Impressions of Green Spain

Lush green meadows, pristine coastlines, exceptional cuisine and a rich culture, preserved within its historic remnants: Northern Spain is a feast for all the senses, with landscapes of dramatic tall mountains and green valleys, in contrast to its fine beaches and calm blue seas. We explore the highlights of this region, from the vibrant city of Bilbao and the famous contemporary art museum, the Guggenheim to the historical significance and natural beauty of Santander and Santillana del Mar's authentic charm. Take time to relax, stroll along the beautiful beaches and taste traditional cuisine on this special escape to a different side of Spain.Includes
Includes- Return coach travel & ferry crossings- First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France- 6 nights at Hotel Olimpo, Isla (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast- Excursions to Santander, Bilbao & Santillana del Mar- Guided city tour of Santander- Admission to the Guggenheim MusuemOptional Excursion to Santona & Laredo (£28pp)

Itinerary
ItineraryDay 1Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.Day 2Continue to the Hotel Olimpo, IslaDay 3 - Santander Guided TourWe head to Santander, a historic city of Romanesque architecture surrounded by soaring green mountains and white beaches. Visit the elegantly designed Gothic Cathedral or the stunning Magdalena Peninsula, where the remains of the Roman settlement can be found. We are treated to a guided tour to discover more about the history and modern-day traditions.Day 4 - Bilbao & Guggenheim MuseumThis morning, we explore Bilbao, known for its vibrant local culture. On the right side of the Nervion River is the Ribera Market, one of the biggest covered food markets in the world, where you'll find a variety of fresh, local produce while the banks along the river provide a tranquil spot for a stroll. This impressive city has undergone a spectacular transformation in the last few years and we discover more about this on our guided walk through the Old Quarter. Bilbao is known for its spectacular offering of delicious cuisine, and we take time for some lunch here before moving on to the building that has, for many years, attracted visitors from all over the world, the Guggenheim Museum.Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the exterior of the building itself is striking, an abstract structure with chrome walls, reflecting the contemporary artwork housed inside. We wander the collection of paintings and sculptures and later return to the hotel for our evening meal.Day 5 - Day at leisureDay 6 - Optional Excursion to Santona & LaredoToday we take the ferry from Santona across to Laredo and discover the gems of this historic port town, from the historic quarter to its quaint marina. The Old Quarter lies in the centre, its narrow streets winding between original defensive walls, built to defend the town from pirate attacks. We take in our surroundings and stop for lunch. There are plenty of eateries to choose from and beautiful beaches for a spot of relaxation.Day 7 - Santillana del MarThis morning, we uncover the beauty of Santillana del Mar, a perfectly preserved village of Renaissance buildings, with flower-filled balconies set alongside tanned stone. Here we find the impressive Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which dates to the 12th century and is a beauty to behold, displaying intricate stone carvings. There's also the Old Town, with its cobbled streets and Gothic houses, built by noblemen in the 15th Century. We have time to stop for lunch and here is the perfect opportunity to try some authentic Spanish cuisine, such as traditional Tapas and Quesada Pasiega for dessert.In the afternoon, we visit El Capricho, a villa in Comillas designed by Antoni Gaudi. Constructed in the 1800s, the building reflects Gaudi's Orientalist period and signs of early Modernisme, which influenced Europe's avant-garde movement.Day 8Travel to our overnight hotel in France.Day 9Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.Hotel
Hotel Olimpo, IslaJG4 ratingLocated in the coastal village of Isla in Cantabria, the Hotel Olimpo is surrounded by a tranquil sea and relaxing greenery. Amenities include a café, restaurant, boutique and fitness centre. Bedrooms are stylish, many with incredible views of the sea and furnished for your comfort with ensuite bathrooms, TV and tea and coffee-making facilities.Hotel RatingJG4 ratingAccommodation in our JG4 category is of an even higher standard, typically offering a wide range of facilities and services. Bedrooms are designed to make your stay the most comfortable possible and the staff provide a service that reflects the detail and quality. You can also expect higher standards of food and beverages.