Self-guided River Ebro and La Rioja Bike Tour

Our adventure begins as we arrive in Santander or Bilbao, where we meet and transfer to our charming hotel in Campoo. This is our chance to settle in, soak up the atmosphere, and prepare for the incredible journey ahead. Before dinner, we test our bikes, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth ride in the days to come.

Later in the day, with stunning Cantabrian Mountains as our backdrop, we enjoy a delicious meal, getting a taste of the regional flavors that will fuel our journey.

Tonight, we rest well, ready for tomorrow’s first ride.

Today, we set off on our first full day of cycling, pedaling through the untouched beauty of the Cantabrian Mountains. The fresh mountain air fills our lungs as we ride past green pastures and rolling hills, following the shores of the shimmering Ebro Reservoir.

A highlight of the day is a stop at the Monastery of Montesclaros, nestled in the forest, where we take a moment to appreciate its peaceful atmosphere. From here, the route takes us deeper into the Valley of Valderredible, where the Ebro River guides our way to Polientes, our destination for the night.

For those wanting an extra challenge, a longer route circumnavigates the Ebro Reservoir, offering even more spectacular views. Whether we take the short or long version, tonight we celebrate our first full day on the road with a well-earned dinner at the hotel, reflecting on the incredible landscapes we've seen.

100% paved

Distance: 61.3km / Elevation: +573m/ -826m

This morning, we begin by cycling through the wide-open valley of Valderredible, where golden fields and rolling hills stretch in every direction. Our first stop is the remarkable Romanesque church of San Martín de Elines, a stunning example of medieval architecture.

As we continue, we discover one of the region’s hidden gems—rock-hewn churches, carved directly into the stone, a striking reminder of the area’s deep-rooted history. From here, the valley gradually narrows, leading us into an awe-inspiring canyon where towering cliffs rise dramatically on either side.

With eagles and vultures soaring above us, we press on to the enchanting village of Orbaneja del Castillo. Here, waterfalls cascade through the village streets, creating a truly magical setting. After a short break, we ride through the peaceful countryside, passing Pesquera de Ebro before reaching our hotel in the Valle de Zamanzas, where another delightful dinner awaits.

100% paved

Distance: 43.3km / 27mi

Elevation: +476m/-561m

Today's ride is a visual delight as we follow a sweeping bend of the Ebro River, weaving through some of the most picturesque and undiscovered villages in the region. The peaceful countryside provides the perfect setting for a relaxed morning ride.

For those who want to explore further, an optional extension takes us to Puentedey, an extraordinary village built atop a natural rock bridge over the River Nela. It's a sight unlike any other, offering incredible photo opportunities.

By afternoon, we roll into Medina de Pomar, a historic Castilian town with a fascinating past. We take time to explore its old Jewish quarter and visit the imposing castle, which dominates both the town and the surrounding landscape. As the sun sets, we enjoy another wonderful meal at the hotel, preparing for the next leg of our journey.

100% paved

Distance: 36.7km / 29mi

Elevation: +474m/ -519m

Leaving Medina de Pomar, we set off on a peaceful country road that winds gently through a scenic valley. The morning air is crisp, and the sound of birdsong accompanies us as we pedal through the quiet countryside.

The landscape gradually begins to shift, and soon we find ourselves approaching the magnificent Romanesque church of San Pedro de Tejada. This remarkable 12th-century structure stands as a testament to the region’s rich history. Its intricate carvings and sturdy stonework have stood the test of time, offering us a glimpse into Spain’s medieval past.

As we press on, the valley narrows, and the landscape transforms into a dramatic canyon, with towering rock walls rising steeply on either side. The sense of scale is awe-inspiring, and we can’t help but slow our pace to fully take in the breathtaking scenery. Birds of prey soar high above us, gliding effortlessly between the canyon walls.

Emerging from the canyon, the valley opens once again, and soon we arrive in the stunning medieval village of Frías. Its iconic castle, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, dominates the skyline. We take time to explore the village’s narrow streets and admire the sweeping views across the Ebro Valley.

This evening, we settle into our hotel in a nearby village, where we unwind over a hearty meal. It’s the perfect time to reflect on the day’s memorable ride and the beauty of the journey so far.

100% paved

Distance: 59.6km / 37mi

Elevation: +551m / -571m

Today's ride promises yet another day of stunning scenery and memorable moments. As we leave Frías, the valley begins to narrow once more, and soon we find ourselves cycling through a magnificent canyon. Towering rock faces rise on either side, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop for our ride. The road hugs the shores of a peaceful reservoir, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.

Adding to the sense of adventure, we pass through several short tunnels, expertly carved into the rock. The cool air inside the tunnels offers a refreshing break from the sun, and emerging back into the open reveals even more breathtaking views.

Before long, we arrive in Miranda del Ebro, a charming town where we pause for a well-deserved break. This is a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the local atmosphere before continuing our journey.

From here, the landscape changes as we pass through dramatic peaks that signal our arrival in La Rioja. By evening, we reach Haro, the heart of Rioja’s wine country. Here, we celebrate the day’s achievements with a well-earned glass of Rioja wine and perhaps some flavorful tapas, enjoying the warm hospitality this region is known for.

100% paved

Distance: 65.5km / 40 mi

Elevation: +576m/-676m

Our final cycling day is a truly memorable ride through the heart of La Rioja’s wine country. As we leave Haro, we find ourselves surrounded by an endless sea of vineyards, their neat rows stretching as far as the eye can see. The Sierra de Cantabria mountains rise proudly in the distance, creating a dramatic backdrop that accompanies us throughout the day. The quiet country roads wind gently through this peaceful landscape, leading us into charming villages where winemaking is a way of life.

Along the way, we pass rustic stone houses, traditional wine cellars, and locals tending to the vines — a reminder of the region's deep-rooted traditions. The air carries the faint scent of ripening grapes, and the scenery feels timeless.

By afternoon, we arrive in Laguardia, a beautifully preserved medieval walled village perched high above the valley. Its narrow cobbled streets, ancient churches, and hidden wine cellars offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. As we explore, the village’s rich history and warm charm make it the perfect place to celebrate the journey we’ve shared.

That evening, we gather for a final meal, raising a glass of Rioja wine to our incredible adventure — one filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable moments across northern Spain.

100% paved

Distance: 26.1km / 16mi

Elevation: +469m/-303m

After breakfast, we transfer to Santander or Bilbao, departing at 9 a.m. As we say our goodbyes, we carry with us incredible memories of an epic cycling journey, filled with history, adventure, and stunning natural beauty.

Until next time—¡hasta luego!