Open-air wine tourism in Rioja
Rioja offers tourists, wine lovers and the curious a wide range of opportunities to discover the region through a variety of experiences. Rioja stands out as the most important wine tourism destination in Spain, with proposals that include gastronomy, sports, leisure, architecture, landscapes, history and culture, as well as opportunities for wine tasting courses and different alternatives for visiting wineries.
Logrono, Marques de Murrieta
Explore the vineyards
One of Rioja’s tourist attractions is to explore its iconic vineyards on horseback, a unique opportunity to discover the region’s hidden treasures and get in touch with nature. These rides offer breathtaking views of the vineyards, rivers and mountain ranges that dominate the landscape. As a group, couple or family, this activity is suitable for all types of visitors, regardless of their riding experience.
Another way to get to know the region is by cycling. This is a great way for wine lovers to get close to the land. Cycling through the unique and emblematic vineyards, this season is the ideal time to enjoy this experience.
Many wineries make it easy to rent electric bikes and other eco-friendly transport such as Segways. If you are looking for an even more elevated experience, an unforgettable balloon ride provides the opportunity to see the region from a whole new perspective.
Fall in love with every part of the region
Rioja has many charming places to explore, such as the picturesque villages of Ezcaray, Laguardia, Haro, Elciego, San Millán de la Cogolla, Santo Domingo de la Calzada and Briones, among others.
It is also a member of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain and boasts a number of remarkable monuments, such as the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, the hermitage of San Juan and the Vivanco Wine Culture Museum.
In addition to these charming villages, the region has other interesting attractions to visit. The archaeological site of Contrebia Leucade, an ancient Celtiberian city, is one of the most outstanding on the Peninsula. The city of Calahorra has a rich Roman past, while in the central part of the region, we find the Arab influence.
Other unique activities include routes such as the Dinosaur Route in Rioja Oriental, where you can see more than 1,400 ichnites left by these ancient creatures. The Dolmen Route in Rioja Alavesa, surrounded by the Toloño mountain range and the Ebro river, offers a glimpse of the megalithic structures left by the Neolithic people.
Outdoor sports in Rioja, an unforgettable experience
Rioja offers many ways to enjoy its historical heritage and beautiful landscapes, one of which is through sport. The region’s peaceful surroundings are ideal for practicing yoga and mindfulness in the open air, surrounded by vineyards, combining relaxation with wine tasting.
Those wishing to hike or climb can discover the region’s many landscapes and routes. Walking a section of the Camino de Santiago is another option, with towns such as Viana, Logroño and Navarrete in the QDO Rioja adding to the experience with their hospitality. With challenges for mountain bikers and the Atlantic Coast Route crossing the region, cycling is an excellent option.
Adventure seekers can go quad biking, kayaking and canoeing on the Ebro and its tributaries, as well as climbing at historic sites such as Clavijo Castle. Multi-adventure parks are also popular with families. You can also relax and be pampered with spas, massages and wine therapy in the wineries of the Designation of Origin.
Open-air wine tourism in Rioja, a perfect plan to be discovered
Rioja’s diverse culinary offerings have the capacity to satisfy a wide range of preferences. Options range from tapas tours in the region’s many bars to the delights of Michelin-starred restaurants. Visitors to the QDO Rioja wineries can enrich their experience with a pleasant lunch or picnic in the vineyards, where high quality products merge with the exceptional surroundings of the region.
Warm nights outdoors take on a special character. The combination of Rioja wine and the brightness of the stars is captivating. Several wineries in the region offer night tastings under the stars, accompanied by astronomy explanations and live music. Undoubtedly the perfect plan for those seeking tranquility and originality these days, as well as enjoying nature in a unique way.
