A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Laguardia: Discover the Jewel of the Basque Country

Laguardia is a charming town located in the province of Álava, in the Basque Country. Known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious gastronomy, this destination is perfect for those looking for a peaceful and charming getaway.

History and Culture

Laguardia has a long history that dates back to Roman times. Its cobbled streets and medieval walls are witnesses to its past, and walking through them is like traveling back in time. Do not miss the Church of Santa María de los Reyes, an impressive Gothic building that dates from the 13th century.

Moreover, Laguardia is famous for its underground cellars, known as "calados." These cellars are an integral part of the local culture and offer the opportunity to taste some of the region's best wines. Be sure to visit one and enjoy a wine tasting.

Nature and Landscapes

The surroundings of Laguardia are simply stunning. Surrounded by vineyards and green hills, this destination is perfect for nature lovers. You can hike or bike through the trails that cross the vineyards and enjoy the panoramic views.

Additionally, close to Laguardia is the Izki Natural Park, a natural paradise with a great diversity of flora and fauna. Here, you can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and picnics amid nature.

Gastronomy

Gastronomy is another strong point of Laguardia. Basque cuisine is known worldwide for its quality and flavor, and here you can enjoy traditional dishes such as cod pil-pil, grilled veal steak, or pintxos, small culinary delights served in local bars.

Do not leave without trying the region's wine, especially the famous Rioja Alavesa. You can visit some nearby wineries and learn about the wine-making process, as well as taste different varieties.

Activities and Events

In Laguardia, there is always something to do. You can participate in guided tours of the town, where you will hear interesting local stories and legends. You can also enjoy outdoor concerts, music festivals, and cultural events that are held throughout the year.

If you visit Laguardia in September, do not miss the Harvest Festival, a traditional celebration where the grapes are harvested, and a large party is held with music, dancing, and wine tastings.

Gastronomic Products of Laguardia

• Rioja Wines

  Laguardia is famous for being one of the main wine destinations in the Rioja region. Some of the best wines in Spain are produced here, especially red wines. The vineyards in the area offer a wide variety of grapes, such as tempranillo, garnacha, and graciano, which result in high-quality and flavorful wines.

• Piquillo Peppers

  Piquillo peppers are another standout gastronomic product of Laguardia. These peppers are small, triangular in shape, and intensely red in color. They are characterized by their sweet and slightly spicy flavor. They are usually roasted and peeled, and are used in numerous dishes of traditional Rioja cuisine, such as meat fillings or in sauces.

• Sheep Cheese

  Sheep cheese is another star product of Laguardia. It is made with sheep's milk and is characterized by its intense flavor and creamy texture. This cheese can be enjoyed on its own, accompanied by bread or as an ingredient in dishes such as salads or tapas. In addition, in Laguardia you can visit cheese factories where this delicious cheese is produced.

• Mushrooms

  Mushrooms are another highly appreciated gastronomic product in Laguardia. They are grown in the area and are characterized by their mild flavor and tender texture. They are used in numerous local dishes, such as scrambled eggs, stews or as accompaniments to meats and fish. In addition, they can be found in the local market and in specialized stores.

Sports Activities in Laguardia, Spain

Hiking

With routes through vineyards and mountains, Laguardia is an ideal place for hiking enthusiasts. You can explore routes such as the Wine Route and the Dolmen Route.

Cycling

The varied terrain of Laguardia makes it a perfect place for cycling. You can rent a bike and explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

Golf

If you are a golf lover, Laguardia has several high-quality golf courses. The Izki Golf Club, designed by Severiano Ballesteros, is one of the most prominent.

Water Sports

Although Laguardia is inland, it is not far from the coast. You can take a day trip to the Basque coast and enjoy water sports such as surfing and paddle surfing.

Places near Laguardia (Spain)

If you are in Laguardia and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Haro, the jewel of La Rioja, invites you to enjoy its century-old wineries and exquisite wines. In addition, you can delight in its delicious cuisine, where the tapas and traditional dishes will win you over. A perfect destination for lovers of good wine and good food.

Elciego, a charming village in the region of La Rioja, Spain, is famous for its impressive architecture and exquisite cuisine. Enjoy its centuries-old wineries, taste the best wines and savor the delicious traditional cuisine in its cozy restaurants.

Labastida, a charming village in the region of La Rioja, Spain, will captivate you with its medieval architecture and endless vineyards. In addition, you can delight in its exquisite cuisine, where wines and traditional dishes merge to create a unique experience for food lovers.