The charming village of La Rioja surrounded by mountains, three hours from Madrid, is perfect for rural tourism.
The arrival of summer and the holidays are the ideal time to plan getaways and explore the wonderful towns scattered throughout Spain. La Rioja has fascinating towns and villages, and one example of this is the town of Nájera. This municipality is located in the La Rioja Alta region and is considered the heart of the Camino de Santiago as it passes through the Autonomous Community. Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes of very special colors that are home to imposing architectural works, it is an ideal place that you should visit at least once in your life if you are passionate about rural tourism. And best of all, it is only three hours from Madrid by car.
Must-see destinations on a visit to Nájera
Crossed by the Najerilla River, the extraordinary town of Nájera dates back to the Bronze Age. Its origins as a town in its own right began in the Middle Ages, and Romans, Celtiberians, and Muslims passed through its territory. Its great architectural gems date from that period, representing the town's historical importance.
The building that most attracts visitors is the Monastery of Santa María la Real. Built in the 11th century and declared a Site of Cultural Interest, it hides treasures such as its pantheons and cloisters that demonstrate Nájera's importance during the Middle Ages. You also can't miss the Convent of Santa Elena , one of the most beautiful monasteries in the entire region. But the religious heritage of this Riojan town goes much further; you can also find beautiful churches such as Santa Cruz, as well as numerous chapels.
In the town center and its surroundings, you can visit the remains of medieval buildings, such as the Castillo de la Mota , where Charles V and Philip II took refuge, and of which only a few stones remain today. The old Alcázar , which served both as a defensive bastion and as a residence, is in similar condition. Although both buildings are in ruins, they are a great reminder of Nájera's importance in the Middle Ages.
You can't miss crossing the San Juan de Ortega Bridge, built in the 12th century, to enter one of La Rioja's most spectacular towns, one of the country's major religious landmarks. It has even become known for its Easter festivities, among the most unique in the Autonomous Community.
The municipality of Nájera is located 337 kilometers from the city of Madrid and can be reached by three means of transportation: car, bus, and train. Each option varies in travel time. By car, it will take approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes, while by bus the journey takes 5 hours and 20 minutes , and by train, it will take 5 hours.
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