April on the Rioja Alta Wine Route: get away from the crowds

April marks the true awakening of spring on the Rioja Alta Wine Route. The vines leave behind their winter lethargy and begin to sprout for the arrival of a new harvest. The mild temperatures invite you to walk along trails, visit wineries and enjoy the local gastronomy in an environment that breathes authenticity.

If you are looking for a destination far from the crowds, where nature and tradition are intertwined with wine culture, this is the perfect time to visit the Rioja Alta Wine Route. Here, wine tourism goes far beyond visits to wineries: there are experiences to suit all tastes, from outdoor activities to unique gastronomic proposals.

April is a month of changes in the vineyards. After the ‘weeping of the vine’, which marks the end of winter, comes budbreak, the first big step in the vine’s cycle. The vines begin to dress in green, the almond blossoms paint the landscape and the countryside in general explodes in bright colours. It is an ideal time to take a leisurely stroll along the Route, whether walking through the vineyards, cycling or even on horseback.

The Rioja Alta Wine Route offers plans for travellers who are looking for quality and avoid crowds.

If you love hiking, the Wine Trails will allow you to immerse yourself in this privileged environment. Well-signposted routes that cross vineyards, viewpoints with spectacular views and paths that connect small charming villages, where there is always a winery or a tavern waiting for you to take a break along the way.

For those looking for a different experience, one of the most surprising options is to fly over the vineyards in a hot air balloon. At dawn, with the golden light bathing the landscapes, the view from the air is simply unforgettable.

If you’re a thrill-seeker, you can take to the trails through the vineyards on a quad buggy, a fun way to explore the area from a different perspective. If you prefer something more relaxed, you can opt for a kayak trip along the Ebro, surrounded by nature and with stops at some of the most picturesque spots in the region.

But not everything here revolves around wine. On the Rioja Alta Wine Route you can also discover other local products with visits to artisan cheese dairies, where you’ll learn about the production process and taste locally produced cheeses, or even delve into the fascinating world of beekeeping with an experience among beehives, where you can dress up like a real beekeeper and learn first-hand about the fundamental role of bees in our ecosystem.

Unhurried gastronomy, with a taste of tradition

Eating on the Rioja Alta Wine Route is much more than just sitting at a table. Gastronomy here is enjoyed unhurriedly, with quality products and recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. From small family restaurants to leading gastronomic venues, every meal is an opportunity to discover the flavours of the land.

It is no coincidence that National Geographic has recognised us as the Best Gastronomic Route in Spain. In April, with the arrival of the new season, seasonal dishes take centre stage. Fresh asparagus, artichokes, roast lamb, stuffed peppers… all paired with the best local wines.

For those who enjoy more exclusive experiences, many wineries organise wine tastings and themed dinners, where each wine is accompanied by the perfect dish to enhance its flavour.

One of the great advantages of the Rioja Alta Wine Route is its variety of accommodation. Whether you are looking for a cosy rural house to disconnect for a few days in the heart of nature, or a charming boutique hotel, here you will find options for all types of travellers.

If you are travelling in a group, there are rural houses perfect for enjoying with friends or family. If, on the other hand, you prefer a romantic plan, there is nothing better than a couple’s getaway with a private wine tasting in a winery and a special dinner under the stars.

Events in April

April is a month full of events on the Rioja Alta Wine Route. In addition to Easter, which attracts a greater number of visitors due to its processions and traditions, it is also an ideal month to enjoy cultural activities, dramatised visits and gastronomic days. In our Events Calendar you will find all the proposals available.

If you are looking for a destination where spring can be experienced with intensity, far from the rush and overcrowded destinations, the Rioja Alta Wine Route is your best option. Come and discover it this month and let yourself be surprised by everything it has to offer.