Bodega Marqués de Riscal Elciego - a close-up of a wall
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Bodega Marqués de Riscal Elciego

4.3
·1k reviews·Elciego, Spain

Iconic Rioja winery blending historic cellars with avant-garde architecture by Frank Gehry.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Bodega Marqués de Riscal Elciego - a close-up of a wall

Bodega Marqués de Riscal Elciego

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Rioja winery blending historic cellars with avant-garde architecture by Frank Gehry.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"The hotel is absolutely stunning. We came for the architecture rather than the wine, and it was totally worth it."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Tours in Advance

Tours, especially with tastings, sell out. Book online to guarantee your spot! :ticket:

Admire Gehry's Design

The hotel's architecture is a major draw. Take time to appreciate its unique titanium roof. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Frank Gehry's Hotel

Frank Gehry's Hotel

Hotel Marqués de Riscal

A stunning architectural masterpiece with vibrant titanium hues, designed by Frank Gehry.

Historic Winery & Cellars

Historic Winery & Cellars

Bodegas Marqués de Riscal

Explore the original 1860 cellars and learn about the winery's rich history and winemaking traditions.

Vineyard Views

Vineyard Views

Surrounding vineyards

Wander through picturesque vineyards that stretch across the Rioja Alavesa landscape.

Wine Tasting Experience

Wine Tasting Experience

Tasting rooms

Savor the renowned wines of Marqués de Riscal in a guided tasting session.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Popular tours, especially those including wine tastings, fill up quickly. Booking online ahead of time is essential to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Consider which tour best suits your interests, from historical insights to architectural marvels.

Embrace the Architecture

The Marqués de Riscal complex is as famous for its avant-garde architecture, particularly Frank Gehry's hotel, as it is for its wine. Allow ample time to explore the grounds and appreciate the unique design elements that blend with the historic winery.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Fall
Why
Pleasant weather, vineyard colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🍷 Rioja pone el sabor, el ritmo lo pones tú. ¿Cuál de estos tintos no has probado? 🍇 #bodegasbaigorri #elorgullodejulian #marquesdereinosa #BodegaQueiron #señoriodelibrares #marquesderiscal #bodegasolanaderamirez #ViñaReal #PonmeOtroRioja #Rioja #RiojaEsElOrigen #Vino #Wine #Winelover
@rioja_wine
1.9K likes • 211.2K views

Book Tours in Advance

Tours, especially with tastings, sell out. Book online to guarantee your spot! :ticket:

Admire Gehry's Design

The hotel's architecture is a major draw. Take time to appreciate its unique titanium roof. :camerawithflash:

Te contamos 8 bodegas españolas entre las 50 mejores del mundo para visitar 🍷🧳 1⃣Bodegas Marqués de Riscal (@marquesderiscal) en Álava 2⃣Bodegas Ysios (@ysiosbodegas) en Álava 3⃣Abadía Retuerta (@abadiaretuerta) en Valladolid 4⃣Bodegas Muga (@bodegasmuga) en La Rioja 5⃣Bodega Marqués de Murrieta (@marquesdemurrieta) en La Rioja 6⃣Bodegas Vivanco y museo del vino (@vivancoculturadevino) en La Rioja...
@lacrimaterrae_
1.8K likes • 97.9K views
Dentro de la ciudad del vino Marqués de Riscal y rodeado de viñedos se encuentra este futurista hotel diseñado por Frank O. Gehry… #marquesderiscal #frankogehry #wine #winelovers #theluxurycollection #marriotinternational #bodegas #elciego #riojaalavesa #larioja
m.castano
53 likes • 1.8K views

Engaging Tour Guides

Guides are knowledgeable and often share great anecdotes, making the history come alive. :speaking_head:

Consider a Full Experience

Combine a winery tour with a stay at the hotel for a complete architectural and wine immersion. :bed:

Espectacular visita guiada a las bodegas Marqués de Riscal. Nuestra guía Yolanda nos dejó impresionados con sus explicaciones de todo el proceso de elaboración del vino. Una visita fantástica al igual que el hotel diseñado por Frank Gehry en el pueblo de Elciego el La Rioja Alavesa. 5 estrellas 🍇🍷🍷 #elciego #riojaalavesa #alava #bodegamarquesderiscal #marquesderiscal #vino #wine #winery #bodegas...
laymengshio
24 likes • 326 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tours in Advance

Tours, especially with tastings, sell out. Book online to guarantee your spot! :ticket:

Admire Gehry's Design

The hotel's architecture is a major draw. Take time to appreciate its unique titanium roof. :camerawithflash:

Engaging Tour Guides

Guides are knowledgeable and often share great anecdotes, making the history come alive. :speaking_head:

Consider a Full Experience

Combine a winery tour with a stay at the hotel for a complete architectural and wine immersion. :bed:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the winery and vineyards. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning architecture, particularly Frank Gehry's hotel, and the picturesque vineyard setting. The wine tours are generally well-regarded for their engaging guides and enjoyable tastings, though some find them lacking in depth. The overall experience is considered impressive and well-maintained, offering a blend of history, design, and quality wine.

