Explore the Basque Country: San Sebastian, Burgos & Bilbao

Nestled along a crescent-shaped sweep of the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastián is a coastal jewel framed by pristine white-sand beaches and lush hills. This elegant resort, once the retreat of Spanish aristocracy, boasts manicured parks and Belle Époque architecture that whisper of its glamourous past.

Since 1953, San Sebastián has hosted a renowned film festival, drawing cinematic legends like Alfred Hitchcock. The city is flanked by two striking hills - Monte Igueldo to the west and Monte Urgull to the east - and this morning, we delve into the treasures nestled in the bay between them.

Stroll past the stately Miramar Palace, designed by a British architect, and admire the grandeur of the luxurious Hotel Maria Cristina. In the old town, explore the vibrant highlights, including Constitución Square. Once a lively bullring, its numbered balconies still echo of the days when spectators cheered and placed their bets. A visit to San Sebastián is a blend of history, sophistication, and stunning natural beauty.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Basque culinary tradition with a pintxos experience. At a family-run restaurant that has been honing its craft for over 70 years, you'll indulge in a delectable array of pintxos made from the finest locally sourced ingredients. From rich ibericos to freshly caught seafood, each bite-sized creation is a celebration of authenticity and flavour, thoughtfully selected for its quality and origin. This is you chance to dine like a true local, savouring the vibrant tastes that make Basque cuisine so exceptional.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You might choose to explore the fascinating San Telmo Museum, which offers a deep dive into Basque history and culture, or take a stroll up Monte Urgull to discover the remnants of the city's historic walls. As a former European Capital of Culture (2016), San Sebastián brims with charm and sophistication. Food lovers will be delighted to know it boasts an impressive 17 Michelin stars, making it an absolute haven for culinary indulgence. Whatever you choose, the city offers a wealth of experiences to savour.

Bayonne's roots stretch back to its days as a fortified Roman settlement. The city flourished in the Middle Ages under English rule after Eleanor of Aquitaine's marriage to Henry II, an era reflected in the lions on its coat-of-arms.

On a guided walking tour, we'll explore Bayonne's rich heritage, from its colourful half-timbered houses to the remains of 17th Century ramparts. The majestic Gothic cathedral, once the seat of Bayonne's bishops, stands as a testament to its storied past. Though unmistakably French in appearance, the Basque influence is undeniable, with the language spoken widely throughout the city.

Take a moment to indulge in Bayonne's renowned delicacies. Savour the flavours of its celebrated cured ham and sample exquisite chocolates that have earned the city international acclaim. With centuries-old traditions and lively festivals dedicated to both, Bayonne offers a truly memorable taste of the Basque region.

This afternoon we will visit Villa Arnaga in Cambo Les Bains. Built at the turn of the 20th Century by French author Edmond Rostand who will remain forever famous as the author of Cyrano de Bergerac. The play has been shown constantly around the world throughout the years as well as being adapted for film multiple times. Villa Arnaga was created as a retreat for the author and his wife Rosamunde, the exterior is traditionally Basque in design but inside the rooms have been compared to a sumptuous theatre set, with hand-painted frescos and designs created by the leading artists of the day, each room different from the previous. Once you have visited the house there is time to explore the beautiful English- and French-style gardens before we cross the border back into Spain and return to our hotel.

Today, we journey into the scenic foothills of the mighty Pyrenees, passing through a tapestry of rolling countryside and dramatic rock gorges.

Our destination is Pamplona, the historic capital of the once-independent Kingdom of Navarra and a significant stop along the ancient Way of St James, one of Europe's most important Medieval pilgrimage routes. Pamplona captured the world's imagination through Ernest Hemingway's classic novel 'The Sun Also Rises', which spotlighted the city's vibrant San Fermin festival. This lively celebration, held in honour of the city's patron saint, features parades of towering 'giants and big heads' that delight visitors and locals alike.

The famous running of the bulls, a tradition born from butchers herding their animals to the bullring, takes place each morning of the festival. During our guided tour, we'll stroll past charming shops offering papier-mâché festival masks, admire the stunning cathedral, and learn about Pamplona's rich past. We'll also visit the city's extraordinary 16th Century citadel - a pentagon-shaped fortress with imposing bastions - considered one of the finest military structures in Spain.

This afternoon, we traverse along the renowned Camino de Santiago through La Rioja, Spain's celebrated wine region nestled in the fertile Ebro River Valley. The rolling hills are a patchwork of olive groves and vineyards, painted in hues of green and ochre, while Medieval hilltop villages stand proudly against the dramatic backdrop of the Cantabrian Mountains. Here, we'll visit a traditional bodega to discover the time-honoured winemaking techniques that transform the region's exceptional grapes into world-class vintages.

