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A Taste of Galicia with Lenore Nolan-Ryan

Sep 20 - 26, 2027


A Taste of Galicia
with
Lenore Nolan-Ryan

September 20-26, 2027
6 Nights | 7 days

Now Booking - Limited Spaces Available

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While most travelers crowd the streets of Barcelona and Madrid, Galicia remains one of Spain's best-kept secrets — a lush, Atlantic-facing corner of the country that's still refreshingly undiscovered. Green hillsides, dramatic coastlines, and a culinary tradition that rivals anywhere in Europe await those willing to venture beyond the well-worn path.

Your journey through Galicia is a celebration of history, Atlantic landscapes, and one of Spain's most celebrated culinary traditions. Wander the enchanting streets of Santiago de Compostela, where the magnificent Cathedral and UNESCO-listed Old Town reveal centuries of pilgrimage, before enjoying exceptional dining that showcases the region's creative, seafood-centered cuisine.

Dive deeper into Galicia's rich food culture with exclusive experiences alongside a renowned local chef, visits to bustling local markets, sampling fresh seafood, artisan cheese and wine tastings, and encounters with passionate local producers.

Continue along the picturesque Rías Baixas, joining local shellfish gatherers and discovering elegant Albariño wines in celebrated wineries. From Cambados to Vigo, every stop reveals Galicia's intimate connection to the Atlantic.

The journey concludes in the spectacular landscapes of the Ribeira Sacra, where terraced vineyards overlook the winding Sil River. Enjoy boutique winery visits, a peaceful catamaran cruise through breathtaking canyons, and immersive culinary experiences that perfectly capture the soul of this remarkable corner of Spain.

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EARLY BOOKING PRICE - CONFIRM YOUR PLACE BY NOVEMBER 16
Single Occupancy: $7,535 USD per person
Double Occupancy: $6,360 USD per person

PRICE STARTING NOVEMBER 17
Single Occupancy: $7,735 USD per person
Double Occupancy:  $6,560 USD per person

This small group experience has limited availability and is expected to sell out quickly.

Reserve your place now for just $100.

  • September 20, 2027: Arrive in Santiago de Compostela

    Travelers should aim to arrive to Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) no later than 5pm to fully participate in this evening's activities.

    Guests will be met by the group's dedicated driver at the airport and taken to your hotel and home-base for the next three nights - El Parador de Santiago - housed in the Hostal dos Reis Católicos. Founded in 1499 by the Catholic Monarchs as a royal hospital for pilgrims, this hotel is widely recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in the world.

    Its four cloistered courtyards and Plateresque façade form an architectural masterpiece on Santiago's Praza do Obradoiro. Standing shoulder to shoulder with the Cathedral itself, it remains deeply woven into the Camino de Santiago tradition, offering guests the rare experience of sleeping within a living monument to centuries of pilgrimage, faith, and Galician history.

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    Once you've settled into your accommodations, the group will come together for a relaxed Welcome Reception and Mix and Mingle. This informal gathering will be a perfect opportunity for everyone to meet, get to know each other, and enjoy the first moments of the journey together.

    As part of the reception, Lenore will demonstrate one of her special drink recipes, sharing the preparation process with the group. Guests will have the opportunity to discover the recipe and savor the drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

    Welcome dinner at local restaurant El Papatorio - (Tapas & Drinks Included)

    This evening, enjoy a warm welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant in the heart of Santiago de Compostela. Delight in a selection of authentic Galician tapas and local specialties, served for sharing in true Spanish style, accompanied by regional wines. It's the perfect introduction to the rich gastronomy and vibrant atmosphere of this historic pilgrimage city.

  • September 21, 2027: A Taste of Santiago: Market to Table

    Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Galicia during an exclusive culinary journey through the heart of Santiago de Compostela. The day begins with a private visit to the city's vibrant Mercado de Abastos, accompanied by a renowned local Michelin Star chef - Lucia Freitas. As you stroll through the market, you'll meet trusted vendors, discover the finest seasonal ingredients, sample local specialties, and learn the chef's insider tips for selecting the freshest seafood, meats, cheeses, and produce.

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    From the market, continue to the chef's nearby culinary space for an intimate show cooking experience. Watch as traditional Galician recipes come to life, including the preparation of the iconic Galician empanada alongside another regional specialty. Throughout the demonstration, enjoy a selection of freshly prepared bites while sharing the experience with local producers and friends of the chef, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the people behind Galicia's exceptional gastronomy.

    Following a short break, savor a leisurely lunch at the chef's restaurant, where a carefully curated menu showcases refined interpretations of Galician cuisine, celebrating the outstanding ingredients discovered earlier in the day.

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    In the afternoon, discover another side of Santiago with a private walking tour through the historic Old Town. Wander along its atmospheric cobbled streets and elegant squares while learning about the fascinating history, legends, architecture, and traditions that have shaped the city over the centuries. Your guide will reveal hidden corners, historic buildings, lively plazas, and local stories, offering an engaging introduction to the unique character of Santiago de Compostela.

