Inland, we come to the wine region of Priorat. Next to the Rioja, the only area of Spain that has the highest recognition in winemaking: Denominació d’Origen Qualificada (DOQ). The Priorat is a mountainous area recognisable by its terraced vineyards, full of natural places to discover.
The Priorat, a region located in the province of Tarragona, is known for its natural beauty, historical heritage, and above all, for being one of Spain's most prestigious wine regions.
The Priorat is famous for its high-quality wines produced under the Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) Priorat, one of the most prestigious appellations in Spain. Its landscape is breathtaking, with hills covered in vineyards that blend with olive groves and Mediterranean forests dotted with picturesque villages.
The Priorat: A Dreamlike Natural and Wine Environment
The wine industry in the Priorat is key to its identity and reputation. The region primarily cultivates two emblematic grape varieties: Garnacha Tinta (Grenache) and Cariñena (Carignan), which are well-adapted to the region's climate, soils, and specific conditions.
A significant part of the uniqueness of Priorat wines comes from its soils, known as licorella. These are slate soils that retain heat during the day and release it at night. These well-draining soils and steep slopes have given rise to vineyards arranged in stepped terraces that not only offer unparalleled flavors but also paint a bucolic landscape.
The presence of old vineyards, some of which are several decades or even centuries old, is noteworthy. These low-yielding, high-quality vines contribute concentration and complexity to the wines.
Touristic Activities in the Priorat Environment
Guided winery tours and wine tastings in the region
Enotourism is highly popular in the Priorat, and many wineries offer guided tours and wine tastings.
In the Priorat, you will find wineries of various sizes, from small family-owned ones to large producers. Talented and passionate winemakers work in these wineries to elevate the region's reputation, with innovation and quality being fundamental values. The Priorat holds the Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) Priorat, one of Spain's most prestigious appellations, guaranteeing the quality and authenticity of its wines.
Hiking routes through the natural environment of the Priorat
At Camping & Resort Sangulí Salou, as enthusiasts of the surrounding territory, we recommend three outstanding hiking routes in the Priorat environment. Each of them offers a unique experience. Remember to bring the appropriate equipment, follow the route's indications, and respect the natural environment during your walks.
- Cartuja Route: This route takes you through ancient paths that connected the monasteries of Escaladei, which were part of the Carthusian order. The route offers stunning views of the vineyards and the surrounding mountains, allowing you to explore the region's history and heritage.
- Montsant Route: This route leads to the Montsant Natural Park, an impressive mountain range that surrounds the Priorat region. You can enjoy spectacular landscapes, vertical cliffs, and caves.
- Hermitage Route: This route allows you to discover several scattered hermitages and chapels throughout the Priorat. You can visit the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de l'Abellera, the Ermita de Sant Antoni, the Ermita de Sant Bartomeu, and many others. Additionally, you will enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards and picturesque villages along the way.
Cycling routes to explore the Priorat.
If you prefer cycling, there are also options with different levels of difficulty. If you're looking for a leisurely getaway that allows you to see the highlights, we recommend the Pueblos del Priorat route. It starts in Falset and passes through Porrera, Gratallops, Bellmunt del Priorat, and other picturesque villages in the region. Along the way, you will enjoy panoramic views of terraced vineyards and can stop at wineries to taste local wines.
Accommodation at Sangulí Salou
Staying at Camping Resort Sangulí Salou offers several advantages for visiting the Priorat: its strategic location allows for easy access to the area, which is a short drive away, making it convenient to explore this fascinating environment. This accommodation provides the perfect combination of comfort, proximity to the Priorat region, and opportunities to fully enjoy this incredible region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best time of year to visit the Priorat?
Spring and autumn are typically the most popular seasons to visit the Priorat due to pleasant weather and beautiful landscapes.
However, each season has its charm and offers unique experiences related to winemaking activities and the natural environment. Consider your personal preferences and desired activities when planning your visit to the Priorat.
- Is it necessary to book winery visits in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to book winery visits in advance. The Priorat is a highly popular wine region, and many wineries receive a high number of visitors, especially during the peak season. Booking in advance will allow you to have a planned itinerary and ensure that you can visit the wineries of your choice.
Furthermore, some wineries have limited capacity to maintain an intimate and high-quality atmosphere during visits, so it is important to reserve to secure a spot.
- Are there activities for children related to the wine culture?
Yes, in the Priorat, there are also activities related to the world of wine that are suitable for children.
Visits to family-owned wineries: Many wineries in the Priorat are family-owned and welcome visitors of all ages. Some of them offer specially adapted visits for children, where they are taught about the winemaking process in a fun and educational way. They can learn about grape varieties, explore the vineyards, and participate in interactive activities.
Bike rides: The Priorat offers bike routes that are suitable for families, providing an opportunity to actively explore the region's natural environment. You can ride on gentle trails and enjoy the scenery alongside the vineyards.
Nature activities: The Priorat also offers a wide variety of outdoor activities that children can enjoy, such as hiking on family-friendly routes, exploring local flora and fauna, or having picnics in natural settings.
- What transportation options are available to visit the Priorat from Sangulí Salou?
To visit the Priorat from Sangulí Salou, you have several transportation options available:
- Car travel: The most convenient way to reach the Priorat from Sangulí Salou is by car. You will have the freedom to move at your own pace and explore the region in your own way. From Salou, you can take the AP-7 highway west and then follow the signs to the Priorat.
- Public transportation: If you prefer to use public transportation, you can take a train from Salou to the city of Reus. From there, you can take a bus to the Priorat.
- Organized tours: Another option is to join an organized tour from Salou that includes a visit to the Priorat. Many travel agencies and local operators offer day trips or tour packages that will take you to explore the vineyards and wineries of the region, providing transportation and specialized guides.
