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Signature: Northern Spain & The Vineyards Of Southwest France

G Adventures
  • Length

    15 Days

  • Quality
    This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities.

  • Starts in

    Bilbao (Spain)

  • Ends in

    Toulouse

  • Available Tour Start Dates

    MAY 22, 2027 to OCT 16, 2027 These are the tour start dates for instances of this tour that were available the last time G Adventures sent us such information. There may be other departures for this tour that are not available (i.e. sold out or cancelled).

  • Activity Level

    Moderate This activity level includes tours that involve walking, as well as possibilities such as light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking. Select a tour and view its itinerary for specifics.

  • Style

    Fully-Guided

  • Guaranteed Date(s)
    Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).

    Yes

  • Special Interest(s)

    National Geographic
    Exceptional exploration led by renowned experts, offering rare, private access to the world's most storied sites - all defined by an unparalleled level of service and comfort.
    , Small Group
    Group trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.

From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$14,499.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!

Overview

Spanning two extraordinary nations, this expedition traces the ancient and the refined from Northern Spain to Southwest France. Savour the culinary soul of the Basque Coast, the celebrated vintages of La Rioja and Bordeaux, and the breathtaking cave art of Cantabria and the Dordogne - connecting you to the communities and stories that define both regions

Visited During Tour

Bilbao (Spain) | Bordeaux | Haro | San Sebastian / Donostia (Spain) | Santillana Del Mar | Sarlat-La-Caneda | Toulouse

Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices

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.

Pricing Type: Double Occupancy
Pricing is per person, based on two people per reservation
Start Date  End Date  Bonus Offers From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price available on this tour date. Price is for the tour only, unless noted otherwise. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare, travel insurance, and more, are additional.
Guaranteed?
Yes means that that the vendor guarantees that tour date will occur. No means that the vendor does not guarantee the tour will occur on that date, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on that date in order to confirm it. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).
Saturday May 22, 2027 Saturday Jun 5, 2027 G Adventures Sale
Exclusive Rates on all G Adventures!

Exclusive Rates on all G Adventures!

Book any G Adventures tour with us and you'll get the best deal possible!

Contact us for pricing and availability. Excludes tours under $250 per person.
Available for new bookings made starting 10/23/20. Subject to expire without advanced notice.

Bonus Offers are not combinable, unless noted otherwise. Pricing may already reflect the application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors.

G Adventures Sale
No Booking Fees!

No Booking Fees!

We do not charge booking fees on any G Adventures vacations.

You're sure to enjoy an affordable G Adventures tour package when booking with us!

Contact us for pricing and availability.
Available for new bookings made starting 10/23/20. Subject to expire without advanced notice.

Bonus Offers are not combinable, unless noted otherwise. Pricing may already reflect the application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors.

$14,499.00
Contact Us for
a Special Price!
Yes
(Departure #GPEESBFNS270522-O1)
Saturday Aug 21, 2027 Saturday Sep 4, 2027 G Adventures Sale
Exclusive Rates on all G Adventures!

Exclusive Rates on all G Adventures!

Book any G Adventures tour with us and you'll get the best deal possible!

Contact us for pricing and availability. Excludes tours under $250 per person.
Available for new bookings made starting 10/23/20. Subject to expire without advanced notice.

Bonus Offers are not combinable, unless noted otherwise. Pricing may already reflect the application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors.

G Adventures Sale
No Booking Fees!

No Booking Fees!

We do not charge booking fees on any G Adventures vacations.

You're sure to enjoy an affordable G Adventures tour package when booking with us!

Contact us for pricing and availability.
Available for new bookings made starting 10/23/20. Subject to expire without advanced notice.

Bonus Offers are not combinable, unless noted otherwise. Pricing may already reflect the application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors.

$14,499.00
Contact Us for
a Special Price!
Yes
(Departure #GPEESBFNS270821-O1)
Saturday Oct 2, 2027 Saturday Oct 16, 2027 G Adventures Sale
Exclusive Rates on all G Adventures!

Exclusive Rates on all G Adventures!

Book any G Adventures tour with us and you'll get the best deal possible!

Contact us for pricing and availability. Excludes tours under $250 per person.
Available for new bookings made starting 10/23/20. Subject to expire without advanced notice.

Bonus Offers are not combinable, unless noted otherwise. Pricing may already reflect the application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors.

G Adventures Sale
No Booking Fees!

No Booking Fees!

We do not charge booking fees on any G Adventures vacations.

You're sure to enjoy an affordable G Adventures tour package when booking with us!

Contact us for pricing and availability.
Available for new bookings made starting 10/23/20. Subject to expire without advanced notice.

Bonus Offers are not combinable, unless noted otherwise. Pricing may already reflect the application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors.

$14,499.00
Contact Us for
a Special Price!
Yes
(Departure #GPEESBFNS271002-O1)
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code ESBFNS-11389

Signature: Northern Spain & The Vineyards Of Southwest France

G Adventures Tour Code ESBFNS-11389

Map of Signature: Northern Spain & The Vineyards Of Southwest France from G Adventures
  • Day
    1

    Bilbao

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Arrival Transfer
      Bilbao 0.5h - 0.5h 10km

      You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.

      Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
      Bilbao

      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.

      Guided Tour of Guggenheim Museum
      Bilbao Evening 1km

      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.

      Welcome Dinner in Guggenheim Museum
      Bilbao 1.5h - 1.5h

      Initiate your journey into Basque country with a Welcome Dinner at the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.

