.Ezcaray is a town of 2,000 inhabitants that multiplies its population during the ski season and summer months. Located at the foot of the Sierra de la Demanda and close to the Valdezcaray ski resort, its surroundings are ideal for practicing mountain sports. So many offers and so many visitors mean that its streets are always busy and there are countless bars and restaurants. The old town, although small, has numerous picturesque houses, mansions, palaces and what was once the construction of a large royal factory where excellent quality fabrics were made.
Since the Middle Ages, Ezcaray has been a town with a tradition in the production of handicrafts and wool products coveted throughout the region. The Bourbons, who wanted to modernize the country, took advantage of this industry by creating, in 1752, the Royal Factory, which gave work and prosperity to the city. With the Wars of Independence and the Carlist Wars came its decline and definitive closure in 1845. Today the textile tradition continues with small workshops dedicated, above all, to the artisanal manufacture of blankets, scarves, shawls, etc. The factory is now the town hall, the municipal theater and a hostel.
Practical advices
- Ezcaray is the starting point for all those who enter the Sierra de la Demanda. The city grew with numerous hotels and apartments, but it preserves a historic center with old mansions and squares full of bars, restaurants and entertainment.
- Next to the river there is a large green leisure area, where you can bathe and sunbathe calmly lying on a towel. Enjoy the months of May, June or July. In the summer the river does not carry enough water and ends up drying up.
- A very pleasant walk will take you to the hermitage of the Virgen de Allende. You can also continue to the pillory. You have two routes available as you can see on the map.
- Oja River Greenway: On the old train track that linked Haro to Ezcaray, there is now a 28 km wide promenade, with uniform slopes and beautiful landscapes, perfect for cycling.
- The only restaurant with two Michelin stars in La Rioja is the Echaurren restaurant.
What to visit in Ezcaray
El Fuero de Ezcaray
In the Middle Ages, King Ferdinand IV granted the charter to the inhabitants of Ezcaray on April 24, 1312, which meant important privileges and reduced taxes. In order to promote repopulation, all criminals who could reach Ezcaray and take the ring located in Plaza de la Verdura had the right of refuge and not be tried for their crimes. Many stayed to live in this hospitable village. Enjoy this unique historic building. Definitely worth the visit.
Valdezcaray Ski Resort
Valdezcaray is a popular ski resort on the north face of San Lorenzo peak, the highest in La Rioja at 2,271 m. It has 22 skiable km and slopes for all ages and experience levels. The resort is without a doubt the most important attraction in the city. There is a lot of hotels nearby and road access is good. It is very suitable for family holidays. Check the resort conditions and live webcams before your visit.
Plaza del Quiosco
Plaza del Quiosco is the busiest square in the city. It is surrounded by typical houses with arcades and wooden balconies. Here you can enjoy the picturesque architecture of the city and try one of the numerous restaurants. It’s worth the visit to get a feel for the atmosphere and city life.
Church of Santa Maria la Mayor
The main church of Ezcaray an it has beautiful architectural details and high-value sacred art inside. It is a church-fortress of Romanesque origin (12th century) rebuilt between the 14th and 16th centuries in Gothic style. It is build of reddish Cárdena masonry, typical of the Sierra de la Demanda in La Rioja and Burgos. The building has a single nave with four sections and side chapels with a transept and a polygonal head reinforced by towers. The church is one of the major monuments of the city.
