In Deep: La Rioja

Famous for its wine, architecture, language and culture(s), La Rioja is easily one of Spain’s most fascinating – to say nothing of breathtaking – regions.A hotbed for artistic creativity, where cutting-edge design is juxtaposed with old-world, rural living,&nbsp;in Rioja&nbsp;the wine tradition is rich and unfaltering, the cuisine and gastronomy delectable and the landscape ever-changing and&nbsp;impressive.<h2>Rioja</h2>Rioja—or La Rioja—is both a province and an autonomous community on the Iberian Peninsula in north-central spain. The word “Rioja” is a combination of the words rio (“river”) and oja (one of the Ebro River’s tributaries).The name also describes the famous wine region of “Rioja,” which produces wines from grapes grown in La Rioja, but also in parts of neighbouring Navarra and the province of Álava (in Basque Country). The wine region is divided further into three sub zones on the Upper Ebro: Rioja Alta, Rioja Baja and Rioja Alavesa (more on that below).The wine region differs from the political region. The latter lies mostly south of the Ebro River, and includes the mountainous region south of the valley, whereas the wine region is restricted to the valley itself, as well as the north bank of the river (part of the political region known as País Vasco).

<h2>Navarra</h2>To the northeast of La Rioja lies the autonomous community of Navarra (commonly spelled Navarre in English). Officially known as Comunidad Foral de Navarra (“Regional Community of Navarra”), the area is bordered by France to the north and Basque Country to the west.The region’s capital is the city of Pamplona, on the western bank of the Arga River in the fertile region of La Cuenca.<h2>Basque Country (Euskadi/País Vasco)</h2>Rounding out this part of Spain is yet another autonomous community. Basque Country (Euskadi in Basque and País Vasco in Spanish) is located southwest of the French border, on the coast of the Bay of Biscay (Golfo de Vizcaya). In 1978, the area was granted self-legislation in all matters concerning language and culture.Basque Country is made up of three provinces: Biscay (or Vizcaya), which includes Bilbao, Guipúzcoa, which includes San Sebastián, and Álava, which includes Vitoria-Gasteiz (or Vitoria), the Basque capital.Navarra lies to the east of Basque Country and is partially populated by Basque people. La Rioja, by contrast, lies to the south of the region.The Basque language, Euskera, is a non-Indo-European language; its origins baffle linguists even today!

<h2>Rioja and Navarra:</h2>A (Brief!) Early HistoryLa Rioja and Navarra lie at the crossroads of two important pilgrimage routes: the Route of St. James (or the Camino de Santiago), which brought Celts, Goths, Franks, Saxons and Jews to Spain—and the river Ebro, which brought Iberians, Romans and Arabs from the Mediterranean.When the Romans arrived in 200 BC, La Rioja and Navarra were occupied by Celtic tribes. In the 8th century the region was invaded by the Arabs, precipitating centuries of warfare between Arabs and Christians on the Iberian Peninsula.Throughout the 12th century, Castile and Navarra warred over the area that is now La Rioja, until Henry I of England arbitrated in the favour of Castile in 1177. The name “La Rioja” appeared in a document for the first time in the Charter of 1099.In 1369, Aragon and Navarra signed a treaty whereby La Rioja became the property of Aragon. It flip-flopped between Aragon and Navarra several times before Henry IV recovered the region for Castile. During the War of Independence (the Peninsular War), La Rioja and Navarra (as well as the Pais Vasco) were taken by the French, and not recovered until 1813.In 1812, the Constitutional Cortes declared La Rioja an independent province. In 1822, the province of Logroño was created, which encompassed historical La Rioja. Finally, in 1833, a royal decree outlined a smaller version of La Rioja, which has remained unchanged until modern times.<h2>Camino de Santiago</h2>The ancient Romans considered the pilgrimage route of Camino de Santiago to a be a journey, literally, to the “end of the Earth.” Thus, the end of the pilgrimage, in Galicia, was named Cape Finisterre, the westernmost point in Europe, and at that time, the westernmost point of the world.The Camino de Santiago gained prominence and popularity during the Crusades, after the corpse of Apostle Saint James was said to have miraculously appeared in the Galician settlement of Santiago de Compostela. Originally, the pilgrimage was considered to be a spiritual search for this saint.Today, many hikers walk the route simply for pleasure, although some religious pilgrims still make the trek. There are in fact a variety of routes, beginning everywhere from Brussels to Geneva, Arles to Tours and Vézelay. Many pass over the Pyrenees before reaching Santiago de Compostela and Finisterre.<h2>Santo Domingo de la Calzada</h2>A stop along the hallowed pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago, this wonderful small town, complete with a maze of medieval streets, is part of the Camino Francés , the most popular route, also known as the ‘French Way’. Named after its founder, Dominic de la Calzada, the town’s bridge, hospital, and cathedral were built to look after the many pilgrims traversing this stretch of the Camino de Santiago.<h2>The Ebro River</h2>Spanning a length of 910 kilometres (565 miles), The Ebro is one of Spain’s longest rivers and one of the most important rivers on the Iberian Peninsula. The river is also the biggest river by discharge volume in the country.

