At the heart of the Rioja Alavesa the medieval walled town of Laguardia is a great base to discover the region. Cars are not permitted within the walls of the town as the whole town is undermined by cellars which give it’s finely preserved cobbled streets an even more medieval feel. Visit a bodega - perhaps El Fabulista within the walls - sample the local wines in one of the many bars or buy some to take home from the boutique style wine merchants. Be sure to visit the church of Santa Maria de los Reyes with is fine polychromatic portico but most of all just wander about and enjoy the feel of the place and the views it affords over the vineyards laid out below.