Rioja Vineyards Gourmet Tour

When you arrive in Logroño you can settle into the city’s relaxed wine-region rhythm, letting your legs ease into the evening as you unwind from the ride. You can explore its historic old town at your pace—perhaps the stone bridge over the Ebro River will catch your eye, or one of the leafy promenades like Paseo del Espolón. Later, you can head into the lively network of tapas bars on Calle del Laurel and the surrounding streets, where regional wines and small plates set the tone for a relaxed first night.

Today marks your first full day of cycling, with a route that weaves through the iconic rolling vineyards of Rioja, a landscape synonymous with the region's rich viticultural heritage. Starting in vibrant Logroño, you will follow quiet country roads into the heart of the Rioja Alavesa wine-region, first entering the village of Oyón‑Oion with its vine-lined slopes and serene churches. From there you will ride gently through undulating terrain to the storied hamlet of Yécora, perched above the vineyards, then climb a little further to Kripan where the landscape widens and historic dolmens peek out beside the vine rows. In the final stretch you will pass Elvillar quietly tucked into the countryside, and arrive at the magnificent hill-top village of Laguardia.

Along the way from Laguardia, you'll encounter an awe-inspiring 13th-century castle, standing as a sentinel over these fertile lands, and ride alongside the majestic banks of the Ebro River, a lifeline that has nurtured these vineyards for centuries. Your destination is the enchanting town of Haro, revered as the wine capital of the province. Here, you're invited to delve into the heart of Rioja's wine culture with visits to local vineyards, where you can indulge in tastings of the renowned local produce.

Your journey today sets off with the crossing of a meticulously preserved Roman bridge, a nod to the region's deep historical roots, before unfolding through the scenic open farmlands of Rioja. This land, among the first to be touched by the Romans in Spain, was quickly recognized for its fertile soil, ideal for viticulture, a legacy that has flourished through the ages. As you pedal through the vibrant vineyards and the serene landscapes, quiet country lanes guide you through the picturesque Sierra Demanda Natural Park. Your destination, Santo Domingo de la Calzada, is steeped in history, dating back to the 12th century when it served as a beacon for pilgrims traversing the Camino de Santiago.

Starting in the medieval town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada, you will roll out through vine-draped fields and gentle countryside toward the charming village of Alesanco. From there your path will lead you into the historic region around San Millán de la Cogolla — home to the UNESCO-listed monasteries of Suso and Yuso. You will then drift into the rural calm of Badarán, where vineyards ripple across the landscape and the altitude gives a little extra clarity to the light. Finally, you will arrive in Nájera, a town perched beside the Najerilla river and surrounded by vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.

From lovely Nájera you will set out onto quiet rural roads, winding through the vine-textured landscape of La Rioja. The ride will take you past Tricio, a small medieval town where stone walls rise among the green rows of tempranillo vines, then through Ventosa, perched on gentle slopes that’ll open up to views over the adjoining valleys. As you continue you will pass Sotes, with its gently rolling terrain and little traffic, making it perfect for a relaxed pace, before arriving in Medrano, where rural tranquillity and vineyard fringes dominate the scene. The final leg will bring you back into Logroño, as the countryside gives way to the city’s outskirts.

After breakfast, your cycling adventure in Rioja is officially completed. It's time to bid farewell to Spain's best wine region, with a full stomach, a tapestry of memories and a sense of accomplishment that comes with a cycling holiday. Enjoy your final day here, and prepare for your departure.