If you’re considering a day in Alicante that combines good wine, tasty food, and a touch of local culture, this tour might just be what you’re after. While I haven’t personally done this exact experience, I’ve looked into it closely, and it seems to strike a nice balance between tasting and sightseeing. What really caught my eye is the opportunity to enjoy regional wines at a well-rated bodega and then explore the beautiful Santuario Santa Magdalena in Novelda—two very different but equally rewarding experiences.
One aspect I really appreciate is that the tour includes a gourmet lunch with regional wines, beer, and soft drinks. That’s not just a snack; it’s a proper, thoughtfully curated meal. Plus, the visit to Bodega Sicilia Clásica promises guided wine tasting and snacks, which often makes a big difference in understanding the local wine culture. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that children under 12, pregnant women, and wheelchair users are not suited for this tour. So, it’s definitely geared more toward adult travelers looking to enjoy Spain’s wine and culture scene. If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group eager for a relaxed, informative outing, this could be a very fitting choice.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy wine and good food, have an interest in Spanish culture, and appreciate a well-organized trip with a bit of sightseeing thrown in. It’s not overly touristy but offers enough structure to make the most of your few hours without feeling rushed.
Key Points
- Taste a selection of regional wines along with beer and soft drinks during your meal.
- Visit Bodega Sicilia Clásica for a guided tour and wine tasting experience.
- Enjoy a gourmet sharing-plate lunch featuring local specialties like Iberian cured meats and creative vegetable dishes.
- Explore the Santuario Santa Magdalena in Novelda, appreciating its serene beauty and architecture.
- Round-trip transportation is included, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.
- Suitable for adults who love wine and culture, but not recommended for children under 12 or those with mobility issues.
Exploring the Alicante Wine Tour and Lunch Experience
When planning a day in Alicante that combines a bit of everything—wine, food, and culture—this tour offers a practical way to get a taste of the region without the hassle of organizing transport or meals. Starting at Harry’s Bar in Quesada, you’ll meet your group and guide around 10:00 AM, ready for a four-hour journey into the heart of Alicante’s wine country and a cultural visit in Novelda.
The Bodega Visit and Wine Tasting
The highlight for many will be the visit to Bodega Sicilia Clásica, where a guided tour reveals the secrets behind local winemaking. The experience includes wine tasting, and based on reviews, the wines are considered excellent. Participants often praise the quality of the selection, noting the variety offered and the friendliness of the guide. You’ll also enjoy snacks at the bodega, which helps to cleanse the palate and add to the tasting experience.
What we love about this part is how it combines education and pleasure. You get to learn about regional wines firsthand from knowledgeable staff, often with a friendly, relaxed vibe that makes it easy to ask questions or just enjoy the tasting. It’s a good way to get a deeper appreciation of what makes Alicante wines special, especially if you’re keen to expand your wine knowledge or simply enjoy savoring good quality drinks.
The Gourmet Lunch
After the wine tour, you’ll sit down to a sharing-plate lunch featuring local specialties. Think Iberian cured meats, creative vegetable dishes, and perhaps a main course chosen from several options. The lunch is paired with regional wines and soft drinks, with coffee or tea to finish. One of the most praised aspects is the quality of the food, which is described as both tasty and well-presented.
The inclusion of a brownie with nougat adds a sweet note to close the meal, providing a satisfying finish. The lunch isn’t just a quick snack; it’s a proper meal that allows you to unwind and enjoy the flavors of Alicante in a relaxed setting.
The Cultural Visit to Novelda’s Sanctuary
The final part of the tour takes you to Santuario Santa Magdalena in Novelda. This sanctuary is noted for its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Visitors often mention how peaceful and picturesque the site is—an ideal spot to relax after the wine and food. It’s a quick visit, but enough to give you a sense of local spiritual and cultural heritage.
The opportunity to see this sanctuary adds a layer of cultural depth to the experience, making it more than just a wine tour. It’s an opportunity to step back from tasting and enjoy some quiet reflection or simply admire the impressive structure.
More Great Tours NearbyTransport, Duration, and Practicalities
The entire experience lasts around four hours, with transportation provided from Harry’s Bar and back. This makes logistics simple and stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying each part of the day. The tour operates with several language options, including English, Spanish, Norwegian, French, German, and Dutch, accommodating a diverse group of travelers.
It’s worth noting that you should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water—things that will make your day more comfortable, especially if the weather is warm. Payment on the bus is in cash, so plan accordingly.
Cost and Value
While the price might seem fair for the included guided tour, tastings, lunch, and transport, consider how this compares to doing similar activities independently. The convenience of a guided experience and the quality of included items tend to elevate the value, especially for first-timers or those unfamiliar with the area.
What People Say
Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of wine and the friendliness of guides. One describes the wines as “excellent,” and many appreciate the relaxed pace and good organization. The lunch is frequently praised for being hearty and flavorful, with some mentioning it exceeded expectations.
However, some note that the tour isn’t suitable for children or those with mobility issues, so it’s best suited for adult groups who enjoy wine, culture, and good company.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for couples or small groups who love wine and want to learn more about regional varieties while enjoying a relaxed, well-organized outing. It’s also suitable for those interested in combining food, wine, and cultural sights in one morning or early afternoon. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or have specific accessibility needs, you might want to explore other options.
In short, it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances tasting, sightseeing, and good food, all wrapped into a few enjoyable hours.
Alicante: Wine Tour and Lunch with Bodega Visit and Novelda
FAQs
Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip bus transportation from Harry’s Bar is part of the package.
Can I cancel this tour? Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are drinks included? Yes, the tour includes a selection of regional wines, beer, soft drinks, and coffee or tea with lunch.
What is the duration of the tour? It lasts approximately four hours, starting at 10:00 AM and returning around 2:00 PM.
Is this tour suitable for children? No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women.
Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated? The description mentions regional specialties, but specifics on dietary accommodations aren’t provided. It’s best to inquire directly if you have special needs.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.
Are there options for main courses at lunch? Yes, there are choices available, but the details depend on the specific day’s menu.
Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users? No, it’s not designed to be wheelchair accessible.
What languages are available? The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Norwegian, French, German, and Dutch.
This Alicante wine and culture experience offers a lovely way to spend part of your day if you’re eager to taste regional wines, enjoy good food, and see a beautiful sanctuary. It balances education, relaxation, and sightseeing, making it a well-rounded option for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.
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