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The Art of the Spanish Road: Michelin, Mountains & Coast

The Art of the Spanish Road: Michelin, Mountains & Coast image

About this trip

This is for travelers who love the freedom of the open road but want a local expert to guide them to the best spots.

Imagine picking up your Porsche and driving toward the lush Basque coast, with salty Atlantic air flowing through the windows. Stop in charming fishing villages and hidden gems before enjoying a Michelin-starred dinner at Arzak. Savor Rioja wines among the vineyards, while a private chef cooks over an open fire, offering stunning views across the hills.

From the dramatic cliffs of Zumaia and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe to the serene roads of the Picos de Europa, each day reveals a new facet of northern Spain. Stay in exquisite luxury hotels, relish private food experiences and local cuisine, hike in fresh mountain air, uncover quaint villages, and conclude with an unforgettable meal at Casa Marcial, enveloped by green fields and mountains. This trip will leave you feeling free, pampered, and truly fortunate to explore a Spain most visitors never experience.

  • Trip duration: 15 days

  • Passengers: from 2 adults

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Chat with us on Whatsapp

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Email us to custom your trip: info@hiddeninspain.com

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Daily Schedule

Day 1

  • Private airport transfer

  • Rental Car

  • Drive to San Sebastián

Day 2

  • City Tour + Pintxos Tour - Private group

Day 3

  • Self drive tour to the French Basque Coast

  • Michelin starred restaurant - Arzak

Day 4

  • RIOJA BBQ IN THE VINEYARD

Day 5

  • Cooking experience in a private gastronomic club

  • Hotel Akelarre

Day 6

  • Relax at Akelarre and michelin starred diner at Akelarre

Day 7

  • Self - drive along the coast to Bilbao, Spain

  • Lunch at Asador Etxebarri

  • Bilbao

Day 8

  • City tour & Guggenheim

Day 9

  • Self drive to Picos de Europa

  • Cosgaya

Day 10

  • Hiking in Picos de Europa / explore the area

Day 11

  • Self drive to Llanes

  • Overnight in Eco-Astur Pueblo luxury resort

Day 12

  • Self drive to Covadonga

  • Lunch at Casa Marcial: Michelin starred restaurant

  • Overnight in Eco-Astur Pueblo luxury resort

Day 13

  • Self drive to Leon, Spain

  • Private city tour

Day 14

  • Self drive to Las Médulas & Astorga

  • Traditional lunch at pedestrian
    village

Day 15

  • Self drive to Madrid

  • Departure

Overview

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Overview

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About this trip

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Daily Schedule

Map of the trip locations

Map

A. Madrid

Madrid, España

B. Donostia-San Sebastián

Donostia-San Sebastián, Guipúzcoa, España

C. La Rioja

La Rioja, España

D. Akelarre - Relais & Châteaux

Padre Orkolaga Ibilbidea, 56, 20008 Donostia / San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, España

E. Bilbao

Bilbao, Vizcaya, España

F. Cosgaya

39582 Cosgaya, Cantabria, España

G. Casa Marcial

Calle La Salgar, s/n, 33549 Arriondas, Parres, Asturias, España

H. Puebloastur Eco-Resort Hotel & Spa GL

Cofiño, s/n, 33548 Cofiño, Asturias, España

I. León

León, España

J. Las Médulas

24442 Las Médulas, León, España

K. Astorga

Astorga, León, España

Don't miss

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  • There is a stretch of northern Spain where the road itself becomes part of the experience — and you’ll want to keep the Porsche window down for every turn.

  • Beyond the famous Basque coast are dramatic cliffs, tiny villages and hidden corners most visitors drive straight past.

  • One evening, you’ll sit down at a table where the food is exceptional — but the place itself is something you would almost certainly never find on your own.

  • There is a private gastronomic experience in Rioja where wine, fire and local food come together in a way that feels very different from a traditional wine tasting.

  • Some of the best meals on this journey won’t have a Michelin star — and you’ll discover why locals keep going back to them.

  • We’ll take you into the Picos de Europa by roads that make getting there almost as memorable as what you find at the end.