"The hotel is absolutely stunning. We came for the architecture rather than the wine, and it was totally worth it. Frank Gehry’s work is fantastic.

We did Wine Tour 1, and it was fine. However, from a learning perspective, I felt it lacked depth—I missed out on a lot of information, though I understand it's hard to cover everything during the visit."

Maria Hernandez.

"Excellent experience. The tour was thorough and engaging, led by a charming guide with a great sense of humor and remarkable knowledge, even though she was not an oenologist. She shared many anecdotes and interesting facts that made the visit truly enjoyable. The wine tasting afterwards was the perfect ending to an unforgettable day. Highly recommended for wine lovers and for anyone wanting to discover the history and tradition of one of Spain’s most iconic wineries."

Q G

"A interesting winery in the heart of Spain’s Rioja region. While commercialized, the experience was still impressive and well done. The tour guide was professional and knowledgeable, walking us through the entire process — from bottling to distribution. There was an astonishing amount of wine on site, and the tasting experience was well organized and enjoyable. Overall, a cool and worthwhile visit!"

Tobin Spiller

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Engaging tour guides
Beautiful vineyard setting

What People Dislike

Tours lack depth
Commercialized experience

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bodega Marqués de Riscal is about a 20-minute drive from Logroño. Many visitors opt to drive or take a taxi. Public transport options are limited, so planning your transportation in advance is recommended. :car:

Public transport to Elciego can be challenging. While there are bus services, they may not be frequent or direct. Renting a car or arranging private transport is often the most convenient way to reach the winery. :bus:

Yes, it's possible to visit Marqués de Riscal as a day trip from San Sebastián, though it's a longer journey (approximately 1.5-2 hours each way by car). Many visitors combine it with other Rioja wineries. :day_trip:

For visiting multiple wineries like Marqués de Riscal and others in Rioja Alavesa, driving your own car or renting one offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, consider booking a guided wine tour that includes transportation between sites. :wine_glass:

Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors at Bodega Marqués de Riscal. It's a convenient option if you are arriving by car. :parking:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour prices vary depending on the package chosen, typically ranging from around €20 to €50 per person. Some tours include wine tastings and snacks. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and tour options. :euro:

Absolutely! It is highly recommended to book your tour and tasting tickets online in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, as tours often sell out. :calendar:

Opening hours can vary seasonally, but tours generally run daily. It's crucial to check the official website for the specific operating hours and tour availability for your planned visit date. :clock:

Yes, Marqués de Riscal offers several tour options, including historical tours of the old cellars, architectural tours focusing on the Frank Gehry hotel, and various wine tasting experiences. :wine_glass:

While the hotel is primarily for guests, you can often visit its public areas, like the restaurant or bar, for a meal or drink. Access to the hotel's architectural features might be part of specific tours or require a reservation. :hotel:

🎫 🍷 Wine & Tasting

Marqués de Riscal is renowned for its red wines from the Rioja region, particularly those made from Tempranillo grapes. They also produce white and rosé wines. :red_wine:

Wine tastings typically include a selection of their signature wines, often accompanied by small snacks like cheese or breadsticks to complement the flavors. Some premium tastings may offer more extensive pairings. :cheese_wedge:

Yes, you can purchase wines directly from the winery's shop after your tour or tasting. It's a great opportunity to take home a bottle of your favorite wine. :shopping_cart:

While the focus is on wine, it's worth inquiring about non-alcoholic alternatives or grape juice options if you are not drinking alcohol. Some tours might accommodate this with advance notice. :grapes:

A standard wine tasting session usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the package and the number of wines being sampled. :timer:

📸 📸 Photography & Architecture

Photography is generally allowed in most areas, especially to capture the stunning architecture and vineyard landscapes. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific restrictions within tasting rooms or private areas. :camerawithflash:

The complex features a striking modern hotel designed by Frank Gehry, known for its flowing titanium roof in vibrant colors. This avant-garde design contrasts beautifully with the historic winery buildings. :building_construction:

The exterior of the Frank Gehry hotel, the vineyard vistas, the historic winery entrance, and the tasting rooms offer excellent photo opportunities. The Plaza del Reloj is also a central point for capturing the scale of the complex. :photo_camera:

Drone usage is typically restricted at most tourist attractions due to privacy and safety regulations. It's advisable to check with the winery directly or look for signage regarding drone policies. :drone:

The titanium colors—pink, gold, and silver—are said to represent the colors of the wine: pink for rosé, gold for white, and silver for red. This is a signature design element by Frank Gehry. :art:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Marqués de Riscal complex includes dining options, most notably the Michelin-starred restaurant 'Marqués de Riscal' and a more casual bistro. Reservations are highly recommended. :restaurant:

The restaurants offer refined Basque and Spanish cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and, of course, pairing dishes with their own wines. :forkandknife:

Yes, you can typically book a table at the restaurants without taking a winery tour. However, experiencing the winery and then dining can enhance the overall visit. :wine_glass:

