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Northern Spain & The Pyrenees

17 fascinating days

Sip bubbly where it was invented!

From the rich, rolling vineyards of the Rioja region, follow Spain’s Costa Verde to elegant San Sebastian. Explore the mighty French Pyrenees
and stay in the walled city of Carcassonne. Ride high in mountain cable cars and wine and dine as the lucky locals do!

Your tour highlights

  • Barcelona
  • Figueres
  • Carcassonne
  • St Hilaire
  • Tarbes
  • The Pyrenees
  • Lourdes
  • Madrid
  • San Sebastian
  • Bilbao
  • Costa Verde
  • Santander
  • Rioja region
  • Potes

Tour itinerary

Day
1
Madrid

Your tour commences this evening in Spain’s cosmopolitan capital city, Madrid. Join us tonight for a welcome drink before dinner in your hotel. This is an ideal chance to meet, and get to know, your Tour Manager and fellow travellers.

Day
2
Burgos El Cid and the Rioja Region

Travelling north, we soon reach Burgos, the historical capital of the Castile and León region, which was one of the four ancient kingdoms of Spain. This stunning medieval city is a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture. We have included a self-guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed cathedral, where you will find the tomb of the famous, 11th century warrior, El Cid. Later, we enter the famous Rioja region of Spain where we stay three nights in the charming town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada. Set on the banks of the River Oja, this town sits astride the Pilgrims Route to Santiago de Compostela – the Way of St James. The network of medieval streets within the old city walls are declared as a National Historic Site. The rich soil of the Rioja has also enabled the town to become famous for its gastronomy and local wines.

Day
3
Ancient Pamplona and Olite

Today we visit the ancient town of Pamplona, in the Navarre Province. Whilst Pamplona is famous for its annual ‘Sanfermines festival of
the bulls’, it actually has a rich and proud history dating back 2000 years. After time exploring the traditional historical centre with a local guide, make sure you relax in a restaurant or café and sample the local Navarre cuisine with food drawn from the surrounding, fertile, Arga plain. This afternoon we will stop in the small town of Olite to visit the magnificent Palacio Real de Olite – the Royal Palace of the kings of Navarre, one of the ancient kingdoms of Spain. Your evening is at leisure in Santo Domingo de la Calzada.

Day
4
Haro, Laguardia and Marques de Riscal vineyard

This morning we visit Haro, one of the Rioja’s most famous wine producing towns with its beautiful square and wonderful baroque church. After a scenic drive through the famous Rioja wine region, lunchtime is at leisure in the fortified hill top town of Laguardia in Rioja Alavesa, a walled medieval town with spectacular views across the Sierra de Cantabria. On arrival we have included a visit to the Church of Santa Maria De Los Reyes, famous for its late-14th century Gothic doorway, adorned with beautiful sculptures. This afternoon we will make a special stop at the amboyant Marques de Riscal vineyard. On approach the winery is a sensational sight with a design looking more like a giant chocolate box covered with huge wild colourful ribbons. Here we enjoy a vineyard tour and tasting.

Day
5
Elegant Vitoria and coastal Santander

First stop of the day will be in Vitoria, the capital city of the Basque Country. A local guide joins us for a walking tour of this elegant city of parks, gardens and a beautiful main square. This is also the site of the battle in which the Duke of Wellington defeated Napoleon in the Peninsular War. In the afternoon we reach Santander, capital of the Cantabria region, on the Atlantic Coast. Famous for its wide sandy El Sardinero beach and glamorous hotels, we stay here the next three nights.

Day
6
Picos de Europa, a Picos lunch in Potes and Santillana de Mar

There is nothing like a day in the mountains! Today we drive through the dramatic La Hermida Gorge and venture into the Picos de Europa, northern Spain’s highest mountains. At Fuente De we will enjoy a spectacular cable car ride which will take you high up into the jagged mountains, offering terrific views across this remote national park. In the small mountain town of Potes, we enjoy a typical Picos lunch of ‘Fabada’ – the local mountain stew with beans and sausages, and a glass of Orujo schnapps. Later we will enjoy a relaxing stop nearby in one of Spain’s most beautiful towns – Santillana de Mar – with its private noble palaces and romanesque church. The town is also famous for its local handicraft and local produce.

