Montserrat Abbey | Spain
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FROM: CAD $8,044 pp
Best of Northern Spain From Barca - 13 days map

SMALL GROUP TOUR: From beautiful Barcelona, uncover the cities, coasts and mountains of northern Spain on this 13-day escorted group tour. See the famous Montserrat Monastery, hike in Monte Perdido National Park and visit Zaragoza. Journey through Basque Country to San Sebastian, enjoy wine tasting at a family-run winery in La Rioja and spend a free day exploring Madrid at your leisure. Discover Cuenca and the rock formations of La Serrania National Park, visit the Roman ruins of Segobriga, explore Valencia and Xativa and head up the coast back to Barca.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Prices & Dates
Hotels

Trip Highlights

Montserrat Monastery - Discover this famous mountain and opt to ride the cable car or visit the Benedictine monastery
Zaragoza - Marvel at the mixture of Islamic and Gothic architecture at Aljaferia Palace and enjoy some free time to further explore
La Rioja - Taste the famous family made wine that has been produced here for generations at an included wine tasting
Madrid - Uncover the highlights of the vibrant Spanish capital independently, with an entire free day to explore
La Serrania National Park - Admire strange mushroom-shaped rock formations and look out for vultures and eagles in the sky
Requena - Savour the regional wine that has been produced here since the 7th century BC with an included tasting
Monte Perdido National Park - Hike amongst lush pine forests and rugged cliffs, and soak up views over the Pyrenees
San Sebastian - Roam the streets and iconic promenade of this picturesque beach city and food haven
Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso - Wander around the stunning grounds of this royal palace, known as a 'mini Versailles'
Cuenca - Enjoy a guided walking tour, visit the Cathedral and gaze at the hanging houses of this medieval city
Segobriga - Admire the well-preserved amphitheatre and public baths in this important Roman city
Valencia - Spend three nights in this charming coastal city, enjoy a short guided tour and visit Albufera Natural Park, birthplace of Paella

Included

12 breakfasts
Escorted by an English-speaking guide
Walking tour of Cuenca including entrance to the Cathedral
Visit to the Ruins of the Roman Settlemen
Winery visit in Requena
Xativa Castle tour
Entrance to Aljafería Palace
Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso
Tourist taxes
12 nights in 3-4 star hotels
Transportation in an air-conditioned luxury mini-coach with a local driver
Visit to Ciudad Encanada
Visit to Belmonte & castle
Visit to Monastery of Santa Maria del Puig
Monte Perdido National Park shuttle bus
Winery visit with wine tasting and snacks
20kg luggage - see Trip Notes for details
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

Not Included

International flights and visas
Optional activities & additional attractions unless specified above
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

Day 1

Montserrat Mountain, Lleida & Huesca

Barcelona – Montserrat – Lleida – Huesca. Leaving Barcelona this morning, we journey to the dramatic Montserrat mountain. This unique landscape is home to a Benedictine Monastery and Spain's revered Madonna and Child statue. We enjoy leisure time for lunch, and you can join an optional visit to the monastery or ride the cable car to the top of the mountain for panoramic views over Catalonia.

We continue our journey, making a stop in the quiet town of Lleida, renowned for its Roman heritage. There's free time for you to discover its ancient castle and cathedral independently. As day turns to evening we reach Huesca. The evening is free to wander the hilly town's medieval streets, discovering numerous churches and picturesque facades.

Please note: Pick up for this tour is at 8:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 9:00) - Barcelona Pick Up, Abba Sants Hotel, Barcelona. (If travelling prior to April 2024, you will depart from Hotel Evenia Rocafort, Barcelona).
Overnight: Huesca

Day 2

Monte Perdido National Park & Jaca

Huesca – Monte Perdido National Park – Jaca – Huesca. Today we'll be outdoors and there will be some walking involved, so wear a good pair of shoes! Our first stop is Torla-Ordesa, the gateway to Monte Perdido National Park. Here we take in stunning cliffs, lush oak and pine forests, and stunning 1,700-meter-high views over the Pyrenees.

Journeying through the mountains to Jaca, we discover the only surviving Spanish star-shaped fortress. There is also time for you to savour some of Aragon's regional cuisine before we return to Huesca for the evening.
Overnight: Huesca  |  Breakfast

Day 3

Huesca to Haro

Huesca – Zaragoza – Haro. Arriving in enchanting Zaragoza in the morning, we take an included visit to the 11th-century Aljaferia Palace. After admiring its beautiful porticos, we have some free time to explore. Art lovers can search for Goya paintings, history enthusiasts can discover Roman remains, and foodies can savour chireta, a delicious local dish.

