100% customisable travel idea
Galicia, Castile and Leon and the Basque Country Northwest Spain by train
Spain - Santiago de Compostela - Ourense - Leon - Burgos - Bilbao
In the North, a different Spain
Your journey
Apart from international flights, the rest of the journey is by train, so you can savour each stopover while focusing on the passing scenery outside the window rather than the travel arrangements. Private transfers are arranged whenever needed. All this makes for an easy journey, punctuated by carefully chosen accommodation: historic in Santiago de Compostela, modern and comfortable in Ourense, a resplendent former pilgrims’ hostel in Leon, a chic convent in Burgos, and finally, a classic yet decidedly modern hotel, capturing the spirit of Bilbao. So you don't miss any highlights, some activities are already on your itinerary; a guide in Santiago de Compostela to immerse you in the city's history and pre-booked tickets for the cathedral. The same goes for Bilbao, with a walking tour with a local and tickets for the Guggenheim Museum. Two perfect highlights to bookend your trip. As for the rest, private tours, wine tasting in Galicia or exploring Bilbao’s pintxos bars can be arranged on request. If you have a sudden urge to do something else or there’s a slight hitch, you have the contact details of our on site Concierge. Together with your travel specialist, they can help adapt your journey however you want, even as it unfolds.
Itinerary
100% customisable for you
Private transfer and three nights in the heart of Santiago de Compostela. Your hotel stands along the old royal road. The place has been both a bank and later a residence for the Society of Jesus - it is steeped in history. The beautiful flower garden, hidden from view on arrival and bordered by an elegant gallery, imbues the place with a certain tranquillity befitting of a cloister. The rooms are clad in dark woodwork and exposed old stone. Just a few steps away, a small local market bustles every morning, giving you the chance to mingle with locals and soak up the city’s atmosphere.
On your itinerary - Santiago de Compostela in private. A symbol of Spanish Christians’ resistance to the Moors who invaded the Iberian Peninsula in the Middle Ages, and a celebrated pilgrimage site since the 9th century, Santiago de Compostela is a city steeped in stories and legends. From the magnificent cathedral, said to have been built over the tomb of Saint James the Apostle, to the Romanesque, Baroque and Neoclassical buildings - not to mention the Hostal dos Reis Católicos - nothing escapes your guide, or your curiosity.
Also included: entry tickets to the cathedral museum and the Pórtico de la Gloria. The arrival point for all pilgrims to Santiago, the magnificent granite cathedral built between the 11th and 12th centuries impresses with its richly sculpted Baroque “Obradoiro” façade, while its towers soar 262 feet (80 metres) high. At the entrance to the nave, the details of the Porch of the Glory in Romanesque style, catch the eye and hold your attention.
Santiago de Compostela: its name sounds like a culmination for pilgrims. But here, it marks the beginning of a journey. The capital of Galicia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its medieval heart enchants with monasteries, temples, palaces and small squares. The old alleyways dotted with bars and restaurants remind us that, beyond its religious significance, Santiago de Compostela is also a leading destination for Galician cuisine. This is reflected in specialities such as pulpo á feira (Galician-style octopus), caldeirada (fish and seafood stew), caldo gallego (Galician stew) and the iconic tarta de Santiago.
Optional - Private Galician wine tasting.
Train to Ourense, a city whose history and urban landscape have been shaped by the Minho River. Its banks are crossed by no fewer than eight bridges, including the Ponte Vella, built by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago when they chose this strategic site, attracted by the benefits of its thermal waters. Several springs are open to the public at the A Chavasqueira thermal baths on the riverbank, and at As Burgas in the heart of the old town.
Enjoy an overnight stay in the centre of Ourense in the iconic “Torre”, close to San Lázaro Park. The rooms are spacious and fully equipped. The decor is modern, the design classic. Wooden flooring and white walls create an elegant feel. Here, the sauna feels like a natural choice.
Optional - The thermal city of Ourense, in private
Train to León. León, the eponymous provincial capital, is an essential stop on the Camino Francés, the pilgrimage route that links it to Santiago de Compostela. Must-see attractions include Santa Maria Cathedral, affectionately known as the “Pulchra Leonina” (the beautiful Leonese, often called the “Sistine Chapel of Spanish Romanesque art”), Casa Botines - a rare gem designed by Gaudí outside Catalonia - the Basilica of San Isidoro with its royal pantheon, and the former monastery and hospice of San Marcos. León also stands out as a leading culinary destination - a hallmark of northern Spain - tantalising visitors with specialities such as botillo del Bierzo, cecina , chorizo, blood sausage and roast lamb.
Overnight stay in the former monastery and pilgrims’ hospice, modernised with a contemporary, avant-garde touch. At the heart of this iconic Spanish Renaissance building is a beautiful atrium, topped by a fresco by Lucio Muñoz. The corridors are adorned with tapestries, paintings and sculptures by Juan de Juni. The original architecture has been brilliantly preserved, giving the lounges an almost sacred atmosphere. As for the rooms, they are quite the opposite - minimalist, with a few pieces of vintage furniture. Special mention for the colonnaded cloister that surrounds a charming French-style garden.
Optional - The highlights of León, in private.
