Ábalos Sleeps

During this visit to Spain, I wasn’t able to do as much creative photography as I would have liked. With all the great people, food, wine, and sights to see, I was more distracted than usual. I still managed to capture a few images that were more artistic. Here’s one taken at night in the little town of Ábalos, La Rioja, where I’ve had the pleasure to stay on many evenings.

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Was nearly a full moon that evening and this town had gone to sleep. Not even a stray cat in sight. More about Spain on the way.

Published in: on September 25, 2017 at 2:18 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Hospederia del Vino, Ábalos, Spain

During a recent visit to the La Rioja region of Spain, I had the pleasure of staying at the Hospederia del Vino. Located at the very edge of the hamlet of Ábalos, this is an active winery with a comfortable guest house, complete with pool and hot tub.

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The main building seen above features several guest room and the various places for dining and meeting. Here’s a look at the pool, which is indoors.

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Plenty of room in the water for you and all your friends. The Hospederia is operated by the Puelles family, and Jesús is passionate about his wine and country, so definitely opt for the wine tour and tasting. Here’s a look at the room:

DSC_2454.JPGEverything here for a comfortable stay, including a well appointed bathroom that can be seen in the next photo:

DSC_2455There is plenty of parking, a great breakfast, and all the tranquility you need for a great sleep. More about Spain soon!

Published in: on September 19, 2017 at 12:08 pm  Comments (2)  
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Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain (2014)

Hotel Villa de Ábalos has been among my favorite places to stay in Spain. It is located in the center of a small village with tiny streets and an almost medieval atmosphere.

Facade of Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

Facade of Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

However, the hotel is decidedly modern within its historic shell. You’ll have all the modern conveniences in every room. Here’s a look:

Room 12 at Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

Room 12 at Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

The bathroom features everything you need to be comfortable:

Bathroom of Room 12, Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

Bathroom of Room 12, Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

You’ll also find inviting common areas where you can gather with fellow travelers to relax and share stories from the journey:

Second floor common area at Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

Second floor common area at Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

And another similar space on the ground floor:

Salon at Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

Salon at Hotel Villa de Ábalos, Spain.

I stayed at this hotel four years ago, and it was a pleasure to return. They added a small bar in the reception area where you can enjoy a glass of wine and various tapas. Locals from the town stop by and it was fun to chat with them, learning a bit about life in the Rioja area. The owner of this hotel makes his own wine, which is not yet available in the United States. While there, you definitely want to try it because it is among the best I’ve had in Spain. I’ll post more about that and the meals at Villa de Ábalos soon. Check back frequently so you don’t miss anything.

Published in: on June 25, 2014 at 10:24 am  Leave a Comment  
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