La Rioja
The La Rioja region is in Northern Spain. This landlocked region is surrounded by Castile and Leon to the west and south, The Basque Country in the north and Navarre in the east. A tiny section also borders Aragon in the south-east.
It has a small population of around 315,000 people. Almost half of this population lives in the region’s capital, Logroño.
The region is famous for its wine production. This is focused on the fertile Ebro Valley. Wine producers range from small traditional producers to large scale ultra-modern producers. You could easily spend the rest of your life trying to visit every winery and cellar in the region.
There is no shortage of tours available to learn anything and everything about wine and the winemaking process.
Wherever you are in the La Rioja region, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful and unique places to stay. One example is the stunning Frank Gehry designed Marqués de Riscal Hotel.
As well as wine, the region has a rich history including influences from the Romans, Visigoths and Moores.
The area was often disputed throughout the medieval and later periods. The Camino de Santiago goes through the region crossing the Ebro river into Logroño.
Not surprisingly, many of the major events and festivals around the region relate to wine and wine production. For example, the town of Haro has its famous wine battle to celebrate the wine harvest.
To help plan your visit try our 7 day Itinerary for La Rioja for useful tips and advice on how to make the most of your stay.
Towns of the Region
Read information and tips on these Cities and Towns:
Alfaro – is best known for its history and one of the largest white stork colonies in Europe
Arnedo – combines history with impressive caves, medieval castles, excellent walking routes and a thriving shoe industry
Briones – is famous for its medieval old quarter, stone houses, and strong wine tradition
Calahorra – rich heritage, impressive churches, excellent museums and outstanding local produce
Ezcaray – combines beautiful mountain scenery with rich history, traditional architecture and outstanding gastronomy
Haro – Centre of the regions wine production, a must visit in the region
Logroño – The regions historic capital, full of history, great food and wine
Nájera – combines medieval history, beautiful architecture, relaxed atmosphere and famous pilgrimage routes
Santo Domingo de la Calzada – combines medieval history, impressive architecture, religious heritage and traditional Rioja hospitality
Getting to La Rioja
The capital, Logroño, is about a 3 hour 30 minute drive from Madrid.
From Vitoria-Gasteiz it is just over a 1 hour drive.
The trip from Pamplona it is about a 1 hour drive.
From Burgos and Bilbao it is a 1hour 30 minute drive.
It is around a 2 hour drive from Donostia-San Sebastian