Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Bilbao

A day in Rioja wine country from Bilbao offers a flavorful escape into Spain’s renowned wine region. This 7-hour tour by Local Experts Tours takes visitors to two carefully selected wineries, where you sample five wines and learn about the intricate process of winemaking. With prices at $278.66 per person, this experience provides an immersive look into Rioja’s vineyards, along with a light meal and scenic views of the rural landscape.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on small-group intimacy, with a maximum of 8 travelers. This allows for personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, who share insights into the region’s history, culture, and wine production. While some reviews highlight the price as a consideration, many emphasize the quality of the wineries, the delicious wine tastings, and the overall relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect option for friends or couples eager to explore Rioja’s viticultural heritage in a comfortable setting.

Key Points

• Visits to two distinct wineries near Bilbao, each offering wine tastings.
• Sample five different wines during the tour, including at underground wineries.
• Includes a light lunch in Laguardia or Labastida, with snacks and bottled water.
• Small-group experience with up to 8 participants for personalized attention.
• Scenic drive through Rioja’s countryside with panoramic views.
• Convenient pickup from Bilbao and group discounts available.

Start at the Heart of Rioja: Two Wineries Near Bilbao

This tour departs from Bilbao at 9:00 am and heads into the Rioja region, famous for its world-class wines and picturesque vineyards. The first stop is at a winery in La Rioja, where visitors explore the production process and enjoy a wine tasting session lasting about 2 hours. The focus is on small wineries, including an underground cellar, which offers a unique perspective on traditional wine aging techniques.

The second winery, also in La Rioja, provides an additional opportunity to taste three more wines and observe different winemaking styles. Both visits emphasize the diversity of the region’s wineries, from family-run operations to more established producers, giving a well-rounded insight into Rioja’s wine culture.

Scenic Vineyard Walks and Rural Landscape Views

Throughout the day, the tour includes a drive through the scenic Rioja countryside, with plenty of picture-perfect vistas of rolling vineyards and rural villages. These views make the journey visually appealing, complementing the tasting experiences perfectly. The tour is suitable for those who appreciate beautiful landscapes alongside their wine exploration.

The scenic drive is complemented by the light meal in the charming town of Laguardia or Labastida, where a bountiful pintxos lunch is served. This stop lasts about 2 hours, providing time to relax, enjoy local specialties, and stroll through these historic villages with their medieval walls and charming streets.

Expert Guides and Personalised Experience

Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledgeability and friendly demeanor. Guides like Adur, Pilar, and Jose not only share detailed information about wine production, vineyard history, and regional culture but also keep the atmosphere relaxed and engaging. The small group size ensures that questions are welcomed and everyone receives individual attention.

Travelers particularly appreciate guides who share local stories and offer surprise stops with panoramic views, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the day. This personalized approach is a key feature that distinguishes this tour from larger, more generic wine excursions.

The Wine Tastings: Five Varieties of Rioja

The core of this experience is the five wine tastings at the two wineries. Guests sample a variety of red Rioja wines, including some from underground cellars, which many reviews highlight as a unique and memorable aspect of the visit.

Participants learn to appreciate different styles and flavors, from more traditional to modern expressions. The tastings are led by knowledgeable staff who explain the wine’s characteristics, production techniques, and regional differences, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Lunch in Laguardia or Labastida: A Taste of Local Cuisine

The tour includes a light meal during the stop in Laguardia or Labastida. This bountiful pintxos lunch offers a chance to sample local specialties paired with Rioja wines. The meal is a highlight for many, providing a relaxed setting to refuel and discuss the morning’s tastings.

The lunch duration is approximately 2 hours, giving time for a leisurely stroll through the historic villages. Guests can enjoy views of the medieval town walls and narrow streets, making this part of the day both culinary and cultural.

Transportation and Group Convenience

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the comfortable experience accessible regardless of weather conditions. The pickup service from Bilbao simplifies logistics, allowing travelers to focus on the experience rather than parking or navigation.

With most travelers able to participate and service animals allowed, the tour is quite accessible. The group size of 8 ensures a more intimate and interactive experience, with plenty of opportunity for personalized questions.

Pricing and Value for Money

At $278.66 per person, this tour is priced higher than some other options, but many reviews note the quality of the wineries, the expert guides, and the scenic journey justify the cost. The inclusion of five wine tastings, lunch, and transportation offers a comprehensive Rioja experience in a single day.

Some reviews mention the tour’s cost as a consideration, but most agree that the experience, scenery, and personalized service make it worthwhile, especially for those who want a relaxed, informative day in wine country.

Booking, Cancellation, and Practical Tips

Booking is open up to 49 days in advance, and free cancellation is available if canceled 24 hours prior. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for the weather is advised.

Minimum booking requirements apply, with at least 2 adults needed to confirm the tour. The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate and informative experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Rioja Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples, or friends seeking a relaxing day exploring vineyards and small villages. The small-group format and guided narrative suit those who appreciate personalized attention and a slower pace.

However, those on a very tight budget might find the price a point to consider, and people with limited mobility should review the physical demands of walking through villages and winery visits.

This 7-hour Rioja wine tour offers a comprehensive look into Spain’s celebrated wine region, with two distinct winery visits and a delicious local lunch. The expert guides, scenic drives, and personalized small-group experience make it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of Rioja wines in a relaxed setting.

While the price reflects the quality and inclusions, many guests find the value in the intimate, informative, and scenic nature of the tour. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy wine, culture, and beautiful landscapes all in one memorable day.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, wine tastings of five wines, a light lunch, bottled water, and a professional guide.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and including visits to two wineries, a lunch stop in Laguardia or Labastida, and scenic drives.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Children under 18 are not allowed to drink alcohol, but they can participate in the sightseeing and meals. The experience is most appreciated by those interested in wine and regional culture.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking through villages and wineries, so a moderate level of mobility is helpful. The vehicle pick-up and drop-off are included, making the experience accessible.

How do I book a place?
Booking is available through Viator, with most bookings made 49 days in advance, and a minimum of 2 adults required for confirmation.