en
- Boutique
- 12-day trip
- From €8,165 p.p.
Spain trip | Culinary tour northern Spain
This journey through the Basque Country begins in Bilbao, where you will take a fascinating tour of the iconic Guggenheim Museum and enjoy delicious pintxos in the city. You will then travel to San Sebastián, where you will discover the charming old town and beautiful La Concha beach. The journey then continues to Pamplona, famous for its historic city walls and the tradition of the Bull Run. In the Rioja wine region, you will visit prestigious wineries, including a stay at the famous Hotel Marqués de Riscal, and taste the region's best wines. The trip ends in picturesque Onati, where you can enjoy the peaceful countryside and authentic Basque culture.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Welcome to Bilbao!
- Day 2 City tour & Guggenheim Museum
- Day 3 Free day in Bilbao and lunch at Asador Etxebarri
- Day 4 Along the Basque coast to culinary San Sebastián
- Day 5 City walk through San Sebastián
- Day 6 Drive to Pamplona and city tour
- Day 7 Staying amongst the vineyards in Rioja
- Day 8 - 9 Wine tour with winery visits, wine tastings and lunch
- Day 10 – 11 Tranquillity and charm in the heart of the Basque Country
- Day 12 Departure from Spain
Welcome to Bilbao!
You start your tour in this former industrial city. Although it may have been different in the past, Bilbao is increasingly on the rise these days and can rightly be called an atmospheric and vibrant city. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be picked up by a private transfer that will take you to your hotel overlooking the world-famous Guggenheim Museum.
Staying at The Artist for the next few nights, The Artist - Grand Hotel of Art is a masterpiece that uniquely brings together art, luxury and creativity. It offers an impressive experience where the sophistication of the hotel concept blends harmoniously with the adventure of artistic expression.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Exclusief:
- International flight
City tour & Guggenheim Museum
By city tour, you will explore Bilbao with a local guide. You will start the tour in Getxo at the historic Bizkaia Bridge, where you will enjoy stunning views over the bay. You will then walk along the promenade of Las Arenas, known for its beautiful mansions from the early 20th century. You will explore Bilbao's old quarter, the Siete Calles, and discover icons such as St James' Cathedral, Plaza Nueva, the Church of San Antón and the Mercado de la Ribera, the largest covered market in Europe. Finish your tour with a visit to the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, with works by famous artists such as David Salle, Chillida, Jeff Koons and Louise Bourgeois.
Inclusief:
- Private city tour in Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Free day in Bilbao and lunch at Asador Etxebarri
Today you will have a free morning to explore the city some more. Lunch you will have today at a special place, at No. 2 restaurant in the world, namely Asador Etxebarri! Lovers of fine dining come to this temple of cuisine to discover the secrets of grilling 'designed' by the owner-chef, Bittor Arginzoniz, the life and soul of this restaurant, who invested everything in his dream here.His specific vision for life and work resulted in restoring this 18th-century country house in his native village, Axpe-Atxondo, at the foot of Mount Anboto. His unique cuisine focuses on top-quality grilled dishes using different types of wood (holm oaks, vines, oak from old barrels, etc.), utensils he invented himself and an unusual system of pulleys that allows him to control the cooking process.
Inclusief:
- Table reservation: Asador Etxebarri incl. transfer
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Along the Basque coast to culinary San Sebastián
Pick up your rental car in the morning and drive at your leisure along the beautiful Basque coast towards San Sebastián. Along the way, you will have plenty of time to stop at some true gems. Take a walk to the spectacular San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the famous island with the winding staircase that leads to a lonely chapel on top of a rock. A magical place with unrivalled sea views. Drive on to Zumaia, known for its impressive rock formations and the 'flysch' coast, where millions of years of geological history are visible in the cliffs. Also be sure to take time for a break in Getaria, an atmospheric fishing village with narrow streets, cosy squares and a tradition of fresh fish and Txakoli wine.
