From Madrid: La Rioja & the Basque Country 4 Day Tour

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La Rioja and the Basque Country are like the intriguing stranger at a party, the one you’re dying to know. On this tour, you’ll discover everything that makes them unique.

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Highlights

Explore surfer's paradise and a foodie heaven San Sebastián
Walk in the shadow of the soaring Gothic cathedral in Burgos
Get to know the wine capital of La Rioja- Haro
Enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting at Winery Lecea
Discover the little-known world of Basque Country

Description

Day one It’s farewell to the thriving city of Madrid for now but worry not – you’ll have plenty to fall in love with on this tour. And what better way to start your romance with Spain than with a bit of Moorish architecture? A 15th-century castle. A museum dedicated to Picasso. We’re talking about the historical Celtiberian fortress town of Buitrago del Lozoya. You’ll have a couple of hours here to feel like a true explorer and even grab a bite to eat before we depart and continue north towards the ruins of Montejo de Tiermes. This ancient Celtiberian town was cut from the very rocks around them, the ruins of which still stand today, including a Roman aqueduct.The day ends in the wine capital of La Rioja region: Haro. Day two Leaving Haro behind, we venture into the surrounding wine region. Our first stop is the quaint village of Santo Domingo de la Calzada, steeped in historical and religious significance as a key stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Then, indulge in a guided tour and wine tasting at Winery Lecea, included in your tour package. Continuing off the beaten track, we visit San Vicente de la Sonsierra, nestled in the heart of La Rioja. Despite its lesser-known status, this village boasts a historic castle, a 12th-century church, and traditional Spanish charm. Enjoy free time to explore and dine before returning to Haro in the late afternoon for further exploration. Day Three Today is all about the Basque Country. Located near the border between Spain and France, at the western end of the Pyrenees Mountain Range, Basque is one of the oldest cultures in Europe with their unique language called Euskera. Among other things. Now’s the time to find out all about this rich culture. Everyone, meet San Sebastián, a foodie heaven with the highest number of Michelin stars per capita. You have time here to grab lunch and check out the beautiful blonde beach. You travel back inland to Pamplona. This town is famous for San Fermin, ‘the Running of the Bulls’. Fortunately, you aren’t going to have to run anywhere. Instead, you can stroll around the town’s splendid fortress walls and relax. Then it’s back to Haro for your final night. Day four Your first stop of the day gives you a chance to walk in the shadow of a soaring Gothic cathedral on your way to sample some of the region’s favourite dishes for lunch. We’re talking about the town of Burgos, once the capital of the old kingdom of Castille. Now how about a bit of paradise and a glass of wine? That’s what the city of Aranda de Duero is for. While we’re only here for about an hour, you’ll love this town that’s famous for its interconnecting wine cellars that run under the town. Next, you head to the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. Your included ticket to this stunning structure lets you wander through the rooms of Spain’s ‘mini-Versailles’ and wonder how much the gardening bill must be for its gorgeous grounds. As the day ends, you arrive in the Madrid.

Includes

Transport in a luxury mini-coach with a local driver Air conditioning as standard The stories and services of an English-speaking guide 3 nights in 3-4 star hotels with continental breakfast Rioja wine tasting and tour (not lunch) Admission to Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso (and gardens) with audioguide

Important Information

We're unable to permit children under 15 years old on that tour
You're restricted to 20kg (44lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) and a small bag for onboard personal items.