Barcelona: Wine Tasting Tapas Marimurtra Blanes Costa Brava

Travelers looking to combine a taste of Spain’s renowned wines with the natural beauty of the Costa Brava will find this 7-hour tour offers a delightful mix of both. It’s a well-rounded experience that takes you out of the bustling city to enjoy some of Catalonia’s most memorable sights and flavors — with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and savor local delights.

What we love about this tour is the way it balances premium wine tasting at an eco-conscious winery with stunning panoramic views at the Marimurtra Botanical Garden. Both stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase local craftsmanship and extraordinary natural beauty. Plus, the optional photo shoot means you can preserve those incredible moments, although it’s a small extra fee.

One thing to consider is that this tour involves a fair amount of traveling — roughly 45 minutes each way in a comfortable private vehicle. While the pace is relaxed, travelers who prefer a more leisurely, extended exploration might find the two hours of free time in Blanes a bit brief. Nevertheless, the tour’s focus on quality experiences makes it ideal for those wanting a taste of the Costa Brava’s best without the hassle of planning.

This tour suits anyone with an interest in good wine, stunning views, and local culture — whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day trip from Barcelona. It’s especially appealing if you like blending guided experiences with free time to explore at your own pace.

Key Points

• Authentic Wine Experience: Tastes top-quality, eco-friendly wines paired with tasty tapas.
• Natural Beauty: The Marimurtra Botanical Garden offers over 4,000 plant species and breathtaking coastline views.
• Comfortable Transport: Private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth trip with flexible pickup times.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, entrance fees, and optional photo services.
• Local Insights: Guides are fluent in multiple languages, including English, and provide thoughtful recommendations.
• Perfect for Mix of Nature & Nosh: Combines scenic beauty with delicious food and drink.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

This guided day trip from Barcelona is designed for those eager to experience more than just the city’s iconic sights. It’s a well-paced 7-hour journey, giving you a chance to enjoy Catalonia’s wine tradition and its lush landscapes. The tour starts with a hassle-free hotel pick-up, so you can relax right from the start, knowing transportation is taken care of.

The Journey and Transport

The journey begins with a private van or minivan ride, lasting around 45 minutes to an hour. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a real plus on warm days, and the small group setting ensures a more intimate experience compared to large coach tours. The ride itself is part of the charm — you get glimpses of the Catalan countryside and coast as you leave the urban sprawl behind.

The Wine Tasting at a Premium Winery

Once at the winery, you’ll be treated to a top-quality and eco-friendly wine tasting, supported by a winery that supports sustainable practices. Expect to sample some of Spain’s finest wines, expertly paired with delicious tapas that complement each sip. These bites are carefully curated to enhance your tasting experience, making each glass even more enjoyable.

The focus on sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here — many of these wineries employ environmentally friendly practices that help preserve regional wine quality. For wine enthusiasts, this means drinking well while supporting regional growers committed to ecological responsibility.

Exploring the Marimurtra Botanical Garden

Next, your journey takes you to the Marimurtra Botanical Garden in Blanes, one of the most beautiful spots along the Mediterranean. Created by Carl Faust, a passionate German businessman, the garden features over 4,000 plant species, including many exotic specimens. You’ll be walking among towering palms, colorful succulents, and rare trees, all set against the backdrop of spectacular coastal views.

The garden’s location on steep sea cliffs provides a dramatic setting, and the views are truly postcard-worthy. Many visitors remark on how the garden is a perfect blend of natural beauty and carefully curated design. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the garden combines nature with stunning vistas — it’s the kind of place you want to take your time exploring.”

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Free Time in Blanes

After the garden, you’ll enjoy about two hours of free time in Blanes, a charming seaside town. Whether you want to stroll along the promenade, explore local markets, or sample freshly caught seafood, there’s plenty to see and do. The town’s lively atmosphere and scenic beaches make it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch or a quick dip in the Mediterranean — if you’re feeling adventurous.

