An exclusive wine & food journey with

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Rioja & Basque

May 22 - 29, 2025

12-24

Guests

8 / 7

Days / Nights

16

Meals

Northern Spain is awash with gourmet cuisine, award-winning wines, stunning architecture, and modern works of art. In La Rioja, discover one of Spain’s premier winemaking regions. Learn about the production of the indigenous Tempranillo grape from some of the region’s top winemakers and experts. Join us as we discover the old and new of Basque Country. From medieval villages to trendy San Sebastián, our epicurean experts will showcase this eclectic region where food and wine reign supreme.

Taste

The difference between Rioja Alavesa, Alta, and Baja wines through guided tastings at local bodegas

Explore

Family-run wineries in La Rioja, the fishing village of Getaria on the Basque coast, and San Sebastián's iconic La Concha beach

Discover

The art and culture of pintxos as we hop between the bustling bars on Logroño's bustling Calle del Laurel

Day 1

Logroño

Land in the Bilbao Airport where an Experi driver will be waiting to greet you and transport you south to Logroño, the capital of the La Rioja region. After checking in and getting settled, our introduction to the local culture begins during a Welcome Dinner paired with regional wines.

Dinner

Overnight at Áurea Palacio de Correos

Day 2

Haro

This morning, we dive into La Rioja, one of Spain’s most celebrated wine regions. Our journey begins in Haro, the heart of Rioja Alta and the region's wine capital. Here, we’ll visit the renowned Bodegas Rioja Alta, where we’ll savor a wine-paired lunch. As evening falls, we’ll gather for an authentic pintxos crawl along Calle del Laurel, a lively street with over 50 tiny bars offering a variety of delicious bites and local flavors. Led by our Travel Director, experience the local way of life as we hop from bar to bar, sampling small plates and pintxos while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic Rioja tradition.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight at Áurea Palacio de Correos

Day 3

Vivanco

Today we start with a visit to Dinastía Vivanco, one of the world’s top wine museums. Set against the backdrop of the Cantabria mountains and surrounded by a sea of vineyards, the museum provides comprehensive displays about the history and evolution of wine, winemaking techniques, wine research, and wine’s cultural and artistic legacy. We will have lunch on site followed by a visit to our friends Eva and Oscar, in Alegre Valgañón, to sample their wines and discover their story. At the end of the afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel and enjoy a free evening.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight at Áurea Palacio de Correos

Day 4

Rioja Alavesa

Today we’ll set out on a full-day wine tour of Rioja Alavesa, whose high altitude and rich soil create one of the best wine producing areas of Spain. Enjoy insider access at Bodegas Amaren, Ysios, and Bodegas Lecea where a traditional wine paired lunch will be served before the visit of the ancient cellars. Later, we’ll head back to our hotel to freshen up before heading out for a free evening to explore more pintxos bars or grab a quick bite and enjoy the local scene.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight at Áurea Palacio de Correos

Day 5

Exceptional Rioja

After breakfast this morning we will head just across the Ebro River to nearby Bodegas Arizcuren for a tour and tasting. We will then take a short drive and enjoy a special visit to Marqués de Murrieta, one of the best wineries in the world according to the Great Wine Capitals Global Network, sitting down to a wine-paired lunch to end our visit in style. After returning to our hotel to relax and freshen up, we head out this evening in the heart of Logroño to savor a delicious dinner and an impressive list of local wines.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight at Áurea Palacio de Correos

Day 6

Getaria

This morning, after check out, we will make our way to the elegant seaside town of San Sebastián— or Donostia, as the city is known in Basque. En route, we’ll stop in Getaria, a scenic fishing village and one of three Txakoli wine-producing regions in the Basque Country where we’ll sip Txakoli wine and enjoy fresh fish for lunch. We will have free time to stroll around the village before continuing our journey towards San Sebastián.

Once settled at our centrally located hotel, we'll join together for an optional walk through town, discovering beaches, promenades, and Belle Époque architecture. Dinner tonight is free to explore the many options in one of the world’s top gastronomic destinations. Our Travel Director is happy to provide recommendations in advance.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight at LaSala Plaza Hotel 

Day 7

Old Town, San Sebastián

Spend the morning in San Sebastián at your leisure. We suggest that you start the day wandering through La Bretxa, a traditional food market in the Old Town. It’s the perfect place to taste the region's seasonal offerings— from fresh fruits and vegetables to jamón and sheep’s milk cheese. Enjoy the boutique stores and artisan shops lining the streets and the beautiful promenades or walk Playa de la Concha, one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. This evening, we’ll gather for a memorable Farewell Dinner at a renowned restaurant featuring one of the world’s best wine selections.

Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight at LaSala Plaza Hotel 

Day 8

San Sebastián

Savor a final breakfast in Basque Country before checking out. Take a private transfer to the Bilbao Airport for departure flights home. Not quite ready to depart? Extend your stay with us in San Sebastián! Ondo ibili!

Breakfast

Extend your trip

+ 4 extra days in San Sebastián

Day 8

San Sebastián

Today, discover the culinary scene of San Sebastian with an expert local guide. Savor expertly crafted pintxos at some of the city’s legendary pintxo bars and sip some local wines. The afternoon and evening will be free to explore independently. Consider taking the funicular up Monte Igueldo on the western end of La Concha Bay for spectacular views from one of San Sebastián's most beloved lookout points. Alternatively, visit the charming Santa Clara Island, located in the middle of the bay and just a short ferry ride away. For those interested in culture, the San Telmo Museum, set in a 16th-century Dominican convent, offers a fascinating glimpse into Basque heritage. For dinner, perhaps you would like to consider dining at one of San Sebastián's Michelin-star restaurants.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight at LaSala Plaza Hotel 

Day 9

Pasaia & Hondarribia

After breakfast, set out on a journey along the Basque coast, making a stop in Pasaia, a historic fishing town with strong maritime traditions. Visit the Albaola Maritime Culture Factory, where skilled craftsmen use traditional hand tools to reconstruct a historic Basque whaling boat.

Continue east to Hondarribia, a postcard-perfect coastal village near the French border. We'll begin in the lively Marina District, with colorful fishing boats lining the harbor, then make our way up to the walled old town, a beautifully preserved medieval quarter featuring cobbled streets, ornate churches, shady plazas, and elegant manor houses.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a typical Basque restaurant, savoring local specialties before returning to San Sebastián for a relaxed evening.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight at LaSala Plaza Hotel 

Day 10

Cider Farm & Farewell Dinner

Take a short drive into the scenic Basque countryside this morning and head to a traditional cider farm. Stroll through the apple orchard, tour the production area, and explore the cellar where the cider is aged. After a tasting of the freshly made cider, enjoy a light lunch featuring local specialties. Return to San Sebastián afterward where you’ll have time to pack, explore the city's charming shops for last-minute souvenirs, and relax before savoring a Farewell Dinner at a renowned local restaurant.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight at LaSala Plaza Hotel 

Day 11

Bilbao

After breakfast, take a private transfer to the Bilbao Airport for flights home. Agur!

Breakfast

Accommodations

The Fine Print

Questions? Get in touch.


Details

Dates

Program: May 22 - 29, 2025
Extension: May 29 - June 1, 2025

Flight Information

If you would like assistance with reserving your flights, please contact us at guestservices@experi.com, and we can refer you to an air ticket travel agency.

Activity Level

This trip has been designed to include daily exploratory walks that range from one to three hours. Each day, whether touring a city or winery, guests should be prepared to be on their feet for multiple continuous hours. Guests should feel comfortable strolling along cobbled surfaces, walking up and down stairs, and sauntering down uneven nature paths. Europe tends to have Old World infrastructure (narrow cobblestone streets, lack of elevators, etc.), which can leave some areas inaccessible. Typically, our more invigorating walks are included as optional activities.  If your mobility is limited in any way, or if you have questions, please contact our Guest Services team at guestservices@experi.com.

Note: Group maximum is based on double occupancy. The itinerary is subject to change or substitution at any time. You can learn more at experi.com/terms.


Included

  • Seven nights accommodations, including all taxes and fees
  • Meals as listed on the itinerary: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners, plus wine pairings with most major meals
  • All private excursions described in the itinerary along with services of local speakers, guides, entrance fees, and transportation
  • Gratuities for travel director, local guides, drivers, porters, and included meals
  • Full guiding services of a dedicated Travel Director
  • Private airport transfers with porterage on the first and last scheduled days of the program

Not Included

  • Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
  • Air and land transportation to/from host cities
  • All types of personal insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Additional alcoholic beverages beyond what has been arranged by Experi to pair with the included major meals

Rates*

Double Occupancy:

Classic: $7,295
Junior Suite: $8,095
Classic - Upgrade to Classic sea view room in San Sebastian: $7,595 SOLD OUT
Junior Suite - Upgrade to Junior Suite with sea view room in San Sebastian: $8,595 SOLD OUT

Single Occupancy:

Classic: $9,395
Junior Suite: $10,695
Classic - Upgrade to Classic sea view room in San Sebastian: $9,895 SOLD OUT
Junior Suite - Upgrade to Junior Suite with sea view room in San Sebastian: $11,695 SOLD OUT

Extension Rates*

Double Occupancy:

Classic: $3,195

Classic - Upgrade to Classic sea view room: $3,595

Junior Suite: $3,795

Junior Suite - Upgrade to Junior Suite with sea view room: $4,095

Single Occupancy:

Classic: $4,095

Classic - Upgrade to Classic sea view room: $4,795

Junior Suite: $5,095

Junior Suite - Upgrade to Junior Suite with sea view room: $5,695

*Rates are per person in US Dollars.


Deposits

A $1,500 deposit per person reserves your space for this program. Final payments are due no later than 90 days prior to departure.

Travel Insurance

Learn more about travel insurance and how it can help you prepare for the unexpected at https://experi.com/travelinsurance/

Travel Terms & Conditions

View our complete terms and conditions at https://experi.com/terms.

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