Jan
min : 5°C
max : 12°C
We Love —
- Discover the sprawling vineyards, picturesque villages, and dramatic landscapes of the Basque Country in Northern Spain.
- Don't just visit this region - experience it like a local with this incredible self-driving tour!
- Take the wheel and explore Basque Country on either a 5 or 7-Night tour with a wine tasting included for a truly unforgettable experience!
Your Destinations —
Your Itinerary - 5 Nights —
Following your arrival at Bilbao Airport, the capital of the Basque Country, you will pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel. Stroll through the old historic district and get to know the city: The Arenal, the Church of St. Nicholas, the New Square, the River Market, the Cathedral of Santiago, and the Arriaga Theater await!
Overnight in Bilbao
Day 2: Bilbao - Guernica - Coast of Biscay - Bilbao
This day is devoted to discovering the coast of Biscay, passing by Guernica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Basque freedom and peace. Here, you will see no less than 30 golden sand beaches, steep cliffs, and natural areas that form the Biscayan Coast as you travel 150 km. You will visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, home to exceptional nature and a place of refuge for migratory birds. Here, you will be able to walk through the fishing village of Bermeo before returning to Bilbao. Back in Bilbao, you can visit the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural landmark, known for its innovative design. You will also have the chance to see the Hanging Bridge of Biscay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Overnight in Bilbao
Head to Loyola to discover the Sanctuary and the house of San Ignacio. Continue to a farmhouse that is typical of the region, the Gomiztegi Caserio, located in the Natural Park of Aizkorri, where you can visit a cheese factory and taste a variety of local cheeses! You will then continue to Oñati, one of the most beautiful places in the Basque Country and home to a surprising old mountain neighbourhood dotted with remarkable monuments. Next, drive to Logroño, a must stop on the way to Santiago de Compostela. In the evening, be sure to enjoy a pincho at a bar in the old quarter as well as wine from La Rioja.
Overnight in Logroño
Day 4: Logroño – Briones – Cave Marquès de Riscal El Ciego – Logroño
You will start your day with a visit to the Cape on Briones to discover the Wine Culture Museum Dinastía Vivanco. This museum, belonging to the Dinastia Vivanco Foundation, extends 4000 m2 and is home to the cultural collection of the Vivanco family. Continue to Elciego and visit the winery Marquès de Riscal. You will enjoy a complimentary tasting of two wines (duration of the visit 01:30). Discover the old centre before heading to Laguardia, considered the heart of Rioja wine, and visit the Church of St. Mary of the Kings.
Overnight in Logroño
Today you will discover the historic centre of Pamplona, a city steeped in history and traditions. The streets and squares of its old town are lined with historic buildings, medieval churches and ramparts, and the famous Plaza del Castillo, the beating heart of the city once enjoyed by Hemingway.
Overnight in Bilbao
Day 6 - Five Night Tour Only: If you choose to end your tour at 5 nights, today you will depart for the airport for a return journey back to the UK. Drop off your rental car at the airport. End of Services
Your Itinerary - 7 Nights —
Your itinerary for a 7-Night Tour is the same as above as per days 1 - 4
Day 5: Logrono - Bardenas Reales de Navarra - Olite - Pamplona
You will depart to the Ribera de Navarre, where you can discover the beautiful desert landscape of Bardenas Reales de Navarra! Eroded over time by stormy and violent waters, this natural region has formed capricious mounds, giving rise to unique colours in a desert landscape. Continue on to the medieval village of Olite, where lanes are lined with Renaissance and Baroque-style palaces! The Chateau-Palais Royal is one of the best preserved Medieval castles in Europe! You will then head to Pamplona, a city steeped in history and tradition. The streets and squares of this old town are lined with historic buildings, mainly Medieval churches, and ramparts, and the Plaza del Castillo, which was once enjoyed by Hemingway!
Overnight in Pamplona
Day 6: Pamplona – Batzan Valley – Pamplona
On this day you are able to discover the historic Batzan Valley. A landscape of green meadows and forests, and a succession of quaint small hamlets beckon you, as well as easy hiking trails, museums, working mills, delicious cuisine and age-old traditions. Continue to Zugarramurdi, the village of the witches, for a trip back in time. You will then stop at Elizondo, the most important village in the valley, which will surprise you with its palaces and its many stately homes.
Overnight Pamplona
Day 7: Pamplona – Coast of Guipuzcoa – San Sebastian – Bilbao
Embark for the coast of Guipuzcoa where you discover the charming villages of Guetaria, Zarauz (renowned for its 2 km beach), or the village of Astigarraga, home to the Museum of Basque Cider. Continue to San Sebastian, known for its beautiful beaches, gourmet dining, and relaxed lifestyle. Discover the old quarter and walk on the beach of La Concha.
Overnight in Bilbao
Day 8: Bilbao Airport - UK
You will drop off your car at the airport before enjoying a return flight home. End of Services.
Your Hotels —
Depending on availability, you will stay in the following hotels or in hotels of a similar quality and geographic location.
Throughout your stay, you will be accommodated in a Standard Room on a Bed & Breakfast Board Basis.
Sleeps up to
3 Adults
or
2 Adults
+ 1 Child
Logroño: Hotel Gran Via 4* or similar
Pamplona: Hotel AH San Fermin 4* or similar
Please note: the bed for the 3rd/4th guest sharing is likely to be a sofa bed or camp style bed.
Please note: some dining outlets/menu items and premium, branded and international drinks may not be included and may incur a surcharge payable locally. Meals, snacks and drinks may be available at selected times only
Your Journey through Basque Country —
Flights: The flights included are with either a scheduled or no frills airline and are subject to live availability and prices can change. You can choose your preferred departure times during the booking process. Please select your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ.
Car Hire: Car hire is included throughout this offer.
Distance between Bilbao Airport and the Hotel Ercilia 4*: 18 km / 20 minutes.
