Bilbao (Spain) | Bordeaux | Haro | San Sebastian / Donostia (Spain) | Santillana Del Mar | Sarlat-La-Caneda | Toulouse
The following are Signature: Northern Spain & The Vineyards Of Southwest France tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Your expedition begins in the Basque Country's cultural hub of Bilbao. Upon arrival, you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Later, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert and fellow travellers for a welcome presentation that sets the stage for the heritage and history ahead. Step out into the evening air for a short orientation walk through the city's revitalized streets, where the scent of the Nervion River mingles with the buzz of local life. Savour a guided visit and dinner inside the world famous Guggenheim Museum where you start toasting your northern Spanish discovery.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Discover the icon that transformed the art world with a curated guided tour of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. This architectural deep-dive explores Frank Gehry's titanium-clad genius, from the monumental outdoor sculptures to the soaring, light-filled atrium.
Initiate your journey into Basque country with a Welcome Dinner at the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.
Travel into the heart of prehistoric Spain to the UNESCO-listed caves of Castillo and Monedas. Here, you enjoy a private group visit led by a site archaeologist, whose expertise brings the ancient Paleolithic art and prehistoric culture to life in the cool, still air of the caverns. After a local lunch, the landscape shifts as you arrive in the medieval village of Santillana del Mar. Spend the afternoon wandering cobblestone streets lined with golden-hued stone buildings and artisan shops. As the sun sets, settle into your historic parador for dinner, feeling the weight of centuries in this timeless coastal village.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Embark on a profound "Origin of Art" tour through the caves of Puente Viesgo. Led by an archeologist you will explore El Castillo, home to the world's oldest hand stencils and enigmatic red symbols, and Las Monedas, a subterranean cathedral of crystal formations and Ice Age charcoal sketches.
Immerse yourself in a day of architectural wonders, starting in Comillas at El Capricho de Gaudi. Marvel at the vibrant ceramic sunflower tiles and innovative use of light that define this early masterpiece of Catalan Modernism. Following a traditional lunch, continue to the Seminario Pontificio de Comillas, a grand 19th-century neo-Gothic complex that stands as a testament to the town's historic prominence. The red-brick towers and intricate carvings reflect a period of immense architectural ambition. Return to Santillana del Mar for a relaxing evening, where the quiet of the medieval square invites reflection on the day's cultural immersion.
The Seminario Pontificio (or Major Seminary) in Comillas, Spain, is a historic, late-19th-century Neo-Gothic and Mudejar-style building in Cantabria, originally founded in 1890 by Pope Leo XIII to train priests.
Discover the whimsical style at El Capricho de Gaudi, one of the very few buildings designed by the legendary architect outside of Barcelona. This vibrant summer villa is a masterpiece of Orientalist and Neo-Mudejar style.
Depart the coast for the extraordinary Cueva de Altamira, often called the "Sistine Chapel" of prehistoric art. Within the meticulous replica, stand in awe of ancient paintings that remain a marvel of human creativity. After exploring the monumental friezes of Cueva de El Pendo, the landscape transitions into the rolling, vine-covered slopes of La Rioja. Arrive at a storied family estate that has guarded its vineyards since 1879. Step inside the remarkable Eiffel Cellar, designed by Gustave Eiffel, where the scent of aging oak fills the vaulted, historic space. Your day ends in the town of Haro, the heart of Spain's celebrated viticultural region, where the local wine culture is felt in every bustling tavern and sun-drenched plaza.
While the original cave is strictly preserved to protect its fragile environment, an expert-led tour takes you through the Neocave at the Altamira Museum-a world-class, millimetric reconstruction-and the surrounding archaeological landscape.
Explore the grandest stage of prehistoric life at Cueva del Pendo, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cavernous interior and its stunning 25-meter-long Red Frieze.
A private wine tasting and family-style lunch at CVNE (Compania Vinicola del Norte de Espana) is widely considered the "holy grail" of Riojan wine tourism. The whole experience is an immersion into a winemaking dynasty. By dining in one of their historic rooms, you are stepping out of the modern world and into a space where time is measured in decades, not minutes.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Journey deep into human history at the Atapuerca archaeological sites, a UNESCO World Heritage location that has reshaped our understanding of early evolution in Europe. Walk through the excavation areas where some of the continent's oldest hominin remains were discovered. After lunch, the focus shifts to the future of winemaking at a world-renowned estate. Explore the historic bottle cellars before standing in awe of the avant-garde "City of Wine" complex. Designed by Frank Gehry, its shimmering titanium ribbons flow like wine against the Riojan sky, perfectly blending storied tradition with bold, contemporary design.
