Wine tourism is becoming a popular activity and rightly so with its sustainable benefits. We are fortunate to have access to some spectacular, authentic properties around the world which are being developed in rural wine-producing areas. This offers both employment opportunities to local people and generates tourism for the wineries, restaurants and other local businesses.
Recently I visited Gran Hotel Mas d’en Bruno, part of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux group, located in the less well-known Spanish wine region of Priorat, around 2 hours drive from Barcelona.
Positioned in the foothills of the impressive and dramatic Montsant National Park, the hotel has been thoughtfully and cleverly designed with amazing attention to detail. Food and wine of course, is the main attraction here and the on-site restaurant offers both a la carte and seasonal tasting menus with an enviable wine list and wine pairings. Excursions to wineries, local villages and historical places of interest can be organised by the excellent concierge team. There is also fantastic hiking in the region plus the relatively traffic free roads make Priorat a cyclist’s dream. If you don’t fancy the hills then don’t worry, there are e-bikes on hand.
