Laguardia

Laguardia sits in northern Spain, on the southern tip of the Basque Country. The Sierra de Cantabria Mountains add a snowy backdrop to the town, which is otherwise surrounded by hillsides brimming with vineyards that produce rioja wine – known for its full-bodied, dark berry flavour. The winding cobbled streets and 12th-century walls capture the Medieval atmosphere here, with an archaeological site and ornate church adding an ancient touch to the town. But, you’ll also find a mix of the modern here, too, in the form of innovative wine-making and creative cuisine. Spend time in the underground cellars getting to know the latest vintage, or pop into a local bar to snack on pintxos, the Basque Country’s answer to tapas.

Top three things to do in Laguarida:

1. La Hoya archaeological site

Take a 20-minute stroll to the outskirts of town to the Recinto Arqueológico de la Hoya. Walk the ancient streets of this excavated site to reveal one thousand years of history, from the Bronze Age of 1250 BC, through to 250 BC when the Roman Empire was stomping about the place. The site’s museum gives a deeper insight, with pottery and tools on show, as well as a life-size reconstruction of a typical pre-Roman house.

2. Church of Santa María de los Reyes

Standing in the heart of town, the Church of Santa Maria de los Reyes is a must-see for its extravagant portico – that’s a fancy way of saying porch – complete with colourful and intricate carvings framing the entrance. Outside, you’ll find a happy mishmash of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. The place has been restored several times since the 12th-century, after all. Inside is just as glorious, with statues, paintings and an ornate 300-year-old facade by the altar – thankfully cameras are welcome here.

3. Bodega El Fabulista

Seven meters below the Samaniego family’s 17th-century palace and within the town’s Medieval walls, you’ll find a warren of tunnels leading to the El Fabulista wine cellar. Tours and tastings run regularly and there’s no better place to taste local rioja than under the vaulted ceilings. On Saturdays, you’ll be treated to a reincarnation of the famous writer and original palace resident, Félix María de Samaniego, hosting a fun and informative tour.