Amidst the rolling Spanish countryside, Gehry’s design appears almost alien – an audacious contrast to its rural surroundings. The Canadian American, hailed by some as “the most important architect of our age,” gained prominence in the 1970s for his deconstructivist style. His approach, which embraces fluidity and the unconventional, has reshaped modern architecture. Spain is no stranger to Gehry’s genius; Bilbao is home to his most famous work, the Guggenheim Museum, a groundbreaking building that influenced the techniques used for the Marqués de Riscal. 

Described by Gehry himself as “a marvellous creature, with hair flying everywhere,” the hotel features sweeping brushes of curving titanium ribbons which rise from the natural sandstone base. The pink, gold and silver-hued canopies transform throughout the day, blending with the horizon to reflect the ever-changing skies. Inside, the atmosphere shifts from bold avant-garde to refined elegance. Natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows floods the interiors while a colour palette of natural blonde woods, wine reds, and black marble pays homage to the region. 

The hotel’s SPA Vinothérapie Caudalie provides a serene escape where guests can indulge in signature vinotherapy treatments – a rejuvenating process that utilises the byproducts of winemaking for exfoliation and skin treatments. 

Experience the region at one of the two restaurants, both helmed by celebrated chef Francis Paniego. The 1860 Tradición Restaurant offers a casually chic atmosphere, with views over Elciego’s historic Church of San Andrés. Here, traditional Riojan cuisine is exalted, and the walls are adorned with Gehry’s original sketches for the hotel. For an elevated experience, the Michelin-starred Marqués de Riscal Restaurant offers two sublime tasting menus. The space balances intimacy and grandeur, offering a setting as refined as the cuisine itself.

Beyond the hotel’s luxury ambience, guests can immerse themselves in Rioja’s rich winemaking heritage. The Marqués de Riscal winery, with its deep-rooted history, offers tastings and vineyard tours, while the surrounding Cantabrian Mountains provide scenic hiking and jogging trails. 

Book a room at the Hotel Marqués de Riscal and enjoy VIP benefits such as room upgrades and more at no extra cost with ASMALLWORLD Collection.