From Bordeaux to Bilbao, this small group journey follows the wine regions, coastlines and historic towns of southwest France and northern Spain. You’ll walk part of the Camino de Santiago, explore places like Saint-Émilion, Biarritz and San Sebastián, with plenty of time to taste, wander and see more of each stop.
Arcachon: Spend time in Arcachon, a classic seaside town on the Bassin d’Arcachon known for its broad waterfront and oyster culture. Walk the promenade, head out along the jetty or settle in for a plate of local oysters while boats move across the bay and enjoy the town’s beachside atmosphere.
Bay of Biscay: Travel along the Bay of Biscay and follow the Basque coastline into Spain, passing coastal towns and Atlantic views along the route.
Bilbao: Head to La Ribera Market, set beside the estuary in Bilbao’s old town. Browse stalls selling fish, seafood, meat, fruit, vegetables and other Basque staples. Recognised by Guinness Book of Records in 1990 as the most complete municipal food market, it remains one of Bilbao’s best-known food spots.
Camino: Walk part of the Camino del Norte, the coastal branch of the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. On this stretch between Zarautz and Getaria, the path runs through a landscape of cliffs, sea views and vineyards, following a route that has drawn pilgrims across northern Spain for centuries.
Dune de Pilat: Visit the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, rising to around 101 m (331 ft). Climb to the top for views over the Bassin d’Arcachon, the Atlantic coastline and the pine forests of Les Landes, with the Banc d’Arguin and Cap Ferret out in the distance.
Hondarrabia: Visit Hondarribia, a colourful Basque town just across the Spanish border, known for its old quarter, lively streets and strong local character. Explore its historic centre with its painted balconies and traditional houses, then use your free time to stop for Spanish coffee and pastries.
Saint-Émilion: Drive through the Dordogne to Saint-Émilion, a historic wine village surrounded by vineyards. Explore its narrow streets, stone buildings and small squares, browse wine shops, stop at a cafe and take in views over the surrounding vines.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz: Follow the Basque coastline to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, with Atlantic views along the way as you make your way to this fishing town.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz: Taste the original macaron from Maison Adam, the bakery first established in 1660. Try the almond biscuit that has been part of the town’s story for centuries, still made to the same recipe that made it famous.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz: Visit the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, where Louis XIV married Maria Theresa of Spain in 1660. Inside, see the decorated interior, carved galleries and the setting for one of the town’s most important moments.
San Sebastián: Try pintxos in San Sebastián, with small bites served across the old town featuring seafood, cured meats and local produce. Move between bars and sample different specialities, from counter classics to regional favourites.
Visit Guernica, one of the most important symbols of Basque identity. See the Assembly House and the Tree of Guernica, long associated with Basque freedoms and self-government, then explore the town known around the world through Picasso’s Guernica, painted after the bombing of 26 April 1937.
