Wine route with tasting and pairing in the La Mata Natural Park

Introduction

For travelers seeking a taste of authentic Spain beyond the typical tourist spots, this Wine route with tasting and pairing in La Mata Natural Park offers a delightful mix of nature, history, and local delicacies. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, it’s highly rated, with a perfect five-star score from those who have, and it promises an engaging three-hour journey into the region’s vineyards and culinary traditions.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the intimate setting—small groups of no more than 15 travelers—ensuring personalized attention, and the combination of scenic nature walks with expert-led tastings. The tour’s focus on local organic products elevates it beyond a typical tasting, making it a genuine dive into the area’s gastronomic identity.

One point to consider is that the tour involves about 800 meters of walking through natural terrain, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with light to moderate outdoor activity. It’s ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and anyone interested in understanding how history and nature shape regional cuisine. If you’re looking for a relaxed, educational experience that combines scenic views with quality tastings, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: A small-group tour focusing on regional wines, cheeses, and oils.
• Scenic setting: The natural beauty of La Mata Natural Park enhances the tasting experience.
• Expert-led tasting: A knowledgeable sommelier guides you through three DO Alicante wines, including a unique wine from the park.
• Culinary pairing: Organic, regionally sourced cheeses, oils, and homemade tapas provide a taste of local craftsmanship.
• Historical insights: Learn about the importance of vineyards in the area’s past, especially post-19th-century plagues.
• Accessible yet engaging: Suitable for most travelers with mild walking ability, with a focus on authentic, unpretentious experiences.

Exploring the Tour Itinerary

Starting at the Centro de Interpretación Parque Natural La Mata, the tour kicks off at 11:00 am with a brief overview of the park’s history and its vineyards. This initial part sets the context, helping you understand why this area became a vital wine-growing region. As you listen, you’ll gain a sense of how the vineyards played a crucial role in the 19th century, especially after the filosera plague, which devastated crops and prompted local innovation.

From here, the group ventures into the centuries-old vineyards. Walking through these time-honored vines, you’ll notice the rugged charm and the ecological importance of this land. Your guide will explain what makes these vineyards so special—perhaps the soil, the climate, or traditional practices—adding layers of appreciation for the wines you’ll taste later.

As you stroll, you’ll make two brief stops: one to observe the canal connecting the sea with the lagoon, demonstrating how water management and local geography influence vineyard cultivation; and another to spot local bird species like plovers and flamingos—an enchanting reminder that this landscape is as vital for wildlife as it is for grapes.

Once the walk concludes, you’ll arrive at the tasting area, where a sommelier awaits with a selection of three DO Alicante wines. Among these, one is crafted directly from the very vineyards you’ve admired. The tasting is a relaxed, seated affair, allowing you to savor each sip while soaking in the natural surroundings.

Tasting and Pairing Experience

The highlight of the tour is the pairing of wines with local products, which elevates the tasting into a true culinary experience. You’ll sample two premium extra virgin olive oils, one Arbequina and one Picual. These oils are organic and traditionally made, offering a genuine taste of the region’s agricultural craftsmanship.

The wines include three local varieties, with one being a white wine from La Mata’s vineyards—an authentic expression of the area’s terroir. You’ll appreciate how these wines balance fruit, acidity, and minerality—qualities that make them a fine accompaniment to the regional cheeses and tapas.

The cheeses, awarded in 2021 and 2023, are homemade and regional, adding a layer of pride and craftsmanship to the experience. Accompanying these are two homemade tapas, each showcasing local flavors. The pairing is thoughtfully curated, making it clear that quality and authenticity are the guiding principles.

Practical Details and Experience Value

The entire experience lasts around three hours, making it perfect for a morning or early afternoon outing. The tour operates with a small group size (up to 15 travelers), ensuring an intimate atmosphere, which we find ideal for engaging conversations and personalized attention.

For travelers concerned about mobility, the tour involves about 800 meters of walking through natural terrain, which is accessible to most but should be discussed in advance for those with mobility restrictions. The meeting point at the Centro de Interpretación is easily accessible by public transportation, and service animals are allowed.

Pricing at $45.50 per person strikes us as quite reasonable given the quality of the products, the guided experience, and the scenic setting. The inclusion of organic, handmade cheeses and oils—both award-winning—adds significant value, as does the opportunity to learn about the region’s viticulture and natural environment firsthand.

Authenticity and Traveler Feedback

While this tour currently has only one review, it’s glowing: “Pairing experience highly recommended in the Natural Park of La Mata, a fantastic place. The staff very attentive, polite and very friendly making the place and experience unforgettable.” This suggests that the tour’s personal touch and the quality of the tastings leave a lasting impression.

The focus on local, organic products and the pairing with authentic regional wines seem to resonate strongly with travelers who appreciate genuine, unpretentious experiences. The natural setting adds an extra layer of charm, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an immersive journey into the local culture and environment.

The Sum Up

In sum, this Wine route with tasting and pairing in La Mata Natural Park offers a well-rounded look at the region’s viticultural and culinary traditions. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning about local history, savoring quality wines, and experiencing nature without sacrificing comfort. Small groups and expert guidance ensure a personalized, educational experience that feels authentic and relaxed.

While it’s a short tour, the depth of information, the scenic beauty, and the high-caliber local products make it a worthwhile choice for anyone with an interest in Spanish wine and regional flavors. It’s especially suitable for curious travelers who appreciate the story behind their wine and want to connect with the land in a meaningful way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves approximately 800 meters of walking through natural terrain, so it’s accessible to most, but travelers with reduced mobility should inform the provider in advance to ensure comfort and arrangements.

What is included in the price?
For $45.50 per person, you get a guided walk through the vineyards and natural park, three local wines (including one from the park), two premium extra virgin olive oils, two homemade tapas, and two award-winning cheeses. The experience also includes expert commentary and a scenic natural setting.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 38 days ahead, which suggests that spots fill quickly—especially in peak seasons. Booking early guarantees your place in this popular small-group experience.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
The tour starts at 11:00 am, making it an ideal mid-morning activity when the weather is usually comfortable and the lighting perfect for enjoying the outdoors and scenic views.

Are the wines and products locally sourced?
Yes, all products—including the cheeses, oils, and wines—are regional, organic, and homemade, emphasizing local craftsmanship and authentic flavors.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are advisable given the outdoor terrain. A hat, sunscreen, and water are good ideas, especially on warmer days. Since it’s an outdoor experience, dress in layers if needed.

This tour stands out as a meaningful way to connect with La Mata’s natural beauty and local produce. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a nature lover, or just curious about regional traditions, it offers a relaxed, authentic slice of Spain that’s well worth considering.