June 9 - June 16, 2027
Trip Overview
✨ Experience the Heart of Rioja: A Journey Through Spain’s Premiere Wine Country ✨
Over the past several years, we’ve traveled throughout Europe, exploring some of the most celebrated wine regions. When Kent spent a week in Rioja, Spain, he absolutely fell in love and he now considers Rioja his favorite. Many wine lovers have heard of Rioja, but not everyone could pinpoint it on a map. Nestled in the northern part of Spain near Basque Country, Rioja is a world apart from the southern regions many travelers know—it’s a place where ancient villages, rolling vineyards, and modern winemaking come together in perfect harmony.
As with all VanArnam Adventures trips, Kent personally scouted the Rioja region to find the very best wineries (bodegas), restaurants, villages, and hotels. The result is an unforgettable journey that begins in Bilbao, the region’s lively gateway city. From Bilbao, the Rioja countryside is just an hour’s scenic drive away—an ideal start to an extraordinary week. This trip is perfect for those eager to discover a new side of Spain, taste exceptional wines, and share the experience with new friends.
Your adventure begins in Bilbao with a welcome dinner at The Gallery before venturing into the vineyard-covered hills of La Rioja. Settle into the the charming medieval village of Briones, home to the luxurious Hotel Santa María Briones. Here, you’ll explore the fascinating Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture, dine in the hotel’s atmospheric wine cave , where days unfold with private tastings at world-renowned bodegas like Muga, Gómez Cruzado, and Baigorri, all just steps from your hotel.
The journey continues to elegant Palacio de Samaniego, and visit boutique wineries such as Marqués de Real and Viña Real. Enjoy leisurely mornings walking or cycling through the vines, relax with an afternoon siesta, and indulge in exquisite dinners at Tierra y Vino. Round out your Rioja experience with exceptional regional cuisine, and plenty of time to wander, sip, and soak up the magic of Spain’s most iconic wine region.
🍷 A perfect blend of history, flavor, and indulgence — crafted for travelers who savor life, one glass at a time.
The group size is 16 people. The group consists of 14 guests plus Kent and Allison VanArnam.
The cost of the trip is $6,000 per person, based on double occupancy. The receipt of a deposit of $1,000 per person will secure your spot. The trip does not include airfare. If you'd like to get more information or join us - simply send us an email at vanarnamadventures@gmail.com
The Terms and Conditions are available on this link Terms and conditions.