    • Meals Included:
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Hotel Carlton Bilbao
  • Day
    2

    Bilbao/Santillana del Mar

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Private Vehicle
      Bilbao - Santillana del Mar 2h - 2h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

      Caves del Castillo & Monedas Guided Visit
      Puente Viesgo 4h - 4h 2km

      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.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Parador de Santillana del Mar
  • Day
    3

    Santillana del Mar

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Visit to Seminario Pontificio
      Comillas 1h - 1h

      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.

      Visit to Villa El Capricho de Gaudí
      Comillas 1h - 1h

      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.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Parador de Santillana del Mar
  • Day
    4

    Santillana del Mar/Haro

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Altamira Caves Expert Led Tour
      Altamira 1h - 1h

      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.

      Cueva del Pendo Guided Visit
      Escobedo 1h - 1h

      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.

      Private Wine Tasting and Lunch at CVNE Winery
      Haro 2.5h

      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.

      Private Vehicle
      Santillana del Mar - Haro 2.25h - 2.5h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Eurostars Los Agustinos
  • Day
    5

    Haro

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Yacimientos de Atapuerca Visit
      Atapuerca 2h - 2h

      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.

      Wine Tasting at Bodegas Marqués de Riscal
      Elciego 1.5h - 1.5h

      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.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Eurostars Los Agustinos
  • Day
    6

    Haro/San Sebastian

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Private Vehicle
      Haro - Pamplona 1.5h - 1.5h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

      Pamplona Guided Tour
      Pamplona 2h - 2h

      Walking the route of the Encierro (Running of the Bulls) in Pamplona is a journey through 875 meters of adrenaline-soaked history.

      Private Vehicle
      Pamplona - San Sebastian 1.5h - 1.5h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Accommodations: Hotel De Londres y de Inglaterra
  • Day
    7

    San Sebastian

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Walking & Food Tour of San Sebastián
      San Sebastian 3h - 3h

      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.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Hotel De Londres y de Inglaterra
  • Day
    8

    San Sebastian/Bordeaux

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Private Vehicle
      San Sebastian - Saint-Jean-de-Luz 1h - 1h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

      Walking Tour Saint-Jean-de-Luz
      Saint-Jean-de-Luz 0.5h - 1h

      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.

      Private Vehicle
      Saint-Jean-de-Luz - Biarritz 0.5h - 1h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

      Walking Tour of Biarritz
      Biarritz 1.5h - 2h

      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.

      Private Vehicle
      Biarritz - Bordeaux 2.5h - 2.5h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Hotel Burdigala Bordeaux
  • Day
    9

    Bordeaux

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Curated Walking Tour of Bordeaux
      Bordeaux 2h - 2h

      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.

      Community Enterprise Coffee Shop Visit
      Bordeaux 0.5h - 0.5h

      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.

      Optional Walk to Marche des Capucins
      Bordeaux 0.5h - 1h

      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.

      Wine Chateau Visit and Tasting
      Bordeaux 1.5h - 1.5h

      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.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Accommodations: Hotel Burdigala Bordeaux
  • Day
    10

    Bordeaux/Sarlat-la-Caneda

    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

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Private Vehicle
      Bordeaux - Saint-Emilion 1h - 1h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

      Guided Monolithic Church and Catacombs Visit
      Saint-Emilion

      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.

      Private Vehicle
      Saint-Emilion - Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil 2h - 2h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

      National Museum of Prehistory
      Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil 1.5h - 1.5h

      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.

      Private Vehicle
      Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil - Sarlat-la-Caneda 0.5h - 1h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Accommodations: Plaza Madeleine
  • Day
    11

    Sarlat-la-Caneda

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Visit to Rouffignac Cave
      Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac 1.25h - 1.25h

      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.

      Visit to Font de Gaume Cave
      Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil 1h - 1h

      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.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Plaza Madeleine
  • Day
    12

    Sarlat-la-Caneda

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Walk to Place de la Liberté Food Market
      Sarlat-la-Caneda 0.5h - 1h

      The day begins with a stroll amongst the quaint market stalls.

      Visit International Centre for Cave Art at Lascaux IV
      Montignac 1h - 1h

      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.

      Visit Castel-Merle With Prehistoric Lunch
      Sarlat-la-Caneda 2h - 2h

      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.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Accommodations: Plaza Madeleine
  • Day
    13

    Sarlat-la-Caneda/Toulouse

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Private Vehicle
      Sarlat-la-Caneda - Rocamadour 2h - 2h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

      Elevators to Sanctuary of Rocamadour
      Rocamadour 0.25h - 0.5h

      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.

      Guided visit to the Sanctuary of Rocamadour
      Rocamadour 1h - 1.5h

      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.

      Private Vehicle
      Rocamadour - Cabrerets 1.5h - 1.5h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

      Visit to Pech Merle Cave
      Cabrerets 1.5h - 1.5h

      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.

      Private Vehicle
      Cabrerets - Toulouse 2h - 2h

      Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Accommodations: Hotel La Cour des Consuls Toulouse
  • Day
    14

    Toulouse

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Toulouse Walking Tour and Lunch at Victor Hugo Market
      Toulouse 3h - 3h

      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.

      Free Time
      Toulouse

      Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the vibrant city of Toulouse, with its wonderful museums, parks and quaint cafes.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day
    15

    Toulouse

    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.

      Exclusive Inclusions:

      Departure Transfer
      Toulouse

      You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.

    • Meals Included:
    • Breakfast
Accommodations

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:

More Details

G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Northern Spain & The Vineyards Of Southwest France tour:

Group Size

Max. 22, Avg. 16

What's Included

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.

Highlights

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.

Message from G Adventures About Travel Insurance

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.

Accommodation Summary

Hotel (14 nights)

Meals Included

14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners

Group Leader

National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert

What is the group leader like?

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.

International Flights

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.

Transportation

Private Vehicle, Walking

Minimum Age

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.

Checklist

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

Service Level

Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.

Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.