Daily life is often quiet and simple in Vila-rodona.

This traditional Catalan village of about 1200 residents was established in Roman times, and even has one of the few remaining “columbarium,” a reverential structure for housing human remains in ancient times. All of the essential services are within a few minutes’ walk from our central location. Vila-rodona has a pharmacy and clinic in the town center for medical needs. There are two bakeries and several grocery shops for all of the basics, including abundant fresh produce and a gourmet butcher with high quality meats and cheeses. A handful of surrounding restaurants offer traditional and contemporary dining using local ingredients, and the weekly Tuesday morning market is the perfect spot to stock up on fruits, vegetables, spices, and even clothing and plants. Twice a week a fish and seafood shop is open, and the agricultural cooperative runs a lovely “Agrobotiga” where they sell wines, produce, and a wide variety of other local products.

Acres of vineyards, olive groves, and fruit orchards (pears, apricots, plums, and persimmons, to name a few) surround the village. There are countless paths to explore on foot or bicycle; check the map for suggested walking, hiking, and biking trails just a few steps outside the center of Vila-rodona. Other nearby points of interest include Santes Creus (a majestic monastery on ‘la ruta del cister’), Brafim (don’t miss the Padro & Co. vermouth tour and tasting), and Montferri (visit the Santuario de Montferri, a modernist building in the style of Gaudi). Each of these nearby towns is about 5km from Vermut al Terrat and perfect for biking (30 minutes) or walking (1-1.25 hours).