Wine Tour in Roussillon: Picnic & Tasting Day

Exploring the Wine Tour in Roussillon: Picnic & Tasting Day — a Detailed Look

If you’re dreaming of a day spent wandering through sun-drenched vineyards, tasting some of the best wines in Southern France, and sharing a delicious picnic amid breathtaking scenery, this Roussillon wine tour might just be your perfect match. Offered at a reasonable price with an intimate group setting, it promises a blend of authentic wine experiences, expert guidance, and scenic views that capture the essence of Catalan terroir.

What truly stands out is the tour’s focus on local, organic vineyards and family estates. It’s not just about tasting wine but understanding the stories behind each label, walking through picturesque landscapes, and enjoying some quality time with friends or family—an experience that feels genuine and relaxed. On the flip side, the tour’s fixed schedule and non-refundable policy mean you need to be sure about your plans, but that’s a small trade-off for the value it offers.

Ideal for those who love discovering regional wines, enjoy scenic drives, or want to combine a relaxed picnic with a cultural deep dive into Catalan wine heritage, this tour offers a rich, immersive experience without the tourist crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic & intimate experience: Small group size with a maximum of 8 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Expert-guided visits: Led by a knowledgeable guide, often a former cellar master, who shares insights and stories.
• Diverse stops: From organic family wineries to historic estates, each location offers unique tastings and views.
• Scenic landscapes: Expect stunning vineyard panoramas, seaside views, and atmospheric wine cellars.
• Gourmet picnic: A highlight with local produce and three glasses of wine, making for a genuine taste of the region.
• Value & convenience: All transport, bottled water, and tastings are included, making it a fuss-free day out.

An In-Depth Look at the Roussillon Wine Tour

The Experience at a Glance

The tour begins at Place de la Victoire in Perpignan, where a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle whisks you off on a scenic journey through the Catalan countryside. Starting around 8:45 am, the day is designed to be around 8 to 9 hours of discovery, making it perfect for anyone wanting an in-depth yet relaxed exploration.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the group size feels personal, and the pace is flexible enough to let you soak in the views and ask questions. The tour provider, Catalan Wine Escape, is praised for their professionalism and personalized approach, with reviews highlighting how guides like Nicola go above and beyond to accommodate specific requests and share their extensive knowledge.

Stop 1: Organic Family Winery in Canet-en-Roussillon

Your journey kicks off in Canet-en-Roussillon, where you’ll visit a family-operated vineyard practicing organic farming. Here, the highlight is the chance to walk among vines with spectacular views of the Roussillon terroir. What makes this stop special is the opportunity to taste five wines directly from old, restored casks, which gives a real sense of the winemaking process.

This visit is about appreciating the authenticity of small-scale, organic viticulture—a feature reviewers consistently praise. One reviewer mentions the “impeccable explanation” of wines and the friendly atmosphere, which sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Stop 2: Rivesaltes and a Gourmet Picnic

Next, you’ll head to Rivesaltes, the heart of the region’s wine history, for a picnic in a local winery. The setting is charming, and the inclusion of three glasses of local wine makes it feel like a true taste of Catalan culture. Expect a laid-back lunch with fresh local produce, possibly with some tapas or regional specialties, all enjoyed with a backdrop of vineyard views.

Reviewers describe this part as “fabulous” and highlight how the guide’s suggestions, like pairing wines with local cuisine, elevate the experience. Some mention that the picnic is an excellent chance to relax, share stories, and enjoy the scenery.

Stop 3: Espira de l’Agly – Monovarietal Tastings

Post-lunch, the tour continues to a family winery in Espira de l’Agly, where you’ll sample wines made from single grape varieties. This stop is great for wine enthusiasts wanting to understand how different grapes influence flavor profiles. The guide often modifies tastings based on preferences, which reviewers appreciate—highlighting personalized service.

Stop 4: Maury and Sweet Wines

The next highlight is Maury, renowned for natural sweet wines, a true regional treasure. Here, you’ll learn about the secrets of making these luscious wines, often described as a highlight by past guests for their depth and complexity. If you’re a fan of dessert wines, this stop is a must, offering a chance to taste something truly unique.

