Photo by Anna B

Hotels in Ciruena

Free cancellation options if plans change

Unlock travel rewards with One Key

Save more with Member Prices

Check prices for these dates

Tonight
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Tomorrow
Sep 3 - Sep 4
This weekend
Sep 4 - Sep 6
Next weekend
Sep 11 - Sep 13

Where to stay in Ciruena?

Properties are selected based on real traveler reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Ciruena on Hotels.com. These Ciruena hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveler experience. Last updated on .

Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada

Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Santo Domingo de la Calzada
$109 nightly
$120 total
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Total with taxes and fees
Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada

Hotel Boutique Real Casona de las Amas

Hotel Boutique Real Casona de las Amas
Azofra
$121 nightly
$133 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Boutique Real Casona de las Amas

Palacio de Casafuerte

Palacio de Casafuerte
Zarraton
$128 nightly
$140 total
Sep 6 - Sep 7
Total with taxes and fees
Palacio de Casafuerte

Hostal Boutique El Molino de Floren

Hostal Boutique El Molino de Floren
Santo Domingo de la Calzada
$85 nightly
$93 total
Sep 3 - Sep 4
Total with taxes and fees
Hostal Boutique El Molino de Floren

TORRE FUERTE S.XIII

TORRE FUERTE S.XIII
Baños de Rioja
$121 nightly
$133 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
TORRE FUERTE S.XIII

La Posada de San Millan

La Posada de San Millan
San Millan de la Cogolla
$53 nightly
$58 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
La Posada de San Millan

Hotel Palacio Azcárate

Hotel Palacio Azcárate
Ezcaray
$94 nightly
$104 total
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Palacio Azcárate

Zabala Martinez AT La Piedra

Zabala Martinez AT La Piedra
Nájera
$113 nightly
$113 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
Zabala Martinez AT La Piedra

Hostal Ciudad de Nájera

Hostal Ciudad de Nájera
Najera
$63 nightly
$69 total
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Total with taxes and fees
Hostal Ciudad de Nájera

Natura Resorts

Natura Resorts
Casalarreina
$95 nightly
$104 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
Natura Resorts

Parador de Santo Domingo Bernardo de Fresneda

Parador de Santo Domingo Bernardo de Fresneda
Santo Domingo de la Calzada
$90 nightly
$99 total
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Total with taxes and fees
Parador de Santo Domingo Bernardo de Fresneda

Hostal Rural La Calera

Hostal Rural La Calera
San Millan de la Cogolla
$66 nightly
$72 total
Sep 16 - Sep 17
Total with taxes and fees
Hostal Rural La Calera

Hospedería Señorío de Casalarreina

Hospedería Señorío de Casalarreina
Casalarreina
$104 nightly
$114 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Total with taxes and fees
Hospedería Señorío de Casalarreina

Entrerailes

Entrerailes
Casalarreina
$85 nightly
$93 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
Entrerailes

Wine Bubble

Wine Bubble
Cuzcurrita de Rio Tirón
$278 nightly
$306 total
Sep 6 - Sep 7
Total with taxes and fees
Wine Bubble

Santa María Briones

Santa María Briones
Briones
$271 nightly
$299 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
Santa María Briones

Teatrisso Hotel Palacio

Teatrisso Hotel Palacio
Cuzcurrita de Rio Tiron
$117 nightly
$128 total
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Total with taxes and fees
Teatrisso Hotel Palacio

DWO Rioja Wine Hotel

DWO Rioja Wine Hotel
Cenicero
$65 nightly
$71 total
Sep 3 - Sep 4
Total with taxes and fees
DWO Rioja Wine Hotel

Hotel ETH Rioja

Hotel ETH Rioja
Haro
$68 nightly
$75 total
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel ETH Rioja

Villas Finca La Emperatriz

Villas Finca La Emperatriz
Baños de Rioja
$293 nightly
$322 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
Villas Finca La Emperatriz
View all properties

Top landmarks in Ciruena

Rioja Alta Golf Club

8.0/10 (2 reviews)
You might want to practice your swing at Rioja Alta Golf Club, a golf course located 0.9 mi (1.5 km) from central Ciruena.
See properties

Learn more about Ciruena

The region around Ciruena is home to attractions such as Rioja Alta Golf Club and Rioja Natura Zoo.