Additional Options & Practicalities

For those wanting a few extra keepsakes, an optional photo shoot is available for a small extra fee, ideal for capturing the highlights of your day. The tour is conducted in English, with guides also speaking German, Spanish, or Russian, making it accessible for international travelers.

Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance — a sensible policy for flexible travelers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start: Hotel pickup in Barcelona at a time to be confirmed, generally around 10 a.m.

Stop 1: En route, the group travels through Catalonia’s scenic landscape, with relaxing commentary from your guide.

Stop 2: The first major highlight is the eco-conscious winery, where you’ll get a chance to understand local wine-making traditions, sample several wines, and enjoy tapas designed to complement each sip. The focus on quality and sustainability makes this more than just a tasting — it’s a window into Catalonia’s wine culture.

Stop 3: After the wine experience, the journey continues to Blanes, where the Marimurtra Botanical Garden awaits. This garden is a true feast for the senses — lush, colorful, and perched above the sea. The views from here are often described as breathtaking, and many visitors find it to be a highlight of the trip.

Stop 4: You’ll have about two hours to explore Blanes at your own pace. The town’s lively markets, quaint streets, and coastal charm invite plenty of wandering.

Return: The group departs from Blanes and makes the 45-minute drive back to Barcelona, arriving by around 5 p.m.

What We Think Works Well

The quality of the guides stands out. As one reviewer mentioned, “Our guides took care of every little detail, making sure we were comfortable and had everything needed.” Their multilingual skills, especially in English, help ensure everyone feels included and informed.

The combination of wine and nature is well-balanced. Too often, tours focus on one or the other, but this one offers a genuine taste of local wines and the chance to walk among exotic plants and panoramic views. The focus on sustainability adds an earnest touch and appeals to eco-conscious travelers.

The free time in Blanes offers flexibility, which many travelers appreciate. Instead of a rigid schedule, you get to choose whether to relax on the beach, explore markets, or enjoy a seaside meal.

Price & Value

While not the cheapest tour around, it provides good value considering included entrance fees, wine tasting, tapas, and transportation. It’s a great way to experience the Costa Brava’s highlights without the hassle of making your own arrangements, especially if you’re short on time.

Potential Drawbacks

The two hours of free time might feel brief for those wanting a more in-depth exploration of Blanes or additional activities. Also, the tour involves a fair bit of travel, which might not suit travelers seeking a more leisurely pace or minimal transit.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized day that combines gastronomy, scenic beauty, and culture in one package. It’s especially suited for wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see a less touristy side of Catalonia.

If you enjoy guided experiences with flexible free time and appreciate eco-conscious practices, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also a fantastic choice for small groups or couples celebrating special occasions.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off with private, air-conditioned transportation, making your trip smooth and comfortable.

How long is the drive to Blanes?
The journey from Barcelona to Blanes takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

What is included in the wine tasting?
You’ll enjoy a curated selection of premium, eco-friendly wines paired with delicious tapas designed to enhance the flavors.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak English?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides also speaking German, Spanish, or Russian. Check if your language is available with the provider.

How much free time do I get in Blanes?
You’ll have about two hours to explore the town at your own pace, whether that’s relaxing at the beach or wandering local markets.

Is there an option for photos?
Yes, for a small extra fee, you can opt for a photo shoot to capture the highlights of your day.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of wine tasting, natural beauty, and coastal charm in a single day. It’s ideal for travelers eager to experience Catalonia beyond Barcelona’s city streets — those who appreciate authentic, well-curated experiences with a touch of luxury. The focus on eco-friendly wineries and breathtaking gardens makes it both enjoyable and responsible.

While the travel time might be a consideration for some, the quality of the sights, the friendliness of the guides, and the delicious wines make this a worthwhile choice. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a memorable day out, this trip is a curated slice of Mediterranean life that leaves visitors with plenty of stories to tell.

Source

https://www.getyourguide.com/barcelona-l45/barcelona-wine-tasting-tapas-marimurtra-blanes-costa-brava-t748845/

You can check availability for your dates here: