Tips on how to reach Priorat wine region by train

The Priorat wine region is one of Catalonia’s most scenic and rewarding destinations, renowned for its world-class wines, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning to visit this hidden gem, traveling by train is not only a sustainable choice but also a convenient and enjoyable way to begin your journey.

Why travel to Priorat by train?

1. Environmentally friendly: Taking the train reduces your carbon footprint compared to driving, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers.

2. Relaxation and comfort: Enjoy a stress-free journey as you sit back and admire the picturesque Catalan countryside. Modern trains offer comfortable seating, reliable schedules, and scenic routes that make the journey a pleasure.

3. Accessibility: Catalonia’s well-connected train network makes it easy to travel from Barcelona or other major cities to the Priorat area, whether you’re using high-speed trains or regional lines.

4. Combine scenic travel with wine adventures: The train ride to the Priorat region is the perfect prelude to the experiences that await you: wine tasting, vineyard tours, and exploring charming medieval villages.

From Barcelona to Priorat

The most direct route involves taking a train from Barcelona to the Camp de Tarragona high-speed train station or the Marçà-Falset regional station, depending on your preference and current travel options.

1. High-Speed Train to Camp de Tarragona:

• Duration: About 30 minutes from Barcelona-Sants station.

• Benefits: Faster travel time and frequent connections.

• Follow-Up travel: From Camp de Tarragona, we can pick you up to reach Priorat (approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour by road).

2. Regional Train to Marçà-Falset:

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours from Barcelona. The train departs around 8:43h-9h and returns at 18h back to Barcelona.

• Benefits: The regional train journey offers stunning views and arrives closer to the heart of Priorat.

• Recommendation: Buy the tickets directly at the train station. It is the easiest, fastest and most reliable way to get your tickets for this type of train. Regarding train stations, it depends on the hotel you are staying in. Barcelona-Passeig de Gràcia is the easiest, as there is only one lane in the direction to Tarragona, Sants can be confusing as it is a big train station and it may take a bit to figure out where your platform is.

• Follow-Up travel: We will pick you up at the Marçà-Falset station in Priorat and will start our wine journey in the area from there! In case your door does not open when the train stops… it is because you have to press the green button! This is not a silly tip, this is serious, please press the button to open the doors and step out of the train. Just in case your door doesn’t open and the train starts moving again, you will still get a second chance. If this happens, please, phone us, communicate the issue and we will fly to Capçanes train station nearby still inside the Priorat wine region.

Travel Update: October 2024 to March 2025

Due to ongoing construction on the regional railway, visitors heading to Priorat during this period will need to adjust their travel plans. We can only offer pick-up services at the Camp de Tarragona high-speed train station, which is located about 50 minutes to 1 hour from Priorat by road.

To ensure a seamless journey:

• Book your high-speed train tickets in advance.

• Coordinate your arrival time with our team to arrange pick-up.

• Rest assured that the scenic drive from Camp de Tarragona to Priorat will be a delightful introduction to the region.

Tips for an Enjoyable Journey

• Plan ahead: Check train schedules and book your tickets early, especially during weekends or holidays when demand is high.

• Pack light: Bring comfortable walking shoes, some water (specially in summer), and space in your luggage for wine purchases!

• Stay flexible: Delays or schedule changes are rare but possible; staying informed will help you adapt.

Why Priorat is Worth the Trip

Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself immersed in a landscape of terraced vineyards, ancient olive groves, and dramatic mountains. The region boasts two wine appellations: the DOQ Priorat, known for its bold, complex wines, and the DO Montsant, celebrated for its approachability and value.

Exploring the region with a local guide elevates your experience to a whole new level. Our knowledgeable guide will share captivating stories about the history and culture of Priorat, explain the winemaking traditions that define its character, and introduce you to the passionate local producers who craft these exceptional wines. Beyond just tasting, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the connection between the land, the people, and the wine.

Through authentic connections with winemakers and producers, you’ll enjoy a warm welcome at family-run wineries and savor moments that go far beyond standard tours. Don’t miss visiting the historic Scala Dei Carthusian Monastery, where the region’s winemaking began, or enjoying a sunset wine tasting with panoramic views of the Montsant Natural Park.

Contact Us for Tailor-Made Wine Experiences

At El Brogit, we’re passionate about sharing the wonders of the Priorat wine region with you. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a week-long immersion, we can help you create a personalized itinerary. From train station pick-ups to vineyard tours and gastronomic experiences, we’ll ensure your visit is unforgettable.

At the train station, at your accommodation,… we will finally meet you (this is an exciting moment for us, each time!), and we will start the tour. Forget about driving and enjoy Priorat! Some ideas:

• A Priorat wine tour guided by a local – book online here.
• A Trek&Wine experience, fully customised – book online here.
• A Sunset experience among vineyards – book online here.

You may wonder…

• What if you are staying in any hotel in Priorat? No problem, just tell us when you book and we will pick you up at no additional cost.
• What if you are staying in Tarragona city, Cambrils, Salou or other villages nearby Tarragona? No problem either! Just tell us and we will pick you up and drop you off at an additional cost of 90€.

We hope this post has been useful for you. Reach out to us to start planning your trip today and we hope to meet you in Priorat soon!