Fully escorted from through Rioja & Basque region in Northern Spain by Food I Am—your culinary and cultural specialists
Our meticulously crafted itinerary reveals the very best of the Basque Country, one of the world’s great culinary destinations. From traditional to experimental cuisine, Basque gastronomy offers a remarkable diversity of flavours and experiences.
From lively pintxos bars to rustic seaside restaurants, private lunches in vineyards and behind-the-scenes experiences with emerging Basque chefs, you’ll discover why this region is considered a global centre of culinary excellence. San Sebastián boasts more Michelin stars per capita than any other city in the world, and we celebrate this extraordinary food culture with a special Michelin-starred dining experience.
Our journey also introduces the traditions that define Basque food and lifestyle. Experience a lively Basque cider house lunch, where rustic cuisine and centuries-old cider traditions come together. Visit the charming village of Espelette, famous for its distinctive Basque piment, and meet a local producer to learn about this celebrated ingredient.
The beautiful seaside city of San Sebastián, the stunning vineyards of Laguardia in Rioja, the fishing village of Getaria, industrial Bilbao, and the picturesque harbour of Pasajes de San Juan provide a rich cultural backdrop throughout our journey.
Along the way we savour tastings with artisan cheese producers, visit an anchovy producer preserving the treasures of the Cantabrian Sea, sample the distinctive Basque wine Txakoli, enjoy mouth watering pintxos bar delicacies, and tour the renowned vineyards of Rioja, including private tastings.
Each evening you’ll relax in charming boutique hotels and carefully selected accommodations, with time to enjoy the beauty of the Basque coast, perhaps a stroll along La Concha Beach or time exploring the elegant streets of San Sebastián.
Without doubt, you will fall in love with these remarkable Spanish provinces, just as I did.
Un cordial saludo (Warm regards),
Tania Sibrey
Creator & Global Food Explorer – Food I Am Travel
FITNESS LEVEL
Generally, any reasonably fit person should be able to participate and fully enjoy all that the tours have to offer. You should be comfortable walking at a leisurely pace for up to two hours around towns and countryside, including on uneven ground such as cobblestones, stairs and through historical sites. Your tour may include some optional walks (typically 1-2 hours). You may opt out of any activity.
You need to be able to:
Any health issues, physical or mental or specific dietary allergies must be made known to Culinary Curious Travel Pty Ltd verbally and on the booking form so that Culinary Curious Travel Pty Ltd can access and if possible, assist and accommodate.
MINIMUM NUMBERS
FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS AVAILABLE HERE
Embark on a wine tour in idyllic Rioja, where every sip reveals tradition and innovation. Visit renowned and boutique wineries to savour Rioja's finest vintages, guided by passionate winemakers. Enjoy an exclusive lunch at a private vineyard, pairing regional dishes with estate wines. It's a journey through Rioja's soul, celebrating its terroir.
Enjoy a private guided tour of the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the striking titanium masterpiece designed by Frank O. Gehry. Celebrated for its bold architecture and remarkable contemporary art collection, the museum has played a pivotal role in transforming Bilbao into one of Europe’s leading cultural destinations.
A full-blown foodie adventure awaits today as we explore the spectacular Basque coastline.
Travel to the charming seaside town of Getaria, famous for its outstanding grilled fish restaurants and the crisp local white wine, Txakoli. Along the way, Food I Am has uncovered a collection of exceptional artisanal producers, and today we enjoy a series of special visits and tastings.
The charming fishing village of Pasajes de San Pedro, lined with colourful 18th and 19th-century houses along the waterfront, this picturesque harbour feels wonderfully unchanged by time. Here we enjoy a memorable seafood lunch at a much-loved local restaurant. Founded in 1884, this historic family-owned Basque seafood restaurant is now run by the women of the Cámara family. There is no menu, only beautifully prepared fish and seafood showcasing the freshest catch of the day, served in authentically charming surroundings.
Food I Am has arranged exclusive access to one of San Sebastián’s celebrated gastronomic societies—private culinary clubs that are a cherished part of Basque culture and rarely open to visitors. We will begin with an informal Jamon & olive tasting, two fundamental aspects of the world of the Spanish "aperitivo".
In this special setting, our talented local chef will guide you through a hands-on cooking experience, preparing classic Basque dishes using superb local ingredients. Afterwards, gather around the table to enjoy the feast you have created together, accompanied by excellent regional wines.
The picturesque fishing town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Once a major Atlantic fishing port, the town still retains its maritime spirit. We stroll through its elegant streets and visit the lively Les Halles Market Saint-Jean-de-Luz, where stalls overflow with seasonal produce, seafood and regional delicacies. Here we sample the region’s famous Gâteau Basque, Foie gras and other local specialties.
Instantly recognisable by the vivid red peppers drying on the façades of its whitewashed houses. Visiting a local producer, we learn about the celebrated Piment d’Espelette, one of the Basque region’s most iconic ingredients.
Visit an authentic sagardotegi (Basque cider house), where food, drink and centuries-old traditions come together. After a short walk through the orchard, we learn about the local apple varieties and the traditional cider-making process that has been central to Basque life for generations.
Inside the historic cider house, long communal tables and enormous wooden barrels set the scene for a lively and rustic dining experience. When the cry of “Txotx!” rings out, the barrel tap is opened and guests line up to taste the natural cider as it flows directly from the kupelas (barrels).
Paired with cider, lunch is a generous and convivial feast celebrating local flavours and traditions, shared with laughter, stories and plenty of toasts.
A fine dining experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant, celebrating the essence of Basque cuisine.
Here, the chef pays homage to seasonal ingredients, trusted local producers, and the spirit of the market kitchen. Menus are guided by what the surrounding land and sea provide, ensuring the finest quality and freshness in every dish.
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