Following our fascinating visit to a traditional Rioja winery, we'll sit down to a sumptuous late lunch. Relish the rich flavours of classic Spanish dishes, each thoughtfully paired with wines crafted on-site. It's an authentic culinary journey, where the region's finest food and wine come together to create an unforgettable tasting experience.

Our day concludes in Burgos, a city rich in history and charm, where we settle in for a two-night stay at the elegant four-star Abba Burgos Hotel. Ideally situated just a short stroll from the magnificent Gothic cathedral, this hotel boasts excellent amenities, including a heated indoor pool, sauna, gym, and tennis court. Guests can savour fresh, seasonal cuisine in the hotel's restaurant or relax on the garden terrace, taking in delightful views over the city. A perfect retreat after a day of exploration.

The city of Burgos has held a prominent place in Spanish history since the 9th Century, having once served as the fortress defending the kingdom of Navarra against the Moors. Over the centuries, it grew into the capital of Castile and León, thriving for centuries. Its prosperity, largely driven by the wool trade, funded the creation of remarkable architectural gems that still grace the city today.

This morning, we'll uncover Burgos' turbulent past on a guided tour through its atmospheric old quarter, a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets. At its heart lie the magnificent 13th Century cathedral, a true masterpiece of Gothic design and one of Spain's finest religious landmarks. With an audio guide in hand, you'll have the freedom to explore the cathedral's splendours at your own pace. Marvel at its grand façade, the exquisite Chapel of the Constable, and the impressive tomb of Burgos' legendary figure, El Cid.

This afternoon, take the opportunity to explore more of Burgos at your leisure. As a key point along the historic pilgrimage route, the city offers a wealth of treasures to uncover. Visit the splendid Church of St Nicholas, renowned for its intricately carved altarpiece, or wander across the river to the awe-inspiring Monasterio de las Huelgas. This grand Cistercian monastery, founded by Spanish royalty, boasts an impressive history and magnificent architecture. Later, enjoy an evening of fine dining at a highly regarded local restaurant, where traditional Castilian cuisine takes centre stage, offering an authentic taste of the region.

Today, we head to Bilbao, the vibrant heart of the Basque Country and a city brimming with cultural treasures. Framed by the verdurous hills of Artxanda, Bilbao boasts a captivating Medieval old town, painterly parks, and an eclectic mix of architectural styles. However, it was the opening of the iconic Guggenheim Museum in 1997 that firmly place Bilbao on the global cultural map.

Designed by the famed artist Frank Gehry, the museum's shimmering titanium façade was inspired by the city's maritime heritage, creating an architectural marvel that's as intriguing as the art it houses. During our visit, explore an impressive collection of contemporary masterpieces by celebrated Spanish and international artists.

Following some free time to immerse yourself in the museum's exhibits or wander along the scenic riverside, we check into the stylish four-star Hesperia Bilbao. Located just across the river from the Guggenheim, this modern hotel features a striking multi-coloured glass façade and offers the perfect base for discovering more of this dynamic city.

We journey through the stunning landscapes of Cantabria, where lush green forests and the towering peaks of the Picos de Europa mountains create an unforgettable backdrop. Nestled inland, we arrive at Santillana del Mar, often hailed as one of Spain's most picturesque Medieval towns. Curiously nicknamed the 'village of three lies', Saintillana neither has a saint (santa), nor lies on a plain (llana), nor sits by the sea (del mar) - a playful contradiction to its poetic name.

Take time to meander along its cobbled streets, lined with beautifully preserved golden-hued houses dating from the 15th to the 17th Centuries. At the town's heart, you'll find the stunning Romanesque Collegiate Church, rooted in the legacy of a 9th Century monastery. Relax at one of the quaint cafés for a refreshing drink or delve into the town's museums, including the chilling yet fascinating Museum of Torture, offering a glimpse into the darker chapters of Spanish history. It's a town that truly rewards exploration.

Our exploration continues with a visit to Altamira, a site of immense historical significance and home to some of the most exquisite examples of Ice Age art found anywhere in the world. The cave walls are adorned with striking depictions of bison, deer, and ibex, rendered with remarkable skill using charcoal and red ochre. The celebrated artist Picasso was so captivated by the ancient masterpieces that he famously proclaimed, "After Altamira, all is decadence."

To preserve these fragile artworks, we visit the nearby cave museum, which houses an impressively accurate replica of the original site. This detailed reproduction allows us to marvel at the intricate artistry and delve into the fascinating history of this prehistoric treasure without compromising its preservation.

After this extraordinary experience, we return to our hotel in Bilbao to relax and reflect on the day's discoveries.

(Note: On certain departures, it may not be possible to visit the Altamira Cave Museum. Should this occur, an alternative itinerary will be provided.)