I am planning a trip to the Ribera del Duero in late September, 2011. I need advice/information re wineries (bodegas) to visit, accomodations, restaurants, etc. If possible, recommendations of travel agencies with great iteniraries for this region? How long would I need to really see the region? Thanks, Gladys.
We were in the Ribera del Duero in June and I would say 3 nights should cover it. Planning visits to wineries is a bit more difficult there. They often sound like they want visitors, but English language is a huge barrier since it is not commonly spoken at smaller places. If you speak Spanish, it may help. We had a couple bad experiences with appointments made, but when we arrived there was no one to give us a tour even though I was willing to try to do it in Spanish even though I am not fluent. Other than wine, the area only has a few sites of any interest. It might be best to go through a travel agent or tour group, since they could give you a well arranged experience.