Our next stop is Tarazona, known for its stunning medieval Mudejar style architecture, blending Muslim and Christian elements. Moving on to the village of Haro, the evening is free to enjoy a glass or two of local La Rioja red wine.
Overnight: Haro  |  Breakfast

Day 4

The Basque Country

Haro – San Sebastian – Pamplona – Haro. Today we explore the Basque Country, a region of unique traditions, stunning shores, and delectable cuisine. We begin in San Sebastian, a food lover's paradise that boasts the highest Michelin star density per capita. Enjoy lunch and stroll along the picturesque La Concha beach.

We then journey inland to Pamplona, known controversially for ‘the Running of the Bulls'. There is free time for you to stroll along the impressive walls of the town fortress before we return to Haro for the evening.
Overnight: Haro  |  Breakfast

Day 5

Cathedrals, castles & wine tasting

Haro – La Rioja – Haro. Today we embark on a scenic morning drive through La Rioja's gentle hills to Santo Domingo de la Calzada where there is free time to wander its medieval streets or explore the cathedral. Then we travel to a family run winery to savour the local flavours of its wine and snacks with an included wine tasting.

In the afternoon we visit San Vicente de la Sonsierra. We cross the medieval Ebro River bridge for stunning valley views from the castle on the other side. We return to Haro in the afternoon, with plenty of time to relax in the hotel, or head out for a final dinner in northern Spain.
Overnight: Haro  |  Breakfast

Day 6

Journey to Madrid

Haro – Burgos – Real Sitio de San Ildefonso – Madrid. Say goodbye to La Rioja and journey to the region of Castile and Leon today. Our first stop is in Burgos, where we have a few hours to explore. You'll want to check out the cathedral, one of Spain's most spectacular.

After lunch in Aranda de Duero, a haven for wine and food enthusiasts, we head south to the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, often called Spain's 'mini-Versailles.' We explore its opulent rooms and stunning grounds with an included ticket. We reach Madrid in the evening, where the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Madrid  |  Breakfast

Day 7

Madrid free time

Today is completely free for you to explore the Spanish capital. There are many ways to spend your day; for sightseeing, we recommend the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus, taking in highlights such as the Royal Palace and the main square, Plaza Mayor. You could also take in the home of one of sport's greatest teams, Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu football stadium. Art lovers can explore the Prado Museum, or you can simply unwind in a tapas restaurant with a jug of sangria - the choice is yours!

Please note: In Madrid, some members of your group may be ending their tour, and others may join. You may also meet a new guide for the next part of your trip, and change vehicle.
Overnight: Madrid  |  Breakfast

Day 8

Cuenca & La Serrania National Park

Madrid – Cuenca – La Serrania National Park – Cuenca. Leaving Madrid, we journey through the heart of Old Spain, Castilla-La Mancha. This region boasts serene landscapes, diverse nature, and renowned Manchego cheese.

Our first destination is Villarejo de Salvanes, a small town with an intriguing castle and pre-Roman archaeological sites. Continuing to Cuenca, we enjoy a guided walking tour, including a visit to the 12th-Century Gothic cathedral.

From Cuenca, we venture into La Serrania National Park, a vast 73,000-hectare wildlife sanctuary. We take in the incredible and bizarre mushroom-shaped rock formations of the 'Enchanted City', and keep our eyes peeled for resident wildlife, including wild boar, golden eagles and majestic griffon vultures. Enjoy the panoramic vistas from the Mirador de Una viewpoint before we return to Cuenca, our base for two nights. The evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Cuenca  |  Breakfast

Day 9

Roman ruins & Castillo de Belmonte

Cuenca – Segobriga – Belmonte – Cuenca. We start today with an included visit to the Roman settlement of Segobriga, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Spanish Meseta. After exploring the remarkably preserved amphitheatre, public baths, and temples, we head south to Belmonte. There's free time for a tapas lunch before our included visit to the remarkable 15th-Century Castillo de Belmonte, known for its unique triangular courtyard and six-pointed star shape.

Back in Cuenca, there's free time to explore at leisure. You may wish to visit the Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum, home to incredible dinosaur fossils and models.
Overnight: Cuenca  |  Breakfast

Day 10

Wine Tasting & Valencia

Cuenca – Alcala del Jucar – Valencia. From Cuenca, we journey to Alcala del Jucar, a captivating town nestled within natural caves and perched between the castle and the Jucar River. There's free time to explore the town and find somewhere for lunch.

