sea, its stories, and its soulful gastronomy.

Today we return to the heart of the Penedès wine region for a day that perfectly embodies the essence of Catalan hospitality , where food, wine, and heartfelt connection come together. At a beautiful local winery, we’re welcomed by both the winemaker and a renowned private chef, who grew up among the vines of his family’s estate. After years spent cooking in restaurants across Austria and Mexico, he’s returned home to express his deep love for Catalonia’s ingredients and traditions through his cuisine.

Together, they’ll host an unforgettable winery lunch, where the chef creates a seasonal menu inspired by the land around us. Each dish will be paired with the estate’s wines, thoughtfully introduced by the winemaker, whose passion and respect for the territory shine through in every glass. It’s a long, joyful afternoon of storytelling, sharing, and savouring, a true celebration of local craftsmanship and culinary artistry.

In the evening, you’ll have free time to explore the town at your own pace, perhaps discovering a local tapas bar or enjoying a quiet stroll along the seaside promenade.

For those joining us on the September departure, this day holds an extra layer of magic — the chance to experience the Santa Tecla Festival, one of the region’s most vibrant and cherished celebrations. Expect lively streets filled with music, fireworks, and the joyful energy of community coming together, an unforgettable glimpse into Catalan culture at its most alive

Today we journey south into the rugged hills of Priorat, a region that stands in striking contrast to the rolling landscapes of Penedès. Here, steep, terraced vineyards cling to slate-rich llicorella soils, producing wines of extraordinary depth, structure, and character. The terrain is dramatic, the climate unforgiving, and yet, from these extremes comes some of the most powerful and soulful wines in all of Spain.

Our first stop is one of Priorat’s most celebrated wineries, a true pioneer in the renaissance of this region’s wine. We’re welcomed by the owner himself for an intimate and privileged experience, a deep dive into the philosophy, precision, and passion that have defined his work and helped shape the identity of modern Priorat.

Next, we’re invited into the countryside to a traditional masia, where local farmers open their doors to share their way of life. Surrounded by olive trees and orchards, we’ll gain an insider’s perspective on artisanal production and taste the fruits of their labour over a relaxed light lunch on the estate, a genuine taste of Catalan rural life.

Finally, the evening brings the pinnacle of our week together, an exclusive visit to the private estates of a local winemaking family whose dedication to craft and terroir has earned them international acclaim. We’ll explore two of their most prized vineyards, gaining rare access to areas not open to the public. As the sun sets over the hills, we’ll gather for a private dinner on the estate, where a local chef prepares a bespoke menu paired with the family’s wines.

It’s a truly unforgettable finale, a night that captures everything Amble Journeys stands for: insider access, connection, and the shared joy of food, wine, and place.

After a final breakfast, we bid farewell to the vineyards, villages, and people who have shared their craft and culture with us. Over the past week, we’ve experienced what Amble Journeys is truly about, insider access to places few travellers ever see, immersive culinary encounters that celebrate Catalonia’s rich traditions, and the kind of meaningful connections that turn travel into something unforgettable.

As we say our goodbyes and transfer to the airport, we leave not just with memories of remarkable meals and wines, but with new friends and a deeper connection to this extraordinary region, one that lingers long after the journey ends.

For additional details about travel logistics and preparations, explore our Frequently Asked Questions

Note: This is the current itinerary and it is possible that things may change. We will make every effort to ensure that the tours and experiences offered are as described. However, it is possible that things may change last minute. Please also note that you do have the option to skip an excursion, however, we will be unable to offer any refunds for missed meals or events.

Dietary restrictions - Due to the nature of the event it may not be possible to accommodate dietary restrictions, however we let the chefs/restaurants we work with know of any restrictions you inform us of. This tour is also not recommended for vegetarians.