3 min read
Uncover the hidden gem of Spain’s La Rioja region, where the rolling vineyards paint a breathtaking landscape and the air is perfumed with the sweet scent of ripe grapes.
Welcome to Haro – a charming town that pulses with life, history and (of course) exceptional wine.
Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine vintages or simply looking for a weekend escape, Haro invites you to swirl, sip and savour every moment. Let your journey begin as you dive into the heart of Rioja wine country!
Capital del Rioja
La Rioja is like a well-kept secret for travellers – a region where rolling vineyards stretch far into the horizon, dotted with charming villages. Each has its own story, often marked by a church spire reaching up into the sky or the stone towers of an old castle. And then there’s Haro, the heart of Rioja wine country. Here, wine isn’t just something you drink; it’s a way of life. Imagine walking through rows of vines, the air sweet with the scent of ripe grapes, discovering hidden bodegas where you can taste a glass of Rioja as rich as the land itself.
With Haro’s charm and La Rioja’s beauty in mind, how about planning a weekend that lets you experience the best of both? From wine tastings to strolls through historic streets – there’s plenty to enjoy. Let’s kick things off with Day 1, where you’ll explore Haro’s vibrant heart and, of course, its world-famous wine culture.
Day 1: Swip, swirl and explore
Your weekend begins with the perfect introduction to Haro’s finest offering: wine. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the number of bodegas (wineries) to visit, each offering its own slice of the Rioja wine-making tradition.
Start your day in the Railway Station District, the vibrant heart of Haro’s wine culture. Here, the streets are alive with the spirit of winemaking and you can explore a variety of bodegas that showcase the rich heritage and artistry behind each bottle. Whether you tour a historic winery or a modern estate, you’ll get a first-hand look at the passion for producing these celebrated wines. Savour a guided tasting, where you can indulge in the deep flavours and aromas that make Rioja wines so special. With each sip, you’ll be immersed in the local culture, setting the perfect tone for your adventure in Haro.
Top wineries to visit
Renowned for its full-bodied reds and unique cellar tours. The oak barrels are a sight to behold.
Offers a blend of historic architecture and modern winemaking techniques. Be sure to try their crisp whites.
Known for its rich, aged wines. The perfect place to end your afternoon with a tasting session.
And apart from the wine?
While wine might be Haro’s claim to fame, the city has a rich cultural tapestry that goes far beyond the bottle. Stroll through its charming streets, where vibrant tapas bars and quaint cafés invite you to pause and soak in the atmosphere.
The local cuisine is a delightful exploration of flavours, showcasing fresh ingredients and traditional recipes highlighting the region’s culinary heritage.
As you wander, keep an eye out for the stunning architecture that reflects Haro’s history, from elegant 19th-century buildings to the grand neoclassical Church of Santo Tomás. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the local galleries and murals that celebrate the city’s artistic spirit.
Food pairing: Pinchos perfection
Forget tapas for a moment – let’s talk about pinchos/pintxos!
These bite-sized delights are served on little wooden skewers, often perched on a slice of crusty bread. Smaller than tapas, pinchos are the ideal companion to every glass of Rioja you sip in Haro.
Just stroll into a local bar, point to whichever tempting creation catches your eye and brace yourself for an explosion of flavour. Whether it’s daring combinations or unexpected textures, each pincho is a mini adventure in itself!
Not ready to dive in headfirst? Don’t worry we prepared three that are always safe (and delicious) bets!
Top pinchos to order
JAMÓN
The spanish ham is famous for its intense flavour and buttery texture. A pincho with jamón is a simple yet luxurious choice that showcases the essence of cultural cuisine.
PIQUILLO PEPPERS
These sweet, tender red peppers are flame-roasted for a smoky kick. Stuffed with tuna or cream cheese, they deliver a delightful mix of mild and bold flavours – really mouthwatering..
MANCHEGO CHEESE
This sheep’s milk cheese from La Mancha ages for three months, gaining a tangy, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Served on crispy bread with olive oil, it’s a delightful treat.
Day 2: Embrace the countryside
Day two is your chance to experience the stunning landscapes that surround Haro. The area is dominated by wine production and everything that goes with it, but many of the surrounding towns and villages are also on or near the famous Way of St James.
Najera
The small town on the Way of St James impresses with a remarkable monastery. The Santa Maria la Real monastery, easily the largest building in the old town, was built in the late 16th century specifically to bring pilgrims to the town as they made their way along the camino, offering a sanctuary of peace and reflection as well as a bed for the night. Najera is on the “Camino Francés”, one of the five converging camino routes.
Laguardia
One small town stands out from the rest and offers everything you would expect from the Rioja region and more. Nestled in the province of Álava, Laguardia is a charming gem that embodies the spirit of the Rioja Alavesa region. Known for its exceptional wines and as the birthplace of fable writer Samaniego, this town is surrounded by picturesque vineyards that will delight any wine lover.
As you stroll through Laguardia’s cobblestone streets, the medieval walls from the 13th century add a touch of history. Don’t miss the stunning Gothic portal of Santa María de los Reyes – its colorful details are begging for a photo. For a little adventure, explore the archaeological treasures nearby or visit the protected area of Las Lagunas.
Sajazarra
Another destination is Sajazarra, which has been included in the official list of ‘Spain’s most beautiful villages’. With its honey-coloured houses and charming medieval architecture, it definitely deserves this award. Surrounded by vineyards and fields, this picturesque spot invites you to explore its narrow streets.
Vinos, caminos & pinchos: outdoor adventures for your stay in Rioja
- Vineyard walks: Pack a small picnic and enjoy a stroll through the endless rows of vines, where you can stop and breathe in the fresh, grape-scented air.
- Hiking in Sierra de Cantabria: For a more active experience, head to the Sierra de Cantabria mountains. The trails offer breathtaking vineyard vistas and the kind of solitude that refreshes your spirit.
- The Montes Obarenes mountain range extends to the north of Sajazarra. On a clear day, it is worth making a detour up to the mountain village of Cellorigo. From up here, you can enjoy a unique panorama of the plain of the River Ebro in Rioja Alta.
Whether you choose a relaxing picnic among the vines or an invigorating hike through the mountains, the natural beauty of Rioja is a stunning backdrop to your weekend. And for those who love cycling, the winding roads through the vineyards offer the perfect opportunity to pedal through one of Spain’s most famous wine regions.
Other useful tips for the perfect weekend in Haro
- Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Haro is during the grape harvest season (September-October). This is when the vineyards are most alive, and many bodegas host special events. Once a year, at the end of the grape harvest, the entire population comes into town and spends the day showering each other with huge quantities of red wine. Yep, no joke.
- Getting there: Haro is easily accessible from larger cities like Bilbao or Logroño. Renting a car is the best option if you want to explore the countryside.
- Local customs: Don’t be surprised if the locals invite you to join them for a glass of wine or pinchos. Haro’s community is famously warm and welcoming and sharing food and drink is a big part of the culture.
Haro is more than just a wine lover’s paradise – it’s a town where tradition meets adventure, where the hills are lined with grapevines and where every meal is an opportunity to share stories with locals. Whether you sip wine in a historic bodega or hike through the scenic hillsides, Haro’s charm will surely leave you enchanted.
So, what are you waiting for? Swirl your glass and let the aromas of blackberries or oak fill your senses as the warm Spanish sun kisses your skin. Pack your bags, raise a glass and get ready for a weekend of swirling, sipping and exploring in Haro!
Packing checklist
Not sure what to bring? Download our checklist with everything you’ll need for a wine-filled weekend, from comfortable shoes to a blanket for that vineyard picnic.
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