  • You’ll sleep in places where luxury means more than five-star service — it means waking up surrounded by landscapes and stories you won’t find in a hotel brochure.

  • One of the most memorable meals of the trip happens in a place that feels almost impossible to discover unless someone local knows the door.

  • Along the way, you’ll taste northern Spain through Michelin-starred haute cuisine, family-run restaurants and dishes that have never been designed for tourists.

  • By the end of the journey, you may remember the Michelin restaurants and luxury hotels — but it might be the hidden road, tiny village or unexpected lunch that you talk about for years.

Day 1

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Private airport transfer

Your private transfer will be waiting to take you to the car rental office. There, you'll pick up your luxury Porsche (other options available) and start this amazing luxury tour that combines stunning luxury hotels, fantastic food and wine tours, and Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as local spots where you'll savor the best haute cuisine alongside delightful local dishes.

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Pick up your Porsche and self rive to the Basque Country

In your way to the Basque Country you can make a stop in Burgos and visit its great gothic cathedral.

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San Sebastián

San Sebastián, Guipúzcoa, España, San Sebastián, España -
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Experience the enchanting Hotel María Cristina, a luxury hotel located in the heart of San Sebastián, providing easy access to vibrant culture and beautiful beaches. This historic hotel features stunning Art Nouveau architecture and elegantly decorated rooms with views of the Urumea River. Enjoy exquisite local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the sumptuous spa.
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Day 2

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San Sebastián

San Sebastián, Guipúzcoa, España, San Sebastián, España -
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Experience the enchanting Hotel María Cristina, a luxury hotel located in the heart of San Sebastián, providing easy access to vibrant culture and beautiful beaches. This historic hotel features stunning Art Nouveau architecture and elegantly decorated rooms with views of the Urumea River. Enjoy exquisite local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the sumptuous spa.
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City Tour + Pintxos Tour - Private group

Donostia-San Sebastian PV, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain -

A Complete walk through the city center and Old Town, visiting the Constitution Square, La Concha Bay, the Cathedrals, La Bretxa Market, and the city center area with multiple stories and tales that happened in San Sebastian during the history and are not in the History books!

INCLUDES a special selection of 5 pintxos & 5 drinks in up to 5 different bars.

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Day 3

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Explore Biarritz, St Jean de Luz, Hondarribia

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Biarritz & French Basque Coast - Self-drive

The French Basque region has got its own identity, posh Biarritz was the European royalty's favourite summer holiday spot and St. Jean de Luz is an enchanting fishing village!

Hendaia:

The longest beach of the Basque Country! After a short stroll along the beach promenade, we will depart to Saint Jean de Luz through the beautiful coastal “La Corniche Road”.

Saint Jean de Luz:

Former Basque Corsairs’ capital, this small fishing village became rich in the 16th century from fishing and whaling. Piracy, added brought wealth to the town. The ‘finest moment’ for the town was in 1660, when Louis XIV married Marie-Thérèse of Spain in the town church – the Basque church of St John the Baptist.

Biarritz:

One of the most posh beach resorts of the Basque Coast. It is a luxurious seaside town and is popular with tourists and surfers. Biarritz also boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. Biarritz’s became more renowned in 1854 when Empress Eugenie (the wife of Napoleon III) built a palace on the beach (now the Hôtel du Palais).

The British royal family and European royalty regularly took vacations in Biarritz.

Hondarribia:

One of the most beautiful towns of the Basque Country, it’s medieval old part, is one of the few fortified towns in the Basque Country. Its walls, most of which are still standing and are constantly being restored, give it a special appearance by evoking an epic past and by impregnating every corner, alley and square with aromas, flavors and sounds that take us back to other times. We could also find the typical Basque fishermen houses, with colorful balconies filled up with heaps of flowers.

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Arzak - 3 michelin stars restaurant

Today you'll diner at Arzak, one of the most popular Michelin restaurants in Spain.

An elegant, family-run restaurant from 1897, with tasting menus specializing in modern Basque fare.