The Ebro’s headwaters are at Fontibre in the province of Cantabria. It passes through Miranda de Ebro, Logroño, Zaragoza, Flix, Torosa and Amposta before spilling into the Mediterranean in the province of Tarragona.<h2>San Vicente de la Sonsierra</h2>Located on the left bank of the Ebro River, the city was established in the 10thC as a fortress to protect the people of the Kingdom of Navarre. An important site is its 11thC Romanesque church, the Basilica of Santa Maria de la Piscina, containing an icon of the Virgin Mary. One of the most fascinating cultural rituals still observed here is the medieval tradition of picaos—that of traditional penitence and ritual flagellations on Easter—usually observed only by men. The penitents (who are all hooded to preserve anonymity) will begin by removing their grey capes, and begin to flog their own bare backs using a cotton whip. First observed in the late 15thC or early 16thC, this is the last and only example of this type of religious behaviour in all of Europe.<h2>Ribera del Duero</h2>You can’t go wrong with thousands of years of winemaking expertise, and the Ribera del Duero is one of those legendary denominations that oenophiles flock to. &nbsp;Based on flat and rocky terrain, the most famous vineyards are around Peñafiel, named from the Latin term pinna fidelis, ‘loyal rock/mountain’, referring to the fortified castle set atop its hill. Another notable town here is Ezcaray, of Basque origin, a small town known for its woodworking craft (furniture, chairs, and more), as well as its handcrafted textiles, particularly <a href="http://www.mantasezcaray.com/">blankets of mohair, merino and cashmere</a> at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere—a fantastic souvenir.

<h2>La Guardia</h2>The capital of Rioja, this ancient town is all about the ancient craft of winemaking. First founded in 1164, there is a settlement that predates even the Romans. Surrounded on all sides by vineyards, this fortified town is dramatically set atop a hill in the middle of a valley, with the Cantabrian Mountains looming in the background. A series of tunnels underneath the city (with exits at the bottom of the hill) was built so that townspeople could escape in case of invasion; as it so happens, the locals found them perfect to store wine during peacetime—to this day, they serve as private cellars!&nbsp; You’ll also find a rich musical heritage in Laguardia, known for its talented musicians (particularly on the bagpipe), a town band that has been active for over 130 years, and a festival highlighting “the Day of the Piper”.<h2>The Wine</h2>No discussion of La Rioja could be complete without mention of the region’s famous wine. La Rioja is divided into three sub-regions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Baja. The soil of Rioja Alta comprises alluvial soil, calcareous clay and ferruginous clay. (Take a look at some of our favourite Rioja and Ribera del Duero wines to try).As the name suggests, much of this area is at higher altitudes. The Rioja Alavesa is mainly “terraced,” with limestone and clay-rich soils. The Riojan Baja comprises alluvial clay with large areas of ferruginous and calcareous clay. Generally, wines from the Baja have a higher alcohol content.

