La Rioja & Basque Country From Madrid
SMALL GROUP TOUR: Embark on a 4-day journey through the enchanting La Rioja region, where delicious wines meet stunning views of the Cantabrian Mountains. Discover San Sebastián, a paradise for surfers and food enthusiasts alike, nestled in the Basque Country's picturesque coastline. Explore Burgos, steeped in history and crowned by a magnificent Gothic cathedral. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Basque Country, one of Europe's oldest, and Haro, the vibrant wine capital of La Rioja.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Madrid to Haro
Day 1 Madrid to Haro
Madrid - Haro. Setting out from the vibrant streets of Madrid, Our first stop: Buitrago del Lozoya, a charming Celtiberian fortress town boasting a 15th-century castle and a museum dedicated to Picasso. There's a couple of hours of free time here to explore.
Then, we journey northward to the ruins of Montejo de Tiermes. This ancient Celtiberian settlement, carved directly from the surrounding rocks, boasts well-preserved ruins, including a Roman aqueduct.
Our day ends in the wine capital of La Rioja region: Haro. With its charming wine bars, picturesque bodegas, sprawling vineyards, and magnificent architecture, soaking in the ambiance of this enchanting town.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:30 (tour departs at 08:45) - Madrid Pick Up Point, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid,
Day 2 Wine tasting & local cuisine
Day 2 Wine tasting & local cuisine
Haro - Santo Domingo de la Calzada - San Vicente de la Sonsierra - Haro. After breakfast, we're off to explore the surrounding wine region. Our first stop is the charming old village of Santo Domingo de la Calzada, renowned for its historical and religious significance as a key stop on the pilgrimage route to the shrine of St. James in Santiago de Compostela. Next, we stop by Winery Lecea for a guided tour and inclluded wine tasting. This family of winegrowers has been passionately crafting their wine for over four generations.
Next, San Vicente de la Sonsierra invites us, nestled in the heart of La Rioja, it offers a historic castle overlooking the Ebro River, a 12th-century church, and an authentic Spanish ambiance. You have time to freely to explore and savour local cuisine. Then, we head back to Haro in the late afternoon.
Day 3 Exploring Basque Country
Day 3 Exploring Basque Country
Haro - San Sebastian - Pamplona - Haro. This morning we are ready to explore the Basque Country. Situated near the Spanish-French border, nestled at the western edge of the Pyrenees Mountains, the Basque culture, with its distinctive language, Euskera, stands as one of Europe's oldest.
We head first to San Sebastián, an exclusive beach resort and culinary paradise boasting the highest number of Michelin stars per capita. There's free time here to savour a delicious lunch and stroll along the famous La Concha beach. Next, we journey back inland to Pamplona, renowned for its iconic event, San Fermin, 'the Running of the Bulls'. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the town's magnificent fortress walls before we return to Haro for our last night.
Day 4 Burgos & Royal Palace
Day 4 Burgos & Royal Palace
Haro - Burgos - Aranda de Duero - Madrid. Our last day kicks off with a visit to Burgos, where we stroll in the shadow of a magnificent Gothic cathedral and you can enjoy free time to find a local restaurant for lunch. Once the capital of the old kingdom of Castille, Burgos still exudes a regal charm.
Then, we head into the charming city of Aranda de Duero. While our stay here is brief, we are sure to be enchanted by this town renowned for its labyrinthine wine cellars running beneath its streets. Our journey continues further south to the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. Here, we have an included visit to explore the opulent rooms of Spain's 'mini-Versailles', and marvel at the exquisite gardens. We thne make our way back to Madrid, where our tour ends.
Please note: This tour ends at 18:15 - Madrid Drop Off, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid.
Tour Highlights
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Hotels
Nestled in the heart of Haro, the Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos offers a charming escape in the heart of Spain's renowned La Rioja wine region. Situated within a historic 14th-century monastery, this hotel seamlessly blends history with modern comfort. Featuring a selection of inviting rooms, each uniquely designed to provide a calm and relaxing feel. Many rooms feature rustic architectural elements that pay homage to the building's heritage. The hotel also boasts a delightful restaurant offering local cuisine, a bar for relaxation, and event facilities for special occasions. With its central location in Haro, Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos is the perfect base for wine enthusiasts and travellers seeking a delightful Spanish getaway.
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