Early autumn is also a lovely time to get out into the wonderful rolling hills of the local wine country.

The Penedes region is full of first rate wineries, big and small, many of whom specialise in producing Cava... although you'll find excellent table wines as well. For a splash of luxury hire a private tour guide who will pick you up from your hotel and take you to two boutique vineyards, as well as an authentic Catalan restaurant in the countryside.

Penedès Wine Region

With its proximity to the port of Barcelona, Penedès grew quickly to become a leading exporter of Catalan wine and, to this day, remains the autonomous region's top producer. The Mediterranean climate, varied landscape, and mixture of soils lend great diversity to the spirits in the area, where you can sample a veritable bouquet of aromas and distinctive flavours.

Almost all bottles of Cava hail from this region, so mention of Penedès tends to evoke images of the superb sparkling wine.