See all hotels in Ciruena
A dirt path through rolling hills with fields of red poppies.
Photo by Anna B

Check out reviews of Ciruena hotels guests love

Hotel Palacio de los Angeles

Hotel Palacio de los Angeles

10/10 Excellent
"Unbelievable hotel! Highly recommended!"
Dewald 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Hotel Palacio de los Angeles
Silken Villa de Laguardia

Silken Villa de Laguardia

8/10 Good
"It was a nice hotel and good value except the charge for the dog was EUR 60 for 3 nights which seemed quite a bit. We were in a dog room which was ok but no view but think the normal rooms are nicer and have views. The receptionist was really nice."
Susan 3-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Silken Villa de Laguardia
Palacio Tondon, Autograph Collection

Palacio Tondon, Autograph Collection

10/10 Excellent
"N/A"
Brian 2-night trip
Posted 12 days ago
Palacio Tondon, Autograph Collection
Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada

Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada

10/10 Excellent
"An beautiful building and location, superb restaurant, and truly friendly and helpful staff. Highly recommended."
Pablo 1-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Hospedería de los Parajes

Hospedería de los Parajes

10/10 Excellent
"Everything excellent"
David 2-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Hospedería de los Parajes
Limehome Haro Calle de la Vega

Limehome Haro Calle de la Vega

10/10 Excellent
"Clean and comfortable. Great location near many restaurants"
Carol Ann 1-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Limehome Haro Calle de la Vega
Eurostars Los Agustinos

Eurostars Los Agustinos

10/10 Excellent
"Gorgeous building however restaurant/bar staff were never around and we had to go elsewhere for aperitifs"
Kelly 2-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Eurostars Los Agustinos
Hotel Marqués de Riscal, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Elciego

Hotel Marqués de Riscal, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Elciego

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing hotel with a beautiful combination of modern architecture and historic winery and attentive staff!"
Michael 1-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Hotel Marqués de Riscal, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Elciego
Hotel Convento Miranda

Hotel Convento Miranda

10/10 Excellent
"Charming and beautiful! One-of-a-kind! Good location, beautifully restored old convent however I would like to see some modern updates with room decoration and A/C , which was much needed in summer."
ELIZA 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Hotel Convento Miranda

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Ciruena?
You can choose a great hotel in Ciruena from $58 with properties to suit all budgets and needs. If you're after an affordable hotel in Ciruena that meets all of your requirements, set your filters and then sort the results by "Price: low to high".
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Ciruena hotels?
Discover great deals on Ciruena hotel stays with Hotels.com. Take a look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as to find those off-peak deals. And make sure to check out our last-minute deals on Ciruena hotels.
Can I book Ciruena hotels with free cancellation?
To book a refundable Ciruena hotel on Hotels.com, just filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". Most hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are some popular hotels in central Ciruena?
For hotels in central Ciruena, check out Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada and La Posada de San Millan. Travelers love Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada for its location, as well as the 2 restaurants, bar/lounge and concierge services this hotel offers. La Posada de San Millan is another popular central bed & breakfast with a bar/lounge, a coffee shop/cafe and a terrace.
What accommodations do travelers like in Ciruena?
Can I book refundable hotels in Ciruena?
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to Ciruena, most properties offer refundable* rates you can book. You can see these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
What will the weather in Ciruena be like during my vacation?
August and July are typically the warmest months in Ciruena when the average temp is 65°F. January and February are the coldest months when the average temperature is 42°F. November and January are the months with the most rain.
Why should I book my Ciruena accommodation with Hotels.com?
There are lots of reasons to book your Ciruena trip with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels gives you flexibility, and with One Key™, our rewards program, you will be able to earn and use OneKeyCash™* on all eligible bookings such as hotels, car rentals, flights, vacation rentals and more on Hotels.com, Expedia and Vrbo.