Discover La Rioja, Spain’s iconic wine region, through its rich history, medieval towns, pilgrimage routes and diverse landscapes. Explore how culture, geography and centuries of winemaking define this remarkable destination.

Spain

Andalucia, Catalonia, Rioja (to name a few)… the beauty of Spain never ceases to amaze us. We’ve spent decades whittling our journeys here to perfection. Feeling bleh? Pedal through a fiery Spanish-Arab cultural mash-up. Feeling thirsty? Aim for the Old World vineyards. Feeling reflective? Have we got a pilgrimage for you…

A fiesta of flamenco, sunsets, and savoury tapas

Riding in Rioja is a sensory experience. Your eyes won't believe the vineyard-covered hills of neighbouring&nbsp;Ribera del Duero. Your body won't believe the comfort of the 5-star Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine Hotel. Your taste buds will never tire of the tapas, pintxos, and barbecued meats—not to mention the world-famous wine. And your mind? Totally and utterly blown.

Exceptional Wines

Incredible Rides

One-of-a-kind Hotels

There’s a fresh energy pulsing through Northern Spain’s wine country. Cycle through rolling vineyards and wheat fields where bold architecture meets deep tradition. Meet visionary winemakers, artists and chefs redefining the region’s identity. From smoky txorizo to Michelin-starred magic—paired with vintages full of surprise—this is Spain as you’ve never tasted it before.

Taste and ride Northern Spain

Immerse yourself in the sensory symphony

Riding in Rioja is a sensory experience. Your eyes won't believe the vineyard-covered hills of neighbouring&nbsp;Ribera del Duero. Your body won't believe the comfort of the 5-star Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine Hotel. Your taste buds will never tire of the tapas, pintxos, and barbecued meats—not to mention the world-famous wine. And your mind? Totally and utterly blown. *Some departures run on a slightly different itinerary.

This region in northern Spain offers more than just award-winning reds. Rioja exudes creativity and boasts whimsical architecture and design, all while remaining deeply rooted in its heritage. Go Self-Guided and cycle our routes through ever-changing landscapes, immerse yourself in medieval history and follow the paths of pilgrims who've left their footprints here for millennia. It's an experience that can only be described as divine.&nbsp;

Historic Sites

Rioja: where the reds are award-winning, the architecture’s delightfully quirky, and the roads were practically made for cycling. Ride through rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and pilgrim paths carved over millennia. With divine scenery, rich history, and vino at every turn, this self-guided spin serves up Spain with just the right splash of magic.

From Mountains to Medieval Towns

A sensory experience in the heart of Spanish wine country

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

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Experience Designer

$4,995 based on four travellers. $5,495 based on two travellers.

B&amp;R’s Women’s Only trips are designed by women, for women to experience new regions, cultures and communities from female perspectives. ﻿For centuries, women have walked along the ancient paths of the Camino de Santiago, a storied network of pilgrimage routes that weave through Europe. On this journey, you’ll follow the footsteps of countless pilgrims before you, beginning at the sacred Cruz de Ferro. Wind along cobblestone streets lined with charming houses until you reach the Palacio de Canedo—your first hotel and a place where local women once found a rare opportunity to forge their independence. Discover enchanting mountain villages and stroll through the cascading vineyards of the Sil River valley, dotted with historic chapels. Explore the medieval Cathedral de Santiago, then journey deeper into Galicia, where rugged mountain coastlines lead to the lighthouse at the end of the world. Throughout your pilgrimage, you’ll be inspired by the extraordinary women you’ll meet, each sharing stories of independence and honouring the women who helped pave the way.

Local Connections

Vibrant Culture

One-of-a-kind-Hotels

Intrepid women have been hiking the Camino de Santiago for centuries—and we're proud to follow in their footsteps. Wander cobblestone lanes, toast independence at Palacio de Canedo, and saunter through vineyard-speckled valleys. Pilgrim past historic chapels, meet trailblazing local women, and finish at Galicia, where rugged mountain coastlines lead to the lighthouse at the end of the world.

Tracing her footsteps along the Camino

Camino de Santiago Women's Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

Embark on an enchanting journey through the land of the Basques, where whispers of Europe’s ancient language echo through the valleys. Your adventure begins in the heart of the French Basque Country, winding along quaint country roads and trails that reveal breathtaking mountain views. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of rural life as you explore the charming villages surrounding Bidarray, while the distant sound of Mancech sheep bells fill the air. Cross into the Spanish Basque Country and wander through the small village of Aia to reach the serene Pagoeta Natural Park. Follow the awe-inspiring trail to Flysch Geopark, where ancient geological wonders meet the crashing waves of the sea.&nbsp;Your Basque journey ends in the vibrant San Sebastián, where you’ll meet our friend for&nbsp;an authentic pintxos tour, followed by an invitation to an exclusive evening at the Gastronomic Society.

Great Walks

Insider Access

Authentic Food

Walk from France to Spain (passport optional, appetite mandatory) through Basque Country, where sheep bells ring, and jagged cliffs hover wave-batter shores. Wander postcard-perfect villages, stroll lush Pagoeta Park, and see geology throw a tantrum at Flysch Geopark. End in San Sebastián, swapping your trail boots for pintxos, vino and an evening of culinary mischief at a secret Gastronomic Society.

Wander from the verdant countryside to coastal San Sebastián

Basque Country: France to Spain Walking & Hiking | Butterfield & Robinson

Journey to the eastern coast of Spain and uncover the enchanting islands of Menorca and Mallorca. Your adventure begins in the sun-drenched Mallorca, where you’ll cycle through picturesque villages and dramatic mountain ranges on two wheels. A short flight then whisks you to Menorca, an island steeped in history and natural beauty. Explore the Cami de Cavallas by foot or bike and glimpse into the island’s prehistoric past at the Talayotic ruins. Experience pure bliss as you cruise the sparkling waters on board your private boat and indulge in the authentic flavours of the Mediterranean at seaside restaurants. In just five days, you’ll feel a deep connection to these magical islands nestled in the Balearic Sea.&nbsp;

Mallorca and Menorca: the Balearics' dreamy duo, where the history runs deep, the beaches sparkle, and the tapas never ends. Pedal Mallorca’s sun-kissed villages, then hop over to chilled-out Menorca for ancient ruins and blissful seaside hikes. Sail turquoise waters by private boat, feast shamelessly at waterfront eateries, and embrace island life so fully, you may never return to the mainland.

Explore the shimmering coast

Mallorca to Menorca Multi-Active | Butterfield & Robinson

The alluring riches of the Mediterranean are sure to seduce. Limestone cliffs, azure blue shores, swathes of almond groves and artichoke fields. Experience it all on this journey through Mallorca, a biker's paradise, with options for every riding ability, from the level interior to the leg-working coast. (On your trusty e-bike you get to decide when to sweat and when to cruise.) The permeating scent of citrus, the freshest catch of the day, secluded coves and remarkable hotels in unforgettable settings—this place offers luxury in many forms. *Prefer to sweat it out? Regular road bikes are available by request, ask your Travel Advisor for details.*Please note the hotel lineup for 2024:The Lodge, La Residencia: May, June, September, OctoberFinca Serena, Son Brull: September, OctoberFor information about the hotels assigned to your departure, kindly contact your Travel Advisor. You can also download the detailed itinerary to view the complete hotel lineup.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Mallorca is Mediterranean perfection with a pulse—an island where rugged mountain climbs meet breezy coastal spins, and vineyard picnics give way to cliffside gin tastings. Ride quiet country roads, conquer legendary passes, and roll into whitewashed villages that feel frozen in time. With sun-drenched stays, bold flavours, and one spectacular surprise after another, this trip is the ultimate island escape on two wheels.