Train to Burgos and check-in for two nights in the historic centre. The hotel, nestled in a Gothic building dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, also has a magnificent cloister. It’s fair to say it exudes the spirit of a proud Spanish hidalgo. The rooms are spacious and inviting, revealing a natural elegance with their dark wood floors and warm tones. The hotel’s restaurant, recognised by prestigious guides and considered one of the best in Burgos, celebrates Leonese cuisine.
Burgos, the cradle of Old Castile, stands proudly with its cathedral, its lacy spires piercing the sky. It is an important stop on the Way of St James and the birthplace of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, the legendary Cid Campeador, celebrated by Corneille in his eponymous play and by Anthony Mann in film, played by Charlton Heston. The heart of the city reveals a wealth of medieval and Renaissance architecture, from cobbled streets to attractions such as the cathedral, the Arch of Santa Maria, the Church of San Lesmes and the Casa del Cordón (palace of the Constable of Castile).
Optional - The highlights of Burgos, in private.
Train to Bilbao and check in for two nights on the banks of the Nervión River, opposite the trendy La Vieja district. Your hotel occupies a building dating from 1924. Its original architecture, meticulously preserved, skilfully blends with modern touches of steel, glass and polished concrete. The result: a subtle blend of industrial and classic. A chic elegance fills the rooms, bathed in light tones, draped with thick black curtains, and furnished with contemporary pieces, while gigantic beds invite a well-deserved rest. The restaurants - one Michelin-starred, the other more casual - are both overseen by renowned Basque chef Martín Berasategui. Outside, an endless choice of bars awaits, and the famous Guggenheim is easily reached by a pleasant walk along the water’s edge.
In the north of Spain, the Atlantic meets the Bay of Biscay before winding its way through the Nervión Estuary to Bilbao, one of the main capitals of the Spanish Basque Country. The redevelopment of the urban layout at the end of the 20th century breathed new life into a metropolis that was losing momentum. Already boasting a charming historic centre dotted with pintxos bars (the Basque take on tapas) and lively markets, the city - always full of surprises - has further enriched its heritage with buildings designed by renowned architects.
On your itinerary - Like a Local, in the footsteps of a Bilbao resident. Explore the city through the eyes of a passionate local, Maria Susana. With a degree in tourism and art history, she now shares her in-depth knowledge of her city with enthusiasm. An unscripted encounter and a walk that goes beyond the traditional tourist route, shaped by conversations and each person’s wishes.
Already in hand - the entry tickets for the Guggenheim. A magnificent example of avant-garde 20th-century architecture, the Guggenheim Museum houses modern and contemporary art. The permanent collection brings together works by David Salle, Chillida, Jeff Koons, Louise Bourgeois and Robert Rauschenberg, among others.
Optional - The best pintxos bars in Bilbao, in private.
Private transfer to the airport and return flight.
À la carte
This suggested itinerary can be customisable down to the smallest detail, including duration, stops and content. An à la carte menu of experiences is also available to create a journey that reflects who you are.
Wine tasting in Galicia
In Galicia, the grape harvest is a genuine cause for celebration. The wines produced here are mostly dry, refreshing and aromatic whites. During this getaway, visiting a market is a must, followed by a tasting session to savour a varied selection of Galician wines accompanied by some local cheeses.Optional extra
The spa town of Ourense
Built by the Romans, Ourense charms visitors with its thermal baths, such as As Burgas and A Chavasqueira. Immerse yourself in its rich past and explore its heritage: the cathedral adorned with the sumptuous Portico del Paraiso, Ponte Vella spanning the waters of the Minho and the former Bishop's Palace. A journey through the ages, punctuated by your guide’s stories and anecdotes.Optional extra
Leon’s highlights
In the historic centre, the imposing towers of the cathedral and San Isidoro church seem to rise to greet the pilgrims. The authenticity of Leon’s warren of lively streets will captivate you, especially in the Barrio Humedo (literally the "wet neighbourhood") and the convivial atmosphere of its many bars and taverns. A stroll is the best way to get to know the city, animated by your guide’s stories.Optional extra
The highlights of Burgos
Although the cathedral is undoubtedly the jewel of Burgos, the River Arlanzon is not to be overshadowed. From the Santa Maria Bridge to the Institute Footbridge, its landscaped banks, designed for strolling, offer beautiful views of the city's historic centre, its attractions and its colourful squares full of cafe terraces. Close to the city centre, the Monastery of Santa Maria la Real de Las Huelgas and the Miraflores Charterhouse will catch your eye. The guided tour unveils the city's many charms: the Gothic cathedral, Santa Maria Arch, the statue of El Cid Campeador, Casa del Cordon, Plaza Mayor and the Museum of Human Evolution: you will see it all.Optional extra
The best pintxos bars in Bilbao
Pintxos, the Basque version of Spanish tapas, are slices of bread topped with an endless variety of small raciones, served hot or cold: fish, shellfish, cured meats, meat and grilled vegetables, sautéed or in sauces. A gourmet experience that takes you to three carefully chosen bars to sample some of the best creations in Bilbao, accompanied by a glass of wine, a glass of txakoli or a local beer.
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