Backroads
Sparkling Biarritz to Spain's Rioja Wine Region
On a map, there's a line. One side France. The other, Spain. But as you gaze at the resplendent Bay of Biscay, walk the high plains and valleys of the Pyrenees, follow the path of pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, and toast the vibrant colors, light and superb wines of La Rioja, you'll see it's a place all its own.
Vacation Inclusions
- All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
- On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
- Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
- Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
- Park and other entry fees
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
- Select coach transfers
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Vacation Highlights:
- Journey from the dramatic Atlantic Pyrenees in France to the green mountain landscapes of the Basque Country in Spain
- Hike up to breathtaking views of the region's iconic vast beech forests, broad patchwork hills and sheep-dotted pastures
- Walk with travelers from all over the world on part of the famed pilgrimage trail of St. James, the Camino de Santiago
- Savor excellent Basque cuisine created by Michelin-starred chef Francis Paniego and exquisite wines of the Rioja region
Featured Destinations
Bilbao
Bilbao
Bilbao, the capital of Vizcaya Province, lies seven miles from the sea and has a coastline featuring rocks and steep cliffs, creeks and small estuaries; small fishing villages nestle in the inlets below green hills. The port of Bilbao is the largest in Spain and is built against the mountains. The city's fine museums include Fine Arts Museum and Guggenheim Museum. The Guggenheim Bilbao Museum is devoted to American and European art of the 20th century. The Fine Arts Museum specializes in paintings by Spanish masters. Our Lady of Begona Church is a 16th-century church on a hill with a good view of the city and valley. Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art is located in an old convent of Dominican nuns, a 16th-century, L-shaped cloister housing this fine museum with an outstanding exhibit of silversmiths' crafts that is one of the best collections in Spain. The Bullfighting Museum shows interesting bullfighting paraphernalia, such as costumes, photographs of famous toreros and a collection of posters. Visitors can try their gambling luck at Gran Casino Nervion.
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Destination Guide
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Elciego
Elciego
Elciego is a town that dates back to 1067 centered within the La Rioja wine region located in the southern province of Alava, Northern Spain. Famed for its Marques de Riscal Winery, the property includes its own hotel designed by renowned architect, Frank Gehry who, like many of his other works, built the entire structure with titanium adding hints of pink and gold tones that compliments the winery’s color palette. Most tours held at the Marques de Riscal Winery does not feature a visit to the hotel, however visitors are welcomed at the historic establishment of Agroturismo Valdelana which also houses a winery from the 15th century. September is a popular month to visit as the town celebrates the Rioja Wine Festival of San Mateo just outside of Elciego.
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Bidarray
Bidarray
Bidarray is a commune in southwestern France. It was once a former province of Lower Navarre and sits by the river Nive. This town extends to the hilltop surrounded by lush green, remnants of a Roman past, and legends that give this quaint village character. Visitors can discover the legend behind the Bridge on the Nive, marvel at the medieval interiors of the Church of Assumption, unleash the adrenaline river rafting, and relax in heart of the French countryside with a panoramic view of Bidarray.
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St. Jean De Luz, France
St. Jean De Luz, France
A popular seaside resort and active fishing port just above the Spanish border, Saint Jean de Luz is a lively and cosmopolitan town. The lovely medieval town centre has been influenced by Spain and the Moors and has a mix of architecture among the narrow streets. Around the main square are some of the best seafood restaurants in the region, as well as other bars and terraces from which to see and enjoy the regular musical events in the square - including a Basque Choir every Sunday morning (summer months only). The newer, more commercial end of town is littered with chic shops and boutiques and a casino.
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Destination Guide
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Biarritz
Biarritz
Biarritz is a vibrant cosmopolitan town with magnificent beaches, golf courses and numerous sporting facilities, not forgetting the surf.
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Destination Guide
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