In the afternoon, you will arrive in San Sebastián, beautifully located on the bay of La Concha. This elegant city is not considered the culinary capital of Spain for nothing. Here it's all about taste, hospitality and gastronomic craftsmanship. Here you will attend a cooking workshop guided by a local chef. You will learn to prepare traditional Basque dishes using fresh local produce, and finish with a convivial lunch and matching wines.
Inclusief:
- Pick up rental car
- Private excursion: cooking workshop with an expert chef
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Exclusief:
- Transfer to car rental
City tour of San Sebastian
Meet your private guide and enjoy a half-day tour of San Sebastián, exploring the old Casino, La Concha beach, the Victoria Eugenia Theatre and other highlights. San Sebastián lies along a bay of white sand between hills surrounded by beautiful green countryside. The picturesque old town is located between the sea and the river Urumea, the marina and the fishing quarter. Discover how tradition and modernity go hand in hand in this coastal city, with Belle Époque influences, international film and jazz festivals and a first-class cultural programme.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Private excursion: city tour of San Sebastian
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Ride to Pamplona and city tour
Pamplona offers a beautiful contrast between the modern city with many gardens and wide avenues, and the medieval walled city with narrow streets, squares and ancient monuments. This, unlike other cities, is done beautifully by combining tradition and modernity in the same areas. You can appreciate this well from the city walls, rebuilt in the 16th and 18th centuries, which have an impressive length and partly run parallel to the river Arga, while embracing the city. On the outskirts, you will pass the most beautiful and modern gardens, wide avenues and the city's oldest monuments, all in remarkable harmony. Your guide will lead you past the main sights and be available for all your questions.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Private excursion: Pamplona city tour
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Staying among the vines in Rioja
Driving from Pamplona to the Rioja wine region towards Marqués de Riscal, you will pass through the beautiful countryside of Navarre, with rolling hills and vineyards accompanying you on the way to the iconic Hotel Marqués de Riscal. Along the way, you will discover the charming countryside as you prepare to stay in an architectural masterpiece surrounded by the region's finest wines.
Stay the next few nights in a beautiful winery/hotel, Hotel Marqués de Riscal is a stunning modernist hotel designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, set amidst the vineyards of the Rioja region. It combines luxury and innovation, with unique design and a first-class gastronomic experience, perfect for wine lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Wine tour with winery visits, wine tastings and lunch
Your private driver awaits you in the lobby of your hotel to take you to a wine region like no other in Spain. You will explore this unique and privileged region, with its monumental medieval villages and 12,000 hectares of vineyards producing some of the best wines in the world. You will discover the extensive wine culture, learn about the winemaking process, admire the landscape and even taste the specialities of La Rioja. During this day, you will enjoy two wine tours at different wineries.
Visit one of the renowned and historic wineries in the Station Wine Area of Haro, a unique place with more than 150 years of history. Discover the past and present of Rioja wine production, the serenity of the ageing rooms and taste the best wines. Experience the essence of Rioja with a second visit to a boutique winery, belonging to a wine family that has spent generations trying to combine historical elements with a modern wine project. Enjoy lunch at a fine local restaurant with a three-course menu.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Excursion: Wine tour with 2 winery visits, wine tastings and lunch
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Peace and charm in the heart of the Basque Country
End your trip in the Basque Country countryside The Onati region, located in the heart of the Basque mountains, offers a picturesque landscape of green hills and charming villages. Here you can enjoy both nature and culture, with historic buildings and hiking trails that let you experience the authentic Basque Country.
To end your trip in style, have a reservation at the top restaurant Txispa, awarded a Michelin star. Here you will enjoy refined cuisine known for its innovative interpretation of traditional Basque flavours, prepared with seasonal, local ingredients.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Table reservation: At Txispa
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Accommodations
The Artist - Grand Hotel of Art
Gran Hotel Domine is located in Bilbao's distinctive art district, right next to the world-famous Guggenheim Museum. The luxurious accommodation comprises rooms and suites, each equipped with a private bathroom, a hairdryer, tea-making facilities and an LED TV. You can dine in the restaurant and enjoy the view from...