Day
7
Santander

Today is at leisure to go shopping and explore the exciting city centre. Maybe take a walk to the Magdalena Palace on the headland with its lush green gardens and sweeping views across the beach and estuary.

Day
8
Castro Urdiales, Bilbao and San Sebastian

Following the Costa Verde or ‘Green Coast’ we enjoy a morning stop at Castro Urdiales with its colourful fishing fleet and Knights Templar castle. Later we continue to Bilbao, one of Spain’s largest cities, where we are joined by a local guide for an orientation tour. Enjoy ‘My Time’ for lunch in the charming Casco Viejo – the old quarter, or you may choose to visit the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, with its extraordinary swirling, groundbreaking design. Leaving Bilbao behind, we will cross the lush green hills of the Basque country to reach the chic coastal city of San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most elegant cities. We will spend three nights here.

Day
9
San Sebastián

This morning an expert local guide will join us to bring San Sebastián to life. We begin up at the famous Monte Igueldo to take in the amazing views across the horse shoe bay, and the city ringed by mountains. Following that our guide will take us on a guided walk through the narrow streets and old port, before introducing us to the city’s famous tapas bars. San Sebastián is noted as the gourmet capital of Europe so it is a perfect time to really focus on enjoying some Pintxo, the local name for tapas, washed down by a glass of local
white wine called Taxkoli. The rest of the day is free to explore and shop in this lively, cosmopolitan city.

Day
10
Seaside Saint Jean De Luz and Biarritz

Crossing the border into France, we pass through the small town of Ciboure, birthplace of the famous composer Ravel. Our first stop of the day will be in the delightful seaside town of Saint Jean De Luz where Louis 14th, the ‘Sun King’, married Maria Theresa of Spain in the 17th century. Later we will continue to the elegant seaside resort of Biarritz, on the Bay of Biscay. Patronised by European royalty since the 1800s Biarritz is still a very chic and thriving beach resort, with a big surfing influence. Biarritz, with its distinctly French feel, is the
perfect place for an afternoon stroll along the seaside promenade. Tonight we enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.

Day
11
City of Pau, Lourdes and Tarbes

Crossing into Aquitaine in France we reach the city of Pau. Time to take a stroll along the Boulevard des Pyrenees or visit the Château de Pau, birthplace of France’s King Henry IV. On a clear day the views of the Pyrenees are excellent. In the afternoon we will also make a stop in the pilgrimage city of Lourdes where in 1858 a vision of the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared before Bernadette Soubirous in the Grotto of Massabielle. Later we reach Tarbes where we will stay the next two nights

Day
12
Hautes-Pyrenees and Pic du Midi cable car

Today we drive into the heart of the Hautes-Pyrenees and classic Tour de France country. At 2115 metres high, the Col du Tourmalet is the highest paved mountain pass in the French Pyrenees, and one of the most famous climbs on the Tour de France bicycle route. As we climb up higher and higher we see bike signs showing the distance to the top, and the gradient over the next kilometre! Often passing struggling cyclists, we will make a stop at the large statue of the famous rider Octave Lapize, gasping for air as he struggles to make the climb. In La Mongie we will board a large cable car which will take us up to the summit of the Pic Du Midi de Bigorre. At 2877 metres or nearly 10,000 feet the views are stupendous. Because of the reliable, clear, blue skies they built a massive white observatory up here, and
it is like a scene from a science fiction movie. Here there is also an observatory museum, restaurants and deckchairs to sit in and relax and enjoy the panoramic views – one way down onto the broad French plains and the other along the massive Pyrenees into Spain.
Memorable!

Day
13
Mirepoix and Abbey of St Hilaire in Limoux

A leisurely start today as we head across the vine covered hills to enjoy lunchtime in the perfectly preserved time capsule of Mirepoix. Without a doubt this is one of the most beautiful medieval town squares in Europe, with its colourfully painted, half-timbered houses that
date back to between the 13th and 15th centuries. Sitting atop centuries old wooden rafters carved at the ends with monsters, animals and gargoyles, these rows of shuttered houses provide shady covered walkways for cafés and shops. We are now in the ‘Pays Cathare’, or Cathar country, in the lovely Languedoc Roussillon region. Just south of Carcassonne near Limoux we will make a special visit to the Abbey of St Hilaire, a jewel of Romanesque architecture. Originally dating back possibly 1300 years, the more recently added Abbey church and 14th century cloisters are a delight. The Benedictine monks of the Abbey are also credited with inventing the sparkling wine
known as Blanquette de Limoux, a full century before their counterparts created ‘bubbly’ in Champagne!
Our stay for the next three nights is in the UNESCO World Heritage Listed, walled city of Carcassonne.

