"There are places in Europe that surprise you... and then there is the Basque Country."

Nestled between the rugged Atlantic coastline and the green mountains of northern Spain lies one of Europe's best-kept secrets—a land with a language older than Latin, proud traditions unlike anywhere else in the world, and one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants on Earth.

During our journey, we'll discover colorful fishing villages once home to legendary sailors, medieval towns rich in history, centuries-old family wineries producing exceptional wines, mountain cheese makers preserving traditions passed down through generations, and private Basque gastronomic societies where locals have gathered to cook and celebrate for more than 150 years.

We'll walk dramatic Atlantic coastlines, sip crisp Txakoli overlooking the sea where it was born, enjoy elegant boutique hotels, and experience the warmth and hospitality that make the Basque people so unique.

Join us as we discover the many sides of the Basque Country—ancient, proud, welcoming, and unforgettable. This isn't simply Spain; this is the Basque Country.

Welcome to Bilbao, the vibrant gateway to Spain's Basque Country, where historic neighborhoods, modern architecture, and an extraordinary food culture come together. Upon arrival at Bilbao Airport, you'll be greeted by our local team and transferred to the elegant Hotel Ercilla Bilbao, ideally located in the heart of the city and within walking distance of cafés, shops, and many of Bilbao's attractions.

This evening, we'll gather for a welcome drink before enjoying one of the most authentic experiences of our journey—a private dinner inside a traditional Txoko, a Basque gastronomic society rarely open to visitors. Surrounded by warm hospitality, exceptional local cuisine, and regional wines, we'll raise our glasses as our unforgettable Basque adventure begins.

After breakfast, we'll leave the city behind and journey into the peaceful Basque Mountains, where green valleys, traditional farmhouses, and small villages have preserved a way of life that has changed little for generations. We'll visit a family-owned artisan cheesemaker near Abadiño to learn how the region's famous Idiazabal cheese is made before enjoying a tasting.

Next, we'll walk a scenic section of the Green Path, a former railway line transformed into one of the region's most beautiful countryside trails, before enjoying a relaxing picnic lunch. After returning to Bilbao, you'll have free time to relax at the hotel, explore the city's lively streets and boutiques, or enjoy panoramic views from the hotel's popular rooftop terrace. We'll gather with a local host for a tasting of traditional Basque beverages—a memorable introduction to the region's flavors, warm hospitality, and lively spirit.

Today we'll journey into Rioja Alavesa, where rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and centuries of winemaking tradition create one of Spain's most celebrated wine regions. Our first stop is Amador García Winery, where we'll explore the unique Garden of Varieties and enjoy a guided wine tasting overlooking the surrounding vineyards.

Next, we'll visit the enchanting walled village of Laguardia before continuing to historic Casa Primicia, one of Rioja's oldest wineries. We'll tour its ancient stone halls and underground cellars, then enjoy a winery lunch paired with Casa Primicia wines before returning to Bilbao for a relaxing evening.

Today we'll discover the traditions that have shaped Basque life for generations in the charming medieval town of Balmaseda. Our morning begins at La Encartada, one of Spain's best-preserved historic textile mills and home to the famous Basque beret, where we'll learn about the craftsmanship and history behind this enduring cultural symbol.

Next, we'll discover the story of the region's beloved Putxera stew before gathering for a traditional Basque lunch accompanied by local wines. The afternoon is yours to relax, explore Bilbao's lively streets and shops, or simply unwind at a neighborhood café.

Today we bid farewell to Bilbao and journey into neighboring Navarre, where medieval history, exceptional wines, and contemporary art come together. Our first stop is Pamplona, where a guided walking tour introduces us to the city's charming cobblestone streets, elegant plazas, medieval landmarks, and part of the famous San Fermín route.

We'll continue to Bodega Otazu, the only winery in Navarre with the prestigious D.O.P. Pago de Otazu designation, for a guided winery tour, wine tasting, and lunch. Later, we'll arrive at the Michelin Guide-selected Luze Boutique Hotel San Sebastián, where the remainder of the day is yours to relax by the infinity pool, enjoy the spa, or explore San Sebastián's renowned culinary scene.

Today's journey showcases the spectacular Basque coastline, where dramatic cliffs, colorful fishing villages, and seaside vineyards create some of northern Spain's most breathtaking scenery. We'll begin with a guided walk along Zumaia's Flysch cliffs, one of Europe's most remarkable coastal landscapes.

Next, we'll continue to the charming fishing village of Getaria, where we'll visit a family-run fishing project and learn about the community's deep connection to the sea. Our visit concludes with a traditional grilled seafood lunch paired with local Txakoli wines before returning to San Sebastián for a relaxing evening.

Today we'll discover why San Sebastián is considered one of Europe's greatest food cities. During a guided walking tour through the elegant Old Town, we'll explore lively plazas, historic churches, and charming cobblestone streets before stepping inside a traditional Txoko for a wine and pintxo tasting.

We'll continue visiting several of the city's favorite pintxo bars before gathering for our farewell dinner at Zelai Txiki, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant nestled within a beautifully restored Basque farmhouse. Surrounded by gardens and panoramic views, it's the perfect setting to celebrate an unforgettable journey through the Basque Country.

After breakfast, we'll transfer to the airport for your departing flight or the next chapter of your journey. As the Basques say, "Agur ez da betiko"—"Goodbye is not forever." We hope the friendships, flavors, and memories you've made throughout this remarkable journey will stay with you for years to come.