Destinations / / Europe / Tailor-Made Spain: Basque & Rioja RefinementBESPOKE LUXURY JOURNEYSpain: Basque & Rioja RefinementWhere culinary artistry meets architectural boldnessPicture a realm where avant-garde architecture pirouettes with medieval stones, where centuries-old vineyards blanket undulating hills, and where gastronomy transcends mere sustenance to become high art. The Basque Country and La Rioja seduce visitors with their ability to weave seemingly opposing elements into perfect harmony: modernist museums gleam alongside Gothic spires, whilst progressive urban culture flourishes amidst time-honoured traditions. From Bilbao’s titanium-clad Guggenheim to San Sebastián’s pintxos-lined passages, and on to Rioja’s architectural wineries that punctuate the landscape like contemporary sculptures, this is a journey that transforms every moment into a celebration of creativity, inclusivity, and epicurean excellence.Spain at a GlanceStep into a society where progressive values and traditional hospitality create an intoxicating blend as complex as the region’s celebrated wines. In Spain, the legendary concept of ‘sobremesa’ (lingering after meals) extends beyond the dining table into a broader philosophy of connection and acceptance. Bilbao’s design-forward galleries and San Sebastián’s Michelin-starred establishments welcome visitors with equal measures of sophistication and warmth, whilst Rioja’s centuries-old bodegas embrace innovation without forsaking their heritage.The rhythm of life here pulses with the dramatic interplay of land and sea, each season offering its own celebration of community and craft. Summer bathes the Bay of Biscay in crystalline light, when San Sebastián’s La Concha beach becomes a gathering place for sun-seekers of all stripes, and rooftop bars buzz with cosmopolitan energy. Autumn transforms Rioja’s vineyards into a tapestry of burgundy and gold, while spring heralds the return of fresh txakoli wines and the first anchovy catches. Winter brings intimate pintxos crawls through lamp-lit streets and cosy evenings in modernist wine lodges, where barrel-aged tempranillo warms both body and soul. CurrencyEuro (EUR) LanguageSpanish VisasNot needed for travellers from the US, Canada and Europe Best Time To VisitMay – November TimezoneCentral European Standard Time (GMT+1) Homosexual ActivityLegal 8-day Travel ItineraryThis meticulously crafted journey traverses Spain's most compelling northern landscapes, from Bilbao's urban renaissance to Rioja's timeless vineyards. Begin in the Basque Country's largest city, where titanium waves and glass spires rise above a foundation of proud traditions, before discovering San Sebastián's world-renowned culinary scene and pristine beaches. Finally, venture inland to La Rioja, where architectural innovation meets oenological excellence amidst rolling hills and medieval villages.DAY 1 Bilbao | First Whispers of Basque InnovationTouch down in Bilbao, where Frank Gehry's masterwork sparkles like a metallic flower unfurling beside the Nervión River. After a private transfer to your design-forward accommodation—perhaps The Artist Grand Hotel of Art, where contemporary creativity infuses every space—commence your journey with a privately guided tour of the museum's organic curves and world-class collection. As twilight approaches, weave through the Casco Viejo's atmospheric lanes for your first taste of pintxos culture, where each bite-sized morsel tells a story of Basque culinary creativity. DAY 2 Bilbao | Where Art Meets Urban SoulMorning light reveals Bilbao's artistic spirit through fresh eyes as you explore the Museo de Bellas Artes, where Spanish masters converse with contemporary visionaries. Later, stroll along the revitalised riverside, where industrial heritage has been transformed into gardens and galleries. Crown your day with an extraordinary dinner at one of the city's most innovative restaurants, where traditional Basque flavours are reimagined through a contemporary lens. DAY 3 San Sebastián | Coastal Sophistication BeckonsJourney eastward to San Sebastián, where the Bay of Biscay creates a natural amphitheatre of beauty. Settle into your elegant retreat—the Hotel María Cristina stands as an exemplar of Belle Époque grandeur—before embarking on a private boat excursion along the dramatic coastline. As evening descends, join your expert guide for an insider's tour of the Parte Vieja's most innovative pintxos establishments, where each creation showcases the region's dedication to gastronomic excellence. DAY 4 San Sebastián | Culinary HeightsImmerse yourself in San Sebastián's renowned food culture with privileged access to the Basque Culinary Center, where tradition meets innovation. Under the guidance of an accomplished chef, master the artistry behind classic Basque dishes before sampling the region's distinctive txakoli wines. As stars begin to twinkle over La Concha Bay, savour a memorable dinner at one of the city's constellation of Michelin-starred restaurants. DAY 5 San Sebastián | Coastal HeritageVenture beyond city limits to discover the raw beauty of the Basque coast. Explore the enchanting fishing village of Hondarribia, where timber-framed houses tell tales of maritime history. After visiting a traditional farmhouse to sample artisanal cheeses, trek through the verdant paths of Urkiola Natural Park. Return to San Sebastián for a sunset feast of freshly caught seafood at a prestigious harbour-side establishment. DAY 6 La Rioja | Architectural WinesJourney south into La Rioja, where visionary architecture meets venerable winemaking traditions. Begin at the Santiago Calatrava-designed Bodegas Ysios, where the undulating roof mirrors the Sierra de Cantabria mountains beyond. After an intimate tasting session, explore the medieval streets of Haro, the beating heart of Rioja's wine country. Your evening unfolds at the architectural marvel of Hotel Marqués de Riscal, where centuries of winemaking expertise inform every perfectly paired course. DAY 7 La Rioja | Vintage ExcellenceContinue your oenological odyssey at the Frank Gehry-designed Marqués de Riscal, where modern design creates a striking contrast with age-old cellars. Afternoon finds you in medieval Briones, where stone-built mansions guard wine-making secrets. Complete your day with an exclusive dinner featuring seasonal delicacies paired with exceptional vintages. DAY 8 La Rioja | Final Sips of Spanish SplendourConclude your journey among the prestigious vineyards of La Rioja Alta before a farewell lunch in Logroño's historic quarter, where each dish celebrates the region's remarkable culinary heritage. Depart with memories of a land where innovation and tradition blend as smoothly as the finest Reserva. Additional recommended experiencesEnhance your northern Spanish sojourn with carefully curated extensions that reveal the region's diverse character. Consider venturing west to explore Galicia's dramatic coastline and historic Santiago de Compostela, or east into the French Basque Country where Biarritz's elegant promenades and St-Jean-de-Luz's intimate harbour await. For deeper immersion, arrange private sessions with local artists in their studios, join expert-led mushroom foraging expeditions in season, or time your visit to coincide with one of the region's many festivals, from traditional harvest celebrations to contemporary arts events. Adventure seekers might choose to explore the Pyrenees' dramatic peaks, perhaps staying in beautifully converted shepherds' huts, while those seeking maritime pleasures could sail along the Bay of Biscay, discovering hidden coves and fishing villages accessible only by water. Transform Your Spain Dreams into RealityAllow us to craft your bespoke Spain journey. Whether inspired by our curated itinerary or envisioning something entirely your own, we'll shape every moment to reflect your distinctive style and preferences. Personally crafted journey design Distinguished accommodations, thoughtfully selected Exclusive experiences and privileged access Expert local guides and cultural interpreters Private transfers with dedicated arrival service