A visit to the Yacimientos de Atapuerca (Atapuerca Archaeological Sites) near Burgos, Spain, is a guided tour of one of the world's most important UNESCO World Heritage sites for human evolution.
Experience the fusion of tradition and futurism with a sommelier-hosted tasting at Marques de Riscal. Set against the backdrop of Frank Gehry's architectural masterpiece, this elite session offers a deep-dive into the estate's 160-year history of wine making excellence.
Travel to Pamplona, the historic capital of Navarra, globally renowned for its medieval architecture and lively old quarter. Join a guided walking tour to explore the city's main landmarks, feeling the energy of the streets famous for the Running of the Bulls. Savour an authentic pintxos lunch in the heart of the old town before continuing to the elegant seaside city of San Sebastian. Known for its Belle Epoque architecture and golden beaches, the city's deep Basque identity is felt in every plaza. As evening falls, breathe in the salt air of Concha Bay and prepare to dive into the culinary soul of this coastal gem.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Walking the route of the Encierro (Running of the Bulls) in Pamplona is a journey through 875 meters of adrenaline-soaked history.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Start the day on an immersive walking tour with a meaningful twist. Led by a community-based social enterprise initiative, you'll explore the city's culinary highlights while supporting a project that provides meals to those in need. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps browsing the charming coastal boutiques or joining your Expedition Leader for a stroll up Monte Urgull. From the summit, the breathtaking views of the turquoise bay and the city's red roofs provide a stunning backdrop. Conclude your expedition with a celebratory farewell dinner at a local restaurant, sharing memories of the past week.
A foodie walk in San Sebastian is a mission-driven experience where every pintxo you enjoy helps provide a meal for someone in need through their local community enterprise.
Cross into France along the sun-drenched Basque coastline, pausing in the elegant resort town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the surf-swept shores of Biarritz for free time and lunch at your own pace. As the afternoon unfolds, the scene shifts to the grand port city of Bordeaux. Settle in before gathering with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting and included dinner, setting the stage for the days ahead.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Follow your Expedition Leader through the charming streets of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Located on the rugged Basque coast near the Spanish border, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a sophisticated blend of a working fishing port and a chic royal resort.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Follow your Expedition Leader through the charming streets of Biarritz. Biarritz is the sophisticated, salt-crusted crown jewel of the Basque coast. Once the preferred summer playground for European royalty (thanks to Empress Eugenie), it has evolved into a unique hybrid of Napoleon III-era grandeur and California-style surf culture.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Experience the soul of Bordeaux through its community and cuisine. Start with an orientation drive before stopping at Cafe Joyeux, a heart-warming community enterprise that provides training and employment for people with intellectual disabilities. Enjoy a short presentation of the project while sipping coffee and tasting local pastries. Continue your walk through the city with your expedition leader before sitting down for a traditional lunch in town. In the afternoon, the scene shifts to a renowned winery to explore historic cellars and taste emblematic red vintages before an intimate evening at leisure.
Experience the "Pearl of Aquitaine" through a curated journey that bridges three centuries of French genius. From the symmetrical beauty of the Place de la Bourse and its iconic reflecting pool to the historic spires of the Port of the Moon, this tour unveils the city's UNESCO-listed heart.
A pioneering social enterprise, Cafe Joyeux is the first restaurant-cafe chain to specifically employ and train staff with cognitive disabilities, such as Down syndrome and autism.
A visit to the Marche des Capucins-affectionately known by locals as "Les Caps"-is a plunge into the authentic, beating heart of Bordeaux. Located in the vibrant Saint-Michel district, this is the city's largest and oldest covered market.
A visit to Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte in the Pessac-Leognan appellation is the gold standard for what the French call Art de Vivre (the art of living). This Grand Cru Classe estate is a rare hybrid of a high-tech "Bio-precision" winery, an open-air art gallery, and a historic 14th-century manor.
