Labastida brings together landscapes, wine and history in a compact area. To the north, the 1,271-metre-high Mount Toloño protects the municipality; to the south, the Ebro borders it. The river forms a natural boundary between the historic territory of Álava and the La Rioja region. These different landmarks make Labastida an interesting destination for travellers who want to include trails and historic sites as well as wineries in their plans. During your stay, you can focus on a visit, a walk or the history of the town.
Wineries between ancient caves and modern bodegas
In Labastida, you can visit and explore wineries, ranging from historic caves and old underground cellars to large, modern bodegas. Several wineries offer tours and tastings. You’ll need to contact them in advance and make a reservation; it’s best to arrange your visit directly with the winery concerned before making firm plans.
Rock-hewn wine presses are also part of the area’s wine heritage. The rock-hewn wine presses of Labastida were used between the 12th and 15th centuries in unenclosed areas. Another rock-hewn wine press is located on the Granja Nuestra Señora de Remelluri estate.
Two routes of different lengths
Two routes of clearly different lengths are available for a walk or hike: the route to Ermita San Ginés is 4.5 kilometres long, while the Ruta del Ebro is 8 kilometres long. Both start in the centre of Labastida, are well signposted and easy to walk. If you want to choose based on distance, the route to Ermita San Ginés is the shorter of the two. Still, check trail conditions and markers before setting out, as they may change.
Another walk takes you through Machimbrado, where you can discover stones carved into figures and symbols. This adds a cultural discovery to your choice of route: as well as distance, you can consider whether you’d rather spend your time on a hiking route or on a walk exploring carved stones.
A chapel, a town gate and wine-growing history
In the historic centre, the Santo Cristo Chapel combines Romanesque and Gothic features. The Toloño Arch once served as a gateway into Labastida. Both offer a tangible connection to the town’s history: the chapel brings together two architectural styles, while the arch recalls its former role as an entrance to Labastida. Casa de Manuel Quintano on Calle Mayor is associated with another part of the history of wine. In the 18th century, Manuel Quintano introduced winemaking techniques from Bordeaux to Spain.
The rock-hewn wine presses also offer a glimpse into the past: they were used between the 12th and 15th centuries in unenclosed areas. Almost a thousand necropolises from the 9th and 10th centuries can also be found in the area around Labastida. They are located on elevated rocks near watercourses.
A seasonal event in November
In mid-November, Labastida holds a harvest festival celebrating the end of the grape harvest. The exact date may vary; check the dates if you want to plan your trip around the event. For the rest of your planning, it’s a good idea to first decide whether you want to focus on winery visits, the two routes or the historic sites.
Discover more destinations: Salinillas De Buradon, Moreta, Legutio, Molinilla, Campezo / Kanpezu, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Elciego, Quejana.
See the broader travel overview: Alava.
