Introduction
If you’re curious about sustainable winemaking and want a taste of authentic Andalusian agriculture, this Alpujarra of Almería tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience. It’s designed for those who appreciate organic wines, local traditions, and a laid-back environment. We particularly love that the tour combines educational insights about eco-friendly practices with enjoyable tasting and a charming village setting.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a moderate 1.5 to 2-hour walk, which might be a consideration if you have mobility constraints. Still, the scenery and the chance to learn about 52 grape varieties make it worthwhile. This experience suits wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone interested in sustainable farming—it’s an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at rural Andalusia’s wine culture.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Eco-Winery: Experience sustainable practices firsthand in a scenic vineyard setting.
- Diverse Vineyards: Taste wines made from 52 different grape varieties—a rare opportunity.
- Educational Museum: Learn about rural heritage and traditional farming methods.
- Gourmet Vegan Aperitif: Enjoy village bread, organic olive oil, and local jams.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights into organic and biodiverse winemaking.
- Value for Money: Includes tastings, food, and tours, making it a comprehensive experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Province Of Almeria.
Unpacking the Experience: What’s Included and How It Works
The tour is hosted at Cortijo El Cura Eco-Bodega, located just outside Laujar, amid lush vineyards and groves. It lasts about three hours, with options to check available starting times. The experience kicks off with a guided walk through the farm, where you’ll see not only vineyards but also olive, almond, and fruit trees. This part of the tour isn’t just a stroll—it’s an opportunity to understand the farm’s sustainable practices and how they integrate biodiversity into daily life.
Following the farm visit, you’ll explore the agricultural museum, which offers a fascinating look at local rural heritage. Here, you can get a sense of how farming and wine production have evolved in this part of Andalusia—and why these traditions matter today.
Next, the focus shifts to the organic winery. This is where the real fun begins: discovering the secrets behind the wines and understanding what makes them unique. The winery tour highlights the natural methods used in cultivation and fermentation, which should appeal to eco-conscious travelers.
Finally, you’ll sit down for a wine tasting of five organic wines, paired with a vegan aperitif of village bread, organic olive oil, and homemade jams. The tasting includes two premium wines, each balanced and characterful, with the added delight of Olives and almonds from the farm.
The Scenic Vineyard and Grape Varieties
One of the tour’s standout features is the chance to sample the 52 varieties of table grapes from the traditional “parral,” a unique vineyard system only found here. Visitors in season—roughly from August to January—find this part especially memorable. It’s rare to encounter such diversity in a single vineyard, which reflects the farm’s dedication to biodiversity and ancient grape traditions.
The vineyards themselves are a visual treat—rolling hills dotted with neatly aligned rows of vines, olive trees, and fruit trees. The natural landscape adds a peaceful backdrop to the tour, making it more than just a wine tasting—it’s also a scenic escape into rural Andalusia.
Guided Tour and Educational Highlights
The guides at Cortijo El Cura are praised for their knowledgeable, passionate explanations. As one reviewer noted, Estefania’s management of the vineyard with a focus on ecosystem health and biodiversity is truly inspiring. She shares her passion for sustainable viticulture in an accessible way, making it easy for beginners to grasp complex concepts.
The museum component offers a rich look at local rural life, with exhibits that help contextualize the importance of traditional farming and how it shapes modern organic practices. This element adds depth to the experience, turning a simple wine tour into an educational journey.
More Great Tours NearbyTasting and Food Pairings: A Perfect Finish
The wine tasting is a highlight, with five organic wines carefully selected to showcase the farm’s range. The inclusion of two premium wines demonstrates the quality achievable through sustainable winemaking. You’ll appreciate the balance and character of each pour, especially knowing they’re crafted with environmentally friendly practices.
Paired with the wines is a vegan aperitif—village bread drizzled with organic olive oil, complemented by organic jams. It’s a simple yet flavorful way to connect the wine to local products and give your palate a moment to refresh.
Practical Details and Value
This tour costs a reasonable fee, especially considering the in-depth nature of the experience and the all-inclusive tasting and food. The small group setting ensures that guides can tailor their explanations and answer questions thoroughly.
The duration of three hours is well balanced—long enough to get a real sense of the farm and its practices but not so long that it becomes tiring. Given the moderate walking involved, travelers should be comfortable with some outdoor activity, but it’s accessible for most.
The tour is available in English and Spanish, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility if your plans change. Payment can be made later, making it easy to reserve without immediate commitment.
Authentic and Eco-Friendly Experience
From the reviews, it’s clear that enthusiastic guides make this experience special. One reviewer praised Estefania’s deep knowledge and passion, and others appreciated the natural, simple methods used to care for the plantations. This focus on sustainable and biodiverse practices is not just a marketing point but the core of what makes this tour meaningful.
The emphasis on organic and biodiverse viticulture means that every sip you take is a reflection of respect for the environment. This adds a level of authenticity and integrity that many travelers will value.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to learn about organic and sustainable practices. It’s also perfect for nature enthusiasts, as the setting offers beautiful scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. Travelers interested in local traditions and rural heritage will find the museum and farm activities enriching.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, educational outing that combines wine tasting with cultural insight, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy small-group experiences and personalized attention.
Final Impressions: The Value and Who It’s For
This tour offers a comprehensive look at sustainable winemaking, blending educational content with delicious organic wines and local produce. It’s a great value given the inclusion of five tastings, the museum visit, and a guided farm tour—all within three hours.
The personal stories shared by guides like Estefania, and the focus on biodiversity and eco-friendly practices, elevate this beyond a typical winery visit. It’s a chance to connect with the land, the traditions, and the passion behind each bottle.
For travelers craving an authentic, educational, and scenic experience in Andalusia, this tour ticks all the right boxes. If you’re open to learning about sustainable agriculture while sampling some of the region’s best organic wines, you’ll leave with both new knowledge and great memories.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including farm visits, museum, winery tour, and tasting.
Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, there’s a 1.5 to 2-hour walk across the farm. Moderate fitness is recommended, but the walk is manageable for most.
What languages are available?
Tours are conducted in English and Spanish, accommodating a broad range of visitors.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the guided farm, museum, and winery tours, tasting of five organic wines, olives and almonds, a vegan aperitif with bread, olive oil, and jam, plus water.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there a minimum group size?
The experience is usually in small groups, ensuring personalized attention from guides.
When is the best time to visit the vineyards?
The grape tasting of 52 varieties is best from August to January, when the grapes are in season.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot, especially during busy seasons.
This Alpujarra of Almería organic wine tour offers a genuine slice of Andalusian countryside, with the added bonus of learning how tradition and sustainability go hand-in-hand in modern winemaking. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply curious about eco-friendly farming, it promises a memorable, enriching experience that’s worth the time and investment.
You can check availability for your dates here: