From Bilbao: Two Rioja Wineries Day Trip With Picnic Lunch

Explore the renowned Rioja region with a delightful day trip from Bilbao. This tour offers an immersive experience, visiting two family-run wineries for tastings of exquisite wines paired with local delicacies. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch amidst the vineyards before exploring the medieval village of Laguardia, known for its historic charm and stunning vistas. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural adventure, this day trip promises to captivate your senses and leave you eager to uncover more about this captivating corner of Spain.

Key Points

• A day trip from Bilbao to the Rioja wine region, featuring visits to two family-run boutique wineries with tastings of at least six wines.
• A picnic lunch in a scenic vineyard setting, showcasing traditional Spanish dishes and local delicacies.
• Exploration of the medieval village of Laguardia, known for its historic charm and panoramic views of the Rioja vineyards.
• Premium transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
• A personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide, providing insights into Rioja’s winemaking traditions and the Basque Country.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Bilbao offers an immersive exploration of two family-run, boutique wineries in the renowned Rioja region, priced at $267.44 per person.

The tour lasts 9 hours and is limited to a small group of 7 participants, allowing for a personalized experience.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, the tour features a ‘reserve now & pay later‘ option, letting participants book their spot without any upfront payment.

With these flexible booking policies and a reasonable price point, this Rioja winery experience is an appealing option for wine enthusiasts visiting the Basque Country.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour explores two family-run, boutique wineries in the Rioja region, where participants can taste at least six wines, including Cosecha, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva.

The tastings are paired with local cheeses, cold meats, nuts, and other Spanish products. Guests can also enjoy a picnic lunch with traditional Spanish dishes in a scenic vineyard setting.

In addition, the tour includes a visit to the medieval village of Laguardia, renowned for its picturesque views.

The intimate group setting and the guide’s expertise on Rioja wines and the Basque Country ensure a personalized and insightful experience for all participants.

Transportation and Meeting Point

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour, with transportation provided in a premium vehicle equipped with leather seats, automatic transmission, and air conditioning.

Participants meet at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to begin their Rioja winery adventure.

The tour’s transportation ensures a comfortable and convenient experience as guests are whisked away from the city center to the scenic Rioja wine region.

The premium vehicle’s features, including leather seats and air conditioning, add an extra touch of luxury to the day trip.

Tour Guide and Experience

Knowledgeable tour guides lead the day trip, providing insightful commentary about Rioja wines and the Basque Country throughout the experience. They cater the tour to the group’s specific needs, ensuring a personalized and attentive experience.

With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 16 reviews, the tour boasts excellent quality and a high level of guest satisfaction.

The tour guide experience includes:

1. In-depth knowledge of Rioja wines and the local region

2. Customization of the tour to suit the group’s interests and pace

3. Engaging storytelling and interactive activities to enhance the learning experience

4. Friendly and approachable demeanor that puts guests at ease

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Participant Information and Restrictions

According to the tour details, this day trip to the Rioja wineries is suitable only for adults, with participants required to be at least 18 years old.

Guests can select the desired date and number of adults (up to 99 years old) when booking the experience.

The key highlights of this tour include the scenic vineyard views, the intimate group setting, and the exceptional quality of the food and wine served. The majority of the tasted wines receive high scores from renowned wine experts like Tim Atkin and James Suckling.

The tour is designed to provide a personalized experience, with the knowledgeable guide catering to the group’s needs and ensuring a memorable day exploring the renowned Rioja region.

Winery Exploration and Tastings

The tour takes participants to explore two family-run, boutique wineries nestled within the picturesque Rioja region. Guests can look forward to tasting at least six distinct wines, spanning from the lighter Cosecha to the robust Gran Reserva, which are thoughtfully paired with a selection of local cheeses, cold meats, nuts, and other Spanish delicacies.

The winery visits offer an intimate setting, allowing guests to learn about the region’s rich winemaking traditions and the unique terroir that shapes the character of Rioja’s renowned vintages.

Key highlights of the winery exploration and tastings include:

1. Sampling award-winning wines that have received 90+ points from renowned experts

2. Discovering the nuances between different wine styles, from young to aged

3. Engaging with passionate, knowledgeable winemakers who share the stories behind their craft

4. Savoring the flavors of authentic Basque cuisine amidst the scenic vineyard backdrop

Picnic Lunch in Vineyard

Amidst the scenic vineyard backdrop, guests are treated to a picnic lunch featuring a selection of traditional Spanish dishes. The spread includes locally-sourced cheeses, cured meats, fresh vegetables, and crusty bread, perfectly complementing the award-winning wines sampled earlier.

Guests can unwind and soak in the tranquil ambiance as they dine al fresco, surrounded by rolling hills and rows of vibrant grape vines. This immersive experience allows travelers to truly savor the flavors of Rioja while connecting with the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.

The picnic is a highlight of the day, providing a delightful respite and chance to appreciate the natural beauty of this renowned winemaking area.

Medieval Village of Laguardia

After savoring the wines and picturesque vineyard setting, the tour takes guests to the medieval village of Laguardia, known for its picturesque charm and historic significance. This small, fortified town offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s past:

1. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and admire the well-preserved medieval architecture, including the 14th-century town walls and gates.

2. Visit the Church of Santa María de los Reyes, a stunning example of Gothic-style architecture with intricate stone carvings.

3. Explore the underground network of wine cellars, or ‘bodegas,’ which have been carved into the rock beneath the town.

4. Enjoy panoramic views of the Rioja vineyards from the town’s hilltop location, providing a perfect ending to the day’s journey through this world-renowned wine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is generally not allowed on guided tours. The tour includes a picnic lunch with traditional Spanish dishes, so participants are expected to enjoy the provided meal and beverages during the experience.

What Type of Weather Should I Expect During the Tour?

The weather during the tour can vary depending on the season, but generally, visitors can expect mild temperatures and sunny conditions. It’s recommended to dress in layers and bring sun protection, as the vineyards may be exposed to the elements.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, primarily at the wineries and in the medieval village. Participants can expect to walk around 2-3 miles over the course of the day. The pace is relaxed, allowing time to explore the scenic surroundings.

Can I Purchase Wine at the Wineries to Take Home?

Yes, participants can purchase wine at the wineries to take home. The tour allows ample time to explore the wineries’ selections and make purchases of their favorite Rioja wines to enjoy later.

Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations for the Tour?

The tour provider offers accessibility accommodations upon request, such as wheelchair-accessible transportation and assistance at the wineries. Guests with mobility challenges should inform the provider in advance to ensure their needs are met during the experience.

Recap

Set out on a delightful day trip from Bilbao to the Rioja region.

Explore two family-run wineries, savor exquisite wine tastings paired with local delicacies, and enjoy a scenic picnic lunch amidst the vineyards.

Conclude the adventure with a visit to the medieval village of Laguardia, known for its historic architecture and stunning views.

This tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience in the heart of Spain’s renowned wine country.

You can check availability for your dates here: