The Ultimate Wine Tour of Rioja

Logroño, the vibrant capital of the Rioja region, is nestled along the majestic Rio Ebro. Take the opportunity to explore the historic and culinary delights of Logroño. Here, you can experience the city’s renowned pincho and tapas bars, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere and indulging in some of the best flavours Rioja has to offer. This vibrant district is the perfect introduction to the culinary excellence that awaits you on this journey through Spain’s esteemed wine country.

Your first cycling day starts with the iconic Camino de Santiago, departing Logroño through the Puerta del Camino, leading into the vast vineyards that mark Rioja’s landscape. Tranquil, narrow roads will guide you towards the grandeur of the Sierras de Cebollera. After a refreshing break in Ventosa, you’re in for a gentle descent along winding roads into Nájera, followed by a final ascent towards the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the San Millan de Cogolla monasteries. Nestled beneath San Lorenzo’s imposing peaks, your evening in San Millan de Cogolla promises tranquillity and inspiration, surrounded by architectural and natural beauty.

The day begins with views of the Ebro Valley and Cordillera Cantábrica as you ride into the La Demanda Mountains. Rolling foothills lead to the dramatic Najarilla Valley, where the route skirts the landscape and passes the Anguiano monastery. The journey continues past the serene Mansilla reservoir, climbing through a canyon into a glacial valley. Crossing the Collado pass, the day concludes with a forested descent to Quintanillar de la Sierra, a tranquil mountain village.

The day begins with a climb in La Demanda range, followed by a thrilling 20km descent through a forested valley to the Rio Pedroso. After a coffee break, the route ascends with switchbacks to a summit, leading to another exhilarating descent to the Uzquiza Reservoir. Continuing through pine forests, you will ascend to Pradoluengo, nestled among wildflower pastures, for a tranquil lunch. The final stretch descends through the Ciloria and Rio Oja valleys, ending in Ezcaray, a charming Riojan village renowned for its vibrant plazas and culinary delights.

You’ll behin yoday with a gentle descent through the Rio Oja valley, flanked by limestone cliffs, before reaching the plains of the Ebro. Passing woodlands and wheat fields, the route leads to Santo Domingo de la Calzada, where medieval streets and a 12th-century cathedral await. The journey continues through Rioja’s vineyards to Haro, renowned for its historic wineries. Winding through La Bastida, the route ascends into the Sierra de Cantabria and Alava province, ending in Laguardia. This medieval village, famed for its wine cellars, offers a 13th-century bodega tour and tasting.

Your final day starts in Laguardia, with the Sierra de Cantabria as a stunning backdrop. Ascending through vineyards, you pass bronze-age dolmens before a 15 km descent through the tranquil Linares valley in Navarra. A coffee break fuels the last climb past Santuario de Codés, leading to a 20 km descent through forests and wheat fields. Returning to Logroño, the journey ends with an evening of local wines and tapas along Calle Laurel, a perfect celebration of Spain’s wine country.

As the morning light filters through the streets of Logroño, it’s time to bid farewell to the landscapes that have been your companions. You can always enjoy a leisurely day before your departure, taking one last stroll through the city.