Novelda: Wine Tasting and Gaudí-Style Sanctuary

Planning a trip to Spain often means dreaming of sun-drenched vineyards, striking architecture, and delicious local bites. If you’re exploring the Valencian Community and want a taste of all three, a tour that combines wine tasting, cultural sights, and a unique architectural experience might be just what you need. We’ve taken a close look at this 3-hour guided tour offered by Harry’s Wine Tour, and it sounds like a real treat—though, of course, no experience is perfect for everyone.

What really caught our eye are two standout aspects: first, the personalized wine tasting with expert guides who help you appreciate each sip, and second, the visiting of a Gaudí-style sanctuary that’s visually captivating and unlike anything else in the region. That said, a possible consideration is the tour’s duration—just three hours—which might feel a bit rushed if you like to linger over your wine or take lots of photos.

This experience is ideal for those who want to combine a bit of culture, cuisine, and architecture without it taking up an entire day. If you’re a fan of local wines, authentic tapas, and striking, art-inspired architecture, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s also manageable for travelers who prefer a small group setting, making it easier to connect and ask questions along the way.

Key Points

• Personalized wine tasting with expert guides helps you understand and appreciate local wines.
• Authentic Spanish tapas are carefully paired to enhance each wine, adding flavor to the experience.
• The Gaudí-inspired sanctuary offers a visually stunning glimpse into local architecture influenced by Catalan modernism.
• The tour is short and manageable at 3 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) creates an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
• Round-trip shuttle service adds convenience, so you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

When you sign up for this tour, you’re signing up for more than just wine tastings; it’s a curated experience that marries wine, food, and architecture into one afternoon. The journey begins with a guided visit to a local winery. Here, experts lead you through a tasting of carefully selected wines, teaching you about their nuances and aromas, which is perfect whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast.

The artisanal tapas served alongside are designed to match and elevate the wine flavors. You’ll find the food carefully chosen to complement each sip, making the tasting more than just a quick drink—it’s a true culinary pairing. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, with panoramic views of the countryside, providing plenty of opportunities for photos or just soaking in the scenery.

After enjoying the wine and tapas, you’ll get to explore the Gaudí-style sanctuary. This architectural gem is an eye-catching example of unique craftsmanship, inspired by the famous Catalan architect. It’s a visual highlight and offers an intriguing contrast to the rural winery setting.

Throughout the tour, the guides speak Dutch, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers. The entire experience is designed to be fun, informative, and most importantly, relaxing—no rushing, just enjoying the sights, flavors, and company.

The Winery Experience: A Closer Look

The highlight for many will be the guided wine tasting. We loved the way the guides take you through each wine, explaining what makes them special. One review mentioned that the “experts will take you on a personalized tasting, helping you appreciate every nuance,” which makes the experience feel tailored rather than generic.

The wines themselves are described as excellent, with some reviewers noting that the local wines are particularly well-chosen, showcasing the region’s best offerings. The fact that you’re in a small group (up to 8 people) means you get more personalized attention, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed vibe.

The tapas are described as carefully curated, aiming to complement the wines. Many reviewers remark on how delicious the food was, with one saying it “perfectly enhanced the flavors of each glass.” This pairing elevates the tasting from a simple sip to a full sensory experience.

The estate’s setting also deserves a mention: panoramic views of the countryside make the tasting feel special and peaceful. It’s a good reminder that wine tasting isn’t just about the wine but also about enjoying the environment.

The Gaudí-Style Sanctuary: A Visual Feast

After the winery, your next stop is the Gaudí-inspired sanctuary—a true architectural highlight. The design echoes the flamboyance and creativity of Catalan modernism, making it a must-see for architecture lovers or anyone interested in something more artistic and unconventional.

The sanctuary is accessible and offers plenty of photo opportunities, which many visitors find memorable. The unique style adds an extra layer of interest to the tour, turning this into a cultural highlight in addition to the wine and food.

Reviewers have described it as “an architectural gem” and “a surprise that’s worth the visit,” emphasizing how unexpected and captivating this site is. It’s a chance to see something truly distinctive that you won’t find in your typical Spanish town.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour lasts about three hours, which is a good length for a half-day activity. It’s scheduled with flexibility in mind, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk option if your plans change.

Transportation is handled with a round-trip shuttle service from a single pickup point—Harry’s Bar in Ciudad Quesada. This convenience means you don’t need to worry about logistics or driving, letting you focus on enjoying the experience.

The tour is accessible for wheelchairs and is designed for small groups (maximum 8), fostering a friendly and intimate atmosphere. Guides speak Dutch, English, and Spanish, catering to a wide range of travelers.

Pricing is reasonable considering the includes—wine tasting, tapas, transportation, and access to the sanctuary. Many reviewers feel they received good value, especially given the personalized attention and quality of the experiences.

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What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, with one stating that the guides “really make the experience informative and fun.” The quality of wines and tapas is consistently praised, with many mentioning that they found the wines “delicious” and the food “authentic and well-paired.”

Some say the setting is beautiful, with panoramic views adding to the overall pleasantness, while others appreciated the small group size, which made the experience feel exclusive and relaxed.

A few reviewers noted that the duration was just right, giving enough time to enjoy each part without feeling rushed. However, one or two pointed out that if you’re looking for a more extended or in-depth wine tour, this might feel a bit brief.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded experience for those interested in combining wine, local cuisine, and architecture. The personalized tastings, paired with delicious tapas and the stunning Gaudí-inspired sanctuary, make it a memorable outing for curious travelers. It’s especially good for those who appreciate small-group settings and want to learn more about regional wines without spending an entire day on a tour.

While not overly long, the tour balances quality and variety, making it a good choice if you’re in the Alicante region and want a taste of its diverse offerings. It’s also convenient for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience, thanks to the included shuttle service.

In brief, if you’re seeking a relaxing, culturally enriching, and flavorful activity in Novelda, this tour hits most of the right notes. It’s a chance to enjoy authentic wines, explore eye-catching architecture, and spend a few hours connecting with the local landscape and culture.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, guides speak English, Dutch, and Spanish, so communication isn’t an issue for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, which makes it a good half-day activity.

Are the wines local?
Yes, the wines are carefully selected from the region, showcasing local varieties.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a round-trip shuttle from Harry’s Bar in Ciudad Quesada is included, making logistics easier.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the sanctuary accessible?
Yes, the sanctuary is accessible and suitable for all visitors.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if you want to explore the sanctuary or take photos.

This tour stands out as a balanced, engaging way to experience the essence of Novelda—combining scenic beauty, flavorful wine, and a touch of artistic architecture. Perfect for curious travelers wanting a thoughtfully curated half-day outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: