This guide was specially prepared by the Ovation Spain DMC Team for your possible trip to Spain. Each team member has created “one day” for you, full of insights and favourite locations that will help you to feel like a local. Next stop: La Rioja
*This article is written by Gonzalo De la Cruz, International Sales Manager of Ovation Spain DMC.
The Spanish region of La Rioja lies in the north of the country, surrounded by the Basque Country, Aragón, Navarra and Castilla y León. If you’re thinking of going for a short break, here are the best insights for you:
An inside tip for foodies
Internationally known by its wine, the gastronomy of this region can be placed at the same level. In downtown Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, there are more than 65 bars surrounding Calle Laurel and Calle San Agustín. Each of these has its own speciality tapa, you just need to ask for it! Here are some examples:
- Bar El Sebas (Calle Albornoz, 3) – Spanish Omelette
- Bar El Soriano (Travesía del Laurel, 2) – Mushrooms
- La Casita (Travesía del Laurel, 13) – Octopus and shrimp
Calle Laurel – Logroño
Vibrant Activities to live in the area
Visiting a wine cellar is a must. It offers a great experience with a guided tour through the vineyards and the opportunity to taste some of their products. In some of them, you have the opportunity to have a launch with a perfect pairing of food and wine. Marqués de Riscal Cellar (Torrea, 1, 01340 Elciego, Álava), the older cellar in the region, is famous for its modern architectonical building, and Ysios cellar (La Hoya Bidea s/n, 01300 Guardia) is the only winery in the world designed by Calatrava, and they are both great options to visit.
Bodega
A breathtaking view
40 minutes from Logroño, you will find La Guardia. This medieval town belongs to The Basque Country, and you will be completely astonished by its beauty. There is a viewpoint at the entrance, and after this 5-minute stop, immerse yourself into its small streets and enjoy this fabulous place.
You have to try El Capricho de Baco (Paseo Sancho Abarca, s/n), which has the most famous pintxo made of ham called “La Zapatilla”.
La Guardia – Medieval town