The beating heart of the Balearic Islands

The alluring riches of the Mediterranean are sure to seduce: limestone cliffs, azure blue shores, swathes of almond groves and artichoke fields, to name a few. Experience it all on this journey through Mallorca; a biker’s paradise, with options for every riding ability, from the level interior to the leg-working coast. (On your trusty e-bike you get to decide when to sweat and when to cruise.) The permeating scent of citrus, delectable tapas, secluded coves and remarkable hotels in unforgettable settings—this place offers up luxury in many forms.

Mallorca Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

With its European charm and uncrowded appeal, Portugal's coast offers a bounty of experience for history buffs, adventurers and foodies alike. Explore from Northern Portugal to Santiago de Compostela in Spain; end your journey by cycling the final stretch of the Camino on lesser-known routes. Pedal the sparkling blue coastline, savour a Vinho Verde tasting and indulge in the region's spectacular seafood.&nbsp;

CAMINO COASTAL CHARMS

Michelin-Star Dining

Cultural Immersion

Straddling France and Spain, Basque Country plays by its own rules—and (quite literally) speaks its own language. From San Sebastián’s foodie fever to Bilbao’s modern flair, this place pulses with pride, passion and just the right amount of rebellion. Explore its green hills, drink in the crashing surf and experience pintxos worth planning a trip around.

A coastal and countryside feast for the senses

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Basque Country Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Northern Spain is having a moment—and it’s delicious. Ride through Basque, Rioja and Duero, where bold architecture rises from ancient vines, jaw-dropping shorelines beg to be explored, chefs rewrite the rules, and winemakers blend tradition with a twist. Snack on txorizo, sip unexpected vintages, and meet the makers redefining this storied land. Yes, it's Spain. But no, you've never seen it quite like this.

Spain Basque & Rioja Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

Join us to explore B&amp;R's favourite stretch through Northwest Spain, zig-zagging our way through pretty Roman villages, rows of eucalyptus trees and jaw-dropping panoramas. Our final route gives us a sample of Galicia's understated, yet majestic rugged coastline. Step-by-step we’ll tackle rewarding climbs, revel in gripping vistas and marvel at prominent pilgrimage sites.&nbsp;Please note our new hotel lineup for 2025 departures: Palacio de Canedo, Aurea Palacio de Sober, Casa Beatnik Hotel, Parador de Santiago de Compostela, Parador Costa da Morte Muxia

Diverse Landscapes

Walk the Camino’s best bits, zig-zagging past sleepy Roman villages, whispering eucalyptus forests and views worth every uphill step. Discover Galicia’s wildly underrated coast—ruggedly beautiful and delightfully drama-free. Reward your daily feats with epic panoramas, iconic pilgrim stops and enough vino tinto to fuel the soul-searching. Heaven can wait; for now, Santiago beckons.

Walk the ancient route

Featured stays

Join us as we slow down on the Camino de Santiago: an ancient pilgrimage route that passes by pretty Roman villages, rows of Eucalyptus&nbsp;trees and rugged coastline. Step-by-step, we’ll tackle the rewarding climbs and revel in the open plains. While the full version of the trail spans across Europe, we take on only a stretch of it. But that’s not to say we miss the good stuff.&nbsp;Along the way, we’ll witness some of the pilgrimage’s best-known sites, including the Puerta del Perdón, the Iron Cross and the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

Camino de Santiago Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

Andalucia is the spirited soul of Spain. Spot white-washed, hilltop villages shine like beacons in the countryside. Feel the pulse of flamenco music and the swish from the dancers’ colourful dress. Dine on tapas washed down with the local sherry to your heart’s content. Did we mention the over 300 days of sunshine per year? Pack your bags, this seven-day experience is one for the books.

