LA RIOJA

PROVINCES: Logroño

La Rioja is a region (autonomous community) in the north of Spain. It borders the Spanish regions of Basque Country to the northwest, Navarra to the northeast, Castilla y Leon to the southwest and Aragon to the east. It is best known for its production of Rioja wines.

It is the second smallest autonomous community in Spain and has the smallest population; half of its 174 municipalities have populations under 200. Nearly half of its citizens live in the capital of Logroño.

Navarra's culture has a strong Basque influence in the northwest. It's official language is Spanish but Basque is also an official language in the northwest. In the southern area of the region you will find almost no Basque speakers and little or no cultural influence.

La Rioja's climate is similar to a Mediterranean climate. The average temperature ranges from 11.8°C - 31.8°C (53°F - 88°F) and the precipitation ranges between 300 mm - 600 mm as an annual average. The "Cierzo" wind is frequent during the winter.