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Experience the enchanting Hotel María Cristina, a luxury hotel located in the heart of San Sebastián, providing easy access to vibrant culture and beautiful beaches. This historic hotel features stunning Art Nouveau architecture and elegantly decorated rooms with views of the Urumea River. Enjoy exquisite local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the sumptuous spa.
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Day 4

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RIOJA BBQ IN THE VINEYARD - Private tour

Donostia-San Sebastian PV, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain -
Duration8 hours

Experience the Essence of Rioja: A Journey of Culinary Excellence

Our BBQ in a Vineyard tour offers a unique blend of luxury, gastronomic delights, and breathtaking landscapes, curated to create unforgettable memories.

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Savor the Flavors of Rioja

Wine Tasting Session in a Boutique Winery

Before the culinary extravaganza begins, we invite you to embark on a sensory exploration at a small boutique

winery. Here, you'll have the opportunity to sample three unique single plot wines, each a testament to the terroir and craftsmanship of Rioja's esteemed winemakers. Let the flavors dance on your palate as you discover the nuances of Rioja's renowned wines

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Highlights

  • Wine Tasting Session in a Small boutique Winery

  • Up to 3 different Wines, from Terroir style to classic Gran Reserva

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Culinary Magic Unfolds in the Rioja Vineyards

Live Cooking in a Hilltop Vineyard

As the day progresses, prepare to be enchanted by a culinary spectacle like no other. High atop a private vine plot, against the backdrop of rolling vineyards, our skilled chef will work their magic over an open fire. Watch in awe as they expertly prepare local meats and vegetables, infusing each dish with the essence of Rioja's gastronomic heritage. It's not just a meal—it's an experience that engages all your senses and leaves you craving for more. 4 different wines will be served durin gthe meal, to pair with the open fire cooked delicacies.

The Country-style lunch is based in 4 appetizers paired with Rioja White wine, 2 Main Courses that will be cooked right there, in open fire by the chef, paired with 2 different Rioja Red wines. A sweet dessert will be served to finish this unique lunch experience!

Nestled amidst the serenity of the vineyard, you'll find yourself surrounded by panoramic vistas that seem straight out of a postcard. Take a moment to breathe in the crisp air, soak in the beauty of your surroundings, and create memories that will last a lifetime. This intimate hilltop setting offers a sanctuary where you can reconnect with nature and nourish your soul.

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Highlights:

  • Private Chef, Live Cooking for you in an open fire BBQ

  • 4 course full lunch paired with 4 different Rioja Wines

  • Private location: intimate hilltop vineyard

Experience the enchanting Hotel María Cristina, a luxury hotel located in the heart of San Sebastián, providing easy access to vibrant culture and beautiful beaches. This historic hotel features stunning Art Nouveau architecture and elegantly decorated rooms with views of the Urumea River. Enjoy exquisite local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the sumptuous spa.
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Day 5

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Cooking class in a private gastronomic club

Duration4 hours

Private · Lunch Included

We will walk to one of the Central Market of San Sebastian where we´ll meet local farmers and producers and will buy a variety of seasonal products directly from them.

Our private cooking class happens in the most important and well known Gastronomic Club of San Sebastian, temple for toddies and where my partner Jon is a member, so he can grant access for you to make a wonderful cooking class with a professional chef.

Being a private class, we could arrange the desired menu but trying to offer a traditional basque lunch, this is what we offer:

SAMPLE MENU

SEASONAL VEGETABLES

BASQUE CHARCUTERIE & APPETIZERS

BASQUE CHEESE & QUINCE JELLY

FRESH HAKE WITH CLAMS IN GREEN SAUCE

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Self drive to Hotel Akelarre

After this wonderful meal you can walk around the old quarter before getting your car and drive to the next stop, the hotel Akelarre.

Akelarre - Relais & Châteaux offers breathtaking ocean views from every room, combined with exceptional dining experiences crafted by renowned chefs. With a luxurious wellness center and unique architectural design, this tranquil retreat is perfectly situated for exploring the vibrant attractions of San Sebastián. Enjoy the marvels of this stunning destination from a haven of comfort and elegance.
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Day 6

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Relax at Hotel Akelarre

Spend the day relaxing at Hotel Akelarre, use its SPA and get a fine glass of wine.