Sacred Trails

Path of the Pilgrims

The Camino isn’t just a walk—it’s a rite of passage (with better wine). Follow ancient paths through misty forests and stone-clad villages, swap stories with fellow pilgrims and chase the glow of Compostela. Whether you’re seeking clarity, camaraderie or just a really good tortilla española, the Camino delivers—step by step, soul first.

Find enlightenment on the Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

One-of-a-kind Hotels 

Andalucia unfolds in layers: whitewashed villages perched on cliffs, golden hills lined with olive groves, and the rhythm of Flamenco carrying through sunlit plazas. Ride winding roads from countryside to coast, pause for picnics at family-run fincas, and taste the region’s soul in Sherry cellars and seaside feasts. This is Andalucia beyond the postcards—vivid, soulful, and made to be savoured.

Andalucia Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

Home to volcanic craters, coastal cliffs, Pyrenean peaks and enough tapas to fuel the whole adventure, Catalonia is a feast. Hike Garrotxa’s lava trails, bike through sun-soaked vineyards and float over it all by hot air balloon. From Costa Brava beaches to medieval towns, Catalonia serves up scenery, culture and cuisine with serious flair.

Catalonia Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Soak up the warmth of the Med in a region we adore. Ride rolling volcanic hills dwarfed by the Pyrenees and explore villages stamped by time. Cruise the Costa Brava, feast on farm-to-fork cuisine in Figueres, and let Spain’s best Dali guide lead you on an intimate tour through Dali’s marvel of a theatre-museum. Melt like a clock for this sensuous region.

Unique Gastronomy

Art and History

Spin your way through volcanic hills, Pyrenean peaks and Dalí’s surreal dreams. Cruise the Costa Brava, pedal through postcard-perfect villages, and savour flavours fresh from Figueres farms. Top it off with Spain’s ultimate Dalí whisperer at his whimsical theatre-museum. By trip’s end, you'll melt like one of Salvador’s clocks—blissfully, beautifully.

Getting Surreal in Spain

Soak up the warmth of the Med in a region we adore. Ride rolling volcanic hills dwarfed by the Pyrenees and explore villages stamped by time. Take sips and dips on B&amp;R’s sailboat while cruising the Costa Brava, feast on farm-to-fork cuisine in Figueres, and let Spain’s best Dali guide pour drinks before an intimate art tour. Melt like a clock for this sensuous region.﻿

Catalonia Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

Island Paradise

Exclusive Access

Active Adventure

Mallorca is Mediterranean magic, with a twist of lime. Ride the legendary Tramuntana, hike into secret gorges and sail to coves where the only thing on the agenda is lunch—and maybe a swim. From vineyard tastings to citrus-scented strolls and luxe stays like Son Bunyola, this island does indulgence and adventure in equal, sun-drenched measure.

The Mediterranean magic of Mallorca

Mallorca Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Traditionally, the Camino de Santiago is about soul searching, but we’re more interested in soul-stirring. It starts with riding while others walk, to feel serenity in the saddle. It continues in the farm-fresh meals we enjoy en route, and the passion of the people who prepare them. And it culminates at the resplendent&nbsp;Reis Católicos, a stone’s throw from the cathedral.

Great Biking

Rioja is more than world-class wine (though yes, there’s plenty of that). Ride through rolling vineyards, medieval towns and into the artistic buzz of Bilbao and San Sebastián. With bold architecture, deep roots and food that rivals the vino, this is northern Spain at its most deliciously dynamic.

Spoil your senses in Spain’s wine country

Rioja Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Land of Striking Contrasts

Andalucia is Spain turned all the way up—sun-soaked, spice-laced and alive with rhythm. Wander Moorish palaces, sip sweet Jerez, carve jamón like a local and lose track of time under orange trees. With flamenco in your ears and tapas on your plate, this is southern Spain in full, glorious technicolour—yours to savour, your way.