Hotel Silken Villa de Laguardia 4*

In the heart of the prestigious vineyards of La Rioja Alavesa, the Silken Villa de Laguardia is a wine lover's delight and has lots to offer. With fabulous views of the surrounding countryside it is in an ideal setting for exploring the region and indulging in some tasting and buying of world famous wines. It also has an impressive spa centre where treatments are based on wine and olive oil (charges apply) and right next door is the Villa Lucia, a museum and audio visual centre where visitors can learn more about the area and its wines. Pet accepted 25€/night. Garage parking 13€/night.

Sitting on a rocky hilltop, many consider the historic walled town of Laguardia as one of Spain's prettiest villages and with its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture and pretty balconies it is indeed a pleasure to stroll around and explore. The clock in the Plaza Mayor, the San Bautista and Santa María de los Reyes churches and the Abbey Tower are all worth a visit as well as the popular Paseo del Collado in the north part of town from where the views of the countryside are absolutely breathtaking. There are, of course, lots of local wineries with their underground cellars, most of which are open to visitors, and afterwards a well deserved lunch can be enjoyed in one of the many excellent restaurants here.