Experience the Heart of Rioja: A Journey Through Spain’s Premiere Wine Country from May 28 to June 4, 2026!

Hosted by Kent and Allison VanArnam, this 8-day adventure is crafted for wine lovers and explorers seeking a perfect blend of history, flavor, and indulgence. Nestled in northern Spain near the Basque Country, Rioja offers ancient villages, rolling vineyards, and world-class bodegas. Kent personally scouted the region to curate the best experiences, starting in lively Bilbao and moving to the countryside. We’ll stay in elegant hotels like Palacio de Samaniego and Hotel Santa María Briones, with private tastings, vineyard tours, and exquisite regional cuisine.

Highlights

• Private Tastings at Iconic Bodegas: Exclusive tours and sips at Muga, Gómez Cruzado, Baigorri, Marqués de Real, and Viña Real.

• Luxurious Accommodations: Elegant stays at Palacio de Samaniego in the countryside and Hotel Santa María Briones in the medieval village of Briones.

• Adventure in the Vines: Thrilling 4x4 vineyard tours, walking or cycling through rolling hills, and exploring ancient villages like Samaniego.

• Culinary Indulgences: Welcome dinner at The Gallery in Bilbao, multi-course meals at Tierra y Vino, and dining in a historic wine cave.

• Cultural Immersion: Visit the fascinating Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture and wander medieval streets with plenty of time to savor and relax.

• Afternoon Siestas and Scenic Drives: Leisurely mornings, a scenic hour-long drive from Bilbao, and "leave your worries behind" hospitality.

Detailed Itinerary

Our journey unfolds over 8 unforgettable days, blending structured adventures with free time to soak in Rioja's charm

Day 1: May 28, 2026 – Arrival in BilbaoArrive in Bilbao and meet your private shuttle for transfer to our welcome venue. At 7:00 pm, gather for a celebratory dinner at The Gallery, featuring Basque-inspired tapas and local wines. Settle into the vibrant energy of this gateway city before heading to Rioja tomorrow.Accommodation: Bilbao hotel

Day 2: May 29, 2026 – Bilbao to Samaniego & Palacio de Samaniego. After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 1-hour drive to the heart of Rioja. Check into the elegant Palacio de Samaniego. Afternoon free for a siesta or village stroll. At 7:00 pm, indulge in a multi-course dinner at Tierra y Vino, paired with regional wines.Accommodation: Palacio de Samaniego

Day 3: May 30, 2026 – Bodega Tastings: Muga & Gómez Cruzado. Breakfast at the hotel. Morning private tour and tasting at Bodegas Muga, exploring their historic cellars. Lunch in Samaniego, followed by an afternoon tasting at Gómez Cruzado. Evening relaxation or optional village walk.Accommodation: Palacio de Samaniego

Day 4: May 31, 2026 – Baigorri & Vineyard Exploration. Start with a leisurely breakfast. At 11:00 am, visit Bodegas Baigorri for a modern architecture tour and gravity-fed winery experience. Afternoon: Choose walking, cycling, or a siesta. Dinner back at the hotel with live music. Accommodation: Palacio de Samaniego

Day 5: June 1, 2026 – Transfer to Briones & Vivanco Museum. Morning drive to Briones. Check into Hotel Santa María Briones. Afternoon: Explore the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture, diving into 8,000 years of wine history. Evening dinner in the hotel's atmospheric wine cave. Accommodation: Hotel Santa María Briones

Day 6: June 2, 2026 – Boutique Wineries: Marqués de Real & Viña Real. Breakfast followed by a tour at Marqués de Real. Lunch in Briones, then afternoon visit to Viña Real for its stunning Frank Gehry-designed architecture and tasting. Free evening to wander the medieval streets. Accommodation: Hotel Santa María Briones.

Day 7: June 3, 2026 – 4x4 Vineyard Tour exciting morning 4x4 tour through off-road vineyards, with picnic lunch amid the vines. Afternoon siesta or optional shopping. Farewell dinner, reflecting on the week's magic. Accommodation: Hotel Santa María Briones.

Day 8: June 4, 2026 – Departure via private shuttle to Bilbao airport or your next destination. Depart with memories of Rioja's vineyards, villages, and vintages.

What’s Included

• 7 nights in elegant accommodations at Palacio de Samaniego and Hotel Santa María Briones

• All meals, including welcome dinner, multi-course dinners, lunches, and picnic

• Private wine tastings and tours at renowned bodegas (Muga, Gómez Cruzado, Baigorri, Marqués de Real, Viña Real)

• 4x4 vineyard tour, Vivanco Museum entry, and guided village explorations

• Private transportation throughout, including Bilbao transfers

• Snacks, drinks, and 24/7 support from Kent and Allison

What’s Not Included

• Airfare to/from Bilbao

• Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, additional drinks)

• Travel insurance (highly recommended)

Why Book This Trip? Rioja is Kent's favorite wine region for good reason—it's a harmonious blend of ancient tradition and modern indulgence, far from the crowds of southern Spain. This adventure offers seamless luxury with a single-focus on the best of La Rioja: intimate bodega visits, thrilling off-road tours, and soul-stirring meals in historic settings. Hosted by Kent and Allison, who scouted every detail, you'll connect with like-minded travelers while discovering why Rioja captivates the heart. With leisurely siestas and free exploration time, it's the ultimate escape for savoring life's finest pours. Ready to join us? Cost: $6,200 per person, based on double occupancy (airfare not included). Secure your spot with a $1,000 deposit.

Email vanarnamadventures@gmail.com for booking details.