Gran Hotel Domine is located in Bilbao's distinctive art district, right next to the world-famous Guggenheim Museum. The luxurious accommodation comprises rooms and suites, each equipped with a private bathroom, a hairdryer, tea-making facilities and an LED TV. You can dine in the restaurant and enjoy the views from the hotel's rooftop terrace.
Your stay: 3 nights
Villa Favorita
Villa Favorita is a boutique hotel in San Sebastián, opposite La Concha Bay. The accommodation consists of spacious guest rooms and suites, each equipped with Wi-Fi, a TV, minibar, coffee maker and in-room safe. Guests can dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant on site. Extra...
Villa Favorita is a boutique hotel in San Sebastián, opposite La Concha Bay. The accommodation consists of spacious guest rooms and suites, each equipped with Wi-Fi, a TV, minibar, coffee maker and in-room safe. Guests can dine in the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant. Additional amenities include a bar and a terrace.
Your stay: 2 nights
Pamplona Catedral Hotel
Housed in a 19th-century transformed monastery in the heart of Pamplona, the Pamplona Catedral Hotel is an excellent accommodation for holidaymakers and business travellers alike. The en suite guest rooms are equipped with central heating/cooling, work areas, Wi-Fi, TVs and minibars, and the...
Housed in a 19th-century transformed monastery in the heart of Pamplona, the Pamplona Catedral Hotel is an excellent accommodation for holidaymakers and business travellers alike. The en suite guest rooms are equipped with central heating/cooling, work areas, Wi-Fi, TVs and minibars, and the suites have a seating area. The hotel features a restaurant and bar. The surrounding area offers attractions and activities such as a visit to Pamplona Cathedral, the Unav Museum and the Oteiza Museum.
Your stay: 1 night
Hotel Marqués de Riscal
Since its unveiling in 2006, this masterpiece, created by Frank Gehry to house the Hotel Marqués de Riscal, has become a highly sought-after contemporary luxury retreat. Design, art, gastronomy, wine and the lush landscape combine to create an unforgettable stay in the Rioja region.The luxurious...
Since its unveiling in 2006, this masterpiece, created by Frank Gehry to house the Hotel Marqués de Riscal, has become a highly sought-after contemporary luxury retreat. Design, art, gastronomy, wine and the lush landscape combine to create an unforgettable stay in the Rioja region. The hotel's luxurious interior bears the unmistakable stamp of Gehry's design. Tilting walls, zigzag windows, cathedral-high ceilings are just some of the special features of the 43 rooms and suites. Fully equipped with every detail of comfort and luxury, the rooms and suites are decorated in a warm and contemporary style. Available facilities of the accommodation include a restaurant, a spa, and a fitness room.
Your stay: 3 nights
EtxeAundi Hotel Boutique
EtxeAundi Hotel Boutique, located in the picturesque town of Oñati in Gipuzkoa, Spain, is a beautifully restored 13th-century building. The hotel offers 21 elegantly designed rooms equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, TVs and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy facilities such as a...
EtxeAundi Hotel Boutique, located in the picturesque town of Oñati in Gipuzkoa, Spain, is a beautifully restored 13th-century building. The hotel offers 21 elegantly designed rooms equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, TVs and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy facilities such as a restaurant, a bar and parking. Available activities include hiking and golf.
Your stay: 2 nights
Experiences
Asador Etxebarri
Located in a peaceful Basque village surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, somewhere between Bilbao and San Sebastian, Asador Etxebarri is the epitome of a restaurant you travel to especially. Lovers of fine dining come from all over the world to enjoy chef Bittor Arguinzoniz's culinary masterpieces,...