Travel toward the medieval charm of Saint-Emilion to explore its extraordinary monolithic church and silent catacombs. Enjoy a local lunch on the way to your next destination. As you travel, the landscape transforms into the rugged beauty of Les Eyzies, where you delve into the National Museum of Prehistory. Conclude the day in Sarlat-la-Caneda, settling into your hotel for a delicious dinner as the golden stone buildings of the village begin to glow at twilight
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
A visit to the Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion and its subterranean catacombs is a journey into the largest underground sanctuary in Europe. Carved entirely out of a single limestone plateau during the 12th century, this hollowed-out cathedral is a staggering feat of medieval engineering and spiritual devotion.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
A visit to the National Museum of Prehistory (Musee National de Prehistoire) in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac is a journey to the "Capital of Prehistory." Perched against a dramatic limestone cliff in the heart of the Vezere Valley, this museum houses one of the world's most complete collections of Paleolithic artifacts, serving as the essential "instruction manual" for understanding the nearby painted caves.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Today takes you deep underground into some of the region's most extraordinary prehistoric sites. Descend into the cool, silent depths of the Rouffignac Cave, navigating its vast galleries on an electric train to spot prehistoric engravings. The morning continues at the highly restricted Font de Gaume, a rare site where original polychrome paintings still adorn the cave walls. After lunch on your own, return to Sarlat for free time among the timber-framed houses. In the evening, attend a private presentation by your Expedition Expert on the cultural heritage of Lascaux, gaining unique insights before tomorrow's highlight visit. Finish the day with dinner at your hotel.
A visit to the Rouffignac Cave, also known as the "Cave of the Hundred Mammoths," is a surreal journey into one of the largest and most unique subterranean complexes in the Perigord.
It is one of the last few "Sanctuaries" in the world where you can still see original, Paleolithic paintings, and unlike the reconstructions of Lascaux or Altamira, here you are standing in the very same atmosphere, breathing the same air, and seeing the same pigments applied to the stone nearly 17,000 years ago.
The day opens at a local food market, where the scent of truffles and regional cheeses fills the morning air. Next, embark on a guided visit to the International Centre for Cave Art at Lascaux IV. This architectural masterpiece features a flawless, full-scale replica of the famous prehistoric artwork, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of the original cave. The afternoon leads to Castel-Merle for a rare experience: a prehistoric meal and a private tour led by the owner. Watch a live fire-making demonstration and walk the ancient rock shelters before an evening of free exploration.
The day begins with a stroll amongst the quaint market stalls.
visit to Lascaux IV (The International Centre for Cave Art) is a masterpiece of digital and architectural storytelling. Located at the foot of the hill where the original cave was discovered in 1940, this facility is a 1:1 scale, millimetric replica of the entire cave system, designed to protect the original while offering a perfectly immersive experience.
Castel Merle is a remarkable archaeological site. Unlike a single cave or a museum, Castel Merle is a complex of ten distinct rock shelters (abris) that were occupied by both Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons over a period of nearly 30,000 years.
Leave the Dordogne behind as the landscape opens up into a new chapter of prehistoric wonder. Start the day with a guided visit to the picturesque cliffside village of Rocamadour, where sanctuaries seem to cling precariously to the rock face. Next, share a family-style lunch at a local restaurant. Later, visit the Pech Merle cave to witness stunning prehistoric murals that have remained frozen in time for millennia. In the afternoon, arrive in Toulouse, known as 'The Pink City' for its warm, rosy terracotta architecture, as the setting sun casts a vibrant glow over the historic buildings.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Lift Rocamadour offers a unique way to ascend or descend the medieval town and sanctuary. The journey involves a classic 50-meter elevator followed by a funicular ride to the highest viewpoint.
