Things to do in La Rioja People are increasingly looking to explore some of the lesser-known areas of Spain, with the Basque Country among those already seeing growth. With La Rioja its neighbour, and the River Ebro dividing the two areas, it’s only a matter of time before interest expands across the river to La Rioja too.
Things to do in La Rioja People are increasingly looking to explore some of the lesser-known areas of Spain, with the Basque Country among those already seeing growth. With La Rioja its neighbour, and the River Ebro dividing the two areas, it’s only a matter of time before interest expands across the river to La Rioja too.
Things to do in La Rioja People are increasingly looking to explore some of the lesser-known areas of Spain, with the Basque Country among those already seeing growth. With La Rioja its neighbour, and the River Ebro dividing the two areas, it’s only a matter of time before interest expands across the river to La Rioja too.Situated in northern Spain, La Rioja is home to the country’s most famous wine and a great recommendation for those wanting to savour a truly authentic Iberian experience away from the better-known tourist spots.Start your trip in the capital Logroño which has some of the best Tapas bars in Spain, where you can join local people in the historic quarter along the Calle del Laurel and Calle San Juan.Of course, a visit must include a trip to one of La Rioja’s many wineries. Marquès de Riscal is a stand out, with its Frank Gehrydesigned hotel, or you could drop in at one of the many bodegas in the interesting town of Haro, which is home to some of the marquee names in Rioja production.The Unesco World Heritage Sites of the San Millán de Yuso and San Millán de Suso monasteries, dating back over many hundredsof years, are amazing examples of La Rioja’s architectural and spiritual heritage.Other historic and beautiful towns and villages that are well worth a visit are Ezcaray, Navarette, Calahorra and Cornago.La Rioja is also home to some spectacular scenery including the Sierra de Cebollera with its mountains, forests and wildlife including deer, wild boar and birds of prey.The Parque Natural de las Lagunas Glaciares de Neila is famous for its unique lagoons, such as Laguna Negra, Cascada and Tejera, each extremely beautiful.Las Calderas Gorge is another great hiking destination with waterfalls, pools, and fascinating rock formations.La Rioja is a diverse region ripe for discovery and its visitor numbers continue to edge up, as more people enjoy its history, beautiful countryside, great food and of course, some of the best wine in the world.Find out more about the other places featured in our Destinations to Watch 2026 report.
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