Day
14
Carcassonne

Dating back to Roman times, the existing 13th century fortress city of Carcassonne is an extraordinary timepiece. This morning we are joined by a local guide as we explore the ramparts and old town of Carcassonne. The medieval castle, with its gigantic double walled fortifications and 53 watchtowers, is the 2nd most visited site in France outside of Paris. We have also included entrance into the château
of the Counts of Carcassonne. The rest of the day is completely free to wander amongst the cafés, shops and boutiques within this
exceptional town.

Day
15
Minerve, Le Somail and Canal du Midi

A leisurely start as we crisscross the Canal du Midi and then head into the Languedoc hills, to the dramatic gorge and perched, stone
village of Minerve. In 1210, during the Cathar Crusade, Simon de Montfort destroyed this village stronghold and burned alive 140 ‘heretics’. Today Minerve boasts a small, sleepy, 12th century church surrounded by cobblestoned streets and narrow alleys, craft shops and restaurants. Perched by the ravine, the town is delightful and the scenery dramatic. Make sure you walk down to the Cassiere River and through the cavernous tunnel which drills right under and through the hillside. Later, we descend through the vineyards of the Minervois region to stop and explore the picturesque hamlet of Le Somail, sitting astride the Canal du Midi. Here we enjoy lunch on the leafy terrace of an Auberge, beside the humped back bridge that crosses the canal. Delightful!

Day
16
Figueres and Barcelona

Heading into Spain we reach the Girona province where we will enjoy a morning stop in Figueres. This afternoon we reach the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Barcelona. On arrival we will enjoy a panoramic drive past many of its famous sights, including Gaudi’s incredible
Sagrada Familia Basilica. Time to stroll amongst the shops of the tree lined La Rambla, the city’s shaded central avenue, and stop in one of the café filled squares. Make sure you visit the Placa Gala i Salvador Dali to see the Dali statues. Tonight we will enjoy a farewell dinner in
a local restaurant.

Day
17
Barcelona

Tour ends after breakfast.

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Tour pricing:

from $10,282

per person twin/double share*

Twin-share / solo traveller pricing:
28 May 2025 - 13 Jun 2025
NZD$10,282 / NZD$12,702
03 Sep 2025 - 19 Sep 2025
NZD$11,382 / NZD$14,462
17 Sep 2025 - 03 Oct 2025
NZD$10,986 / NZD$13,847

To secure your place now:

Phone: 03 364 3400 or 0800 747 737
Email: [email protected]

Contact Us for details

Tour Inclusions:

  • Travel in a first-class air-conditioned touring coach
  • A complimentary glass of wine, beer or soft drink with all included dinners
  • 26 meals including breakfast daily (B), 2 lunches (L) ‘Fabada’ mountain lunch in Potes and beside the Canal du Midi, and 8 dinners
    (D)
  • Welcome drink on Day 1
  • Hotel porterage of 1 bag per person (where available)
  • 16 nights specially selected hotel accommodation
  • Free WiFi at most hotels (where available)
  • Fully escorted by our experienced Tour Manager
  • Personal audio system whilst on tour (where available)
  • ALL tips for your Tour Manager, Driver and Local Guides
  • Local guides as described in the itinerary
  • Hand Selected Albatross Experiences including cable car rides at the Picos de Europa and Pic du Midi
  • ALL excursions, scenic drives, sightseeing and entrances as described

Not included:

Conditions:

