In April, Catalan vegetable gardens turn green and come back to life after the cold of winter. Sweet peas, green beans, asparagus, artichokes and cabbage fill Catalan markets and kitchens, bursting with flavour and freshness. It is the ideal time to go out into the countryside, discover how farmers work and celebrate the return of the freshest and most natural ingredients to our tables. The green treasures of spring The Catalan countryside is transformed with the coming of spring. This is the most eagerly awaited time for farmers, who see their fields once again offering tender and tasty harvests, as well as for lovers of market and seasonal cuisine. A wide variety of freshly picked ingredients are back on the table, making it possible to bring back tradition and creativity to the kitchen. Vegetables are the star ingredients in many parts of Catalonia during this time of year, especially on the central coast and in the remaining fields in the metropolitan area, but also further out, such as in the inland areas. However, each region contributes its own particular personality. In the Maresme, peas –the "green pearl" of this region– have become a culinary symbol for their sweet and delicate flavour, while cabbages are the main attraction in Vallès. Garden vegetables are also important in Baix Llobregat, with artichokes from El Prat and asparagus from Gavà, which have a long-standing agricultural tradition. In the interior, specifically in Segrià, green beans are the veggies that herald the arrival of spring. An experience for the whole family This time of year is ideal for rural and culinary tourism experiences that connect us with the origin of the food we eat and our natural products. Throughout the region, farmers welcome us so that we can discover the cycle of the land up close, to understand where what we eat comes from and to enjoy the most authentic flavours of each season. During the month of April, Catalonia is full of fairs and routes celebrating local produce and visits to the crop fields. Maresme and Baix Llobregat become epicentres of activity, with experiences to get to know local farmers and taste traditional dishes. In Sant Andreu de Llavaneres, the Garrofal Pea Festival combines local produce with creative tastings, showcooking performances and fun and educational workshops for the whole family. Nearby, in Caldes d'Estrac, the traditional Pesolada, or green pea festival, fills the streets with aromas and dishes made with the "green pearl", as local restaurateurs prepare culinary delights with peas as a basic ingredient. Further south, in El Prat de Llobregat, the Carxofada del Prat is a festival that pays homage to artichokes where you can discover the fields of the river delta with guided tours and features an exhibition with tastings and dishes prepared by local chefs. Meanwhile in Gavà, the Asparagus Fair, which dates back nearly a century, brings together farmers, artisans and visitors to celebrate another of the symbols of Baix Llobregat vegetable gardens with agricultural exhibitions and family workshops. For those who prefer to connect with the land, other initiatives, such as Tugas Pagès or La Cistella de Montgai, offer guided tours of farms during which you can take part in workshops, pick vegetables and enjoy a rural experience with the family. Through the Benvinguts a Pagès initiative, you can enjoy numerous agricultural tourism experiences where you can see what life is like in the countryside first hand, appreciating local produce and understanding the vital work that farmers do.