Hotel Santa María Briones

Northern Spain’s Rioja wine country may be less traveled than the country’s Mediterranean coast, but it’s not a second-class destination by any means. Especially not when it’s got hotels like the Hotel Santa María Briones. Set within the stone walls of a 16th-century manor house, this 16-room luxury boutique hotel makes a compelling case for the Rioja lifestyle: rich history, modern design, artfully prepared local cuisine, and some extraordinary wine.

Its small size and its village setting make for a distinctly tranquil escape. The rooms are full of rich color and natural textures, and can be opened to the sunlight and to views of the river, the vineyards, or the village. Modern furniture contrasts with period features like heavy timbers and stone walls, and the comforts, though subtle, are high-end and ultra-modern.

Allegar, the restaurant and wine bar, begins with the classic flavors of the Rioja region and, under the direction of chef Juan Cuesta, elevates them to the level of modern gastronomy. The hotel’s cellar, naturally, is full of bottles from local producers, and within walking distance is the Vivanco Wine Museum, which tells the definitive story of Rioja production.