You can also get your car and explore the fantastic coastal region around it.

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Lunch at Akelarre

Today you'll enjoy lunch at this other fantastic Michelin starred restaurant. Another must if going to the Basque Country.

Tasting menus of inventive, modern dishes, plus wine pairings, in a sleek venue with sea views.

Akelarre - Relais & Châteaux offers breathtaking ocean views from every room, combined with exceptional dining experiences crafted by renowned chefs. With a luxurious wellness center and unique architectural design, this tranquil retreat is perfectly situated for exploring the vibrant attractions of San Sebastián. Enjoy the marvels of this stunning destination from a haven of comfort and elegance.
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Day 7

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Explore Basque Coast Villages and Iconic Island

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Self-drive: Getaria - Zumaia - Guernica & San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Visit the charming fishing village of Getaria, home of Juan Sebastian Elcano.

Walk in Zumaia for amazing coastal views where green mountains meet the Atlantic Ocean.

Learn about Basque history in Guernica, the heart of Basque Nationalism.

Enjoy photo opportunities at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the awe-inspiring island featured in Game of Thrones, with views from two viewpoints but not the full summit walk.

The journey covers history, culture, and stunning landscapes along the Basque coast.

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Lunch - Asador Etxebarri

This is one of the most demanded restaurants in the Basque Country and only a few get to try it.

It's one Michelin star restaurant but well worth.

Upscale Basque dining room in a village, serving flame-grilled meat & seafood & a tasting menu.

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Experience the vibrant spirit of Bilbao at Hotel The Artist, located in the city's heart for easy access to top attractions. The hotel boasts art-inspired design and original artwork in every room, creating a unique ambiance. Enjoy stunning views from the rooftop terrace and indulge in locally sourced breakfast options at the on-site café.
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Day 8

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City tour & Guggenheim

Bilbao PV, Bilbao, Spain -

OLD TOWN OF BILBAO

THE HISTORY OF BILBAO STARTS HERE

To understand the foundation and history of Bilbao, we will stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town, exploring highlights such as PLAZA NUEVA, CATEDRAL DE SANTIAGO, LA RIBERA MARKET, and SAN ANTON CHURCH.

My local guide is excellent at connecting with people and will share valuable insights during the tour, offering a unique perspective on the city. He'll also reveal hidden corners and places frequented only by locals.

Before our adventure, we will begin at the GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM (tickets and a tour inside the museum are included).

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Experience the vibrant spirit of Bilbao at Hotel The Artist, located in the city's heart for easy access to top attractions. The hotel boasts art-inspired design and original artwork in every room, creating a unique ambiance. Enjoy stunning views from the rooftop terrace and indulge in locally sourced breakfast options at the on-site café.
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Day 9

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Self-drive to the Picos de Eruopa

Cosgaya, CB 39582, Cosgaya, Spain

Use this day to visit:

  • The villages of Santillana Del Mar, part of the northern route of the Camino de Santiago, a pedestrian village you'll love. In the outskirts you have the popular prehistoric Altamira caves.

  • The villages of Comillas, another coastal village that has the capricho building by Gaudi, a MUST SEE in northern Spain.

  • The villages of San Vicente de la Barquera, a tiny coastal village with a great parish church, a castle and a wonderful old quarter.

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Cosgaya

Cosgaya is a Spanish town in the municipality of Camaleño, situated in the comarca of Liébana, located in the furthermost area to the west of Cantabria. The town lies on the right bank of the Deva River. In 2006 it had a population of 47 (INE).

It is divided in three rural neighbourhoods: Areños, Treviño and Cosgaya

Experience the charm of Hotel del Oso, set in the breathtaking Picos de Europa National Park. This historic hotel features uniquely themed rooms and a cozy lounge with a fireplace. Enjoy local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and explore outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in stunning surroundings.

