Rioja Alavesa is a gem of Spanish wine tourism, combining spectacular landscapes, world-famous wineries and a rich cultural tradition. Over Easter, this destination becomes a magical place for wine lovers looking for unforgettable experiences.
A land where wine is culture, the villages look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale and the wineries open their doors to offer experiences that connect you with tradition, nature… and good drinking.
Why choose Rioja Alavesa at Easter?
Easter is the perfect time to discover the region: the vineyards are starting to wake up, temperatures are mild and the atmosphere is much calmer than during the harvest months. Add to that the charm of villages such as Laguardia, Samaniego and Labastida, with cobbled streets, houses bearing coats of arms and underground cellars (calados) where you can breathe in wine history.
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What’s more, many wineries offer special visits over the holidays, with tastings, nibbles of local produce, vineyard walks and even sensory workshops.
What to do in Rioja Alavesa at Easter
Visits to historic wineries
Explore wineries such as J.F. Iradier, with its impressive hand-dug cellars, or Orube, where tradition and modernity go hand in hand. Wander through ageing rooms, learn how the wine is made and taste wines paired with local produce.
Tip: many wineries require advance booking at this time of year. Check opening times and availability before you go.
Routes through charming villages
Laguardia is a medieval gem. Stroll through its narrow streets, discover the underground cellars beneath its houses and visit its town walls or the polychrome portico of the church of Santa María de los Reyes.
Samaniego, Elciego and Villabuena de Álava also offer spectacular architecture, viewpoints over the vineyards and a slow pace that’s ideal for switching off.
Easter flavours
Local cuisine blends with the traditions of the season. Many restaurants serve typical Easter dishes, such as bacalao a la riojana, potajes de vigilia or homemade torrijas… always accompanied by a good local red.
And if you fancy something more casual, don’t miss the pintxo bars in Laguardia or nearby Logroño, with its classic Calle Laurel and Calle San Juan.
Recommended experiences
- Tasting and aperitif with a view at Bodegas Orube, surrounded by vineyards and overlooking the Sierra de Cantabria.
- Family tasting at Bodegas J.F. Iradier, where the little ones also get their own snacks and grape juice.
- A walk among dolmens and wine with the family behind Bodegas Las Orcas, where you’ll learn about the area’s Celtic history and taste wines with soul.
Tips to make the most of it
- Wear comfortable clothes and bring something warm: many wineries stay cool inside.
- Take the chance to buy wine directly from the wineries: they often have special prices and editions you won’t find in shops.
- Book ahead. Easter is an increasingly popular time for wine tourism.
Easter in Rioja Alavesa is the perfect opportunity to discover this magical land at a relaxed pace. Among vineyards, centuries-old cellars, wines steeped in history and the hospitality of its people, you’ll find a getaway that goes far beyond tourism: it’s a deep dive into wine culture and the essence of northern Spain.
Ready to raise a glass of good crianza while you watch the vineyards wake up?
