Jewels of the Green North12 days/11 nights |
| This self-guided tour provides you with the highlights of the northern region known as "Green Spain." It's a taste of four very different and exciting coastal regions. From Basque pride to Celtic traditions, from seafood in Cantabria to bagpipes in Galicia, these regions offer a very different perspective of Spain that will both surprise and amaze you. | ||
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Highlights of the Tour:
| Itinerary at a Glance:
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Days 1-3: Bilbao (2 nights)You'll begin your tour in Bilbao, capital of the Basque region and known for its innovative infrastructure and modernization of an old city. Now a cultural center, Bilbao holds many surprises for visitors, with excellent museums, the largest food market in Spain (some say in Europe), and the siete calles, a great tapa hopping area. Our second day begins with a guided tour in the stunning Guggenheim, an architectural wonder and centerpiece of the city's waterfront. For lunch we recommend the museum's restaurant, which boasts innovative new Basque cuisine, and, if you'd like, we can help you get reservations. We'll also give you lots of suggestions on additional sites and highlights in Bilbao. |
Days 3-4: San Sebastian (1 night)Heading out of Bilbao, your first stop is Gernika, site of the Franco bombings of the Spanish civil war. You'll then continue on to the picturesque fishing villages along the Basque coast and stop to visit Leketio, with its alluring beaches, well-preserved palaces and Belle Epoque feel. We recommend lunch in Leketio. Next you'll head to elegant San Sebastian, once a vacation getaway for wealthy Spaniards and today the site of the famous international film festival that still attracts big stars. In this fashionable city, you'll feel the aristocratic air through its colors and regal flair, which your guide will help you experience while you feast on tapas in the old quarter. |
Days 4-6: Llanes (2 nights)Today we begin our journey west, following the roads of Cantabria and driving through the natural parks like Oyambre into picturesque San Vicente de la Barquera, with exploration in between. Our final destination today is Llanes, in Asturias, ideal in its lovely pastures, views of the snow-capped Picos de Europa and serene beaches. The following day includes a walk along the coast with your guide to enjoy the landscape and learn about Asturias' local customs. |
Days 6-8: Gijón (2 nights) Today you'll make your way along the rocky coast, intimate coves and charming villages of mossy green Asturias. Stops include the fishing village of Llastres and a dinosaur beach and museum that bring to life Spain's most prehistoric inhabitants. The next day, you'll check out the beautiful beach town of Ribadesella, followed by a walk into Gijón via its famous botanical garden. |
Days 8-10: Ribadeo and Melide (1 night in each) Your drive will take you through the picturesque cities of Cudillero, Cabo Vidio, and Playa Catedrales, finally arriving in Ribadeo with time to experience some of the local specialties and traditions. The next day, you'll drive in the direction of Santiago de Compostela, with a stop to see the Roman wall in Lugo, and end our day in the land of the Camino de Santiago. We will sleep in pretty pazo tonight and prepare for a walk along the pilgrims' trail tomorrow. |
Days 10-12: Santiago de Compostela (2 nights) The grand finale of our trip has arrived, with a chance to experience a stretch of the legendary Camino de Sangiago with fellow pilgrims. After your walk you'll head to Santiago to celebrate your successful journey in this ancient city. The following day will include a guided visit of the city, including its famous cathedral and a colorful market. |
What's included:
See terms and conditions | |
"Carlos and Jen, I just wanted to thank you for the most amazing and wonderful trip we could have imagined. Carlos, you worked out all the details so that the trip went smoothly and continued with changes in direction as you adapted to the needs of our group and small surprises along the way. It was just a marvelous experience.It was a hike and a ride (and a run for one of us) never to be forgotten."Â --Ralene, Seattle, USA, Camino de Santiago Tour, September 2006 Read more testimonials | |
| Sign up Fill out a form to let us know the dates you want to do this tour. | Optional services Be sure to check out the other tours, excursions and services that we offer in the area. |







Days 1-3: Bilbao (2 nights)
Days 3-4: San Sebastian (1 night)
Days 4-6: Llanes (2 nights)
Days 6-8: Gijón (2 nights)
Days 10-12: Santiago de Compostela (2 nights)