Located in a peaceful Basque village surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, somewhere between Bilbao and San Sebastian, Asador Etxebarri is the epitome of a restaurant you travel to especially. Food lovers come from all over the world to experience chef Bittor Arguinzoniz's culinary masterpieces. Using a little fire, he transforms simple ingredients like milk and beef into extraordinary and unforgettable dishes.
His unique cuisine focuses on top-quality grilled dishes using different types of wood (holm oaks, vines, oak from old barrels, etc.), utensils he invented himself and an unusual system of pulleys that allows him to control the cooking process.
* Children from 12 years are welcome.
Destinations
Spain
Spain usually conjures up images of matadors, sangria, flamenco dancers and paella. While Spain offers all these traditional facets in abundance, its real appeal is found in its passionate, laid-back people and unbeatable natural beauty. Even along well-preserved tourist routes, there are authentic Spanish experiences to be found, traditional local dishes to sample and idyllic villages of timeless charm to discover. Like the country's famous tapas, Spain itself is a wonderful mix of thriving cities, festivals, panoramic views and breathtaking beaches, making it a beautiful and enchanting country.
Bilbao
In Bilbao, you will find creativity on every street corner with exceptional architecture - both old and new, stunning art museums, sublime cuisine and a thriving local music scene. The glittering Guggenheim Museum, a futuristic masterpiece of titanium-clad curves rising proudly above the Nervion River, is undoubtedly the city's most famous icon. Its construction in 1997 triggered a wave of urban transformation and today the city boasts a series of inspired modern buildings, as well as several historical gems, such as the neoclassical theatre. If you want to take a break from exploring the city, take a break and enjoy some people-watching and 'pintxos' - delicious Basque tapas - in the Plaza Nueva, or head to the emerald hills that surround Bilbao to enjoy the scenery.
San Sebastian
Located on the Basque coast of Spain, just over an hour's drive east of Bilbao, San Sebastian combines stunning surroundings with beautiful architecture, a five-star culinary scene and a vibrant social and cultural calendar. Playa de la Concha is known as one of the best urban beaches in Europe and Playa de la Zurriola is the place to be for surfers. Visitors can also enjoy among the glorious ornamental plants, ducks and peacocks in the Parque de Cristina Enea. Deliciously fresh seafood and several Michelin-starred restaurants make the city a gourmet mecca, while venues such as the Kursaal and Tabakalera host excellent musical performances and art exhibitions.
Pamplona
Pamplona, the capital of the Spanish province of Navarre, is best known for the 'Running away of the Bulls' event held annually in conjunction with the world-famous 'Fiesta de San Fermin'. A major stop along the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage route from the Middle Ages, Pamplona boasts an attractive medieval centre with a number of impressive Gothic-style churches, several interesting museums, a fantastic culinary and wine scene and an array of spacious green parks. Unmissable sights include the historic fortified church of San Nicolás, the Catedral de Santa María la Real y Museo Diocesano, which combines a neoclassical façade with a Gothic interior, and the Museo de Navarra, with fascinating collections of Roman artefacts and Romanesque art.
Eltziego
Eltziego, located in the world-famous Rioja wine region, is known not only for its pleasures, but also for its remarkable aesthetics. The town became famous after the creation of the Marques de Riscal Winery and Hotel, designed by Canadian architect Frank Gehry. Covered in titanium with enchanting shades of gold and pink inspired by the colours of wine bottles in the area, it attracts architecture buffs from all over the world. In the area, visit the Aires de San Roque viewpoint and the neighbouring medieval towns of Vitoria and Laguardia.
Basque Country
Spain's Southern Basque Country includes the provinces of Vizcaya, Guipuzcoa and San Sebastian. This uniquely cultured area is home to wonderful traditions, spectacular natural landscapes, fantastic beaches, and rich history. Experience extraordinary contemporary and avante-garde architecture, incredible art and an impressive culinary scene in Bilbao. Swim, surf, sunbathe and mingle along the sparkling beaches and waterfront strips of cosmopolitan San Sebastian, and linger in the evening for its phenomenal festivals and cultural events. Explore the historic old town of Lekeito with its glorious late-Gothic Basilica de Santa Maria de la Asucion, or visit the house of renowned poet Victor Hugo in the pretty fishing village of Pasaia. Other highlights include the Cristobal Balenciaga Museum in Getaria, and the striking, sacred San Juan de Gazelugatxe island in Bermeo.
Navarre
Navarre lies below the peaks of the Pyrenees in northern Spain, between the Basque Country and the French border. The region's capital, Pamplona, is best known for its annual Running of the Bulls festival, a debaucherous event not for frightened people! It also has some exceptional medieval archaeological sites that will fascinate history buffs. Natural highlights of the area include the sparkling caves of Mendukilo and the historic Via Verde train route (now a popular hiking and cycling trail and the Roncesvalles pass), a key stop along the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route.
Onati
The historic, rural Basque town of Oñati is located in a valley surrounded on three sides by green, rolling hills and mountains in the province of Gipuzkoa, in the heart of northern Spain. Oñati is known for its monuments and Baroque architecture dating back to the Middle Ages. Central to the town is the old University of Oñati, founded in 1548 as the region's first university. Other sights include the church of San Miguel, built over a small stream, and the natural caves of Arrikrutz.
Rioja Alavesa
Rolling vineyards dot the romantic hilly region of Rioja Alavesa. Dominated by ash-coloured Cantabrian mountains, Rioja Alavesa rests on the northern bank of the River Ebro south of Alava province, and is part of Rioja's famous wine-growing region. Perched atop a hill and overlooking the river is Rioja Alavesa's picturesque capital Laguardia, an enchanting village sheltered by an ancient wall. Visitors can enjoy the charm of the old town and explore its cobbled streets lined with restaurants, cafés, wine shops and palaces.
Arantzazu
Arantzazu is an enchanting pilgrim site located in Onati, Basque Country, Spain. It was here that, according to legend, the Virgin of Arantzazu appeared in a thornbush, to speak with the shepherd Rodrigo de Balanzategui. The sacred place is honoured with a grand, enthralling Franciscan sanctuary set in the hillside, featuring a beautiful shrine dedicated to the virgin surrounded by exquisite wooden carvings. Lying in the folds of the Aizkorri Mountains, spread with blankets of thick woodlands, verdant farmlands and flower-filled fields, this is a photogenic destination providing ample opportunities for excursions out in nature, and there are numerous breathtaking hiking trails to take advantage of. The area is part of the Aizkorri-Aratz Nature Park, known for its rare vegetation and wildlife including eagles, frogs, bobcats, and martens.
Sierra de Cantabria
Sierra de Cantabria, a dramatic mountain range in Alava, Spain, is an incredible natural attraction known for its spectacular surrounding wineries. It encompasses the Sierra de Toloño, a jaw-dropping spine-like ridge swathed in rich vegetation and offering a wonderland of outdoor adventure. This is also the entry point for the glorious plains of the Rioja Alavesa, another world-renowned wine area. Explore the beech forests, cycle through perfectly photogenic vineyards, and pop into the area's small villages and wineries for a diversity of tastings, tours, and pairing dinners.
Txakoli Wine Region
Spain trip | Culinary tour northern Spain
We offer the described trip from €8,165 per person.
The tour price is indicative and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
- Overnight stays in very good and special accommodations
- All meals as mentioned in 'programme
- Rental car Ford C-Max or equivalent including insurance, taxes and excess waiver
- All mentioned, required private transfers
- All excursions as mentioned in 'programme', including cooking workshop with expert chef & wine tastings
- Meet & Greet on arrival
- Entrance fees if applicable
- National Geographic or similar travel guide
- Administration fee (worth €50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
- Positive impact contribution of €25,- p.p. through the Avila Foundation
- City tour in San Sebastian
Not included
• International flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Local car hire costs, such as administration fees, parking charges, tolls and fuel
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Admission fees, where applicable
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)