Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Logroño

You land in Bilbao, where our driver scoops you up for a quick ride to Logroño, the beating heart of Rioja. Check into a cozy, boutique hotel in the old town—think stone walls, wooden beams, super charming. Tonight, you’re hitting a local tapas street, Calle Laurel, for a self-guided pintxos crawl. Grab a glass of Rioja Crianza and some crispy croquetas at a tiny bar. Your guide will give you a quick rundown of the week over a glass of wine, and you’re free to wander. Dinner’s on your own, but we’ll hand you a list of spots locals love.

Day 2: Rioja’s Hidden Gems

After breakfast (think fresh bread and strong coffee), we head to a small winery in Rioja Alavesa. This place is family-run, been around for generations, and their Tempranillo is unreal. You’ll tour the vineyards, learn how they hand-pick grapes, and taste three wines straight from the barrel. Lunch is at a nearby village restaurant—think slow-roasted lamb with a glass of Reserva. Afternoon takes you to another boutique winery for a Verdejo tasting, paired with local cheeses. Back to Logroño for a chill evening; maybe hit a wine bar if you’re still up for it.

Day 3: Logroño’s Old Town and Cooking Class

Morning’s all about Logroño’s history. A local guide walks you through the old town—cobbled streets, old churches, and stories about pilgrims on the Camino. You’ll pop into a market to grab ingredients for your cooking class later. Lunch is at a cozy spot serving patatas a la riojana, a hearty potato stew. Then, roll up your sleeves for a cooking class with a local chef. You’ll whip up regional dishes like bacalao a la riojana (cod with peppers) and maybe a pear poached in wine. Eat what you make, paired with—you guessed it—more Rioja. Evening’s free to explore.

Day 4: Ribera del Duero’s Bold Wines

We’re off to Ribera del Duero today, about a 2-hour drive. Check into a modern hotel near Peñafiel, with views of a castle that looks straight out of a fairy tale. First stop: a boutique winery where you’ll taste their robust Tempranillo against the backdrop of rolling vineyards. The winemaker might join you, sharing stories about their harvest. Lunch is at a Michelin-starred restaurant—expect something fancy like duck confit with a red wine reduction. Afternoon brings another winery visit, this one with a focus on organic methods. Dinner’s back at the hotel, with a menu showcasing local flavors.

Day 5: Castles and Countryside

Start with a guided tour of Peñafiel’s castle, perched on a hill with killer views. It’s got a wine museum, so you’ll nerd out on the region’s history while sipping a glass. Then, we visit another Ribera del Duero winery, this one known for its experimental blends. You’ll taste a few, paired with charcuterie. Lunch is at a rustic countryside spot—think grilled meats and veggies fresh from the garden. Afternoon’s lighter, with a scenic drive through vineyards and a stop at a tiny village for coffee. Dinner’s on your own, but we’ll point you to a great local tavern.

Day 6: Michelin Magic and Wine Farewell

Today’s a treat. Morning’s free to sleep in or wander Peñafiel’s streets—maybe grab a pastry at a local bakery. Then, we head to a top-tier winery for a private tasting, where you’ll sample their best Gran Reserva with aged cheeses and olives. The big finale is lunch at another Michelin-starred restaurant. Expect a multi-course meal with wine pairings—dishes like roasted suckling pig or cod with truffle might show up. Afternoon’s relaxed, with time to shop for wine to take home. Back to Logroño for a farewell dinner at a historic meson, all cozy vibes and big flavors.

Day 7: Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll get you back to Bilbao for your flight. If you’ve got time, squeeze in a quick stop at a local café for churros and chocolate. Safe travels, and hope you’re leaving with a suitcase full of wine and awesome memories!

What’s Included

6 nights in boutique hotels (4-star, double occupancy)

Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 3 dinners (including 2 Michelin-starred experiences)

Private vineyard tours and tastings at 5 wineries

Guided tour of Logroño’s old town

Cooking class with a local chef

All transfers (private driver and comfortable van)

Local bilingual guides

Customization options (e.g., add a spa day or extra winery visit)