There are a number of beautiful towns and sites we visit which require exploring on foot. We include 2 cable car rides up mountains. Whenever you are at even a moderate altitude breathing becomes a little more laboured when you exert yourself. Having said that, neither summit we visit is very high, and there is no need to do anything but take in the views. So as long as you take things easy and go at a more leisurely pace (and with Albatross we have time!) you will be ne.
We had a fabulous trip away. Insight and Avalon were just wonderful, couldn’t fault them at all. Thank you so much for all your input and help.
Europe in Winter, Nikki & Steve
Everything you organised worked really well. The timings and explanations on arrival at places was brilliant. The hotels were all handily located to centre of old towns. The 2 Intrepid Trips provided extra understanding of the areas as did the 3 day Hurtigruten cruise.
Scandinavia, Bronwyn & Gordon
The "Sea Cloud" experience was above expectation and more! All your plans worked perfectly and we enjoyed the Somewhere Boutique Hotel at Voulagemeni. Absolutely no problem with the flights. Our accommodation was more than adequate, food excellent and the service 5+ star. We would strongly recommend this 'once in a lifetime' experience.
Adriatic, Paul & Ann
Overall its was an absolutely amazing experience, thank you for all clear information you had given us, really helpful to figure out where is our hotel and how to move from one place to another. Thank you so much for organizing this trip and doing such a good job.
Europe, Ai Ngo and Adrian
We really enjoyed the cruise and this was certainly one of the highlights of the trip. The Azamara cruise was ideal being a smaller boat (and numbers of people) but still provided great service and entertainment. The cruise we did from Athens to Venice was perfect with a destination each day to visit and a great variety of places. I would certainly recommend this cruise company and this particular voyage option.
Europe, Rob & Nikki
We’ve had a fabulous time in Portugal, outstanding guide, great food and wine and the National Geographic tour was superb. What a wonderful country, lovely people and great sights.
Portugal, David & Jill
We had a fantastic day at Plitvice today - very wet and overcast but absolutely stunning and loved every minute of our 12kms walking and photographing!! Loving our hotel here too ... another perfect one thank you!
Croatia, David & Joss
Sandra and I are back at home now after a couple of great months away.  The whole trip was great, so thanks for your help with the bookings etc. No issues at all. We very much enjoyed the Rhine cruise with Viking. We couldn’t fault their service and effort, and are happy to recommend them to others.  
Europe, Murray & Sandra
The trip was fantastic thanks very much for all your input.  Everything worked seamlessly with the flights, accommodation, and car rentals that you booked for us.  The places you booked for us were all in a good location.   The cycle trip through Burgundy was also definitely a highlight. It was truly a trip of a lifetime with everything that we managed to squeeze in, and having a lot of it organised for us was a real treat.
Europe, Mike & Nicky
Our trip went very well. We loved Ireland with Back Roads, excellent guide and good group. We think of three things, its green, narrow roads and old stone fences! Very interesting history. Hurtigruten had ungraded us to Cabin 601, right at the front with three windows, nice and spacious so very enjoyable. We had rougher seas around the Hebredies and Orkneys but all good.
UK & Ireland, Barbara
Back safe and sound after a wonderful cruise and Greek Island stay. Barcelona amazing and our little hotel was perfect. So handy to everything. The Viking cruise was pure luxury . Food, cabin décor entertainment , just perfect. My favourite places visited were Sicily, all the Croatian coast, towns and villages. Our Greek island stay very good with nice family hotel. Not so keen on the ferry. Like being in a plane. Very quick! Business was great and it would be hard to fly any other way now. Anyway Ian thank you so much for organising a great holiday for us. Very much appreciated. I haven’t completely ruled out travelling again!!
Mediterranean, Lois
Thank you Peter for once again, your meticulous planning for us. The trains worked admirably and we had plenty of time for connections. It is sometime since we have travelled in Europe but we have had a fabulous time despite only three sunny days in UK and Europe. Free use of public transport in Basel and Geneva great. Oyster card worked well in London. Lauterbrunnen was Swiss fairytale. A three day pass meant we did heaps and the weather cleared on our last day so we enjoyed Jungfrau plus views of The Eiger. Lots of Indian tourists/ has featured in a Bollywood movie. Weather didn’t clear in Zermatt/ so didn’t see Matterhorn. Left 42 degrees in Dubai. Sunday breakfast up the Burj. Thanks Peter you are an excellent travel agent.
Holland & Switzerland, Alison
A big thank you for organising bookings for us. Everything went according to plan. Managed to catch everything, nothing delayed , except Easyjet which you kind of expect.
Europe, Lesley
We had an absolutely fabulous holiday.  I adored Switzerland, the people, the scenery, just everything.  Every day was better than the day before, couldn't fault anything. The hotels and transport were spot on.  Simon skied 5 days and I found plenty to do.  It was easy meeting people and exploring by myself. Thank you so much for all your organising.  This trip has given me so much confidence to explore other European countries and winter climates.
Switzerland, Lynne