Don't let the 3-star rating of this hotel mislead you. This family-run hotel, owned by four sisters, is built of wood and stone, reflecting the traditional architecture of the area, and offers amazing views over the mountains. The service provided by its staff is exceptional (you wouldn't expect it at a 3-star hotel), and the food is absolutely delicious. Keep in mind that people travel over 200 km just for lunch here.

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Day 10

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Hiking in Picos de Europa or free time

Cosgaya, CB 39582, Cosgaya, Spain -
Duration3 hours

The Picos de Europa are the most innacesible mountains of Spain. This makes them a perfect place for hiking and trekking, whether one or several days, passing through remote places and incomparable corners, rising to summits that make us touch the sky.

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Equipment that we will use:

  • Mountain Clothing Boots

  • Sunscreen and sunglasses

  • Walking sticks (recommended)

This routes are suitable to spend a morning, an afternoon or a whole day walking through the beautiful landscape that lends us Liébana region.

We can start the route getting the funicular in Fuente Dé and going up to the peak of the mountains. If you prefer not to get a funicular we can plan the route starting somewhere else.

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Free time in Cosgaya

If you prefer not to hike, spend the day visiting Potes, the main village of the area, a wonderful place you'll love to explore. Don't miss Mogrovejo, undoubtedly the most beautiful village in the area on clear days—it's a picture you'll always remember. Afterward, head to the Hotel del Oso, where you'll be spending the night. Be sure to enjoy the food at this place!

If you want to take in great views over the Picos de Europa, I suggest driving to Fuente Dé and taking the funicular to the peaks. Do this on a sunny day; you won't regret it!

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Experience the charm of Hotel del Oso, set in the breathtaking Picos de Europa National Park. This historic hotel features uniquely themed rooms and a cozy lounge with a fireplace. Enjoy local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and explore outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in stunning surroundings.

Don't let the 3* rating of this hotel misunderstood this place. This family-run hotel (4 sisters own it) built in wood and stone, as all the buildings of the area, has amazing views over the mountains. The service provided by its employees is awesome (you wouldn't expect it at a 3* hotel) and food is more than delicious. Take into account that people farther than 200 km drive to this place just for lunch.

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Day 11

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Self-drive to Llanes

Get to this typical coastal village of Asturias and take some time to visit it.

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Free time

Llanes AS, Llanes, Spain

Later visit coastal villages around you such as Ribadesella, Lastres and its beautiful lighthouse or Tazones, to mention some. Highly recommended the hidden beach of Gulpiyuri.

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Puebloastur Eco-Resort Hotel & Spa GL

Puebloastur Eco-Resort Hotel & Spa GL offers breathtaking views of the Picos de Europa mountains and luxurious spa services designed for ultimate relaxation. Enjoy gourmet dining with local ingredients and immerse yourself in eco-friendly architecture that harmonizes with nature. Outdoor activities like hiking and cycling make every stay memorable.
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Day 12

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Self-drive to Covadonga sanctuary, Lakes of Covadonga and Cangas de Onís

Drive to a different side of the Picos de Europa in Asturias. Discover Covadonga, visiting the Sanctuary and the charming chapel inside the cave that houses the Virgin of Covadonga, the patroness of all Asturians. Then, drive to the lakes (in high season, you'll need to take a bus from the sanctuary) and enjoy a leisurely walk to appreciate the breathtaking scenery of the Picos de Europa mountains. Later, head to Cangas de Onís to explore the village, making sure to see the Roman bridge and the parish church.

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Covandonga

Covadonga is the site where the Reconquest began under King Pelayo, whose remains are buried in the cave alongside La Santina. This location serves as the gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park. The basilica, adjacent to the cave where pilgrims venerate the statue of La Santina, is a significant place of worship and pilgrimage for the people of Asturias. The basilica features a striking neo-Romanesque style, with two high towers flanking the main entrance.