Find out more about Ciruena

Ciruena: Where Nature's Embrace Meets Cultural Tapestry

Nestled in the heart of La Rioja, Ciruena is a charming village that offers a romantic retreat for travelers seeking tranquility and beauty. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and breathtaking landscapes, this hidden gem invites you to explore its picturesque streets and indulge in wine tasting at nearby wineries. Enjoy luxurious accommodations and cozy vacation rentals that provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation. With its rich history and stunning natural scenery, Ciruena is an off-the-beaten-path destination that promises unforgettable experiences, making it an ideal spot for couples and nature lovers alike.

Ciruena: Where Nature's Serenity Meets Cultural Wonders

Nestled in the heart of La Rioja, Ciruena is a charming village that promises a romantic retreat away from the bustling tourist trails. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and rolling hills, this hidden gem offers visitors the chance to indulge in luxurious accommodations and cozy vacation rentals. Key attractions include the stunning golf course and the nearby historic town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada, famous for its beautiful architecture and rich history. With its serene landscapes, enchanting ambiance, and delicious local wines, Ciruena invites couples and travelers alike to savor the tranquil essence of rural Spain.

Discover great hotels near Ciruena

Ciruena offers a range of hotel accommodations, from cozy inns to modern hotels, catering to various budgets. Guests can enjoy scenic views, comfortable rooms, and local dining options. Room rates are generally reasonable, making it an appealing destination for travelers seeking a relaxing getaway in La Rioja. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Ciruena:

  1. Room Concept HostelOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly hotel offers a cozy lodging experience with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Designed for travelers seeking comfort, Room Concept Hostel features well-appointed rooms that cater to a relaxed stay. The property includes amenities for pet owners, ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone. Its charm lies in providing a unique and budget-conscious option without compromising on quality, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a charming getaway.
  2. Parador de Santo Domingo de la CalzadaOpens in a new window: Experience the elegance of this 4.0-star hotel, which boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada is an eco-certified property that prioritizes sustainability while delivering high-quality comfort. Travelers will appreciate the stylish accommodations and attention to detail, alongside outstanding amenities that contribute to a luxurious experience. With a focus on creating memorable stays, this hotel is perfect for those who value both comfort and conscientious travel.
  3. Hostal La Catedral de Santo Domingo de la CalzadaOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly hostal presents a charming lodging choice with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. Hostal La Catedral de Santo Domingo de la Calzada is perfect for travelers who desire a pet-friendly atmosphere while enjoying a cozy ambiance. The property offers essential amenities and a laid-back vibe, ensuring guests feel right at home. It serves as a delightful option for those seeking a distinctive experience without breaking the bank, making it easy to enjoy the local surroundings.

Discover great hotels near Ciruena

Ciruena offers a range of hotel accommodations, from cozy inns to modern hotels, perfect for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Room rates vary, catering to different budgets. Enjoy easy access to local attractions and nature, making it a great base for exploring La Rioja. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Ciruena:

  1. Room Concept HostelOpens in a new window: This inviting budget-friendly hotel offers a cozy atmosphere with a remarkable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. As a pension-style lodging, it appeals to travelers seeking a pet-friendly experience. Enjoy the unique ambiance that allows pets on-site, creating a warm and welcoming environment. With a commitment to comfort and quality, this hotel is perfect for those who appreciate a home-like setting during their travels.
  2. Parador de Santo Domingo de la CalzadaOpens in a new window: A stunning 4.0-star hotel, Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This eco-certified property captivates leisure travelers with its luxurious amenities and distinctive experiences. Guests can indulge in high-end dining options and enjoy environmentally conscious practices that enhance their stay. The hotel’s architectural design creates a memorable atmosphere, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking elegance and sustainability.
  3. Hostal La Catedral de Santo Domingo de la CalzadaOpens in a new window: This charming budget-friendly hotel offers a delightful retreat with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. As a hostal-style lodging, it attracts travelers looking for a pet-friendly environment. The welcoming setting allows for pets on-site, adding to the overall comfort of your stay. With a focus on providing unique experiences, this hotel ensures a pleasant and memorable getaway for those seeking a cozy escape.