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    In the evening, guests can explore Santiago’s nightlife at leisure, visiting some of your local guide's recommended venues for live music, drinks and pinxhos.

  • September 22, 2027: Santiago Cathedral & San Martín Pinario Tour

    The Morning is at leisure for guests to explore the city on their own. Guests can opt in to a workshop, excursion, or simply take it easy to let the morning slowly unfold in this beautiful destination.

    At 1pm, discover the spiritual and artistic heritage of Santiago de Compostela with a private guided visit to two of the city’s most remarkable monuments.

    Begin at the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago, the final destination of the legendary Camino de Santiago. Explore its impressive interior while learning about its history, architecture, centuries-old traditions, and its importance as one of Europe’s great pilgrimage destinations.

    Continue just a few steps away to San Martín Pinario, one of Galicia’s most impressive historic monasteries. Discover its monumental Baroque church, magnificent altarpieces and beautifully preserved religious artworks while learning about the Benedictine community that played an important role in Santiago’s history.

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    This approximately 2-hour experience offers a fascinating journey through Santiago’s religious, artistic and cultural heritage, perfectly complementing your separate walking tour of the Old Town. Entry tickets and guide are included.

    3:30pm - After your tour, continue the experience with a relaxed cheese and wine pairing in the heart of Santiago de Compostela. Discover a carefully selected variety of Galician artisan cheeses, accompanied by local wines and traditional regional products. During the tasting, learn about the different origins, textures, and flavors of the cheeses, as well as the characteristics of the wines chosen to complement them.

    In the early evening, return to your hotel to refresh before your special dinner experience.

    8:30pm - In the evening, enjoy a Michelin-star meal at A Tafona, celebrated for its contemporary interpretation of Galician cuisine, showcasing seasonal local ingredients from the region's coast and countryside through elegant sustainable tasting menus.

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  • September 23, 2027: From Santiago to Vigo

    After checkout this morning, guests will transfer in private vehicle from Santiago to Cambados, a charming coastal town in the heart of Rías Baixas.

    Join the Ruta de las Mariscadoras, an authentic shellfish-gathering experience led by local women who have harvested these shores for generations. Wade into the estuary, learn traditional techniques, and help harvest the freshest clams and cockles straight from the sea.

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    Then, take a stroll through the seaside town of Camabados. Along the way, learn about Cambados’ close connection to the sea, its noble past, and the wine culture that has shaped the identity of the region for centuries. Enjoy lunch at A Taberna do Trasno Cambados - featuring the day's catch and regional Albariño wines.

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    Afternoon visit to a Pazo de Señoráns Winery-an elegant family-owned estate renowned for producing some of Galicia's finest Albariño wines. Set within a beautifully restored 16th-century manor house surrounded by vineyards and gardens, the winery perfectly combines history, tradition, and innovation. Try three wines and two spirits.

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    In the early evening, transfer to Vigo and check in at Pazo Los Escudos Hotel & Spa Resort, a gorgeous 5-star hotel right on the beach. Dinner is at leisure - guests may dine right at the hotel's restaurant or explore the many options available in the city of Vigo.

    Historic gardens with an ornamental fountain and panoramic views of the Vigo estuary in front of Pazo Los Escudos
  • September 24, 2027: Journey to the Ribeira Sacra

    La Ribeira Sacra

    Morning transfer to Ribeira Sacra, a breathtaking, mountainous region in inland Galicia, straddling the provinces of Lugo and Ourense. Translated as "Sacred Riverbank", it is famous for its steep river canyons, centuries-old Romanesque monasteries, and dramatic terraced vineyards where workers practice "heroic viticulture".

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    Enjoy a private guided tour of Bodegas Regina Viarum, where you'll discover the winery's winemaking process, learn about the Ribeira Sacra Denomination of Origin, and gain insight into the region's renowned Heroic Viticulture, cultivated on the steep slopes overlooking the Sil River.The visit includes a guided tasting of five wines: the first three showcase the winery's signature young wines, while the final two are more exclusive, limited-production, barrel-aged selections.

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    Following the winery tour and tasting, enjoy lunch at Restaurante Vértigo, located within Bodegas Regina Viarum. The experience includes a set menu per person.

    After lunch, embark on a scenic Catamaran cruise on the Sil River, gliding through deep gorges lined with monasteries, forests, and vertigo-inducing vineyard terraces.

    Transfer back to your hotel in Vigo, arriving back around 8pm, for dinner at leisure.

  • September 25, 2027: Galician Culinary Culture

    Cooking Class in Vigo

    Enjoy an interactive culinary experience at Harina Blanca Culinary School in Vigo, a private, fully equipped space reserved exclusively for your group. With all ingredients and equipment prepared in advance, everyone can get involved from the start.