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Covadonga Lakes

In the heart of the oldest National Park in Spain, you will find an extraordinary place steeped in legend: the Covadonga Lakes. Let yourself be captivated by the beautiful, winding road that leads to the lakes, gradually unveiling a stunning landscape of tranquil waters, lush green carpets, and majestic mountain peaks that seem almost within reach. Separated by the fell of the Picota, Enol and Ercina are two of the lakes in this one of the most famous and mythical corners of Asturias.

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Cangas de Onís

The capital of the area of the same name sits in the valley formed by the rivers Sella and Güeña. The town's most representative feature is its Roman Bridge, declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1931. It boasts five arches, three of which are pointed, and from the center hangs a reproduction of the Victoria Cross. The hermitage of Santa Cruz also stands out due to the structure's age, as it was built on a dolmen in 437. King Favila rebuilt it in 737 to safeguard the Victoria Cross.

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Lunch at Casa Marcial

One of the most esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurants in Spain, Casa Marcial.

A charming brick and wood venue run by a renowned chef and his sisters, featuring tasting menus of exquisite regional dishes.

Its location is breathtaking; you'll find yourself in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by cows, rolling hills, and lush green grass.

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Puebloastur Eco-Resort Hotel & Spa GL

Puebloastur Eco-Resort Hotel & Spa GL offers breathtaking views of the Picos de Europa mountains and luxurious spa services designed for ultimate relaxation. Enjoy gourmet dining with local ingredients and immerse yourself in eco-friendly architecture that harmonizes with nature. Outdoor activities like hiking and cycling make every stay memorable.
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Day 13

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Self-drive to Leon, Spain

In your way there you can make a quick stop at Gijon or Oviedo, capital of Asturias.

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Private city tour of Leon

León CL, León, Spain

Do you want to explore León without being part of a large group? Are you traveling with family or your partner? Would you like to customize your visit to match your preferences?

This is your private guided tour of León with the best local guides.

In this exclusive tour for your group of friends, family, or partner, you will discover the most monumental aspects of León, including its essential history, important traditions, and iconic monuments. Enjoy a two-hour journey filled with fascinating anecdotes and curiosities about the Wet and Romantic Quarter, along with key insights into the city's origins and the stories behind its great monuments.

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Parador de León

Experience the charm of Parador de León, set in a stunning 16th-century monastery with remarkable Gothic architecture. Enjoy gourmet dining that celebrates local flavors and relax in the tranquil courtyard. With its prime location near León's attractions, this accommodation combines history and comfort for an unforgettable stay.
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Day 14

Las Médulas & Astorga
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Self drive to Las Médulas & Astorga

León CL, León, Spain -
Duration7-8 hours

Drive to Las Médulas, the largest open-sky gold mine of the Roman Empire, known as Mars on Earth because of its unique rock formations and vibrant land colors. Then, return to Astorga, a notable stop on the Camino de Santiago, which hosts one of only three works of Gaudí far from Cataluña. Explore a charming pedestrian village where you’ll savor the most traditional meal in the province of León—a hearty three-course stew that includes soup, peas, cabbage, and various meats. We'll take care of the reservation for you.

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Lunch at Casa Juan

Today you'll try the most traditional food in the province of León, the Cocido. It is composed of three different parts:

1. Meats

2. Peas and cabbage

3. Cocido soup

The village itself is a hidden gem; it is pedestrian and can only be accessed on foot. Prepare to indulge in a sumptuous meal.

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Parador de León

Experience the charm of Parador de León, set in a stunning 16th-century monastery with remarkable Gothic architecture. Enjoy gourmet dining that celebrates local flavors and relax in the tranquil courtyard. With its prime location near León's attractions, this accommodation combines history and comfort for an unforgettable stay.
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Day 15

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Self-drive back to Madrid & drop off your rental car

Departure

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FAQ

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Good to know before you book

  • 15 days

  • €20K–€30K per couple

  • Luxury car included

  • Most driving days under 2 hours

  • €5,000 refundable car deposit

  • 4 michelin starred restaurant meals

  • Fully customizable

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FAQ

Is this trip too expensive?

