Splendours of Northern Spain

Day 1 - UK to Bilbao.

Our nationwide shared chauffeur service collects you from home for your flight to Bilbao. On arrival, we transfer to your hotel for a three-night stay. The central location, opposite Doña Casilda Park, makes this the ideal base to explore with the Guggenheim museum less than 15 minutes stroll away.

Day 2 - San Sebastián.

Today take a day trip to the coastal town of San Sebastián, a beachside gem in Spain’s Basque country, made popular by Queen maria Christina in the 1920’s. A guided tour highlights the Belle Époque architecture in the Old Town before we tuck into pintxos – delicious, bite sized, skewered snacks, native to northern Spain. Later, after some free time, we return to Bilbao.

Day 3 - Bilbao.

Join a guided tour by coach and on foot of this vibrant city where bright houses, futuristic sculptures and neoclassical architecture live harmoniously alongside each other. Visit the Guggenheim Museum, guarded by a 30-foot steel spider and a giant puppy decorated with fresh flowers, to view expressive modern art and outdoor installations. Afterwards head into the old town and enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore at leisure. Why not take the short funicular ride up to Mount Artxanda viewpoint for views over metropolitan Bilbao or a gentle cruise along the estuary for slow paced sightseeing.

Day 4 - Bilbao to Haro.

Today we depart for the picturesque rolling hills and rugged mountains of La Rioja. Enjoy a tour of the futuristic winery to hear about the production process before enjoying a gourmet lunch paired with world-renowned reds, whites and rose, all overlooking the vineyard.​ Spend the night in the charming town of Haro. The pretty town square is perfect for some people watching and sampling some local dishes.

Day 5 - Haro to Burgos to León.

Our next stop, Burgos, has us travelling through farming country and fields of sunflowers. Take a guided tour around this medieval capital, which bridges the modern and historic, then step inside Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its spectacular French-inspired Gothic architecture and unique collection of art. Marvel at the ornate wooden choir stalls and elaborate private chapels before continuing on to León for an overnight stay located within the old town walls.

Day 6 - León to Oviedo.

This morning, admire the sights of León, a city known for its cultural heritage and vibrant food scene. Our guided walking tour also includes León Cathedral, known as the ‘House of Light’ thanks to its mesmerising stained-glass windows which circle the entire building and Museum Casa Botines Gaudí, celebrating the life of the influential Spanish architect. Later, we drive north to Oviedo and check into locally rated 4-star Hotel NH Oviedo Principado at the entrance to the cities old town​.

Day 7 - Oviedo.

Wake up in the capital of Asturias, a city with a rich history and the starting point of the traditional pilgrimage route along the Camino to Santiago de Compostela. Discover the historic city on a guided tour, including a walk past the 14th-century cathedral, which has welcomed generations of pilgrims. There is also a chance to taste a Carbayón, a traditional local almond pastry. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before a farewell Spanish dinner with traditional Asturian cider. See the local escanciado cider-pouring ritual and taste local varieties, along with Cider Sangria.

Day 8 - Oviedo to Bilbao to UK.​

Wave adiós to Oviedo and revel in the dramatic coastal views of the Bay of Biscay, as we drive back to Bilbao. We’ll break up the journey with a stop in Santillana del Mar, known for its preserved medieval town. We then transfer to Bilbao airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.