From Salou: Scaladei Charterhouse, Lunch and Wines

Exploring the historical and culinary wonders of Spain’s Priorat region is an enriching experience. From the well-preserved ruins of the 12th-century Scala Dei Charterhouse to the delightful flavors of a traditional Catalan farmhouse lunch, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s past and present. But the real highlight may just be the chance to uncover the ancient winemaking secrets of the Scala Dei winery. What secrets will this journey unveil?

Key Points

• This 7-hour tour from Salou takes visitors to the historic Carthusian monastery of Scala Dei, established in 1163.
• A traditional Catalan farmhouse lunch featuring fresh local ingredients is included in the tour.
• Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the Carthusian monastery and learn about its history.
• The tour includes a visit to the Scala Dei winery, one of the oldest wineries in the world, with a tasting of four different wine varieties.
• The tour includes pickup, expert guide, entrance fees, lunch, and wine tasting, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The activity from Salou features a visit to the Scaladei Charterhouse, a traditional Catalan farmhouse lunch, and a wine tasting at the historic Scala Dei winery, all for a price of $318.81 per person.

The tour lasts 7 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve now and pay later, allowing booking without immediate payment.

The tour includes pickup, an expert guide, entrance fees, lunch, and wine tasting. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing and a camera to capture the experience.

Itinerary and Locations

The tour begins with pickup from Salou, Cambrils, or Tarragona. The first stop is the Carthusian monastery of Scala Dei, founded in 1163 and a significant historical site in Priorat. Next, guests enjoy a traditional Catalan farmhouse lunch featuring fresh local ingredients. The final stop is the Scala Dei winery, one of the oldest wineries in the world, established in the 12th century by Carthusian monks.

| Location | Duration |

|———-|———-|

| Carthusian Monastery | Explore ruins, three cloisters, church, refectory, and a reconstructed cell. Learn about the history and origins of the Priorat region. |

| Winery | Tour the winery, understand the winemaking process, and taste four different wine varieties. |

Carthusian Monastery Visit

On arrival at the Carthusian monastery of Scala Dei, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, including three cloisters, the church, refectory, and a reconstructed cell.

The guided tour provides insights into the history and origins of the Priorat region, where this significant historical site is located.

Guests can wander through the atmospheric spaces, learning about the monastic life and the Carthusian order that established the monastery in 1163.

Guests can enjoy the monastic life and history of the Carthusian order that established the monastery in 1163.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the Priorat.

Winery Experience

After exploring the historic Carthusian monastery, visitors will head to the nearby Scala Dei winery for a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. The tour includes a visit to the winery’s facilities, where guests will learn about the history of the estate and the traditional methods used to produce their renowned wines. A tasting of four different Scala Dei varietals caps off the experience, allowing visitors to savor the flavors that have made this winery a cornerstone of the Priorat region for centuries.

| Winery Tour | Time Allotted |

| — | — |

| Winery History | 20 minutes |

| Winemaking Process | 30 minutes |

| Wine Tasting | 45 minutes |

| Q&A | 15 minutes |

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Inclusions and Recommendations

The tour includes pickup and transfer back to the hotel, an expert private tour guide, entrance to the Carthusian monastery, a traditional Catalan lunch, a wine tasting at the Scala Dei winery, and soft drinks.

Visitors are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, bring a camera, and dress appropriately for the weather.

Wear comfortable shoes, pack sunglasses and a camera, and dress for the weather when exploring the Carthusian monastery and Priorat region.

Booking in advance is important to guarantee availability for this popular tour.

With an experienced guide, travelers can explore the historic Carthusian monastery, savor local cuisine, and discover the winemaking heritage of the Priorat region.

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour departs from Salou, Cambrils, or Tarragona, where participants are picked up and transported to the first stop on the itinerary.

This convenient pickup service ensures a seamless start to the day’s adventure.

Whether you’re staying in Salou, Cambrils, or Tarragona, you’ll be whisked away to the historic Carthusian monastery of Scala Dei, the focal point of this cultural excursion.

The tour guide will handle all the logistics, allowing you to sit back, relax, and learn about the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Priorat region.

Lunch at the Traditional Farmhouse

After exploring the historic Carthusian monastery, the tour proceeds to a traditional Catalan farmhouse for a delightful lunch.

Nestled in the picturesque Priorat region, the farmhouse offers a true taste of local cuisine. Guests savor a menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding area.

The family-style meal includes regional specialties like pan con tomate, hearty stews, and seasonal vegetables. Accompanying the food are regional wines, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the gastronomic traditions of the Priorat.

This intimate dining experience complements the cultural exploration of the day.

History of the Priorat Region

Though steeped in history, the Priorat region boasts a fascinating narrative that has shaped its distinct character.

Established in the 12th century by Carthusian monks, the Scala Dei monastery played a pivotal role in the development of viticulture and wine production in the area.

Carthusian monks established the Scala Dei monastery in the 12th century, pivotal in cultivating viticulture and wine production in the Priorat region.

The rugged, mountainous terrain and unique microclimates have long fostered the cultivation of hardy grape varieties, leading to the creation of the renowned Priorat wines.

Today, this historic region continues to captivate visitors with its blend of monastic heritage, traditional Catalan cuisine, and world-class vintages that exemplify the rich tapestry of Priorat’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour does not appear to be specifically designed for children. However, children may be able to participate with proper supervision and consideration for the monastery visit and wine tasting components.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Lunch?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or dietary-restricted lunch. The tour provider is willing to accommodate special dietary needs with advance notice. Just let them know your requirements when booking the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour provider offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing customers to reschedule their tour if needed without penalty.

Can I Bring My Own Wine to the Tasting?

No, guests cannot bring their own wine to the tasting. The tour includes a guided tasting of four wines from the Scala Dei winery, which is part of the winery experience provided on the tour.

Will There Be Any Free Time to Explore the Priorat Region?

The tour includes visits to the Carthusian monastery and Scala Dei winery, but doesn’t mention any free time to explore the Priorat region independently. The focus seems to be on the guided activities included in the program.

The Sum Up

This captivating day tour from Salou offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Explore the well-preserved ruins of the 12th-century Scala Dei Charterhouse, savor a traditional Catalan farmhouse lunch, and discover the ancient winemaking process at the Scala Dei winery. It’s an enriching experience that delves into the Priorat region’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: