8
8
Today’s journey takes you into the heart of La Rioja Alavesa, Spain’s most iconic wine region, where architecture, heritage, and viticulture come together in spectacular form. With a private driver and vehicle at your disposal, you'll travel comfortably between two of the region’s most celebrated wineries, experiencing the full richness of Rioja’s landscape and flavors.
Depart Solares in the morning for a 2-hour scenic drive south into the rolling vineyard-covered hills of La Rioja. Your first stop is the legendary Marqués de Riscal, a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in Spanish winemaking. Here, you'll enjoy a private 90-minute tasting and tour, exploring both the historic winery and the striking Frank Gehry-designed City of Wine- a bold architectural statement that blends tradition and modernity in unforgettable fashion.
Following your visit, a short 20-minute drive takes you to Solar de Samaniego, a winery that fuses wine, literature, and art into a deeply immersive experience. Begin with a guided tasting of their signature wines, followed by a leisurely lunch served on-site, where local dishes are thoughtfully paired with the estate's acclaimed vintages. The setting, a former winery-turned-cultural space, offers a memorable backdrop for one of the trip’s most flavorful meals.
After lunch, sit back and relax on the scenic 2-hour drive back to Solares, returning in the early evening. Upon arrival at the hotel, enjoy a relaxed and social cheeseboard-making class hosted by Madelyn - an ideal happy hour-style gathering to wind down the day. This activity includes drinks, service, and all the supplies for the cheeseboard. Some may consider this dinner, but if you’re still hungry after, you may enjoy dinner either right at the hotel’s restaurant or venture out to Santander for a meal in the city.
*Breakfast and lunch included in today's itinerary.