Alicante: Old Winery with Tastings & Gaudí’s style of Church

Alicante: Old Winery with Tastings & Gaudí’s Style of Church — A Practical, Authentic Day Out

If you’re visiting Alicante and craving a mix of history, good wine, and a touch of architectural whimsy, this tour might just be your perfect escape. It offers a 3-hour journey that combines a visit to a historic winery founded in 1707, a delightful wine tasting, and a peek at an unusual Gaudí-inspired church. The whole experience is tailored for those who appreciate authentic local flavors and want to soak in some culture outside the city buzz.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on small-group intimacy—limiting participants to just 11 people, which makes for a more personal and relaxed experience. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to the medieval Castle of Mola and the Gaudí-style church adds a cultural kick that elevates the day beyond just wine tasting.

A potential consideration is the price point of $66 per person—which, while quite reasonable given the inclusions, might feel a bit steep if you’re primarily interested in just the wine or the architecture. However, for those who want a well-rounded cultural outing, the value is clear.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and architecture fans alike, especially if you’re looking for a mix of education, taste, and scenic views—all packed into a manageable half-day adventure.

Key Points

• Historic Winery: Founded in 1707, the winery belonged to the Marquis of La Romana, offering a glimpse into centuries-old wine-making traditions.
• Comprehensive Tour: Includes visits to fermentation, barrel, and bottling rooms, providing insight into organic grape cultivation and wine production.
• Tastings & Snacks: Enjoy three different wines (white, rosé, and red), paired with breadsticks, olives, and a tapa for a full sensory experience.
• Architectural Bonus: Visit a charming Gaudí-style church and the medieval Castle of Mola, enhancing cultural understanding.
• Comfort & Convenience: Round-trip private transfers in a comfortable car, pick-up from central Alicante locations, and a small group setting.
• Authentic Experience: Guides are knowledgeable, sharing detailed insights about each site and the local wine heritage.

The Experience: An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins with pick-up options from four central Alicante locations, including Meliá Alicante and Hotel Travelodge Alicante Puerto. The private transfer ensures a smooth, stress-free start, which is invaluable after a morning of sightseeing or travel. The ride to Novelda, the heart of this experience, takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic Valencian countryside—olive groves, vineyards, and rolling hills.

Having a private transfer is a big plus, especially considering the reviews that praise the comfortable, spotless vehicle and attentive driver, Yevgen. For many travelers, this level of comfort enhances the overall experience, allowing you to relax and get into the vibe before arriving at the historic sites.

The Winery & Farmhouse

Upon reaching the estate, the guided visit begins. You’ll explore an 18th-century estate that once belonged to nobility, offering a tangible sense of history. The winery’s buildings still retain their old-world charm, and the guided tour takes you through the fermentation room, barrel room, and bottling area.

This part of the experience offers more than just a “look-see.” You’ll learn about organic grape growing and the steps involved in crafting wines that respect tradition while embracing modern methods. Guides like Yevgen are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing stories that bring the estate’s long history to life.

A standout feature, as noted by guests, is the detailed explanation of the wine-making process. One reviewer mentioned that a staff member explained the process clearly, making it easier to appreciate the wines you’ll taste later. We loved the way the guide combined technical info with engaging storytelling, making the visit educational but not overwhelming.

Wine Tasting & Snacks

After the tour, it’s time for the highlight: a wine tasting session in the estate’s restaurant. Here, you sample three different types of wine—a white, a rosé, and a red—each carefully paired with breadsticks, olives, and a tapa.

Guests have raved about the quality of the wines—described as “very palatable” and “delicious.” The tasting is complemented by a detailed explanation of each wine, helping even novices understand what to look for and how to appreciate the nuances.

One guest fondly remembered the tasting as “a very tasty experience,” noting the friendly staff and the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant. The inclusion of snacks elevates the tasting, making it more than just sipping wine—it’s about savoring local flavors and understanding the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Architectural & Cultural Highlights

As a bonus, the tour includes visits to two eye-catching sites: the Gaudí-inspired church and the Castle of Mola.

The church, built in Gaudí’s signature style, is a charming and unusual sight—not your typical Mediterranean church. Its undulating lines and organic shapes make it stand out as a modern take on traditional architecture, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a different kind of cultural insight.

The Castle of Mola, dating back to the 12th century, provides a dramatic backdrop and a chance to walk through history. Many reviews highlight that their guides, like Yevgen, were eager to share interesting facts about the castle and its strategic importance through the ages.

While some visitors mentioned the weather impacted their experience (rain prevented outdoor vineyard viewing), the overall impression was positive, thanks to the guided commentary and the stunning architecture.

Duration & Group Size

The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, which makes it an ideal half-day excursion. With a small group limited to 11 people, the tour maintains an intimate vibe, perfect for asking questions and getting personalized insights. Several reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, making the tour feel more like visiting a knowledgeable friend than a scripted event.

Value & Pricing

At $66 per person, this tour offers solid value—covering transport, expert-guided site visits, wine tastings, snacks, and additional cultural sites. When compared to similar experiences, especially considering the private transfer and small group sizes, it feels like a worthwhile investment for those wanting a comprehensive day outside the city.

Guests especially appreciated how much they learned about local wine traditions and enjoyed the relaxed pace. The inclusion of the architecture visits adds a cultural dimension that many other wine tours lack, making this a more rounded outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about traditional Spanish wine-making, culture lovers interested in architecture and history, and travelers seeking a relaxed, small-group outing. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a well-organized itinerary with plenty of storytelling and contextual info.

If you’re pushed for time but want a meaningful glimpse into Alicante’s heritage, this trip packs in enough to satisfy without feeling rushed. However, if your main focus is outdoor vineyard views or extensive tastings, sometimes the weather or the limited scope might leave you wanting more.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Your Tour

• Bring a camera—the picturesque views, historic buildings, and architectural details are great photo ops.
• Wear comfortable shoes—the castle and church involve some walking and uneven surfaces.
• Arrive a few minutes early for the pickup to ensure a smooth start.
• Consider ordering lunch in advance if you find yourself hungry after the wine tasting; the restaurant offers options.
• Respect the rules—no smoking, food, or alcohol in the vehicle, and follow the guide’s instructions for safety and enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, non-drinkers can still enjoy the cultural sites like the church and castle. However, the wine tasting aspect is primarily for adults.

Can I customize the tour, like adding lunch?
Lunch can be ordered in advance via the private tour option or during the visit if tables are available, but it’s not included in the standard package.

How long is the drive from Alicante to the winery?
Approximately 30 minutes in a private, comfortable car, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic surroundings.

What is the group size?
Limited to 11 participants, ensuring a personal experience and easy interaction with the guide.

Are the sites wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to uneven surfaces at the castle and church.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability for the morning or early afternoon slots. The weather can influence outdoor visits, so plan accordingly.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip private transfer from select central Alicante locations is included, adding convenience and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a delightful balance between history, architecture, and wine, making it a highly engaging option for those who want more than just a tasting session. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtfully curated stops make it a memorable half-day adventure. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking to enjoy a relaxed cultural outing outside Alicante, this experience offers genuine value and authentic charm.

It’s a solid pick for travelers who appreciate detailed stories, exquisite wines, and scenic views—all wrapped into one manageable package. The inclusion of sites like the Gaudí-inspired church and the medieval castle ensures the day appeals to a broad range of interests, elevating it beyond basic wine tours.

If you want a well-rounded, relaxed, and educational escape from the city, this tour is an excellent choice. Just remember to bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to enjoy a charming slice of Valencian life.