It's advisable to inform the restaurant of any dietary restrictions when making your reservation. High-end restaurants like those at Marqués de Riscal are usually accommodating. :leafy_green:

Dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant is a fine dining experience and will be on the higher end. The bistro offers a more moderately priced menu. Expect to pay premium prices for the quality and experience. :moneybag:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Marqués de Riscal is primarily an adult-focused wine destination, families can still find elements to enjoy. The striking architecture of the Frank Gehry hotel is visually captivating for all ages, and the expansive vineyards offer space for children to explore (under supervision). Some tours might be less engaging for very young children due to their length and focus on wine. Consider booking a shorter tour or focusing on the architectural aspects. :child:

Look for opportunities to enjoy the outdoor spaces and perhaps a picnic lunch if available. The hotel's amenities, like a pool, could also be a draw for families. It's advisable to check with the winery directly about the suitability of specific tours for children and any age restrictions. :familymanwomangirlboy:

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

For serious wine lovers, Marqués de Riscal offers a deep dive into one of Spain's most historic and respected wineries. Opt for tours that include more extensive wine tastings or premium selections to fully appreciate their Tempranillo-based reds. The guides are often well-versed in viticulture and oenology, providing detailed insights into the winemaking process and the terroir of Rioja Alavesa. :wine_glass:

Consider booking a tour that focuses on the older vintages or special reserve wines. The opportunity to taste wines from the historic cellars is a unique experience. Many visitors recommend engaging with the guides to learn about the specific characteristics of Marqués de Riscal's wines and their aging potential. :calendar:

🏛️ Architecture & Design Buffs

The Hotel Marqués de Riscal is the star attraction for architecture enthusiasts. Frank Gehry's bold design, with its flowing titanium curves, is a must-see. Focus on tours that highlight the architectural elements of the complex, including the hotel and its integration with the historic winery. :camerawithflash:

Take ample time to walk around the exterior of the hotel and explore the grounds. The contrast between Gehry's modern masterpiece and the traditional village of Elciego is striking. Many visitors find the hotel's design to be a significant part of their overall experience, even if they are not primarily interested in wine. :building_construction:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel: Frank Gehry's Vision

The Hotel Marqués de Riscal is an undeniable icon, a vibrant splash of color against the traditional Rioja landscape. Designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning architect Frank Gehry, it's a testament to modern design in a historic setting. The hotel's signature feature is its undulating roof, clad in titanium in shades of pink, gold, and silver, symbolizing the winery's wines. This bold architectural statement has transformed the perception of wine tourism, drawing visitors not just for the wine but for the sheer visual spectacle. Instagram+2

Gehry's design extends beyond aesthetics; it aims to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding vineyards and the historic Marqués de Riscal winery, founded in 1858. The contrast between the ancient stone cellars and the futuristic hotel creates a unique dialogue between past and present. Visitors often express awe at how the structure complements, rather than competes with, the natural beauty of the region. Instagram+1

This architectural marvel has earned international acclaim, making the Bodega Marqués de Riscal Elciego a destination for both wine enthusiasts and architecture aficionados. It's a place where art, design, and viticulture converge, offering an unforgettable experience that goes beyond a typical winery visit. Instagram+1

A Journey Through Wine History and Production

Beyond its modern facade, Marqués de Riscal boasts a rich history dating back to 1858, making it one of Rioja's pioneering wineries. The historic cellars, dating back to 1860, offer a tangible connection to the past. Walking through these ancient spaces, you can almost feel the centuries of winemaking tradition. Tours often guide visitors through the entire production process, from the vineyard to the bottling line, explaining the meticulous care that goes into each bottle. TikTokInstagram

Visitors frequently praise the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who bring the winery's story to life. They share anecdotes, explain the nuances of winemaking, and answer questions with enthusiasm, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The wine tasting that follows is a highlight, allowing guests to sample the fruits of this long-standing tradition and appreciate the quality of Marqués de Riscal's renowned wines. InstagramReddit

The winery is recognized globally, having been named one of the world's best vineyards. This recognition underscores its commitment to quality and its enduring legacy in the wine industry. Experiencing the blend of history, tradition, and innovation at Marqués de Riscal provides a comprehensive understanding of what makes Rioja wines so special. TikTokInstagram

The Elciego Experience: Beyond the Winery

The Bodega Marqués de Riscal Elciego is situated in the charming medieval village of Elciego, located in the heart of Rioja Alavesa. While the winery complex itself is a major attraction, the surrounding village offers a glimpse into traditional Basque life. The village's stone houses and historic church add to the picturesque setting. Instagram+1

For those looking to extend their stay, the Hotel Marqués de Riscal offers luxurious accommodation, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the 'Ciudad del Vino' (City of Wine). The hotel boasts amenities like a spa and fine dining, making it a destination in itself. Instagram+1

Travelers also note the convenience of the area for exploring other wineries in the Rioja Alavesa region. The proximity to other renowned bodegas means you can easily curate a multi-day wine tour, experiencing the diverse offerings of this celebrated wine-producing area. Reddit

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