Wild experience: discover, cook & eat the local wild flora

Wild experience: discover, cook & eat the local wild flora is one of those activities that sounds just a little bit different from the usual tourist fare. It promises a chance to learn about local wild plants, their uses, and even whip up some tasty bites from what you find. While I haven’t done it myself, the reviews and details make it sound like a genuinely rewarding outing, especially if you’re into nature, local food, or just looking for something a bit unique.

What really caught my eye are the focus on edible and medicinal wild plants—a great way to connect with the local environment—and the fact that it’s a hands-on cooking session afterward. Plus, the experience is located in the scenic Alt Penedès, a region known for wine but here, beyond the vineyards, you get a taste of Catalonia’s wild side. That said, it’s not perfect for everyone: the activity requires some walking, and the group size can be small unless you’re cool paying a slightly higher price for a cozier group. Overall, I think this would suit adventurous foodies, nature buffs, or curious travelers eager to learn about local flora in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience exploring wild plants and their uses
• Cooking workshop with foraged ingredients, including gluten-free options
• Scenic etnobotanical walk tailored to the group’s needs
• Tasting wild tapas and herbal teas in a charming rural setting
• Flexible booking options and a private group experience
• Suitable for those interested in local nature, food, and sustainable practices

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at this Wild Flora Adventure

The idea of discovering local wild plants and then cooking with them is appealing in itself. It’s a blend of education, nature, and gastronomy that can easily turn into a memorable experience, especially for those who love to get their hands dirty and learn practical skills. The tour is designed to last about 3 hours, which makes it manageable even on a packed schedule, and it’s available in multiple languages—English, Spanish, and Catalan—making it accessible for many travelers.

The starting point is the masia of Arrels Voladores, a traditional farm setting in the Alt Penedès region, only about an hour from Barcelona and Tarragona. The location itself adds to the charm—rural, rustic, and full of potential for scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. The activity is private, which means you won’t be in a big crowd, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What to Expect During the Experience

The core of this tour is the ethnobotanical walk. Your guide, Berta in the reviews, is praised for her knowledge and engaging style. She’ll introduce you to the local wild flora, explaining their nutritional, gastronomical, and medicinal properties. You’ll likely learn about superfoods growing freely in the area, and how many of these plants have been used traditionally by local communities.

The walk is adaptable, which is great—if you’re with kids, or have specific interests or limitations, the guide can tailor the route accordingly. Even if you’re not an expert in plants, this is a chance to see nature through a different lens, and gain an appreciation for the wild bounty around you.

After gathering your wild ingredients, you’ll head to the cooking workshop. Here, the focus is on plant-based, gluten-free options, making it suitable for dietary restrictions. You’ll prepare “wild tapas”—a tasting of the herbs and ingredients you’ve just learned about and collected. The reviews rave about how delicious the snacks turn out, with guests mentioning the “delicious snacks in a home kitchen” and how Berta’s expertise shines during the cooking.

Once your tapas are ready, you’ll enjoy a picnic or tasting session either outdoors or in the farm’s porch, depending on the weather. The inclusion of wild herbal teas and three wild tapas adds a cozy, authentic touch to the experience. It’s a relaxed way to end the session, savoring your culinary creations while soaking in the rural vibe.

Group Size, Cost, and Overall Value

The activity is priced at $397 for a group of up to 5 people. At first glance, it might seem a bit steep, but considering it includes the guided walk, cooking workshop, tasting, herbal teas, and the personalized nature of the experience, it offers good value—particularly if you appreciate hands-on, educational activities. For larger groups, the price can be split, and the experience can be adapted for fewer people as long as the total cost remains comparable to the original price.

It’s worth noting that the experience can run with fewer than the original 7 participants, provided you’re willing to pay a slightly higher fee. This flexibility makes it attractive for small groups or couples seeking an intimate outing. The 3-hour duration makes it an easy add-on to a day of sightseeing without feeling overly long.

The Practicalities: Transportation and Weather

Getting to the farm involves traveling along a country road; while normal cars can handle it, visitors should be prepared to drive slowly and carefully. The activity takes place rain or shine, so if you’re booking during the wetter months, dress accordingly and be aware that the walk might be muddy or slippery—good to keep in mind if you’re traveling with kids or mobility concerns.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Reviews Say

Both reviewers praised the knowledgeable guide, Berta, emphasizing her ability to communicate well and make the session engaging. One reviewer highlighted how they “prepared delicious snacks in a home kitchen,” making the experience feel personal and warm. They also appreciated the transport logistics tips provided.

Another guest called it a “great experience” and promised they’d do it again, which speaks volumes about how enjoyable it was. The recurring theme is that this activity isn’t just a walk—the combination of education, hands-on cooking, and local flavors creates a memorable outing that’s worth the price for many.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is perfect for adventurous food lovers, those curious about local plants and their uses, or travelers wanting a break from traditional tours. It’s especially well-suited for people comfortable with gentle walking and interested in a more in-depth, interactive activity. Nature lovers and anyone keen on sustainable, local cuisine will find it particularly rewarding.

It’s not necessarily ideal for those seeking a quick sightseeing tour or with mobility concerns, as the walk, while adapted, is outdoors and on country roads. Families with children might enjoy it if their kids are enthusiastic about nature, but the activity is generally geared toward adults or older children.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a unique way to connect with Catalonia’s natural environment, this wild flora experience offers a genuine, flavorful journey. You’ll learn about plants you might never notice, cook with them, and enjoy tasting your handiwork in a peaceful rural setting. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the hands-on approach, makes it stand out from more conventional tours.

While the price might be a consideration for some, the inclusion of a walk, a cooking session, herbal teas, and tapas make it a comprehensive, rewarding activity. It’s a chance to slow down, get outside, and discover the countryside beyond vineyards and towns—an authentic taste of the region’s wild side.

For those eager to learn, taste, and explore in a relaxed atmosphere, this tour hits the right notes. If you’re seeking a memorable, educational outing that combines nature with food, it’s worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family activity, kids who are interested in nature and outdoor walks may enjoy the experience. Keep in mind that it involves walking in rural areas and hands-on cooking, so consider your children’s comfort with these activities.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is offered in English, Spanish, and Catalan, making it accessible for many travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation isn’t included, but the farm is accessible by car. The route involves a country road, so drive carefully.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking outdoors—closed shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, especially if it rains.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the ethno-botanical walk, cooking workshop, herbal teas, tasting of three wild tapas, and a private guide.

If you’re a traveler who loves discovering local flavors, learning about nature, and trying your hand at cooking, this wild flora adventure could be a highlight of your trip to Catalonia. Just remember to bring your curiosity and an appetite for both knowledge and tasty bites.

You can check availability for your dates here: