Spain, La Rioja – Focus on Rioja

Mount Yoar, Arrea!, Cheese & More

This morning it’s time to ascend the peak of Mount Yoar, located on the border of Alava and Navarra. This is the highest peak of the Sierra de Códes at 1417 metres, from which you can see the entire riverside and middle area of Navarra as well as the Rioja and Álava.

Then it’s time for the much awaited lunch at Arrea! This restaurant in Santacruz de Campezo is a new gastronomic concept in the heart of the Alavesa Mountain where Edorta Lamo practices a gastronomy of its own style.

Following lunch we make our way to visit the Artzai Gazta cheese factory belonging to the D.O. Idiazabal. Here you can gain an understanding of how the Latxa sheep-cheese processors control the entire production process, from the management of the herd, the cheese making and its market placement in order to maintain their high standards.

This evening dinner will be at Casa Curro in Lapuebla de Labarca.

Overnight Rioja

Meals B,L,D

Traditional Brunch, Olive Oil, Michelin Stars & More

This morning experience a traditional breakfast of the region, which will include bread with olive oil, garlic, salt and sugar accompanied by a glass of white wine or coffee!

First up today there is a visit to the “trujal” (olive oil cellar) and centenary olive grove along with a specially prepared olive oil tasting. This will be paired with seasonal local products and wine.

Before lunch there will be time to visit Logroño so you can explore shops and purchase local merchandise.

Lunch will be at either Ikaro or Tondeluna Restaurant (depending on availability). Both are home to Michelin Stars!

In the afternoon take a visit to the Dinastía Vivanco Museum which needs to be seen to be believed. This huge venue has 5 permanent exhibition halls, a hall for temporary exhibitions and outside the Garden of Bacchus has a collection of more than 220 grape varieties from around the world.

Dinner tonight will be at “Tercera Estación” restaurant in San Vicente de la Sonsierra.

Overnight Rioja

Meals B,L,D

Ancient Monuments, Paddling & Farewell Dinner

After breakfast this morning, it’s time to visit the ancient El Dolmen de la Hechicera. This is an archaeological stone structure from the Neolithic period which was most likely a funerary. This is one of many in the region, but also one of the most important in the Basque Country due to its size and excellent state of preservation.

Next it’s off to visit an avant-garde winery where you will taste their wines and start a kayak trip down the Ebro River. Enjoy the tranquil waters and pristine scenery as you gently paddle your way to a picnic lunch.

Return to your accommodation for some free time before dinner.

This evening your dinner will feature traditional fare of the region and be cooked for you in your accommodation.

Overnight Rioja

Meals B,L,D

Cycling & Departure

Up and into the countryside this morning, with the bicycle as a companion and binoculars in your backpack! Leisurely cycle through some of the most beautiful villages of Rioja Alavesa on this easy-grade wine and gastronomy tour among vineyards.

Come to know the region and how it is intimately linked to the wine. Enjoy the colours of the season, visit ancient towns with imposing houses, fortresses and wineries where the culture today, and for many years past floods an idyllic landscape. Learn of the region’s flora and fauna at the Complex Lagunar de (Lagoon) LaGuardia, where you will eat brunch enjoying a splendid day in nature.

Continue your onward journey from Logrono station, where you will be delivered in the afternoon.

Meals B