Nestled in the heart of Rioja Alavesa, there’s a town that became the focus of all Spain in 2026. Laguardia is not just another dot on the map—it’s a place where history breathes from every stone. There is no metropolitan rush here, but the atmosphere is unmistakable: narrow winding streets, ancient houses, and the feeling that time itself slows down.
Laguardia is home to fewer than fifteen hundred people, and every one of them is proud of their town. And for good reason: medieval walls, majestic churches, palaces, and towers that could have come straight from the pages of ancient chronicles. The town is surrounded by vineyards, and beyond them stretches the rugged, beautiful landscape of the País Vasco.
Medieval Maze
The main pride of Laguardia is its historic center. Powerful fortress walls that protected residents for centuries have been preserved here. Inside lies a real maze of cobbled streets, where it’s easy to get lost—but even easier to find something amazing. The Santa María de los Reyes church impresses with its intricately carved portal, considered one of the most beautiful in Spain. The Torre Abacial, which took almost five centuries to build, still rises above the town, a reminder of its warlike past.
You can feel the passage of centuries in every house and every alley. There is no room for haste here—only for contemplation and leisurely walks. In Laguardia, it’s easy to imagine yourself as a hero from a medieval legend, especially as evening shadows fall across the ancient walls.
Secrets of the Underground
But Lagardia’s true surprises lie underground. Right beneath the historic center is a unique Celtiberian reservoir, built back in the Iron Age. This is not just an archaeological find—it was the largest water reservoir of its time in Europe, capable of holding up to 300,000 liters of water. Over two thousand years old, it still amazes even the most seasoned travelers.
Not far from the town, you can find other traces of ancient civilizations. The dolmen Chabola de la Hechicera is one of the most renowned megaliths in northern Spain. These stone structures, shrouded in legend, give Lagardia a distinctive mystical aura. Here, the past literally coexists with the present—felt in every step you take.
Wine traditions
Lagardia is not only a city of history, but also the wine capital. Vineyards encircle the town in a dense ring, and the many wine cellars offer tastings of the region’s finest varieties. Here, wine is more than a drink—it’s a cultural heritage passed down through generations. Locals are eager to share their traditions, turning every tasting into a real journey through flavor and time.
Among the wine cellars are both historic family estates and modern wineries, where age-old recipes meet innovative technologies. Wine tours in Laguardia offer a chance not only to sample the renowned Rioja wines, but also to learn how they are made, see the process firsthand, and even take part in the harvest if you visit during the right season.
Nature and surroundings
The landscapes around Laguardia are just as striking as its architecture. The town sits at the foot of the Sierra de Toloño, a mountain range that shields it from cold winds and creates a unique microclimate. It’s an ideal place for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors. On clear days, you can see as far as the neighboring regions of Castilla y León and La Rioja.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of hiking trails, while those seeking peace and quiet can simply enjoy the fresh air and tranquility. Laguardia is a place where you can forget about city life and truly connect with nature.
A true discovery
Laguardia is much more than another picturesque northern Spanish town. Here, the past and present are so closely intertwined that it can be hard to tell which era you’re in. Everyone finds something special here—some are inspired, others find peace, and many discover new flavors and experiences. In 2026, Laguardia rightfully ranks among the best destinations for a winter getaway. Honestly, this recognition has been a long time coming.
