La Rioja & Basque Country From Madrid - 4 days
La Rioja & Basque Country From Madrid - 4 days
La Rioja & Basque Country From Madrid - 4 days
4 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Haro, San Sebastian
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
16-
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 4-day journey through La Rioja and the Basque Country, starting and ending in Madrid. This small group tour offers an intimate exploration of Spain's rich cultural and culinary heritage. Begin with a visit to the historic town of Buitrago del Lozoya and the ancient ruins of Montejo de Tiermes. In Haro, the wine capital of La Rioja, enjoy wine tastings and explore charming villages like Santo Domingo de la Calzada and San Vicente de la Sonsierra. Discover the culinary delights of San Sebastián and the historic allure of Pamplona. Conclude with a visit to the majestic Gothic cathedral in Burgos and the opulent Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. With comfortable accommodations, a knowledgeable driver-guide, and transportation in a luxury mini-coach, this tour promises an unforgettable Spanish adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation Name: hotel
Madrid - Haro. Setting out from the vibrant streets of Madrid, Our first stop: Buitrago del Lozoya, a charming Celtiberian fortress town boasting a 15th-century castle and a museum dedicated to Picasso. There's a couple of hours of free time here to explore.
Then, we journey northward to the ruins of Montejo de Tiermes. This ancient Celtiberian settlement, carved directly from the surrounding rocks, boasts well-preserved ruins, including a Roman aqueduct.
Our day ends in the wine capital of La Rioja region: Haro. With its charming wine bars, picturesque bodegas, sprawling vineyards, and magnificent architecture, soaking in the ambiance of this enchanting town.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:30 (tour departs at 08:45) - Madrid Pick Up Point, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid,
Day 2: Haro
Location: Haro
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Haro - Santo Domingo de la Calzada - San Vicente de la Sonsierra - Haro. After breakfast, we're off to explore the surrounding wine region. Our first stop is the charming old village of Santo Domingo de la Calzada, renowned for its historical and religious significance as a key stop on the pilgrimage route to the shrine of St. James in Santiago de Compostela. Next, we stop by Winery Lecea for a guided tour and inclluded wine tasting. This family of winegrowers has been passionately crafting their wine for over four generations.
Next, San Vicente de la Sonsierra invites us, nestled in the heart of La Rioja, it offers a historic castle overlooking the Ebro River, a 12th-century church, and an authentic Spanish ambiance. You have time to freely to explore and savour local cuisine. Then, we head back to Haro in the late afternoon.
Day 3: San Sebastian
Location: San Sebastian
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Haro - San Sebastian - Pamplona - Haro. This morning we are ready to explore the Basque Country. Situated near the Spanish-French border, nestled at the western edge of the Pyrenees Mountains, the Basque culture, with its distinctive language, Euskera, stands as one of Europe's oldest.
We head first to San Sebastián, an exclusive beach resort and culinary paradise boasting the highest number of Michelin stars per capita. There's free time here to savour a delicious lunch and stroll along the famous La Concha beach. Next, we journey back inland to Pamplona, renowned for its iconic event, San Fermin, 'the Running of the Bulls'. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the town's magnificent fortress walls before we return to Haro for our last night.
Day 4: Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Haro - Burgos - Aranda de Duero - Madrid. Our last day kicks off with a visit to Burgos, where we stroll in the shadow of a magnificent Gothic cathedral and you can enjoy free time to find a local restaurant for lunch. Once the capital of the old kingdom of Castille, Burgos still exudes a regal charm.
Then, we head into the charming city of Aranda de Duero. While our stay here is brief, we are sure to be enchanted by this town renowned for its labyrinthine wine cellars running beneath its streets. Our journey continues further south to the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. Here, we have an included visit to explore the opulent rooms of Spain's 'mini-Versailles', and marvel at the exquisite gardens. We thne make our way back to Madrid, where our tour ends.
Please note: This tour ends at 18:15 - Madrid Drop Off, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid.
What's Included
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Accommodation
3-4 Star hotel -
3 breakfasts
Enjoy three breakfasts during your stay.
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3 nights in 3-4 star hotels
Stay for three nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels.
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Escorted by a local driver-guide
Travel with the guidance of a local driver-guide.
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Transportation in 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning
Travel in comfort with transportation provided in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach equipped with air-conditioning.
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Rioja wine tasting and tour (no lunch)
Participate in a Rioja wine tasting and tour.
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Admission to Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso (and gardens) with audio guide
Gain admission to the Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso and its gardens, with an audio guide included.
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20kg luggage
You are allowed to bring 20kg of luggage.
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Tourist taxes
Tourist taxes are included in the tour package.
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Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.
This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Tipping
Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.
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Optional activities & additional attractions unless specified above
Optional activities and additional attractions are not included unless specified in the inclusions.
Age Policy
Minimum age 16, escorted by an adult
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning, ensuring a smooth journey through the scenic landscapes of Spain.
Accommodation
Enjoy three nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, providing a relaxing retreat after exploring the beautiful regions of La Rioja and the Basque Country.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning for transportation.
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Is there a guide accompanying the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by a local driver-guide.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 3 breakfasts.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 3 nights in 3-4 star hotels.
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Is there a luggage allowance for the tour?
Yes, there is a 20kg luggage allowance. Please see the Trip Notes for details.
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What is the minimum age requirement for this tour?
The minimum age requirement for this tour is 16, and participants must be escorted by an adult.
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Will there be opportunities for wine tasting during the tour?
Yes, there is an included wine tasting and tour at a traditional winery in the Basque Country.
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What is the policy on tipping during the tour?
Tipping is not included in the tour package and is considered an entirely personal gesture.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.