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The only land-locked province of the Basque Country and separated from Gipuzcoa and Vizcaya by the Cordillera Cantabrica mountain range, Àlava's capital city, Vitoria, is actually the capital of the whole region and as such holds a special importance within the Basque Country. However, when it comes to recommending one spot to visit in Alava, it has to be Laguardia.
Geographically the province offers two types of landscape. The land to the north contains a multitude of mountains and valleys, the sides of which are covered with some of the finest examples of natural forest remaining in Spain. Further south, on the Ebro flood plain, mile upon mile of vineyards provide grapes for the Rioja Alavesa wines.
In a recent survey, Vitoria was found to be one of the three cities in Spain with the best quality of life and a visit is a most pleasant experience. Despite its modern industrial outlook, the city has retained an extensive old part and a stroll around its narrow streets will evoke an atmosphere of contrasts, typified by the adjacent squares, the Plaza de la Virgen and the Plaza de España. The first is medieval in design, the second, built in the 18th century is neoclassical. However, the 14th century cathedral of Santa Marìa and the numerous churches, palaces and towers will evoke a feeling of days gone by. Vitoria is supposed to be more laid back than other parts of the Basque Country, but the nights are lively, especially in the old town, and the typical food of the region delicious, especially when washed down with the local wine.
Apart from Vitoria, other towns worth noting are Salvatierra, with excellent views from its old quarter, Araía on the Camino de Santiago, and Mendoza, with a castle-like house containing the Museo de Heraldica. The Condado de Treviño, although inside Alava, doesn't belong to Alava but rather Burgos. A strange quirk, an explanation for which can be found elsewhere!
Further south, especially for those interested in wine and wine villages Laguardia is a must. One of our favourite spots in Spain, this honey coloured village, with the backdrop of the Cantabrian mountains and breathtaking views across endless vineyards, is a pure delight. Let us recommend a place to stay, revel in the setting and enjoy its best home-grown produce, red wine. |
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