The Semi-Private La Rioja Tour from Bilbao offers an exclusive opportunity to explore the renowned wine region of La Rioja. With a maximum of seven participants, this tour provides an intimate setting where an English-speaking guide shares insights into the area’s rich history and winemaking traditions. Visitors can look forward to tasting exclusive wine selections, learning about olive oil production, and discovering the charming medieval village of LaGuardia. The tour also showcases breathtaking views of the Ebro Valley and Sierra Cantabria, creating a truly immersive experience for wine enthusiasts and sightseers alike. What awaits participants on this semi-private journey through La Rioja’s premier wineries?
Key Points
- This semi-private La Rioja tour from Bilbao includes visits to 3 top-rated boutique wineries with a total of 9-10 premium wine tastings.
- The tour offers a walking exploration of the charming medieval village of LaGuardia, providing insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
- Panoramic views of the Ebro Valley and Sierra Cantabria mountain range offer a picturesque backdrop to the winery experiences.
- The tour includes a guided visit to the striking titanium-clad Hotel Marques de Riscal, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and offers flexibility with a ‘Reserve Now, Pay Later’ option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
This semi-private La Rioja tour from Bilbao whisks participants away for an 8-hour exploration of the region’s premier wineries and cultural highlights.
Rated #1 by TripAdvisor since 2015, the tour is limited to just 7 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Along the way, a live English-speaking guide leads the group, bringing the local history and wine culture to life.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option, this tour offers unparalleled flexibility.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply seeking a memorable day in Rioja, this comprehensive experience promises an unforgettable journey through one of Spain’s most renowned wine regions.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in La Rioja Spain
Winery Visits and Tastings
The tour takes participants on an insightful exploration of 3 boutique wineries renowned for their high-quality Rioja wines, each rated among the top 100 in the region and earning over 90 Parker Points.
At the first winery, guests embark on a 1-hour tour and enjoy 3 exclusive premium wine tastings.
The second and third wineries offer tastings of premium wines from their oldest vines, accompanied by an olive oil tasting with fresh bread, cheese, and chorizo.
This comprehensive winery experience provides a well-rounded understanding of the region’s renowned viticulture and enology:
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3 boutique winery visits
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9-10 total wine tastings
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Exclusive premium wine tastings
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Olive oil tasting with local accompaniments
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Insight into Rioja’s top-rated wines
Exploring the Medieval Village of LaGuardia
Nestled in the heart of Rioja, the medieval village of LaGuardia dates back to the 10th century, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
During the tour, guests will embark on a walking exploration of the charming streets, discovering picturesque plazas, historic landmarks, and traditional architecture.
Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to stop for lunch at local restaurants or pintxo/tapas bars, savoring the authentic flavors of the region.
The scenic views of the Ebro Valley and the majestic Sierra Cantabria mountain range provide the perfect backdrop for memorable photos, capturing the essence of this captivating medieval town.
Scenic Views of the Ebro Valley
Sweeping vistas of the Ebro Valley stretch out before visitors, offering a picturesque panorama of the region’s natural beauty.
Rolling hills, lush vineyards, and the meandering Ebro River create a breathtaking backdrop for the tour, providing ample opportunities for travelers to capture stunning photographs.
The scenic highlights of the Ebro Valley include:
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Panoramic views of the Sierra Cantabria mountain range
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Verdant fields dotted with century-old olive trees
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Quaint farmhouses and historic stone structures
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Winding roads that lead through the heart of the wine country
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Serene moments by the banks of the Ebro River
These awe-inspiring sights immerse visitors in the timeless elegance of La Rioja’s rural landscape, creating lasting memories of the region’s unparalleled natural splendor.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyArchitectural Highlights: Frank Gehry’s Design
Frank Gehry’s iconic design of the Hotel Marques de Riscal commands attention, with its striking titanium-clad structure rising dramatically against the backdrop of the picturesque vineyards.
The tour includes a visit to this architectural masterpiece, offering participants the chance to wander through the hotel’s grounds and vineyards.
Gehry’s unconventional, sculptural approach is evident in the building’s undulating, metallic form, which reflects the surrounding landscape in its shimmering surfaces.
The guided tour provides an opportunity to marvel at the innovative design and appreciate how it seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of the Rioja wine region.
Visitors can capture memorable photographs framing the hotel against the stunning mountain and vineyard views.
What’s Included in the Tour
The La Rioja Tour from Bilbao includes a comprehensive package of experiences, beginning with three exclusive winery visits where guests can savor a total of 9-10 tastings of high-quality red and white wines.
The tour also features:
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An olive oil tasting paired with fresh bread, cheese, and chorizo
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A walking tour through the charming medieval village of LaGuardia
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Scenic views of the Ebro Valley and the Sierra Cantabria mountain range
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A visit to the iconic Frank Gehry-designed Hotel Marques de Riscal for photos and a stroll through the vineyards
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Round-trip transfers in a luxury vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide included
With these inclusions, the La Rioja Tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience in the renowned wine region.
Cancellation Policy and Booking Options
Travelers can cancel their La Rioja Tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for their plans. Booking is available through a ‘Reserve Now, Pay Later’ option, allowing guests to secure their spot without an upfront payment. This makes the tour more accessible and convenient for those who may need to adjust their schedules or are budgeting their travel expenses.
The tour operator is rated #1 in Bilbao by TripAdvisor and is fully licensed by the Basque government, ensuring a high-quality and legitimate experience for all participants.
With a group size limited to 7 people, the tour offers a semi-private and personalized exploration of La Rioja’s renowned wineries and cultural highlights.
Rating and Reputation
A TripAdvisor rating of #1 in Bilbao since 2015 reflects the tour operator’s reputation for delivering high-quality, personalized experiences to visitors exploring the renowned wine region of La Rioja.
This esteemed ranking is a testament to the operator’s commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and deep expertise in the local wine culture.
The tour’s key features that have earned this top-tier status include:
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Carefully curated selection of boutique wineries known for their exceptional, award-winning wines.
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Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides who provide immersive insights into the winemaking process and regional history.
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Opportunities to savor premium wine tastings paired with local delicacies in picturesque settings.
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Seamless logistics and transportation for a stress-free, all-inclusive experience.
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Consistently positive feedback from satisfied customers across various review platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code. Casual, comfortable attire is recommended, as guests will be walking through winery facilities and exploring the countryside. Comfortable walking shoes are advised for navigating uneven terrain.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?
The tour generally accommodates dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. Guests should notify the tour operator in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made at the wineries and lunch venues.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Winery?
The tour spends approximately 1 hour at the first winery for a guided tour and 3 premium wine tastings. At the second and third wineries, visitors will have tastings of premium wines, including olive oil, bread, cheese, and chorizo.
Can We Purchase Wines During the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase wines during the tour. The tour includes tastings at three premium wineries, and there will be opportunities to purchase any of the wines sampled, subject to availability and the winery’s policies.
Is Transportation Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour’s transportation is wheelchair accessible. The luxury vehicle used for round-trip transfers accommodates passengers with mobility needs. Guests can easily board and disembark the vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and accessible touring experience.
Recap
The Semi-Private La Rioja Tour from Bilbao offers an intimate and immersive wine experience.
Visitors can explore three premium wineries, indulge in tastings, and discover the historic village of LaGuardia, all while taking in the stunning Ebro Valley scenery.
With a small group size and an expert guide, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the rich wine culture of the La Rioja region.
You can check if your dates are available here: