The North Trail, Self-drive

The northern regions of Spain are often less visited by tourists and mostly unknown to foreign visitors. However, the north of Spain boasts some of the most fascinating places in the country: from amazing mountainous landscapes to charming beaches. Here you’ll find friendly people, top-notch gastronomy and expansive nature reserves. This sevent-day tour takes you to some of the finest places in Spain for an incredible northern adventure.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Bilbao: Discover this famous Basque city and see the famous Guggenheim Museum and other sites and attractions

Logroño: Explore the capital of La Rioja and get to know this important wine-producing area

Burgos: Admire the imposing Gothic cathedral and the magnificent Miraflores Carthusian Monastery

Santander: Without a doubt, one of the most elegant and beautiful cities on the northern coast of Spain

Day 1: ARRIVAL BILBAO

Collect your car upon arrival at the airport. Explore Bilbao. Although the capital of the autonomous region of Euskadi – also known as the Basque Country – is Vitoria, the port city of Bilbao is, in fact, the largest of all Basque cities. The renewal of this industrial city has been continuous since the opening of the Guggenheim Museum in 1997, with various projects designed by famous architects, including a new tram system, a subway system designed by Sir Norman Foster, a pedestrian bridge, the Zubizuri bridge by Santiago Calatrava, a jagged glass-fronted public health building, and the reconversion following the indications of well-known designer Philippe Starck of a disused warehouse turned into a public multifunction building, the Alhóndiga. 

Overnight in Bilbao.

Day 2: BILBAO - SAN SEBASTIÁN - LOGROÑO (265km - 3hrs)

After breakfast at the hotel, hop into your car and drive to San Sebastian. Continue to the seaside cosmopolitan city of San Sebastian and explore this fabulous city. Enjoy a stroll down the promenade at La Concha beach to the sculpture named ‘El Peine del Viento’ from renowned artist Eduardo Chillida. ake the funicular up to the top of Igueldo hill for a panoramic view over the city (not included) and try the famous Basque “pintxos” (tapas/snacks) in one of the many bars in the old town. In the afternoon, continue to Pamplona, where you will spend the night. 

Overnight in Logroño.

Day 3: LOGROÑO

After breakfast at the hotel, step out into the streets of Logroño and go discover its monumental legacy by losing yourself through its charming old town. This city that embraces the banks of the river Ebro has historically been a stop-by location, being at the crossroads of many important routes. While you’re at it, head out to explore the gorgeous wine country of La Rioja. Drive up to the hilltop town of Laguardia and visit one of its famous bodegas, some of which boast spectacular architecture, around Elciego or Haro. 

Overnight in Logroño.

Day 4: LOGROÑO - BURGOS (135km – 1.5hrs)

After breakfast at your hotel, depart towards Burgos. Learn about the city’s fascinating history as you stroll through the winding streets and alleys of the old quarter, which lies in the shadow of a magnificent hilltop castle. Dedicate some time to admiring its stunning Gothic cathedral, a Unesco-listed World Heritage Site. Make your way to the city’s eastern outskirts and pay a visit to the Miraflores Charterhouse, a wonderfully-preserved Gothic monastery belonging to the Carthusian order, which hosts a priceless collection of religious artifacts.  

Overnight in Burgos.

Day 5: BURGOS - SANTANDER (185km - 2.10hrs)

Eat up your breakfast at the hotel to replenish your energy for a drive back to Santander. Santander is, without a doubt, one of the most elegant and beautiful cities on the northern coast of Spain. Both the sea and the mountains are continually present in this city, captivating you with its aristocratic atmosphere, 19th-century buildings, charming outdoor terraces and spectacular bay – considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world! There are several beaches and harbours on the northern side of the city and a charming old quarter. In the 19th century, the city used to be a renowned tourist resort for Spanish politicians, aristocrats and other members of the upper class. The city still contains wonderful palaces and promenades, bay-type architecture with white buildings, old cafés and a famous casino. 

Overnight in Santander.

Day 6: SANTANDER - BILBAO (100km - 1.15hrs)

Enjoy your breakfast and before departing to Bilbao stroll around Santander. There are several beaches and harbours on the northern side of the city and a charming old quarter. In the 19th century, the city used to be a renowned tourist resort for Spanish politicians, aristocrats and other members of the upper class. The city still contains wonderful palaces and promenades, bay-type architecture with white buildings, old cafés and a famous casino. 

Overnight in Bilbao.

Day 7: DEPARTURE BILBAO

Bid farewell to Bilbao after breakfast at the hotel and drive back to airport to drop off the car. You'll be told the return procedure and exact designated area by a Rent a Car Company when you pick up the car on arrival day. Catch your departure flight back home. 

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Spain. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent in summer can be very useful during your stay.