    Led by your culinary guide, you’ll prepare a selection of dishes while exploring local flavors and techniques, followed by a relaxed lunch featuring everything you’ve created together.

    What's included:

    • Private, pre-stocked culinary space
    • Hands-on cooking experience
    Harina Blanca, la Escuela de Hostelería de Galicia y de Vigo, inicia nuevos  cursos en febrero

    Discover Galician Olive Oil

    In the late afternoon, drive inland to Barcia, Ourense, to discover Galicia’s reemerging olive oil tradition. Set within a beautifully restored former wine cellar, this artisanal producer is reviving the centuries-old olive-growing heritage of the O Ribeiro region.

    Tour the mill, learn about the traditional production of extra virgin olive oil, and finish with a tasting of limited-production oils, including those made from olives grown in Galicia.

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    Transfer back to Vigo to freshen up at your hotel, then enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at restaurant Casa Marina Davila - a carefully prepared menu featuring fresh seafood, seasonal ingredients, and traditional Galician flavors.

    Gather with your group in a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy the final evening together, share your favorite moments from the trip, and experience one last taste of Galicia’s rich gastronomy.

  • September 26, 2027: Departure ... or extend your trip

    Guests will check out from their hotel in Vigo and be transferred back to Santiago's Airport (SCQ) for their return flight home.

    Alternatively, guests may extend their itinerary with a bespoke trip extension to Porto, Lisbon, or other nearby destinations.

  • Important Information, Booking Schedule, Payments and Conditions

    Price

    EARLY BOOKING PRICE - CONFIRM YOUR PLACE BY NOVEMBER 16
    Single Occupancy: $7,535 USD per person
    Double Occupancy: $6,360 USD per person

    PRICE STARTING NOVEMBER 17
    Single Occupancy: $7,735 USD per person
    Double Occupancy:  $6,560 USD per person

    Payment Schedule

    • A $100 RSVP payment per person is collected at signup to hold your space.
    • A deposit of approximately 30% of the itinerary cost is due no later than January 15th, 2027.
    • The remaining balance is due no later than May 1, 2027.


    Cancellation Policy

    • This trip is designed for a minimum of 20 travelers. While we expect to sell out, if we do not meet the 20-passenger minimum by January 15th, 2027, the trip will be cancelled or rescheduled.
    • In case of cancellation before the deposit is collected, The $100 RSVP payment can be used towards any other travel experience with Vacationeeze within 1 year.
    • All payments are non-refundable - comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised to protect from losses in unforeseen circumstances. If you need coverage, we recommend this company.


    Inclusions

    • Private airport transfers (arrival & departure from SCQ Airport)
    • Private bilingual guide accompaniment (full days as listed)
    • 3 nights at Parador de Santiago 5 star Hotel *or similar
    • 3 nights at Pazo Los Escudos Hotel & Spa Resort 5 Star Hotel *or similar
    • Daily breakfast at the hotel, and all other meals as outlined in itinerary (13 meals total).
    • 3 glasses of wine or beer at every lunch and dinner, in addition to soft drinks and water.
    • All activities and tastings as outlined in itinerary
    • All private vehicle & driver services for listed activities


    Exclusions

    • Airfares to and from the trip
    • Travel insurance
    • Optional and additional sightseeing not in itinerary
    • Personal costs such as laundry, telephone or incidentals
    • Any services, meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary


    Health & Mobility Considerations
    Travelers should be in good health with a physical condition that allows for light to moderate walking. Due to local conditions, we cannot guarantee accessibility for wheelchair users. If guests have dietary restrictions or allergies, they should disclose this at the time of booking. While our team cannot guarantee special arrangements, we will request accommodations with suppliers as necessary.

    Please Note
    Several of the experiences included in this itinerary are provided by small, family-owned businesses. We select these suppliers deliberately for their local character and quality; however, availability can be limited and cannot be held indefinitely. These services will be booked once the final number of travelers and the trip itself are confirmed. Should any of them no longer be available at that stage, we will arrange a comparable alternative of equivalent quality. This applies to the experiences and activities mentioned throughout the itinerary, as well as to restaurants and other local suppliers.

    Weather may impact outdoor activities. In case of adverse weather, alternative arrangements will be made. While it is always our goal to follow this planned itinerary, the coordinator may make adjustments and offer comparable experiences at their discretion. The operator is not responsible for changes made to the programming due to weather, natural disasters, acts of god, and other circumstances beyond their control.

    Please travel light - there is limited space for luggage in the transfer vehicles. Guests are allowed 1-medium sized suitcase and 1-carry on suitcase for luggage per person.

    Legal Disclaimer

    By booking this tour, you agree to the terms and conditions outlined. The tour provider reserves the right to modify or cancel any part of the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. The provider is not liable for personal injury, loss, or damages during the trip.

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Your Advisor

Kelsey Caballero

Vacationeeze LLC

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kelsey@vacationeeze.com

+1-215-454-2069