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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 12 May, 2022
Expert travel writer: Dana Facaros

An important stop along the pilgrim’s route through Spain, the Camino de Santiago, La Calzada grew up as an aristocratic little town around its elegant 12th-century cathedral. The town is a treasure trove of Spanish art and architecture, with monasteries (one is now a parador or luxury hotel), Medieval and Renaissance churches and palaces, and – just outside town – the Rioja Botanical Gardens.

Don’t miss

The cathedral is home to two white chickens in a Gothic henhouse, recalling the miracle of the roast chickens that flew away.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Eurostars Los Agustinos

Haro, La Rioja, Spain[17.4 miles]

A medieval monastery in Haro, converted into an evocative hotel and restaurant; perfect for oenophiles nosing around La Rioja.

Official star rating:

Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Rioja Wine Region

La Rioja, Spain[19.2 miles]

World-class wine region offering a heady mix of great bodegas, gorgeous scenery and avant-garde architecture.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Monastery of Santa Maria la Real
Experience

Monastery of Santa Maria la Real

Najera, La Rioja, Spain[18.1 miles]

The fortress-like 15th-century Monastery of Santa Maria la Real was founded on the site of a miracle. It houses a lace-like Plateresque Cloister of the Knights, rare medieval royal tombs, and an exquisite Isabelline Gothic choir in the holy cave.

Best for ages: 18+ | £4

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Overview >