Where to stay near Ciruena

Some great areas to stay in while visiting Ciruena, La Rioja, Spain, are Haro, Santo Domingo de la Calzada, and Ezcaray. Haro is renowned for its wineries and scenic walks, Santo Domingo de la Calzada offers rich history and charming architecture, while Ezcaray is perfect for skiing and quaint village life. For first-time visitors, Haro is the best choice.

  1. HaroOpens in a new window: Haro is a delightful destination for wine lovers, renowned for its picturesque vineyards and charming wineries. Staying here puts you in the heart of La Rioja's wine region, where you can indulge in tastings and tours at some of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in Spain. The town also features beautiful architecture and a vibrant local market, making it a great spot for leisurely strolls. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the stunning Bodegas Muga and the historic Plaza de la Paz, which is perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere.
  2. Santo Domingo de la CalzadaOpens in a new window: This charming town is steeped in history and famous for its unique connection to the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Santo Domingo de la Calzada is a great choice for travelers looking to explore historical sites like the Cathedral and the iconic chicken miracle. The town also boasts lovely parks and a relaxed vibe, making it a lovely place to unwind after a day of exploring. Its convenient location allows for easy day trips to surrounding areas, enhancing your travel experience.
  3. EzcarayOpens in a new window: If you’re interested in outdoor activities, Ezcaray is the perfect retreat, especially for skiing enthusiasts in the winter months. Nestled in the beautiful mountains, this quaint town offers scenic hiking trails and a cozy atmosphere. It's also known for its artisan shops where you can find unique local crafts. The combination of natural beauty and local culture creates a special charm that makes Ezcaray a wonderful place to relax or enjoy adventurous activities in a serene setting.

Where to stay near Ciruena

Some great areas to stay in when visiting Ciruena, La Rioja, Spain, are Haro, Santo Domingo de la Calzada, and Ezcaray. Haro is renowned for its wineries and scenic walking trails, while Santo Domingo de la Calzada offers rich history and local charm. Ezcaray is perfect for skiing and quaint, small-town vibes. For first-time visitors, Haro is the best choice.

  1. HaroOpens in a new window: Known as the wine capital of La Rioja, Haro is a delightful town perfect for travelers looking to indulge in local culture and exquisite wines. The town is dotted with charming wineries, where you can enjoy tastings and tours that highlight the region's rich viticulture. Strolling through Haro's historic streets, you'll encounter beautiful architecture and vibrant plazas that invite relaxation and exploration. The annual Haro Wine Festival, celebrated in June, is a must-see for its lively atmosphere and unique traditions, making it a standout destination for wine enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.
  2. Santo Domingo de la CalzadaOpens in a new window: This historic town is a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, making it a great choice for travelers interested in pilgrimage culture. Santo Domingo de la Calzada boasts stunning medieval architecture, including its famous cathedral, where you can admire the fascinating story of the rooster and hen. The town’s rich history is complemented by beautiful parks and walking paths that provide a relaxing atmosphere for visitors. With its vibrant local markets and shops, you'll find plenty of opportunities to discover unique regional products and souvenirs.
  3. EzcarayOpens in a new window: Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de la Demanda, Ezcaray is a charming small town popular for its ski resorts and outdoor activities. During winter, the nearby ski slopes attract adventure lovers, while the summer months offer hiking and mountain biking opportunities amid stunning natural scenery. The town itself features a picturesque center with quaint shops and local artisans, making it a lovely spot to experience authentic Spanish culture. Ezcaray also hosts various cultural events, providing a lively backdrop for exploring local traditions.

Things to do in Ciruena

Ciruena is a charming getaway that offers a fantastic golfing experience amidst stunning landscapes. Beyond the greens, visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails, relaxing nature walks, and delightful local tours. With luxurious accommodations and cozy vacation rentals, it's an ideal spot for a refreshing retreat.

