You really enjoy the sunset with a glass of wine on the terrace of your villa on the Costa Blanca. Living here is wonderful but, you’re still curious to visit other parts of Spain. One of Spain’s most well-known winemaking regions is Riona in the north of the country, this winemaking area is a perfect getaway for homeowners in the Costa Blanca.
To reach La Rioja takes about 6.5 hours by car but, you can take it slowly and visit a few other places en-route. Teruel is the half-way point and definitely worth visiting, perhaps stay for a night or two on your way to or from La Rioja. The method of producing wine in this area has been passed down through generations and the location is perfect for the cultivation of family vineyards. The aromas as you explore the area are in themselves intoxicating. The cooler northern climate will also be a refreshing change from living in the Costa Blanca.
The Rioja region has more to offer those who visit from the Costa Blanca than wine, the region has many historic sites including ancient monasteries and fortresses. The city of Logroño is the capital for this area of Spain. The city is part of the famous Camino de Santiago route which has made it one of the most important towns on the journey with a collection of monuments associated with the pilgrimage. It has preserved many traditions and history from the Middle Ages and was already mentioned in the first guide to the Camino de Santiago in the 12th century Codex Calixtinus. Merchants, pilgrims and artists have walked the cobbled streets. Two bridges that connect the city which is divided in two by the River Ebro. The oldest of these bridges (Navarre and Álvava) the Stone Bridge allows those travelling the St James’ Way of the Camino to reach the centre of the city. This bridge dates from the 11th century and was once fortified by four arches and three towers, the other bridge is made of iron and is more modern built in the 19th century. Remains of the old walls that used to surround the city can be seen in the Cubo de Revellín tower and the Charles V gate. During the city’s patron festivals, they recall the French siege of the city. There are plenty of interesting places to visit in the city, a Romanesque church, temples and a carved representation of the Crucifixion.
You can design your excursion from your home on the Costa Blanca to suit your personal taste and budget and enjoy an unforgettable time exploring a different region in Spain. You might wish to book a luxury guided wine tour led by a sommelier to explore the most prestigious wineries and learn about the intricate art of making Rioja wine, the experience will finish by tasting some of these exquisite wines. Perhaps some added relaxation and pampering would make your holiday from the Costa Blanca even more enjoyable, if that is the case then a Wine and Spa retreat combining your exploration of the wineries with a spa treatment in the tranquil countryside and complete your day with a glass of Rioja in hand. Mix in a gastronomic experience with a pairing tasting enjoying gourmet meals where each course has been expertly paired with the perfect Rioja wine to complement the food.
A short holiday in Rioja is the perfect complement to the idyllic way of life you have already chosen as a homeowner in the Costa Blanca. It will give you the perfect opportunity to appreciate Spanish wines, explore another region of Spain, indulge in memorable tastings, gourmet meals and experience a change from your usual routine. It may seem strange to those who don’t already live in the Costa Blanca but, even we need an occasional change of scenery – Salud!!!