ONE WAY TOUR BARCELONA TO SAN SEBASTIAN

ONE WAY TOUR BARCELONA TO SAN SEBASTIAN

Embark on a private trip from Barcelona to San Sebastian, traveling through fascinating landscapes and discovering the historical and cultural richness of northeastern Spain. Along the way, we’ll visit a medieval monastery declared a World Heritage Site, a fairy-tale-like castle of kings, and La Rioja, the birthplace of some of the world’s best wines. This tour is not just a transfer, but an enriching experience, where each stop provides a unique story before reaching the elegant Basque coast.

First stop: Poblet Monastery

Our first stop takes us to the Monastery of Santa Maria de Poblet, a jewel of Cistercian art declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991. Founded in 1151 by Cistercian monks, Poblet became one of the most influential spiritual and political hubs of the Crown of Aragon and was the burial place of several Aragonese monarchs. Its importance lies in its monumentality and its continuity as a functioning monastery, as the Cistercian monks still live inside, preserving the essence of its medieval origin.

This impressive complex is surrounded by an imposing defensive wall, which gives it the appearance of a fortress rather than a monastery. As we enter its interior, we will be amazed by its medieval cloisters, the solemn abbey church and the Chapter House, where the monks used to meet to make important decisions. In the royal pantheon, rest the remains of kings such as Pedro IV of Aragon and Juan I, whose sarcophagi decorated with Gothic sculptures bear witness to the splendor of the Crown of Aragon.

Poblet is not only a monastery, but a center of spirituality, art and power, which transports us to a time when faith and politics were deeply intertwined. A place where history comes to life within its centuries-old walls.

Second stop: Olite Castle

We leave Poblet behind to enter Navarre and visit the Olite Castle-Palace, one of the most impressive medieval constructions in Spain. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, this castle was the residence of the monarchs of the Kingdom of Navarre and a reflection of the splendor of the Navarrese court. It was Charles III “the Noble” who carried out the largest expansion of this palace, turning it into one of the most sophisticated and luxurious fortresses in Europe at the time.

The Olite Castle seems straight out of a fairy tale, with its impressive combination of crenellated towers, elegant hanging gardens, labyrinthine corridors and patios that evoke the refinement of the medieval court. As we walk through its halls, we come across remains of gilded mirrors, large fireplaces carved in stone and frescoes that decorated the royal chambers, allowing us to imagine life in the kingdom’s golden age.

From its watchtowers, we can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the vineyards and fields surrounding the town of Olite. This enclave is also full of legends, such as that of the whispering chamber, where monarchs could speak in low voices and be heard at the other end of the room, or the stories about the lavish banquets and knightly tournaments that were held inside.

This stop is a journey through time, where the history, architecture and majesty of the Navarrese monarchy envelop us in a unique atmosphere.

Third stop: La Rioja, cradle of the most prestigious wines in Spain

After immersing ourselves in medieval history, it is time to change scenery and enter the heart of La Rioja, one of the most renowned wine regions in the world. With its landscape of hills covered with vineyards, this land has been cultivated for centuries, producing some of the best wines in Spain with a designation of origin.

Our visit takes us to a traditional Rioja winery, where we will learn in depth about the wine production process, from the grape harvest to its aging in oak barrels. We will learn about the importance of climate and soil in the quality of the wine, as well as the different grape varieties that give rise to the famous red and white Riojas.

The experience culminates with a wine tasting, where we will be able to taste different varieties accompanied by local appetizers, such as aged cheeses, Iberian sausages and artisan bread. Each glass will allow us to appreciate the nuances and aromas that make Rioja wines some of the most appreciated internationally.

In addition, we will have time to tour the vineyards and capture the essence of this region, which has turned the winemaking tradition into an authentic way of life.

Final destination: San Sebastián, the jewel of the Cantabrian Sea

After a journey full of history, architecture and gastronomy, we arrive in San Sebastián (Donostia), one of the most elegant and charming cities in the Basque Country. Famous for its gastronomy, its coastal landscapes and its sophisticated atmosphere, this city offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.

During your stay, we recommend you stroll along the emblematic Playa de La Concha, explore the Old Town and enjoy its famous pintxos taverns, where Basque gastronomy reaches its maximum expression. To get an unrivalled panoramic view of the city and the bay, there is nothing better than climbing Monte Igueldo, where the Cantabrian Sea and the architecture of San Sebastián merge in a perfect postcard.

Includes:

• Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Accompanying driver/guide throughout the tour.
• Stops in Poblet, Olite, and La Rioja, with free time for exploration.
• Wine tasting at a La Rioja winery.
• Assistance during the trip.

Does not include

• Food and drinks during the tour.
• Entrance fees to attractions not specified
• Tips and personal expenses.

Maximum capacity: 15 people.
Meeting point: Pick up at the hotel.
It is essential to have received confirmation of the reservation.

CANCELLATION CONDITIONS

One-day tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours before.