Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean that’s it for travel in 2023. We have some last-minute availability in many of our top regions so if you’re hoping for a getaway this autumn, get in touch with our friendly team.

How about Rioja? The smooth, easy-drinking reds of the region are a firm favourite of ours – why not bring them to life on a trip to the region in Spain’s north. Better yet, the locals claim the best time to visit is autumn. You’ll find vineyards decorated with fiery red and orange hues and quaint towns with impressive architecture and a rich history, all accompanied by long evenings and warm weather.

Our top guide in the region still has availability for tours in the second half of October and beyond. Together you’ll visit Rioja’s finest traditional bodegas for tours and tastings and your guide will select the best hidden gems for breaking up the wine tastings with delicious Spanish food. Beyond the vineyards, uncover hilltop medieval towns, impressive mountains, and huge monasteries. The capital, Logroño, was an old Roman settlement and was the main seat of the Basque witch trials, part of the Spanish Inquisition in 1609 – making Rioja the ideal region for history fans too.

And while Rioja is certainly most famous for its wines, it’s also well-known for its architecture. The spectacular curved steel and titanium design at Marqués de Riscal was designed by Frank O. Gehry, who also designed the Guggenheim in Bilbao. This architectural masterpiece is a world-class hotel complete with a Caudalie spa and Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s also set on the site of one of the oldest and most traditional of Rioja’s bodegas, which first opened for business in 1860.

You can explore more of Rioja with Grape Escapes here, or get in touch with our friendly team on +44 (0) 1920 46 86 66 or at in**@gr**********.net to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Rioja this autumn.