Across the Pyrenees: Coasts, Culture & Cuisine

Day 1  San Sebastian, Spain                
Arrive into Bilbao and pick up your car before driving along the coast to the grandeur of San Sebastian. This city is known to be the premier dining location in Spain, whether you’re looking for Michelin star gastronomy or the iconic pintxos (tapas) bars, San Sebastian has a wealth of local delicacies. Begin your stay in style with a pintxos and wine Tour, let your guide teach you to dine like a local as they introduce the sights of this enthralling city.            

Day 2  San Sebastian                  
Home to one of the best beaches in Europe, San Sebastian offers an idyllic starting point for your Basque discovery. Walk the length of La Concha beach promenade to elegant Miramar Palace - once the summer residence of the Spanish royal family. Soak up the far-reaching views of the beach below before heading back to explore the maze of cobblestone streets in the old town.        

Day 3  San Sebastian to Biarritz, France        
Today take the slow, relaxed drive following the Atlantic coast from San Sebastian up into France to glitzy Biarritz. Perhaps stop off en route to watch surfers ride the waves at Hendaye and enjoy a delicious lunch in the fishing town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, home to some spectacular 17th and 18th Century architecture.            

Day 4  Biarritz            
This unique city has been a popular beach resort since the early 19th Century when it became a favourite escape of Napoleon III. Now half laidback surf town, half glamorous celebrity hang out; Biarritz offers something special for every visitor. Just 15 minutes’ drive away the medieval town of Bayonne boasts a wealth of historic monuments to explore.  

Day 5  Biarritz to Pamplona, Spain            
Take the highway through the mountains back into Spain and drive south to the well-preserved medieval city of Pamplona; Capital of Spain’s Navarre region and home to dramatic Gothic churches, an impressive medieval citadel and imposing fortress. The town is also a major stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route giving it a wonderful festive feel year around.

Day 6  Pamplona to Bilbao                  
Make your way back north towards the coast with a stop for a gentle walk in Gorbeiako Natural Park, a charming mountainous landscape with a number of short hikes to scenic viewpoints. On arrival into Bilbao drop off your car and take a wander through the medieval streets of the city’s old town to sample tapas at traditional pintxos bars.

Day 7  Fly home            
Enjoy your final day in the Basque Country exploring Bilbao’s contemporary art scene. Start with a walk along the riverside, admiring the breathtaking statues such as ‘Puppy’ made of flowers, Tulips and the powerful ‘Mama’ giant bronze spider. Perhaps visit the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum before making your way back to the airport for your onward flight.