La Rioja

Nájera

This historic town was once the capital of the Kingdom of Navarre and is home to several impressive monuments, including the Monastery of Santa María la Real.

Ezcaray

Nestled in the Sierra de la Demanda mountains, Ezcaray is a charming village with beautiful stone buildings, a picturesque old town, and plenty of outdoor activities.

WELCOME TO La Rioja

Province Overview

Main city

Logroño

AREA

5,045 km²

POPULATION

315,000

Main language

Spanish

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Sierra de Cebollera Natural Park

Sierra de Cebollera Natural Park is a beautiful mountainous area located in the region of La Rioja, Spain. The park is known for its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and abundant wildlife, including wolves, deer, and eagles. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, enjoy picnics by the river, and admire the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Wine Route

The Wine Route is a popular tourist attraction in La Rioja, Spain, known for its world-renowned wine production. Visitors can tour vineyards, wineries, and wine cellars, learning about the winemaking process and sampling the region's best wines. The route also offers cultural experiences and opportunities to explore the beautiful countryside and historic towns of the region.

Monasteries of San Millán de la Cogolla

The Monasteries of San Millán de la Cogolla are two historic monasteries located in the region of La Rioja, Spain. These monasteries are considered to be among the oldest and most important in the country, and are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture, learn about the history of the monasteries, and explore the stunning natural surroundings.

Political

Economy and Government

La Rioja is a relatively small region in Spain with a population of approximately 315,000 people. Despite its size, the region has a diverse and thriving economy. One of the main drivers of the economy in La Rioja is the wine industry, which generates significant revenue and provides employment opportunities for many locals. In addition, La Rioja has a strong agricultural sector, with a focus on the cultivation of cereal crops and vegetables.

The regional government of La Rioja plays an important role in supporting the region's economy and promoting its unique cultural and natural heritage. The government provides financial assistance to businesses and organizations in the region, and works closely with other regional and national governments to develop policies and initiatives that support economic growth and development.

La Rioja is governed by a regional parliament and a president, who are responsible for overseeing the region's affairs and making decisions on issues such as taxation, education, and healthcare. The government is committed to promoting sustainable development and preserving the region's natural resources, and has implemented policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment.

History

History and Culture

La Rioja is a region located in northern Spain, bordered by the Basque Country, Navarra, Castilla y León, and the Ebro River. This region is renowned for its wine production, especially its famous red wine, and is considered one of the most important wine regions in the world. However, La Rioja's history and culture extend far beyond its wineries.

The region has a rich history dating back to Roman times, as evidenced by the remains of ancient Roman roads, bridges, and buildings that can be found throughout the area. In the Middle Ages, La Rioja was an important center of pilgrimage and was home to many monasteries and religious institutions. Today, visitors can still see the impressive Romanesque architecture of these buildings, such as the Monastery of San Millán de la Cogolla, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In addition to its historical and religious sites, La Rioja is known for its lively cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Haro Wine Festival, which takes place in late June and involves a large wine fight in the streets. Other notable events include the San Mateo Festival in Logroño, the region's capital, and the Batalla del Vino, or Wine Battle, in the town of Haro.

Overall, La Rioja is a fascinating region that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Whether you're interested in wine, religion, or simply exploring a beautiful and vibrant part of Spain, La Rioja is definitely worth a visit.

HOTELS

Hotel Marqués de Riscal

Located in the town of Elciego, Hotel Marqués de Riscal is a luxurious hotel designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The hotel features unique and innovative design elements, including a titanium roof and a striking asymmetrical shape. The hotel's spa and gourmet restaurant are also highly acclaimed.

Hotel Viura

Situated in the picturesque village of Villabuena de Álava, Hotel Viura is a boutique hotel with a modern and stylish design. The hotel's rooms are spacious and comfortable, and many offer stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. The hotel's restaurant serves traditional regional cuisine with a contemporary twist.

Hospedería de los Parajes

Located in the heart of the medieval town of Laguardia, Hospedería de los Parajes is a charming hotel with a rustic yet elegant design. The hotel's rooms are individually decorated with a mix of antique and modern furnishings, and many feature exposed stone walls and wooden beams. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious regional cuisine, and guests can also enjoy wine tastings and tours of local wineries.

RESTAURANTS

El Portal del Echaurren

Located in the village of Ezcaray, El Portal del Echaurren is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an exquisite tasting menu featuring traditional Riojan cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list featuring some of the region's best wines.

Asador Tinto y Blanco

Situated in the heart of Logroño, Asador Tinto y Blanco is a popular restaurant known for its excellent grilled meats and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant's menu features a wide range of dishes, from classic Riojan cuisine to more contemporary offerings.

Restaurante Venta Moncalvillo

Located in the town of Daroca de Rioja, Restaurante Venta Moncalvillo is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a sophisticated tasting menu featuring inventive and beautifully presented dishes. The restaurant's wine list is extensive and features many of the region's best wines, as well as selections from around the world.