-1500x780.jpg?language=en-AU)
-1500x780.jpg?language=en-AU)
Spain | Tour Code: 13896
For those seeking an unforgettable adventure, Spain's rich cultural tapestry, stunning natural vistas, and mouthwatering cuisine beckon like few other destinations. Amidst the myriad ways to discover this picturesque land, there's one journey that stands out as the epitome of luxury and charm: the El Transcantabrico Gran Lujo.
Highlights
-
Explore a 3D replica of Altamira Cave, showcasing ancient art and life
-
Lake Enol offers serene beauty amid northern Spain’s stunning Picos de Europa landscapes
-
The Guggenheim Museum, recognised as one of the 20th century's finest architectural achievements, designed by Frank Gehry
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable luxury rail journey from Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián aboard El Transcantábrico. Over 8-days, explore northern Spain’s historic cities, medieval villages, stunning coastal landscapes, and natural wonders like the Picos de Europa and Las Catedrales Beach. Enjoy guided tours, gourmet dining, and the comfort of a moving five-star hotel as you discover the cultural treasures and breathtaking beauty of Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country.
Inclusions
- Private ensuite accommodation in Grand Luxury Suites onboard the train
- Complimentary standard Renfe train travel both before and after your tour. Please be aware that this service is not a private transfer & seat reservations are allocated automatically
- Onboard the train, enjoy a welcome beverage and snack to commence your journey with a touch of elegance
- Every day, enjoy both à la carte and buffet-style breakfasts served on the train
- Exceptional dining experiences for all dinners and lunches, whether served on board the train or in esteemed restaurants, complete with inclusive offerings of wine, soft drinks and coffee
- Each guest will be provided with a toiletry bag containing amenities and slippers
- All entrance fees to museums, monuments, and shows, as well as scheduled excursions and guided visits
- Engage in a variety of onboard activities such as live music, performances, bar car parties and dancing
- The onboard team of El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is available around the clock, trained to provide personalised assistance in multiple languages and to assist with luggage collection
- A memorable dinner and an end-of-trip celebration
Itinerary
Your journey begins at 12pm at the Parador de los Reyes Católicos in Santiago de Compostela, a renowned meeting point steeped in history. At noon, guests will convene for a warm welcome before delving into the rich heritage of this city, a revered destination for pilgrims spanning centuries, notably adorned by its magnificent cathedral. Following a delightful lunch, you'll embark on a luxury bus bound for Ferrol, where the majestic El Transcantábrico awaits your arrival. Greeted by the hospitable crew, raise a toast to the adventure ahead as the train sets course for Viveiro. A guided tour through the charming old town awaits, culminating in a delectable dinner and a restful night aboard the train.
Start the morning, as every day, enjoying a delicious á la carte breakfast and buffet. The Transcantábrico will bring you closer to Ribadeo, a historic Galician town bordering the Principality of Asturias. Here, you will travel along the coast to Las Catedrales Beach by bus, one of the most spectacular in the world. Panoramic tour of Ribadeo and lunch. Guests will enter the Asturian region by train. Arrival and tour of Luarca, the 'White Town of the Green Coast', later returning to the train and heading to Oviedo. Overnight stay onboard the train in Oviedo.
Your exploration resumes with a tour of Gijón, a vibrant coastal city teeming with cultural vibrancy and scenic charm. After a delectable lunch, journey onwards to Oviedo, the capital of the Principality of Asturias, where a fascinating tour awaits. As evening falls, guests will return to the train for a delightful dinner en route to Llanes, your picturesque destination for the night.
The day begins with an excursion to the heart of the Principality of Asturias aboard a comfortable bus, where you will journey to the breathtaking Picos de Europa National Park. Amidst this natural wonder, marvel at the serene beauty of Lake Enol before venturing to the revered Sanctuary of Covadonga, steeped in tradition and folklore. Your journey continues to Cangas de Onís, where a delightful lunch awaits. Following your culinary indulgence, you will arrive in Llanes, a picturesque fishing village nestled in Eastern Asturias. Here, explore its charming streets, enjoy some leisure time, and cap off the day with a delightful dinner and a restful night's stay.
After a satisfying breakfast, your journey resumes as you'll embark on a scenic coach ride to Potes, traversing the majestic La Hermida Pass along the way. Upon reaching Potes, a quaint Cantabrian town, you will delve into its charm before indulging in a rejuvenating thermal circuit at the La Hermida Spa. Following lunch, guests will visit El Capricho in Comillas, a magnificent 19th-century palace designed by the iconic architect Antonio Gaudí. The day concludes with a delightful dinner and a peaceful overnight stay in Cabezón de la Sal.
The day kicks off with a visit to the Neocave of Altamira, a fascinating museum featuring an accurate reproduction of the renowned cave paintings from the Upper Palaeolithic period. Delve into the ancient artistry of the region's ancestors before proceeding to Santillana del Mar, renowned for its impeccably preserved medieval historic center. Following a delightful lunch, board the train bound for Santander, the graceful capital of Cantabria. Here, a guided tour awaits, offering insights into the city's rich heritage, followed by leisure time to explore at your own pace. Conclude the day with a sumptuous dinner and a relaxing overnight stay in Santander.
Today, the Transcantábrico embarks on its journey to Bilbao, a city pulsating with energy that has undergone a remarkable transformation following the decline of its traditional heavy industries. Our guided tour of the city includes a visit to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a symbol of Bilbao's rejuvenation. Following a delightful lunch, you'll have some leisure time to explore the city at your own pace before boarding the train once more. Enjoy a delectable dinner and a peaceful overnight stay in Carranza.
As you enjoy your final breakfast on board, the train will return to Bilbao, where the El Transcantábrico bus will be waiting to transport guests to the charming city of San Sebastián. Explore this elegant and picturesque city, known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning beaches. Your journey concludes approximately at 1:00pm in San Sebastian.
Additional Information
2026 Departure dates:
- 28 March
- 11 & 25 April
- 09 & 23 May
- 06 & 20 June
- 04 & 18 July
- 01, 15 & 29 August
- 12 & 26 September
- 10 & 24 October
Excluded
- International airfares and taxes
- Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
- Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
- Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
- Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
- Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package
FAQs
View All
.jpg?language=en-AU)