Final Stop: Vingrau and a Toast

The last stop in Vingrau offers a chance to savor the final wines while enjoying panoramic views from the heights of the village. It’s a perfect spot to toast the day’s discoveries, with many reviewers mentioning the beautiful landscapes and the friendly, informative guide as reasons for their enjoyment.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $196.64 per person, this day-long tour delivers a comprehensive look at Roussillon’s wine scene, combining guided tastings, scenic walks, and a delicious picnic. The price includes all transportation, bottled water, and the tastings, which means little to no hidden costs—an important consideration for travelers wanting a worry-free experience.

Compared to other wine tastings that can be rushed or impersonal, this tour’s small size and knowledgeable guides, like Nicola, foster genuine conversations and customized experiences. Reviewers also mention that guides are willing to adapt to individual tastes and requests, adding a personal touch.

How the Experience Feels

We loved the way the tour balances educational insight with relaxed fun. The vineyard visits aren’t just about sipping wine—they’re about understanding the stories, traditions, and passion behind each bottle. The scenic drives through the countryside, paired with the chance to walk among vines, make it a visual feast as well.

The gourmet picnic is a real highlight, not just a simple lunch, but a thoughtfully prepared meal paired with regional wines that complement the flavors perfectly. Many guests highlight how the experience is more than just tasting—it’s about connecting with the local culture in an authentic, unhurried manner.

What to Expect from the Guides

Guides like Nicola are frequently praised for their knowledgeability and friendliness. They often go beyond just explaining wines, sharing anecdotes about the estates and the region’s history. Reviewers appreciate how guides are attentive, accommodating, and eager to ensure everyone has a memorable day.

Practical Details That Matter

• Transport: The air-conditioned vehicle is comfortable and well-paced, with scenic drives adding to the enjoyment.
• Timing: Starting early at 8:45 am, you’ll finish around 5-6 pm, which provides ample time for exploration without feeling rushed.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 8 travelers, you get personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions.
• Booking & Flexibility: Most bookings are made about 86 days in advance, indicating that it’s popular and worth planning ahead. Note, the tour is non-refundable, so be sure about your schedule.
• Inclusions & Extras: The tour includes bottled water, tastings, a picnic, and transport—everything you need for a full, enjoyable day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts craving a deeper understanding of regional wines, travelers who love scenic drives and outdoor walks, and those seeking authentic, local experiences rather than touristy gimmicks. It’s also ideal for small groups or families who enjoy relaxed, personalized excursions.

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized day that combines beautiful landscapes, passionate guides, and exceptional wines, this tour checks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour features a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle transporting you between vineyards, picnic spots, and scenic viewpoints.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 8:45 am from Place de la Victoire in Perpignan.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8, ensuring a more intimate experience and plenty of personal attention from the guide.

Are tastings included?
Yes, all tastings at each vineyard are included, along with a picnic lunch and three glasses of wine.

Can I customize the experience?
Guides like Nicola are known for their flexibility, often tailoring tastings to suit your preferences whenever possible.

What is the focus of the visits?
The stops include organic family wineries, historic estates, and special focus on natural sweet wines—offering a well-rounded wine experience.

Is this suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While the tour centers around wine, the scenic walks and cultural insights make it enjoyable for those who prefer not to taste. However, wine tastings are part of the experience.

Final Thoughts

The Wine Tour in Roussillon: Picnic & Tasting Day offers a fantastic blend of authentic regional wines, stunning landscapes, and personalized guidance—all within a well-organized, small-group setting. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of Catalan wine traditions while enjoying a leisurely, scenic day in the countryside.

Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or simply eager to experience the charm of southern France’s vineyard culture, this tour provides genuine value and memorable moments. The thoughtful mix of vineyard visits, a gourmet picnic, and expert insights creates an experience that’s both educational and fun—an ideal way to spend a day in Roussillon.

In short, this tour is best suited for inquisitive travelers, small groups, and anyone who appreciates the magic of discovering local wines with a passionate guide in an atmosphere of relaxed discovery.