From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
It may not have the instant name recognition of Champagne or Bordeaux, but Spain’s Rioja wine region is absolutely deserving of a visit.
Nestled at the foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains in northern Spain and overlapping the Basque Country, Navarre and La Rioja communities, Spain’s most famous wine region is known for its bold, dry reds—predominantly Tempranillo.
It’s this sheltered location below the Cantabrian Range that moderates the region’s Continental climate and offers protection from the fierce winds typical of northern Spain, contributing to the unique terroir that produces Rioja’s beloved reds.
But vino tinto aside, Rioja is home to some of rural Spain’s prettiest pastoral landscapes—a gentle patchwork of vineyards, grain fields and sunflower meadows strewn with medieval villages and monasteries, set beneath brilliant blue skies.
Discover Rioja’s rich winemaking legacy as you hop between pretty villages and prestigious wineries, meeting proud local producers and sampling their fine wines and regional cuisine.
Take our Highlights of the Rioja by Bike journey and spend your days cycling along the banks of the Ebro River, following the ancient pilgrimage trails of the Camino de Santiago and stopping to visit medieval churches, monasteries and small castles.
Don’t miss Rioja!
36Days
Moderate
13Days
15Days
Introductory to Moderate
17Days
Moderate to Challenging
7Days
Trips only include what you need like accommodation, meals, bikes on cycle trips, luggage transfers, maps and route directions on self guided trips and an experienced local guide for group trips, as well as the peace of mind that comes with complete backup and support.
On self guided trips you can expect to receive up-to-date and well researched route notes and maps, seamless luggage transfers and competitive pricing on all essential services. Many self guided trips also have daily departure dates, allowing you to enjoy the convenience and flexibility a self guided trip offers.
Cycling or walking, 2 star or 4 star, small groups or self guided, land or sea - we can help you explore Europe exactly the way you want.
We use a range of 2-3 star hotels, often family run. These charming hotels provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Where possible, we choose hotel locations that add to your experience.
Simple yet rich in local character, the B&B’s chosen are clean, comfortable and run by hosts that help add to your experience.
Similar to Bed & Breakfasts, these family-owned accommodations are clean and comfortable. Rooms with en-suites generally have a shower but no bath due to space. There may be a separate room with a bath tub.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Experience medieval hilltop villages and the sweeping landscapes of the Ebro River Valley
Explore the Rioja on a cycling holiday and sample the wines and Spanish cuisine
Stay in accommodation that truly appreciate the Rioja region of Spain
Follow several parts of the Camino de Santiago that cross Spain's Rioja area
Discover small castles, hidden art in monasteries & churches, local wine cellars and much more
The months of June - August are the busiest times, with temperatures ranging between 5-18 degrees Celsius / 41-64 degrees Fahrenheit in spring and autumn, and 15-25 degrees Celsius / 59-77 degrees Fahrenheit in summer (often higher). The region has a mild climate with generally hot summers and cold, dry winters.
Seasonality impacts vine growth - there is minimal growth in spring, and harvest time in the Rioja is generally in September and October.
Spain is +1 hour ahead of UTC/GMT
Castilian Spanish (official), Catalan, Galician and Basque
Euro
+34
Electricity in Spain is usually between 220 and 240 volts AC. The most common adapter pin type is C. (2 round prong).
Visas are not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www.schengenvisainfo.com/schengen-visa-countries-list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements.
Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.
Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.
We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.
We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.