Next, we visit a winery in Requena for included wine tasting. This region has produced some of Spain's finest wine as far back as the 7th Century BC. After sampling some of the regional produce, we head to Valencia. This coastal gem is known as the birthplace of paella, boasts a vibrant nightlife, and is home to stunning architecture.
Overnight: Valencia  |  Breakfast

Day 11

Valencia sightseeing & Albufera Natural Park

Valencia - Albufera Natural Park - Valencia. This morning, we explore the Monastery of Santa Maria in El Puig on an included visit. This structure has a diverse history with cloisters and defensive elements - it has served as a temple, a school, and even a prison

Next, we visit Albufera Natural Park, home to the rice paddies where paella was born. You can enjoy an optional boat ride or spend our time here observing the unique flora and fauna. There's also time for lunch independently. Returning to Valencia, we enjoy a short orientation tour of the city and the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Valencia  |  Breakfast

Day 12

Xativa & Cullera

Valencia – Xativa – Cullera – Valencia. Today we journey to Xativa, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Fountains'. Situated on the slopes of Monte Vernissa, it is best known as the historic home of the notorious noble family of Borgia. We enjoy an included visit to Xativa Castle and a short tour of the town, as well as free time to further explore independently.

Next, we head to the charming coastal town of Cullera. Our time here is free to relax on the beach, or enjoy panoramic views from the 13th-Century castle. In the afternoon, we return to Valencia. The rest of the day is free, or you can join an optional walking tour of the city, coupled with a delectable tapas experience.
Overnight: Valencia  |  Breakfast

Day 13

Coastal Journey to Barcelona

Valencia – Peniscola – Sitges – Barcelona. In the morning we depart Valencia for the coastal town of Peniscola, known as the 'City in the Sea'. There's an optional visit to the Papa Lunas Castle, built by the Knights Templar in the late 1200s. Perched at the peninsula's highest point, the castle offers panoramic coastal views. Alternatively, don your swimsuit for a refreshing swim in the tranquil sea.

Continuing along the Mediterranean coast, our next stop is Sitges, a lively cultural hub boasting modernist architecture and intriguing museums. After a short visit, we complete our journey to Barcelona, where our tour ends.

Please note: This tour finishes at 18:00 - Barcelona Drop Off, Abba Sants Hotel, Barcelona.
Breakfast

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 1 person. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single' price applies for solo travellers who require their own room.

Guaranteed Departure

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Hotel Pedro I de Aragon, Huesca

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Located in the centre of Huesca, the Hotel Pedro I de Aragon is the perfect gateway to the beauty of northern Spain. Ideally situated near Huesca's historic centre and within easy reach of attractions such as the Cathedral de Huesca and the picturesque city gardens, this hotel offers a prime location for exploring both the city and the region. Rooms are well-appointed and each is thoughtfully designed for comfort and relaxation. You'll enjoy modern amenities and a peaceful feel. The hotel also features a restaurant serving delicious Spanish cuisine, a bar for relaxing, and an outdoor pool. With its convenient location and comfortable amenities, Hotel Pedro I de Aragon is the perfect base for a memorable stay in Huesca.

Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos, Haro

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Haro, the Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos offers a charming escape in the heart of Spain's renowned La Rioja wine region. Situated within a historic 14th-century monastery, this hotel seamlessly blends history with modern comfort. Featuring a selection of inviting rooms, each uniquely designed to provide a calm and relaxing feel. Many rooms feature rustic architectural elements that pay homage to the building's heritage. The hotel also boasts a delightful restaurant offering local cuisine, a bar for relaxation, and event facilities for special occasions. With its central location in Haro, Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos is the perfect base for wine enthusiasts and travellers seeking a delightful Spanish getaway.

Hotel Exe Cuenca, Cuenca

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

The Hotel Exe Cuenca, in the picturesque city of Cuenca, offers a peaceful blend of comfort and convenience. Located in one of the quietest areas on the edge of the city, this contemporary hotel boasts easy access to the city centre and a quiet and noise-free environment. Rooms are stylish and well-appointed, each offering modern amenities and a relaxed feel. You'll enjoy a comfortable stay with beautiful views of the surrounding area. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant serving delectable Spanish cuisine, a fully stocked bar, and a fitness centre. The Hotel Exe Cuenca is the ideal base for leisure travellers seeking an unforgettable stay in this charming Spanish city.

Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime, Valencia

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

The Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime offers an ideal location for exploring the city's vibrant culture. Situated a short walk from the historic Old Town (Ciutat Vella) and Cathedral of Valencia and opposite the iconic Turia Gardens, guests can easily explore the city's attractions and landmarks. The hotel boasts a variety of well-designed rooms, providing a comfortable retreat with modern amenities and tasteful decoration. Guests can unwind by enjoying a drink at the bar, taking a dip in the outdoor pool, or by making use of a modern fitness centre. The Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime ensures a convenient and enjoyable stay in Valencia.

At a Glance

Range
Starts
Barcelona
Ends
Barcelona
Departs
Mondays
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 16
Hotel Rating
3-4 star hotels
Tour Guide
Yes - escorted by a tour guide
Meals
Breakfast: 12
Countries
Minimum Age
16 yrs, accompanied by an adult
Arr. Transfer
No
Dep. Transfer
No
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