Bilbao

Just recently I visited Bilbao and the Rioja region with the OH. I was looking for a good Christmas present for him as he also has a big birthday coming up, and we will be so busy this year that I thought a treat in advance would be lovely.

I scoured sky scanner for cheap flights and scored us some flights to Bilbao. I knew we should visit the Guggenheim but from there I was stumped so I asked a couple of good friends who are in wine and travel. They are @sophie_mclean and @SarahFPRCo.

Sophie came up with a great plan, the Hotel Marques de Riscal (link: http://www.hotel-marquesderiscal.com/en) 

It's designed by the same architect as the Guggenheim and UTTERLY gorgeous.

Now this is not a place to visit if you are off alcohol, as it is the landmark hotel of a vineyard with a Michelin starred restaurant serving the most delicious Rioja. However, it has a fab spa and gym, and you can take out their bikes and cycle the vineyards and into the gorgeous town of Elciego.

I tried the slimming treatment which was a fabulous cleansing mud wrap, while the OH made full use of the high-spec gym and stunning pool.

It's a little bit pricey but such a great treat with excellent provisions like dedicated concierge service and wonderful food, drink, and surroundings.