This is a €20,000–€30,000 luxury journey, depending on your choices. The luxury car rental is included, together with exceptional accommodation, private experiences, dining and all the local planning behind the trip. It is designed for travelers who want something very special, not simply an expensive holiday.

Is 15 days too long?

Not when you are discovering northern Spain at this pace. We keep driving days comfortable, with most drives under two hours, and leave time for great meals, exploring, relaxing and simply enjoying where you are. And if you prefer a shorter trip, we can adapt it.

Will I spend all my time in the car?

No. Quite the opposite. The longest driving days are at the beginning and end; throughout the journey, most drives are under two hours. The idea is to enjoy the road without spending your vacation behind the wheel.

Do I have to drive a Porsche?

No. The Porsche is part of the experience, but it isn't compulsory. Other luxury cars can be quoted if you have a particular preference or simply want something different.

Is driving in northern Spain difficult?

You should be comfortable driving on unfamiliar roads, including some winding mountain and coastal roads. But we don't design the itinerary around long driving days. We choose roads because they are beautiful and enjoyable, not simply because they get you somewhere.

What about the €5,000 car deposit?

The rental company requires a €5,000 security deposit. It is refunded after the car is returned, subject to the rental company's conditions. You will also need to return the car with a full tank.

What happens if something goes wrong with the car?

You won't be left on your own. We are on the ground and available throughout your journey to help with unexpected situations and coordinate with the rental company when needed.

Do I need to be a serious foodie?

You don't need to be an expert, but you should enjoy eating! The trip mixes Michelin-starred restaurants and haute cuisine with family-run restaurants, traditional dishes, local products, wine and experiences that take you closer to the people behind the food.

What if I don't want so many Michelin-starred restaurants?

That's completely fine. We can reduce the number of Michelin experiences and put more emphasis on traditional restaurants, local food, wine or other experiences. The itinerary is tailor-made, even though this journey has been designed as a luxury experience.

Will I see the Spain that most luxury travelers see?

You'll see some of the places that make northern Spain famous, but that is only part of the story. The route takes you into hidden coastal areas, mountain landscapes, small villages and places that most international visitors never discover.

What if I want to change a hotel?

We can adapt the hotels to your preferences. The itinerary is designed around beautiful luxury and boutique properties, but if you have a particular hotel style, location or level of luxury in mind, tell us.

What if I want a shorter trip?

We can shorten it. We can also remove experiences, change the route or adjust the pace. You don't have to take all 15 days simply because that is how the original journey was designed.

What if I want to add something?

That's exactly what tailor-made means. If there is a particular food, wine, village, experience, hotel or part of northern Spain you want to explore, we can build it in when it makes sense.

Will I have any free time?

Yes. Luxury is not filling every hour of the day. There is time to enjoy the hotels, have a slow lunch, explore on your own or simply take the car and enjoy the road without rushing to the next activity.

Why shouldn't I just book the car and hotels myself?

You can. The difference is knowing where to go once you leave the main roads. We know the small restaurants, hidden villages, scenic roads, local producers, private experiences and boutique hotels that are difficult to discover from abroad — and we put them together into one seamless journey.

What if I don't want a typical luxury tour?

Then this is exactly the idea. You get the comfort of luxury accommodation, exceptional food and a beautiful car, but the experiences take you beyond the usual Spain itinerary. Think luxury without the feeling of following everyone else.

Is this trip suitable for us if we are over 45?

It is particularly designed for couples who have the budget to travel well, appreciate good food and wine, enjoy beautiful hotels and want to discover Spain in a more personal way — without giving up comfort.

What if we don't want to follow the itinerary exactly?

You don't have to. This is a starting point. We can change the length, hotels, restaurants, number of Michelin experiences, driving route and activities until the journey feels right for you.

Do I need travel insurance?

We strongly recommend it. Travel insurance can help protect you against unexpected cancellations, medical issues, travel interruptions and other situations outside anyone's control. For a €20K–€30K journey, we consider it a sensible part of planning.

Is this the right trip for us?

If you love food and wine, beautiful cars, exceptional hotels, dramatic landscapes and discovering places other travelers don't know about, this journey was designed with you in mind.

