Basque Country Active Culinary Hiking & Walking Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Premiere Hotels
Basque Country Active Culinary Hiking & Walking Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Premiere Hotels
2026: May-Jul, Sep-Oct
Wine, Pintxos & Recipes from La Rioja to San Sebastian
A pairing for the ages. Hike lush mountains and dramatic coastlines as you explore Basque Country’s sensational food scene. It’s a harmonious blend for the palate—with a note of adventure.
Highlights
- Dive fork-first into San Sebastián, one of the world’s most celebrated food regions, as bold flavors come to life through private cooking demonstrations and a pintxos tour
- Hike foothils of the Cantabrian Mountains and along the storied Camino del Norte to hidden springs, impressive waterfalls and sweeping ocean panoramas
- Discover Basque Country’s rich culinary heritage, from time-honored village traditions to avant-garde cuisine
- Taste full-bodied Rioja wines while you take in expansive views of the Ebro Valley’s multi-hued vineyards
- Unwind in handpicked accommodations—from a boutique Rioja wine estate to a Relais & Châteaux retreat perched above the sea
Start Pamplona, Spain
End Bilbao, Spain
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-2
Kick off your trip with a walk on quiet paths through the lush landscapes surrounding Idiazabal • Savor your first exquisite taste of Basque cuisine • A picturesque drive through La Rioja showcases the colorful vineyards of this esteemed wine region • Follow stunning trails along the Ebro River and in the foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains • Arrive at a family-owned winery nestled among the vines • Sip ruby reds and crisp whites at a private tasting • Wander through a secret network of subterranean wine caves • An immersive dining experience gives us a deeper understanding of the flavors of Basque Country.
Nights 1-2
With lovely views of the Ebro river and Tondón vineyards, this exceptional property, once a 16th-century palace, blends contemporary design with wood and stone finishes to create a unique lodging attentive to wine, gastronomy and relaxation.
Day 3
Hike along the edge of stunning karst cliffs to the Salto del Nervión viewpoint, which offers incredible vistas overlooking the area’s verdant landscapes • Lunch at a txakolina, a local Txakoli winery • Stroll through Bilbao’s atmospheric Old Town, with its narrow lanes, lively squares and rich Basque character.
Night 3
Set in a restored 1924 landmark on the Bilbao estuary, Tayko channels the city's industrial past with concrete, brick and metal, creating a sleek contemporary stay in the heart of Old Town.
Days 4-6
Follow Spain’s storied Camino de Santiago through rolling hills, windswept bluffs and rural farmland • A unique picnic-style culinary show explores the connections between Basque history and cuisine • Experience one of the Basque Country’s most iconic traditions—the pintxos crawl • Visit the ancient harbor town of Pasaia, a hidden gem along the coast • Lace up your boots for a stunning hike along the Talaia coastal trail, a dramatic cliffside path • Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class in San Sebastián • A tranquil morning walk caps off your memorable and delectable journey through Basque Country.
Nights 4-5
Experience this stunning blend of cutting-edge design, world-class cuisine and natural beauty on Spain’s northern coast. A Relais & Châteaux property. (pool, spa)
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
In Basque Country, you can look forward to some exciting terrain on our hikes. If you want additional support, we have Leki trekking poles available in addition to water, snacks and ample encouragement provided by your Backroads leaders and local guides. We can also flatten some of the hills with strategic shuttles, but you should be comfortable with steep climbs and descents or hopping in the van for a lift.
While we always aim to get off the beaten path, this region is a popular coastal vacation spot for European tourists. You’ll be among locals and fellow travelers when we visit towns, and there can be moderate car traffic on some of the country roads we traverse (cars in this area are very respectful).
Hotels
World-Class Hotels
Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.
Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Nights 1-2
Premiere Hotel
With lovely views of the Ebro river and Tondón vineyards, this exceptional property, once a 16th-century palace, blends contemporary design with wood and stone finishes to create a unique lodging attentive to wine, gastronomy and relaxation.
Night 3
*Deluxe Hotel
Set in a restored 1924 landmark on the Bilbao estuary, Tayko channels the city's industrial past with concrete, brick and metal, creating a sleek contemporary stay in the heart of Old Town.
Nights 4-5
Premiere Hotel
Experience this stunning blend of cutting-edge design, world-class cuisine and natural beauty on Spain’s northern coast. A Relais & Châteaux property. (pool, spa)
Gallery
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Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
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