A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Vilafranca del Penedès: Discover the Jewel of Penedès

Vilafranca del Penedès is a charming city located in the Alt Penedès region, in the province of Barcelona, Catalonia. Known for being the capital of wine and cava, this town offers visitors a perfect combination of history, culture, and gastronomy.

The Old Town: A Walk Through History

The old town of Vilafranca del Penedès is a true historical treasure. Its cobbled and narrow streets will transport you to past times while you discover its emblematic buildings, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria, an impressive 13th-century Gothic church.

Another place of interest is the Baltà Palace, an old manor house that houses the Wine Museum. Here you can learn about the wine tradition of the region and taste some of the best wines and cavas in the area.

The Festa Major: A Celebration Full of Tradition

If you are lucky enough to visit Vilafranca del Penedès during the Festa Major, you will be immersed in one of the most important festivals in Catalonia. For a week, the city is filled with music, dances, castellers (human towers) and correfocs (fire parades).

The highlight of the festival is the famous "correfoc dels diables", where devils roam the streets launching fireworks and creating an impressive spectacle.

The Penedès: A Paradise for Wine Lovers

Vilafranca del Penedès is located in the heart of the Penedès wine region, famous for its high-quality wines and cavas. If you are a wine lover, you cannot miss visiting some of the wineries in the area.

You can take guided tours, walk through the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process and, of course, taste different varieties. Some wineries even offer tastings paired with local products, a unique gastronomic experience.

Outdoor Activities: Nature and Sport

The surroundings of Vilafranca del Penedès offer numerous options to enjoy nature and practice outdoor sports. You can hike through the vineyards, cycle routes or even take balloon flights to contemplate the landscape from the heights.

In addition, the city has several parks and gardens where you can relax and enjoy a picnic in a peaceful environment.

Gastronomy: Delight in the Flavors of Penedès

The gastronomy of Vilafranca del Penedès is another of its great attractions. Here you can try traditional Catalan dishes, such as escalivada, xató (salad with romesco sauce) or suquet de peix (fish stew).

And, of course, you cannot leave without trying the wines and cavas of the region, which will pair perfectly with the local flavors.

In conclusion, Vilafranca del Penedès is a destination that perfectly combines history, culture, nature, and gastronomy. You can't miss it!

Gastronomic Products of Vilafranca del Penedès

• Wines from the Penedès Designation of Origin

  Vilafranca del Penedès is known for being the capital of the Penedès region, a renowned wine region. Here, high-quality wines are produced, especially white and sparkling wines. The vineyards in the area cultivate native grape varieties such as Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada, which give rise to fresh and aromatic wines.

• Cava

  Cava is a sparkling wine typical of the Catalonia region, and Vilafranca del Penedès is one of the main producers of this drink. Cava is made following the traditional method of fermentation in the bottle, similar to champagne. It is perfect for toasting on special occasions and is characterized by its fine bubbling and fresh, fruity flavor.

• Calçots

  Calçots are a variety of tender onion typical of the Catalonia region. In Vilafranca del Penedès, the traditional calçotada is celebrated, a gastronomic feast where calçots are grilled and served with a sauce called romesco. It is a unique and delicious experience that you cannot miss if you visit the area in winter.

• Xató

  Xató is a typical salad of the Penedès region. It is made with endive, shredded cod, anchovies, olives, and a special sauce made from almonds, hazelnuts, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. It is a tasty and hearty dish that reflects the culinary tradition of the area.

Sporting Activities in Vilafranca del Penedès, Spain

Cycling

Vilafranca del Penedès is a wine region with beautiful landscapes that can be explored by bicycle. There are several cycling routes that cross vineyards and small villages, offering a unique way to experience the region.

Hiking

The region of Vilafranca del Penedès also offers several hiking routes that allow visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The routes vary in difficulty, so there are options for all skill levels.

Wine Tourism

Although not a sport in the traditional sense, wine tourism is a popular activity in Vilafranca del Penedès. Visitors can visit the local wineries, learn about the wine-making process and, of course, taste some of the region's finest wines.

Running

For running enthusiasts, Vilafranca del Penedès offers several routes for running, both in the city and in the surrounding natural areas. It's an excellent way to stay in shape while enjoying the local scenery.

Places near Vilafranca del Penedès (Spain)

If you are in Vilafranca del Penedès and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Sitges, a charming coastal town in Catalonia, offers a perfect combination of dreamy beaches, picturesque streets and a vibrant gastronomic scene. Enjoy its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, its cultural festivals and its lively nightlife. A destination you cannot miss!

Sant Martí Sarroca, a charming village in the province of Barcelona, offers visitors a perfect combination of history and gastronomy. Discover its beautiful vineyards, explore its impressive castle and enjoy delicious traditional Catalan dishes in its cozy restaurants.