Northern Spain’s Artisan Cheese Traditions with Madelyn Varela

Trip Details

Trip Overview

April 25-30, 2026 This immersive journey through northern Spain invites you to explore the rich cultural and culinary landscapes of Cantabria, La Rioja, the Basque Country, and Asturias - regions known not only for their natural beauty but for the...

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Weather & Suggested Packing List

🌦️ Weather Overview (Late April in Northern Spain) Average temperatures: 10–18°C (50–65°F) Climate: Mild spring weather, but can be unpredictable — cool mornings/evenings, possible rain, and sunny afternoons. Layers are key. 🧳 Packing List for Nor...

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Meet your Local Guide

Jorge G Marqués Jorge brings a unique combination of expertise and deep passion for travel to every group he coordinates. Based in Madrid, he will be your on-the-ground coordinator for this cheese journey. He specializes in experiential travel acr...

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Emergency Contact Information

While your guide Jorge will be present to support you throughout the journey and know how to support you in case of emergency, here are more emergency contacts so that you're fully prepared for any situation. In case of any emergency while traveli...

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Free Time in Santander

Most evenings after your day's activities conclude, guests will have some free time to enjoy the evening at their own place. Here are some suggestions for what to do, see and eat in the city of Santander - just 15 minutes from your accommodations....

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Day 1 · Sat, Apr 25

Arrive in Bilbao | Guggenheim Museum & Welcome Dinner

According to your confirmed pick up time and location, you'll be transferred through Northern Spain's lush landscape to the elegant Castilla Termal Solares 4*, a tranquil spa hotel nestled in the Cantabrian countryside. This will be your base from...

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Day 2 · Sun, Apr 26

La Rioja Wine Country

After breakfast, please meet in the lobby of the hotel at 8:25am. Today’s journey takes you into the heart of La Rioja Alavesa, Spain’s most iconic wine region, where architecture, heritage, and viticulture come together in spectacular form. With ...

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Day 3 · Mon, Apr 27

Basque Cheese Producers & Santander

After breakfast, meet in the lobby at 7:45am. Today, set off on a full-day journey through the Basque Country and rural Gipuzkoa to explore Idiazabal cheese country, where world-class art, fine gastronomy, and centuries-old cheesemaking traditions...

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Day 4 · Tue, Apr 28

Cantabrian Flavors: Cheese, Cider & Anchovies

After breakfast, meet in the lobby of the hotel at 8:55am. Today’s full-day excursion provides an authentic taste of Cantabria’s artisanal heritage, taking you deep into the region’s rural heart and along its picturesque coastline. With a private ...

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Day 5 · Wed, Apr 29

Comillas, Cabrales & Farewell to the North

After breakfast, meet in the lobby at 8:55am. On your final full day in northern Spain, set out on a journey through coastal Cantabria and the mountains of Asturias, where art, architecture, and tradition converge in a fitting tribute to the regio...

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Day 6 · Thu, Apr 30

Departure from Bilbao

On your final day, you’ll have a final farewell breakfast with your travel companions, check out of your hotel in Solares and be transferred by private vehicle to Bilbao Airport, a 1-hour drive. Sit back and enjoy the ride through Cantabria’s roll...

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