Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao Private Tour

Planning a trip to Spain and eager to explore its world-renowned wine regions? This Full Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao promises an authentic and relaxed experience, combining premium wine tastings, a scenic drive, and a charming medieval town.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the personalized approach with private transportation and a dedicated guide ensures you get tailored attention. Secondly, it includes visits to three top wineries, each offering a different flavor of Rioja’s diverse winemaking style. Lastly, the lunch in LaGuardia provides an authentic taste of regional cuisine, paired with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.

A potential consideration is the duration—at around 7 to 8 hours, it’s a full day trip, so be prepared for a fair amount of sightseeing and driving. Perfectly suited for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, or those wanting to add a unique excursion to their Bilbao itinerary, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with a dedicated guide
• Visits to three distinct wineries, each offering tastings and insights
• Authentic lunch in the historic town of LaGuardia
• Scenic drive through the Rioja countryside, lasting about 1 hour and 45 minutes
• In-depth exploration of winemaking processes and grape varieties
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with door-to-door pickup

What to Expect from the Rioja Wine Tour

This private tour from Bilbao offers an immersive look into Spain’s most celebrated wine region. It’s designed to give you a well-rounded experience—covering everything from the vineyards and wineries to a charming medieval village, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation.

The Scenic Drive and First Impressions

The journey begins with a scenic drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. As you leave Bilbao, you’ll start to notice the landscape transforming into rolling hills and lush vineyards. This drive sets the tone for the day, offering plenty of opportunities to admire the changing scenery and get a sense of Rioja’s sprawling landscape.

First Stop: San Vicente de la Sonsierra

Your first winery visit usually takes place in San Vicente de la Sonsierra, a picturesque town that’s often the starting point for many Rioja tours. Here, you’ll learn about the winemaking process, exploring how local traditions marry with modern techniques. Reviewers like Julian mention being able to see the full process of winemaking, which adds an educational layer to the tasting experience.

At this first winery, you’ll sample 3 to 4 wines alongside local olive oil and cheese, highlighting regional flavors. The tasting is free, but the insights gained are invaluable—especially if you’re a novice eager to understand what makes Rioja wines so unique.

Second Winery: Samaniego

Next, the tour typically visits Samaniego, another jewel of Rioja. Here, you’ll enjoy tasting another 3 to 4 carefully selected wines, allowing you to compare different styles and grapes. Reviewers like Andrew emphasize the quality of the wines and the professionalism of the guides, noting that the experience was both informative and enjoyable.

Third Winery: Haro

Haro is renowned for its historic wineries and vibrant wine culture. Visiting three wineries here, you’ll sample some of Rioja’s finest offerings, often described as ‘tastings of their best wines’. This part of the day is perfect for those wanting to savor different vintages and styles, from bold reds to more delicate options.

The Village of Laguardia: A Medieval Marvel

After the winery visits, your guide will take you to Laguardia, a medieval village perched on a hill and encircled by a 13th-century wall. This town is a true highlight—its narrow streets, ancient stone walls, and panoramic views of vineyards make it feel like stepping back in time.

Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional regional lunch at a local restaurant. Reviewers such as Myja mention that the lunch in Laguardia is a highlight, with many recommending the authentic cuisine and relaxed atmosphere. The town’s natural balcony offers stunning vistas of the surrounding wine country, making it a perfect spot for photos and a moment to soak in the scenery.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $420.62 per person, this private Rioja experience might seem like a significant investment. However, considering the comprehensive itinerary—three winery visits, a scenic drive, a guided tour, and a traditional lunch—the value is quite high for those interested in truly understanding Rioja wine and culture.

The inclusion of private transportation means hassle-free travel and an opportunity to relax without worrying about navigating. On top of that, the expert guide (often praised in reviews like those of Mateo) enhances the experience with knowledge, friendliness, and helpful translations, making the day accessible for English speakers.

Highlights in Details

Winery visits are the core of this tour, offering insights into the winemaking process, the different grape varieties, and tasting some of Rioja’s most respected wines. Reviewers have appreciated the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, emphasizing how they help translate and explain intricate details, making the experience accessible for all.

The scenic drive adds a relaxing element, with many guests commenting on the stunning views and the peaceful countryside. If you’re a lover of picturesque landscapes, this part of the trip offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Laguardia, with its intact medieval walls and panoramic views, provides a cultural contrast to the wineries. The lunch here is not just a meal but an authentic taste of regional cuisine in a historic setting, often a highlight for guests who enjoy experiencing local flavors in atmospheric surroundings.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, making it perfect for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.
• Pickup is offered from your Bilbao accommodation, which adds to the convenience.
• The group size is limited to your private party, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention.
• All fees and taxes are included, so there are no hidden costs during the day.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers; however, those with mobility issues or dietary restrictions should communicate beforehand.
• Remember to bring your ID if you plan to sample alcoholic beverages (strictly for those 18+).

Considerations

• The price point is on the higher end but reflects the private nature of the tour, exclusive visits, and quality of experience.
• Timing is crucial—most travelers book this about 64 days in advance, indicating how popular it is. Booking early ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

Authentic Experiences Reported by Reviewers

One reviewer, Julian, appreciated the explanation of the winemaking process and the chance to see the full production at one of the bodegas. Andrew highlighted the professionalism of guide Mateo, who was prompt and well-informed, making the day both educational and fun.

Myja enjoyed the stunning scenery and personalized attention, noting how the guide’s selections made the experience more meaningful. Meanwhile, Katie felt like the tour was like catching up with an old friend, thanks to Mateo’s friendly approach and extensive regional knowledge.

These insights show that the guides’ expertise and the personalized approach are key strengths, elevating this tour beyond just tasting wines.

The Sum Up

This Full Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao offers a fantastic way to experience Spain’s most famous wine region in comfort and style. With visits to three wineries, a scenic drive, and a charming medieval town, it strikes a perfect balance between educational, scenic, and cultural activities.

Ideal for wine enthusiasts, culture seekers, or anyone wanting a full day of relaxed exploration, this tour delivers authentic experiences backed by knowledgeable guides. While it’s a bit of an investment, the combination of private transport, premium tastings, and a traditional lunch makes it a worthwhile splurge for those looking to truly understand Rioja’s character.

If you value quality, comfort, and authenticity, this tour will meet and hopefully exceed your expectations—leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Spain’s winemaking prowess and the stunning landscapes that inspire it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic drive, explore Laguardia, and learn about the winemaking process. Tastings are optional and only available to those 18 and above.

How long is the drive from Bilbao to Rioja?
The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional lunch at a restaurant in Laguardia, allowing you to taste regional flavors in an authentic setting.

What’s the group size?
Since this is a private tour, it is tailored solely for your party, ensuring personalized attention.

What is the cost per person?
The price is around $420.62 per person, which covers all winery visits, tastings, lunch, transportation, and taxes.

Can children participate?
While the tour is primarily aimed at adult guests, children can join the drive and sightseeing but will not partake in tastings.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 64 days ahead, especially during busy seasons, to secure availability.

This detailed Rioja wine tour from Bilbao promises a day full of discovery, relaxation, and unforgettable tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious about Spain’s famous vineyards, it’s an experience worth considering for your trip.