Madrid, Northern Spain, Vasco Country with Lourdes ROT (2025)

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We’ll leave early in the morning and cross Castile and León, making a stop in Tordesillas to learn about the town´s history and enjoy a coffee at its main square. We´ll then continue to León, where we’ll have time for lunch and to visit the stunning Gothic cathedral in this historic city on the Camino de Santiago. Afterward, we´ll cross the Cantabrian Range on our way to Asturias, arriving in Oviedo in the evening. In Oviedo, we´ll include a one-and-a-half-hour city tour with a local guide, either in the evening or the next morning. During the tour, we´ll visit the 9th-century cathedral, the Congress Palace of Oviedo, Campoamor Theatre, and Calle Rúa.Note: If the number of travelers from Madrid to León is very limited, the trip might be carried out by train or regular transportation, missing the stop in Tordesillas.

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We will travel to Picos de Europa. We will visit Basílica de Covadonga which is surrounded by beautiful scenery. We will resume our journey following the coastline to SANTILLANA, one of Spain’s most beautiful towns, and we will visit its well-preserved medieval quarter. We visit the National Museum and Research Centre of ALTAMIRA (ticket included) located in the vicinity of this town. We will later travel to SANTANDER, the region’s capital city, a coastal city with amazing vistas and beaches. We include panoramic city tour to discover this elegant city and its beautiful bay. NOTE: On some high difficulty dates (especially in summer from July to mid September), some groups can be accommodated in Bilbao.

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In the morning, we’ll start by enjoying breathtaking views over San Sebastián Bay from Mount Igueldo, followed by a visit to the Miramar Palace and its lovely gardens. Afterward, you´ll have some free time to relax on the city’s large beach or take a leisurely stroll along its boulevards. We suggest having lunch in the old town, famous for its “pintxos” bars. Early in the afternoon, we’ll make our way to France, arriving in Bordeaux by evening. We recommend taking a walk through the city center.

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The entire center of Bordeaux has been recognized as a World Heritage Site. Prepare to be captivated by the "Water Mirror" and explore the historic old town with its charming pedestrian streets and 11th-century cathedral. We will include admission to the Cité du Vin (with audio tour in English, Spanish or French), an impressive interactive museum that delves into the history and production of wine; wine tasting included at the viewpoint overlooking Bordeaux. Later, you´ll have free time to stroll along the Garonne River banks, lined with quaint restaurants perfect for lunch. Afterward, we continue towards the Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes by mid-afternoon. You´ll have time to visit the sanctuary (we suggest attending the candlelit procession). Dinner will be included.

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We’ll depart early from Lourdes, crossing the Pyrenees with their high peaks and stunning landscapes. Following the Way of St. James, we’ll arrive in Roncesvalles to see the beautiful Gothic Collegiate Church of Santa María. In Pamplona, famous for its bull runs, you’ll have time for lunch. Our journey will continue to Olite, where the 13th-century castle, once the residence of the kings of Navarra, will definitely catch your attention. We’ll then proceed to Madrid, arriving around 9:00 p.m.