Rioja Wineries and Laguardia Tour with Picnic from San Sebastian

A Day in La Rioja: Wineries, Laguardia, and a Picnic

Imagine spending a full day immersed in some of Spain’s most celebrated wines, exploring the timeless charm of La Rioja’s vineyards and villages. For around $550 per person, this 8 to 9-hour tour from San Sebastian offers a well-rounded taste of what makes La Rioja so special—three winery visits, a delectable picnic in a wine cave, and a stroll through the medieval streets of Laguardia. What’s more, you’ll be driven in a comfortable, climate-controlled minivan with hotel pickup and drop-off, making the logistics surprisingly smooth for a full-day outing.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the guided tastings at each winery, which aren’t just about sipping wine but learning about the local winemaking process and regional flavors—this elevates the experience from casual to educational. Also, the lunch picnic in a wine cellar is truly a highlight; imagine enjoying Iberian ham and cheeses while surrounded by centuries-old underground tunnels—an atmospheric setting that amplifies the meal.

A potential consideration? The day is quite full, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a schedule that involves a fair amount of moving around. If you’re looking for a laid-back day with lots of relaxed tasting instead of a tightly packed itinerary, this might feel a bit brisk.

This tour is ideal for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike, especially those who appreciate guided insights and authentic local experiences. If you want a comprehensive, well-organized day that combines wine, culture, and great scenery, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Expert-led winery visits provide both taste and education.
• Beautiful medieval Laguardia offers a relaxed, scenic stroll after lunch.
• Underground wine cave picnic delivers a memorable meal in an atmospheric setting.
• All-inclusive, with tastings, transport, and lunch, offers great value.
• Limited group size (max 16) ensures a more intimate experience.
• Guides and transport are well-reviewed for professionalism and comfort.

Exploring the Rioja Wineries and Laguardia: What You Can Expect

This tour is thoughtfully designed to give you a taste of La Rioja’s renowned wine culture without the stress of planning. Starting early in the morning, a driver picks you up from your San Sebastian hotel, and you’ll be on your way by about 8:30 am. The drive itself is comfortable, in a climate-controlled minivan, and the van’s size keeps the group small enough to feel personal but lively enough for shared enthusiasm about wine and history.

First Stop: Bodegas Gomez Cruzado

Your first winery visit is to a traditional, century-old hotel in Haro. Here, a guided tour will walk you through the entire winemaking process—from grape harvest to bottling. This insight is valuable because it helps you understand what makes Rioja wines unique, such as their aging process and grape varieties. Afterward, you’ll get to taste five different wines produced on-site, allowing you to compare different styles and qualities. Reviewers like Dan highlight how engaging the guide was, making the experience both educational and friendly.

Second Stop: Bodegas Ysios

Next, you’ll visit this modern winery with its striking architecture—an ideal photo opp! The focus here is on contemporary design and innovation in winemaking. While the visit is brief, the views of the surrounding vineyards and the sleek building make it a memorable stop, especially for architecture lovers. Though shorter, this stop gives a contrast to the traditional winery experience and broadens your perspective on Rioja wines.

Third Stop: Bodegas Marques de Riscal

Famous for its Frank Gehry-designed building, this winery is arguably one of the most recognizable in Rioja. Even if you’re not a architecture buff, the building itself is worth a quick look. The guide will show you around the facilities, and there’s an option to take a quick photo of the iconic exterior. While the tasting isn’t included at this stop, you’ll get a sense of the craftsmanship that goes into producing their world-class wines.

Fourth Stop: Laguardia

After a series of wine tastings, you’ll head to the medieval town of Laguardia, which is a highlight in itself. With winding streets, stone houses, and historic walls, it’s an ideal place to stretch your legs. The tour includes about half an hour here—just enough time for a gentle walk, some photos, and soaking in the old-world charm. The town is also home to some of the region’s most iconic wineries like Marques del Riscal and Ysios, which you might spot while wandering the streets.

The Picnic in the Underground Cellar

One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the lunch in a wine cave. You descend into a maze of underground tunnels, where a generous Spanish picnic awaits. Think Iberian ham, cheeses, tomato salad, and a crianza red wine poured into your glass—an experience that combines gastronomy and history. The setting is atmospheric and a perfect way to enjoy your meal, making this a standout feature for many travelers. Reviewers rave about the picnic, with one calling it “outstanding,” highlighting how this adds a special touch not always found on similar tours.

Final Thoughts

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to San Sebastian, arriving in the early evening. The full-day experience offers a well-balanced mix of tasting, learning, scenic strolling, and relaxation—an ideal way to deepen your appreciation for Rioja wines while enjoying some of Spain’s most charming villages.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

This experience appeals to those who enjoy guided tours that combine education with authentic local culture. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the knowledgeable guides genuinely enhance the experience with their insights. It’s perfect for food and wine lovers looking for an immersive day without the hassle of independent planning.

The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it convenient, especially if you’re based in San Sebastian. The all-inclusive pricing—covering tastings and the picnic—adds up to good value, given the quality of the experiences and the variety of wineries visited.

However, the schedule is quite packed, so travelers who prefer a more relaxed, unhurried day might find it a tad fast-paced. If you’re keen on a deep dive into each winery or want more free time in Laguardia, you might want to consider a more customized or private option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers wine tastings at four wineries, a guided tour of each winery, hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and a lunch picnic in a wine cellar.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting around 8:30 am and returning in the early evening.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The minimum age for participation is 18 years, due to alcohol tastings. It’s best suited for adults comfortable with a full-day itinerary.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking are recommended, especially since you’ll be exploring villages and possibly walking through wine cellars.

Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
The picnic menu is standard, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inquire in advance. However, the main meal features common Spanish dishes like ham, cheese, and salads.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 16 people ensures a more personal experience and opportunity to ask questions.

What if I want to buy wine?
Wine purchases are not included in the price and are optional. You can buy bottles at each winery if you wish.

What happens if there aren’t enough participants?
The tour requires a minimum of 4 people to run. If there are fewer, you’ll be offered an alternative or a full refund.

Can I book this as a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience with your group, provided the minimum number of participants is met.

Final Thoughts

This Rioja winery and Laguardia tour offers a compelling combination of wine education, scenic beauty, and delicious food. It best suits travelers who want a well-organized, immersive day that’s both educational and indulgent. The guided visits, atmospheric underground picnic, and charming village stroll make it an experience that’s both authentic and memorable.

While it’s a full schedule, the variety of stops and the small group setting ensure you won’t feel overwhelmed. If you’re eager to deepen your appreciation of Rioja wines, enjoy Spanish culinary traditions, and explore an enchanting medieval town, this tour delivers impressive value and lasting memories.

For those who thrive on expert guidance, a touch of history, and tasting a wide selection of wines — this tour ticks all the boxes. Just be prepared for a busy but rewarding day that captures the very essence of Rioja’s charm.