OVERVIEW:
Indulge in a cultural and gastronomic journey through the lively Basque region of Spain and the famous Bordeaux area of France. These two breathtakingly beautiful locations are globally recognized for their excellent cuisine and wine, offering you a delightful experience.
Highlights:
- Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and learn about the city’s history and art scene
- Explore the picturesque town of San Sebastian, known for its breathtaking beaches and world-class cuisine
- Discover the stunning landscape of the Basque Country, from rugged coastlines to lush forests and mountains
- Experience the traditional Basque cuisine, including pintxos, seafood, and txakoli wine
- Venture into the heart of Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its magnificent architecture and landmarks
- Discover the secrets of wine-making in the vineyards of Saint-Emilion and taste some of the finest wines in the world
- Indulge in the local cuisine of Southwest France, including foie gras, truffles, and Bordeaux wines
Advantages:
- Private Tour.
- The tour can start on any date that suits you.
- Top VIP Treatment.
- Tour the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, and admire its stunning architecture and world-renowned exhibitions.
- Explore the historic city of Guernica, which inspired Pablo Picasso’s most celebrated work, and visit its famous local market.
- Experience the unique offshore wine cellar in Guernica and taste some of the finest wines of the region.
- Indulge in the rich and diverse culture and cuisine of the Basque Country with an exclusive experience at a local culinary club in San Sebastián.
- Go behind the scenes of some of Bordeaux’s finest châteaux with a day of private cellar tours and tastings, and learn about the wine-making process from experts.
- Enjoy a scenic cruise along the coastal waters of Arcachon Bay and savor fresh oysters harvested right from the sea
Itinerary at a Glance:
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN BILBAO, SPAIN
Begin your journey in Bilbao, where you will arrive and settle in to your accommodations.
DAY 2 – GUERNICA & THE COAST | A LEGACY OF REMEMBRANCE
Explore the city of Guernica, which inspired Pablo Picasso’s famous painting, and visit its renowned local market. Afterwards, discover an offshore wine cellar and enjoy the scenic beauty of the coast.
DAY 3 – BILBAO | MASTERWORKS OF THE GUGGENHEIM
Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, and admire its impressive collection of contemporary art.
DAY 4 – SAN SEBASTIÁN | SUN, SURF & CIDER
Travel to San Sebastián, known for its beautiful beaches, surf, and cider. Experience Basque culture and cuisine with an exclusive culinary club experience.
DAY 5 – PAMPLONA | HEMINGWAY’S HAUNTS
Explore the city of Pamplona, made famous by Ernest Hemingway’s writing, and visit his favorite haunts.
DAY 6 – BORDEAUX, FRANCE | DUET OF SPICY & SWEET
Cross the border to France and discover the city of Bordeaux, known for its wine and gastronomy. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience with a local chef.
DAY 7 – BORDEAUX | WINES OF THE CHÂTEAUX’S CELLARS
Visit some of Bordeaux’s finest châteaux and enjoy a day of private cellar tours and tastings with expert guides.
DAY 8 – BORDEAUX | DELICACY OF THE COAST
Cruise along the coastal waters of Arcachon Bay and savor fresh oysters harvested from the sea.
DAY 9 – DEPARTURE FROM BORDEAUX
Depart from Bordeaux and say farewell to your unforgettable journey.
Inclusions:
- Accommodation in 5-star hotels
- Daily breakfast and select meals
- Private transportation throughout the tour
- Guided tours of Bilbao, Guernica, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Bordeaux
- Entrance fees to museums and attractions
- Wine tastings at select wineries
- Oyster tasting in Arcachon Bay
- Local English-speaking guides
Tour Exclusions:
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Gratuities for tour guides and drivers
Pricing Information:
Prices $9500 per person based on double occupancy.
Accommodation Plan:
ARRIVE BILBAO, SPAIN: Gran Hotel Domine
BILBAO : Hotel Maria Cristina
BORDEAUX, FRANCE : InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel
Tips and Advice for Travelers:
- Pack comfortable walking shoes as there will be a lot of walking during the tour
- Dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery and architecture
- Sample the local cuisine and wine, but drink responsibly
- Always carry a copy of your passport and travel documents with you
- Check with your doctor regarding any necessary vaccinations or health precautions before traveling
Trip Notes:
- This tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness
- The itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, traffic, and museum closures
- The tour is conducted in English, but other languages may be available upon request
- Customizations are available to suit your needs, including changing the pickup time
FAQs:
Q: What is the group size for this tour? A: The group size is limited to 12 people to ensure a personalized experience.
Q: What is the cancellation policy for this tour? A: Please refer to our website for our cancellation policy.
Q: Is travel insurance included in the tour price? A: No, travel insurance is not included in the tour price. We recommend purchasing travel insurance for your protection.
Q: Are airport transfers included in the tour price? A: Airport transfers are not included in the tour price but can be arranged for an additional fee.
Q: What kind of transportation is used for this tour? A: We use comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles for all transportation during the tour.