From San Sebastian: Explore an Exclusive Winery in the Rioja Wine Region
Group 1+
What you'll do
Visit a rustic underground winery off the beaten track in the Rioja wine region and explore its 15th-century caves. The experience will also include a wine-tasting session and a Riojan-style lunch. As well as a guided tour and a tasting of 3 or 4 exceptional wines, the Rioja wine tour continues to another 2 local wineries. These include a boutique estate with modern architecture by Calatrava plus the Marqués de Riscal winery designed by Frank O. Gehry. The day tour starts by leaving your accommodation with private transport at 8.45 AM, taking in the scenery and stopping along the way, before returning around 5.30 PM. Additionally, guests are invited to enjoy a traditional lunch (included in the tour) served during a stop at a nearby medieval village.
Highlights
- Wine Tastings and Lunch: Join tasting sessions at 3 different wineries (plus a traditional lunch)
- Visit a Rustic Vineyard: Gain an understanding of the nuances and "terruño" of wine-making
- Explore the 15th Century Caves: Venture into an integral part of the wine-making process and storage facilities
- Learn From Your Guide: Share interesting stories as your local guide provides facts about wine and Spanish history
Itinerary
- 1Duration: 9-10 hours
- 2Start Time: 8.15am (confirmed upon booking)
- 3Visit an authentic rustic winery to learn about their winemaking process and unique creative approach
- 4Explore the underground of a mediaeval winery, navigating through 15th-century caves to connect deeply with the land and terroir
- 5Feel the essence of the place, harmonising with the caretaker and the vines
- 6Immerse yourself in the history of ancient ruins, witnessing stone shapes and carvings used for winemaking over a thousand years ago
- 7Enjoy a 2-hour tasting of 3-4 exceptional wines
- 8Explore revolutionary wine ageing systems, including clay, ceramic and cement eggs.
- 9For lunch, savour an insider local menu in a mediaeval village, Rioja style
- 10Discover mediaeval villages including Haro, known for its historic wineries and a 12th-century village with 500-year-old cellars
- 11Continue the wine journey to two more wonderful wineries, meeting local experts and experiencing their passion
- 12Arrive at a unique boutique winery with modern architecture by Calatrava, set against the Sierra de Cantabria. Plus admire the Marqués de Riscal winery designed by Frank O. Gehry
- 13Visit one of Spain's most charming villages with ancient walls and lookout points, mediaeval towers and old churches.
- 14Return to your starting point around 5:30 pm
What's Included
- Local Basque guide
- Private Tour, only your party will participate
- Wine tastings at 3 vineyards
- Riojan style lunch
- Luxury air-conditioned transport
- The tour has a starting cost of £692 and includes up to 2 guests
- For each additional participant (3-7 guests), the price is £162.50 per person.
What's not included
- Tips and gratuities
- Hotel pick up and drop off
Meeting Points
Upon confirmation of your booking, you shall receive a voucher containing details on the designated meeting point and time (please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your start time).
Notes
Important Information
- The tour runs rain or shine
- Under 18? You can't consume alcohol, but delightful non-alcoholic options are available
- Special dietary requirements or allergies? Let us know when booking
- The tour will commence promptly at 8:15 am. We kindly request that all participants arrive on time, as we are unable to accommodate late arrivals. Please be aware that refunds will not be possible in such instances
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