In the eastern part of La Rioja, right on the border with Soria and Navarra, lies a remarkable region hidden from prying eyes— the comarca of Cervera del Río Alhama. Here, time seems to slow down, and the harsh landscape, carved by water and stone, holds millennia-old secrets. The local villages, including Cervera itself, as well as Aguilar, Igea, Cornago, Cabretón, Valdemadera, and Navajún, have managed to preserve their original authenticity, standing strong against oblivion and the surge of mass tourism. Around every bend, new vistas unfold, and the air is filled with a profound sense of tranquility.
Traveling through this region feels like diving into different historical eras. Start your journey with the medieval castle in Cornago, which towers above the valley like a guardian of ancient secrets. From there, descend underground into cool, old cellars, where winemaking began long before La Rioja wines achieved global fame. For a strikingly different experience, visit the settlement of Contrebia Leucade, near Aguilar del Río Alhama. This is one of the oldest and best-preserved Celtiberian sites on the peninsula, astounding visitors with its cyclopean walls and dwellings carved directly into the rock.
But the history of this land goes back even further, to prehistoric times when giants roamed here. The surroundings of Igea have become a true open-air paleontological park. Hundreds of ichnites—fossilized dinosaur tracks left millions of years ago—have been preserved here. Today, well-marked and comfortable trails let visitors literally touch the distant past of our planet. A rich archaeological heritage, unique fossils, and living local traditions come together, turning the comarca of Cervera into a real museum, where every stone and every path tells its own captivating story.
The region has experienced a new wave of growth and recognition thanks to the revival of its thermal resources. The main attraction is the balneological resort La Albotea, which reopened its doors after extensive and meticulous restoration. Its healing sulfur waters, renowned for their soothing and cleansing properties, have restored Cervera’s reputation as a popular spa destination. Around the resort, a modern tourist infrastructure is actively taking shape, focusing on tranquility, comfort, and sustainability. A shining example is the Cervaria hotel, located in a renovated sixteenth-century mansion, where historical heritage is seamlessly combined with principles of energy efficiency.
The experience is rounded out by a full immersion in the local gastronomy—without it, your impression would be incomplete. The cuisine of the Alama comarca embodies the essence of Rioja’s traditions, built on the freshest local ingredients. Delicate roasted lamb, juicy vegetables from the fertile riverbanks, fragrant artisanal sausages, and of course, robust wines from small family wineries. In the region’s taverns and restaurants, dishes are served without unnecessary frills but with an authentic, unforgettable taste of the land—one that is only beginning to reveal its vast potential to discerning travelers. This is the perfect place to disconnect from the bustle and discover the most unspoiled and perhaps purest side of La Rioja.