A visit to Rocamadour is a vertical journey through time, faith, and gravity. Clinging to a sheer limestone cliff 150 meters above the Alzou Canyon, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of France's most iconic images.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
A visit to the Pech Merle cave in Cabrerets, France, offers a guided tour through an authentic, prehistoric underground world, featuring over 800 stunning 25,000-year-old paintings and engravings, including the famous "Spotted Horses" and human handprints.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Toulouse, wandering through hidden streets to admire unique architecture and historic landmarks. Head to the Victor Hugo Market to explore the stalls of a quintessentially French market, tasting popular local dishes on site. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure-perhaps strolling along the banks of the Canal du Midi or exploring the city's aerospace heritage. Later, gather with your fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the stories and connections made throughout the Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
This curated walking tour is a sensory immersion into the architecture and flavors of Toulouse. After exploring the Place du Capitole the journey culminates at the iconic Victor Hugo Market. Here, you'll experience a true "market-style" lunch amidst the hustle and bustle of this historic markeplace.
Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the vibrant city of Toulouse, with its wonderful museums, parks and quaint cafes.
Your expedition through Southwest France concludes this morning. Savour a final breakfast as the light glints off the water before your included transfer to the airport where your expedition concludes. Reflect on a week defined by the echoes of prehistoric caves, the refined taste of Bordeaux wines, and the warm hospitality of the Dordogne valley.
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: Northern Spain & The Vineyards Of Southwest France tour:
Bilbao
Bilbao, Spain
Bordeaux, France
C. San AgustÃn, 2
Haro, Spain-26200
Zubieta Kalea, 2, Donostia
San Sebastian, Spain-20007
Plaza Ramon Pelayo
Santillana del Mar, Spain-39330
Sarlat-la-Caneda, France
Toulouse, France
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Northern Spain & The Vineyards Of Southwest France tour:
Max. 22, Avg. 16
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, BilbaoSignature Moment: Caves del Castillo & Monedas Guided Visit, Puente ViesgoYour Foodie Moment: Private Wine Tasting and Lunch at CVNE Winery, HaroYour Foodie Moment: Walking & Food Tour of San Sebastian, San SebastianSignature Moment: Visit Castel-Merle With Prehistoric Lunch, Sarlat-la-CanedaYour Foodie Moment: Guided visit to the Sanctuary of Rocamadour, RocamadourYour Foodie Moment: Toulouse Walking Tour and Lunch at Victor Hugo Market, Toulouse. Arrival and departure transfers. Guided tour of Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Bilbao.Welcome Dinner in Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Bilbao. Visit to Seminario Pontificio (or Major Seminary), Comillas. Visit to Villa El Capricho de Gaudi, Comillas. Altamira Caves Guided Private tour led by an expert, Altamira. Altamira Cueva (Cave) del Pendo Guided Visit, Escobedo. Yacimientos de Atapuerca Visit, Atapuerca. Visit Bodegas Marques de Riscal for a wine tasting hosted by a sommelier, Elciego. Pamplona guided Walk, Pamplona. Curated Panoramic tour of Bordeaux, Bordeaux. Coffee Shop Enterprice visit and coffee, Bordeaux. Visit Bordeaux Area Winery for tasting, Bordeaux. Guide for the Monolithic church and catacombs visit, Saint-Emilion. National Museum of Prehistory Entrance Fee, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil. Visit to Rouffignac Cave, Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac. Visit to Font de Gaume Cave, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil. Morning Walk to walk to Food Market in Sarlat, Sarlat-la-Caneda. Visit International Centre for Cave Art at Lascaux IV, Montignac - Montignac. Elevators to Sanctuary of Rocamadour, Rocamadour. Guided visit to the Sanctuary of Rocamadour, Rocamadour. Visit to Pech Merle, Cabrerets. Discover Toulouse walking tour, Toulouse. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Archaeologist cave tour Discover prehistoric art alongside a site archaeologist during a private cave visit, San Sebastian food tour, Savour Basque flavours on a walking tour supporting the Eat One Feed One social enterprise project, Explore historic Rioja wineries featuring designs by Gustave Eiffel and Frank Gehry, Join the owner of Castle Merle for a prehistoric meal and private exploration of ancient rock shelters, Discover the "Sistine Chapel of Prehistory" on a visit to Lascaux IV exploration with a guided tour of this immersive cave replica, Savour regional flavours during a hosted lunch amidst the vibrant energy of Victor Hugo market in Toulouse, Visit a pioneering community coffee shop Cafe Joyeux that is supporting employment for those with disabilities.
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotel (14 nights)
14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert
All National Geographic Signature group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leaders throughout. The aim of the Expedition Leaders is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private Vehicle, Walking
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.