LUXURY STAYS
HOTEL MARQUES DE RISCAL
Torrea 1, Elciego
This titanium-clad hotel designed by Frank Gehry is one of the most famous architectural landmarks in Rioja. As well as imposing views of the medieval village of Elciego and the sea of vineyards on the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria mountains, the five-star accommodation offers multiple services such as free bicycles and take-away picnics.
The hotel is divided into two separate buildings. Most of the rooms are in the Spa wing, which features an indoor pool and a vinotherapy spa, while the Gehry wing is home to a wine bar with outdoor space, two restaurants (one boasting a Michelin star), a library with a rooftop terrace, and some of the hotel’s most luxurious suites. marquesderiscal.com/en/marquesde-riscal-hotel
LA CASA COSME PALACIO
Calle San Lázaro 1, Laguardia
Nestled outside the ancient city walls, Casa Cosme Palacio offers the ultimate luxury venue for corporate events and group holidays. Services include a 24-hour butler for up to 26 guests, beauty treatments, a fitness centre, outdoor pool and electric bikes. It’s part of the Entrecanales Domecq e Hijos group of wineries, so as a guest you can enjoy exclusive private vineyard tours, wine tastings and vintage wine-paired dinners at Bodegas Cosme Palacio next door.
The property, with nine bedrooms and four suites, also provides a dedicated guest manager for tailored itineraries and restaurant reservations. Booking is for the entire property and prospective visitors must send an email to request a booking. From €5,000, including meals (depending on the number of guests and nights). lacasacosmepalacio.com
HOTEL VIURA
Herrería 19A, Villabuena de Alava With its cubic exterior, this stylish four-star hotel stands in contrast with the historical feel of Villabuena, a quaint village boasting 43 wineries for its 300 inhabitants.
Inside, the decor is just as eclectic as its façade, from the exposed bedrock in the lobby to the urban chic feel of the rooms. For an extra bit of privacy, it is worth booking one of the airy suites and enjoying the private terrace, taking in the peaceful vibe of the village with a glass of Rioja in hand.
On the top floor, there is a small gym with windows looking out over Villabuena, as well as an outdoor lounge and a small library. In summer, hotel guests get free access to the village swimming pool. With a ceiling covered with hanging barrels, the restaurant offers traditional dishes such as a roast lamb and vegetable stew with a contemporary twist. From
€115 per night. hotelviura.com