  • Plaza de la CruzOpens in a new window – Start your journey at Plaza de la Cruz, a charming square that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. Take in the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather and enjoy the fresh air. This piazza is an excellent spot to relax and soak up the surrounding beauty.
  • Museo del VinoOpens in a new window – Dive into the rich heritage of wine production at Museo del Vino. This informative museum showcases the history and artistry behind winemaking in La Rioja. Discover fascinating exhibits and perhaps even sample some local wines to appreciate the region's famous flavors.
  • Church of Santo Tomas ApostolOpens in a new window – Visit the Church of Santo Tomas Apostol, an architectural gem that reflects the area's spiritual heritage. Marvel at the stunning design and intricate details as you explore this sacred space. It's a peaceful retreat that invites reflection and admiration.
  • Plaza de la PazOpens in a new window – Next, head to Plaza de la Paz, another beautiful square where you can enjoy the lively ambiance. This inviting space often hosts local events, making it a great place to experience the community's spirit and interact with friendly locals.
  • San Millan Suso MonasteryOpens in a new window – Conclude your exploration with a visit to San Millan Suso Monastery. Nestled in a serene setting, this historic site offers a glimpse into the region's monastic life. Wander through its ancient halls and appreciate the tranquility that envelops this remarkable monastery.

Things to do in Ciruena

Ciruena is a hidden gem for travelers seeking relaxation and recreation. Enjoy world-class golfing against stunning landscapes, or explore scenic hiking trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty. With luxurious accommodations and cozy vacation rentals, this charming destination invites visitors to unwind and savor its tranquil atmosphere.

  • Plaza de la CruzOpens in a new window – Start your journey in Ciruena at Plaza de la Cruz, a charming square that serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, take a leisurely stroll, and perhaps grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafes while soaking in the scenery.
  • Museo del VinoOpens in a new window – Delve into the rich winemaking heritage of La Rioja at the Museo del Vino. This museum showcases the region's wine history, offering interactive exhibits and tastings that will enlighten your palate. It’s a delightful stop for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about local varieties.
  • Church of Santo Tomas ApostolOpens in a new window – Visit the Church of Santo Tomas Apostol, a beautiful example of local architecture. Step inside to admire its serene ambiance and stunning religious artworks, providing insight into the spiritual life of the community.
  • Plaza de la PazOpens in a new window – Take a moment to relax in Plaza de la Paz, another inviting square in Ciruena. This peaceful spot is perfect for pausing during your exploration, allowing you to watch the world go by and enjoy the local vibe.
  • San Millan Suso MonasteryOpens in a new window – Conclude your adventures with a trip to the San Millan Suso Monastery, a remarkable historical site. Nestled in picturesque surroundings, this monastery offers a glimpse into the region's monastic traditions and is a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a must-see for history aficionados.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Ciruena

  1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking for an affordable getaway, January, February, and December are the best months to visit Ciruena, as hotel prices may drop during this time. A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is perfect for taking in the town's rich history and culture, as well as its scenic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy budget-friendly options like golf and explore various cultural attractions, making it a great value for money experience. Whether you're wandering through historical sites or hitting the greens, Ciruena offers plenty to discover without breaking the bank.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore hotel options in Ciruena, consider checking out the DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about any flash sales or special promotions. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool within the app helps you compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re more likely to find our best options. With these resources, you can easily navigate accommodations and traveler reviews to enhance your booking experience.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a better deal for your stay at the Ciruena hotel. If you're in search of something unique, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we can suggest alternative dates that could lead to more affordable options.
  4. Consider your location: Staying closer to major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, you might want to look at hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, where you can find a better balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit. Independent hotels located a bit further out may also offer a more authentic experience and are usually more likely to be affordable.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Ciruena

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Ciruena is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. An ideal stay of at least 2 to 3 days allows you to explore the town's key landmarks and cultural attractions, including its historic sites and golf courses. For travelers on a budget, this timeframe offers great value for money, as prices may drop even further during these months, making it an excellent opportunity for affordable exploration.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: For travelers considering a trip to Ciruena, exploring the DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com may lead you to discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, enabling email alerts or push notifications could be beneficial. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, enhancing your booking experience. By keeping an eye on your favorite accommodations, you’re more likely to discover our best options for a memorable stay in Ciruena.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you find a better deal at the Ciruena hotel. If you're seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could lead to more affordable options.
  4. Consider your location: Staying near key attractions or city centers may be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, where prices usually tend to be cheaper while still offering good access to the places you want to visit. You might also want to look into independent hotels a bit further out, which can provide a more authentic experience at a more affordable rate.

Keep exploring