You won't just drive through northern Spain. You'll experience a side of it that is very difficult to find on your own.

Want us to make this journey yours?
Tell us what you love — food, wine, cars, hidden places, beautiful hotels — and we'll adapt the journey around you.

Who we are

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Who we are

Luis Fernandez de Vega

Hidden in Spain

+34609240812

info@hiddeninspain.com

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Information about Hidden in Spain

Why Travel With Us

If you wanted to experience truly authentic Japanese cuisine, you wouldn’t settle for a restaurant back home—you’d go to Japan. You’d walk the streets, smell the kitchens, watch the chefs at work, and taste food shaped by place, culture, and daily life. Travel works the same way.

So why not let us help you design a truly memorable trip for your clients? As a local DMC, we bring deep, on-the-ground knowledge — from the right guides and trusted drivers to unique experiences and standout accommodations that are often hard to source from afar. You know your clients best and understand exactly what they’re looking for; we complement that with local insight into what will suit them beautifully once they’re here. Working together, we can turn a great idea into a seamless, high-quality experience your clients will genuinely remember — and thank you for.

We are based in Spain and travel frequently throughout Portugal. This isn’t just where we work—it’s where we live. That means your trip is shaped by real, current, lived experience, not guidebooks or recycled itineraries. We design journeys the way locals experience them: unhurried, personal, and deeply connected to place.

Yes, you’ll visit the highlights—Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Granada, Porto, Lisbon. These cities are iconic for a reason, and we make sure you experience them properly. But you won’t just “see” them. You’ll explore them with locals who know their rhythms, their stories, and their favorite corners—whether that’s a quiet plaza at sunset or a small bar serving the best patatas bravas in town.

Beyond the highlights, we take you further. To villages, landscapes, traditions, and everyday moments you won’t find in guidebooks—places only locals talk about and travelers rarely discover. That balance is what defines Hidden in Spain: the must-see icons, paired with the lesser-known places that make your trip feel truly special and different.

This is travel that feels personal, relaxed, and real—like being welcomed into a country rather than passing through it.

Why Choose Hidden in Spain

  • We are local. Based in Spain and deeply familiar with Portugal, we personally know every destination, hotel, and experience we recommend.

  • We take care of everything. From the moment you start planning until you return home—flights, transportation, hotels, experiences, and special requests are all handled seamlessly.

  • Your trip is truly tailor-made. We design each journey around your interests, pace, and travel style—no templates, no copy-paste itineraries.

  • We know the hidden places. We’ve lived here our entire lives, and we share the Spain and Portugal most travelers never see.

  • You travel informed and confident. You receive a complete, easy-to-use guide with insider tips, routes, dining suggestions, and local insights.

  • You’re never on your own. You have direct access to your personal trip manager 24/7—for support, questions, or anything unexpected along the way.

Hidden in Spain isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about experiencing Spain and Portugal with people who know them best—and making you feel at home while you do.

Spain and Portugal are not only sand & sun. They have much more to offer. Let us show you and you will talk about us!!

And remember…Luxury isn’t about doing more.

It’s about knowing exactly where to be—and who to trust to take you there.

Who's Luis

Hidden in Spain was born from a simple idea: the most memorable journeys happen when you experience a country through the eyes of a local. After traveling extensively across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, I realized that most trips barely scratch the surface—showing famous sights without revealing the soul of a place.

Having lived in Spain my entire life and traveled Portugal deeply, I design fully tailor-made journeys that go beyond the highlights. From iconic landmarks to hidden corners known only to locals, every detail is carefully curated to feel effortless, personal, and refined.

With a background in marketing and international sales, I combine local knowledge with a high standard of service—so your journey feels seamless, exclusive, and genuinely authentic.

When I’m not designing trips, I enjoy skiing, good conversations, time with my family… and discovering exceptional beers from around the world.

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What Our Clients Say

Nothing speaks louder than the experiences of those who’ve traveled with us.

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Booking conditions

You can click here to see our general booking conditions. Changes may apply. Please ask!