On the banks of the full-flowing Ebro, nestled among endless vineyards and mountain ranges, lies one of the most picturesque and tranquil towns in the La Rioja region. Its allure is found in its cobbled streets, deep winemaking roots, and impressive historic center, which has preserved the legacy of many centuries. Framed by the Sierra de Toloño massif and the landscapes typical of the Rioja Alta subregion, this place has become a must-visit for lovers of fine wines, history, and unspoiled nature.
This is Briñas, a small gem located just a few minutes’ drive from Haro. Its strategic location at the region’s entrance has earned it the nickname “gateway to Rioja.” A stroll from the Puente de Briñas bridge along the river turns into an unforgettable journey past centuries-old bodegas and stone mansions adorned with family crests. The town’s silhouette, outlined against the river’s curves, creates one of the most colorful panoramas in the entire comarca.
This settlement, overlooking the flow of the Ebro, harmoniously blends the serenity of its natural surroundings with the warmth of its residents. Every corner here breathes authenticity: from the chime of the bells at the Church of the Assumption to the tiny ventilation openings of underground cellars—silent witnesses to the ancient winemaking tradition that has shaped the local character.
A journey into the past
The chronicle of Briñas dates back to the 11th century, when it first appeared in the cartulary records of the monasteries of Leire and San Millán. In 1047, King Sancho Fortunes granted the settlement to the Leire monastery, and later it became part of Haro, achieving full independence only in 1632. For centuries, its strategic location on the banks of the Ebro played a key role in the agricultural and commercial prosperity of the area.
The town’s layout still bears the imprint of those flourishing centuries. The ancestral homes from the 17th and 18th centuries, built from sandstone and crowned with noble coats of arms, speak of the town’s prosperous past. Many of them conceal traditional underground cellars, where the ancient practice of winemaking in the basements is still alive today.
The economy here has always been closely tied to the land, especially to the cultivation of vineyards. Briñas is located in the heart of one of Spain’s most prestigious appellations, and its connection to wine is reflected not only in production, but also in the lifestyle, festivities, and landscape, where the vineyards set the rhythm of the changing seasons.
What the old streets preserve
The main attraction of Briñas is its historic quarter, an open-air museum where every stone has a legend to tell. Wandering through its alleyways is like traveling back in time, admiring the stately mansions and facades that have preserved the spirit of traditional Rioja.
At the top of the town stands the 17th-century parish church of the Assumption, which dominates the skyline and houses a classical-style altar. Nearby, the Mirador del Rollo viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama of the Ebro River and the surrounding vineyards. In autumn, the landscape transforms into golden and crimson hues, creating a postcard-worthy scene. At the foot of the settlement, a small riverside dock invites visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll or go canoeing, a popular activity among guests. Noteworthy monuments along the route include a 16th-century Crucifix, the 17th-century Ermita del Humilladero chapel, and the ruins of the San Marcelo hermitage. The most curious explorers can search for the ‘chimneys’ of old cellars, jutting out from the ground and originally built to vent the gases from fermenting must—a vivid example of the ingenuity of the Rioja locals.
Exploring beyond the town
Those who choose to stay in Briones will find plenty of options for exploring the surrounding area. Just three kilometers away lies Haro, the wine capital of Rioja, where visitors can discover the famous Station Quarter with its century-old wineries. It’s also worth visiting Laguardia in the Rioja Alavesa subregion—a charming walled town with medieval roots.
Briñas is one of those places that has preserved the untouched magic of Rioja. A small town rich in character. Another recommended excursion is to the Sierra de Toloño mountains, an ideal destination for hiking and photography enthusiasts, with trails offering stunning panoramic views of the Ebro Valley. From there, travelers can continue on to towns like Santo Domingo de la Calzada or Nájera, completing their Rioja adventure that combines history, fine wines, and unforgettable landscapes.
