La Rioja, Spain’s celebrated wine region, offers a delightful escape for those seeking refined experiences amidst its rolling vineyards and historic villages. Renowned for its world-class wines and charming landscapes, this region provides a perfect setting for upscale holidays. Visitors can expect a curated selection of high-end hotels, gourmet dining venues, and tranquil spas that cater to discerning travellers.
- In Elciego, the Hotel Marqués de Riscal stands as an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. This five-star property features uniquely shaped rooms with panoramic views of vineyards and the medieval town. Its spa, offering vinotherapy treatments, provides a relaxing retreat, while the Michelin-starred restaurant, overseen by chef Francis Paniego, serves innovative dishes paired with local wines. The hotel’s modern design and curated wine experiences make it a standout choice.
- In Logroño, the Áurea Palacio de Correos by Eurostars Hotel Company offers a sophisticated stay in a restored 16th-century building. This five-star hotel boasts elegant rooms with contemporary furnishings, a full-service spa with a pool, and a restaurant showcasing regional cuisine. Its central location provides easy access to the city’s famed tapas bars along Calle del Laurel, blending urban convenience with luxury.
- For a boutique experience, Hotel Viura in Villabuena de Álava combines avant-garde architecture with a serene setting. Its 35 minimalist rooms feature large windows framing views of the Sierra de Cantabria or the village’s historic church.
- The hotel’s bistro restaurant serves Basque-Riojan dishes with a focus on local ingredients, complemented by an extensive wine cellar. The rooftop lounge bar offers a relaxed space to enjoy the surrounding vineyards.
Dining
- Dining in La Rioja reaches refined heights at select venues. At Hotel Marqués de Riscal, the gastronomic restaurant delivers a tasting menu that celebrates local produce with creative flair.
- In Ezcaray, Echaurren Tradición at Hotel Echaurren offers a refined take on traditional Riojan cuisine, with dishes like stuffed peppers and lamb chops paired with regional wines.
- The Matasellos Restaurant at Palacio Tondón in Briñas provides a riverside setting for enjoying seasonal menus crafted with fresh, local ingredients.
Spa & wellness
- Spa facilities in La Rioja cater to those seeking calm and rejuvenation. The Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa at Hotel Marqués de Riscal uses grape-based treatments, offering massages and therapies in a tranquil environment.
- Palacio Tondón’s spa includes a sauna and massage menu, ideal for unwinding after exploring nearby vineyards.
- Hotel Viura’s wellness offerings, though more intimate, provide tailored treatments with views of the surrounding countryside.
Premium product
- Beyond accommodations and dining, La Rioja’s luxury facilities include unique experiences.
- The golf course at Finca de los Arandinos in Entrena offers a scenic game amidst vineyards, paired with a modern spa and gourmet restaurant.
- Palacio Tondón provides curated wine tastings in its 16th-century cellar, alongside cycling and horse-riding options through the region’s landscapes.
- For those seeking cultural exploration, the Áurea Palacio de Correos arranges private tours to nearby wineries and historic sites.
La Rioja’s blend of wine heritage and refined amenities creates an inviting destination for travellers seeking elegance and authenticity. Whether sipping a glass of Rioja in a historic cellar, relaxing in a spa, or staying in a design-forward hotel, the region offers a polished yet approachable escape.
Spain region by region
Almería – Andalusia – Aragón – Asturias – Basque Country – Cádiz – Cantabria – Catalonia – Córdoba – Extremadura – Fuerteventura – Galicia – Gran Canaria – Granada – Huelva – Ibiza – Jaén – La Mancha – La Rioja – Lanzarote – León – Madrid – Majorca – Málaga – Menorca – Murcia – Navarra – Seville – Tenerife – Valencia –
