You are cordially invited to join us on this journey from gastronomy to astronomy, as you explore the best that Northern Spain has to offer with Boundless Journeys legend, Nicholas Law.
Arrival to Santiago de Compostela
Today we meet in the legendary city of Santiago de Compostela, a place shaped by centuries of devotion and the footsteps of millions of pilgrims who journey here beneath star-filled skies. After settling into your hotel, you will set out for gentle city walking in the afternoon, an ideal introduction to the rhythm and atmosphere of the old center.
Explore the historic heart of Santiago, visiting the magnificent Santiago Cathedral, built over the reputed resting place of St James. As you wander through narrow stone streets and lively plazas, experience the blend of sacred tradition and everyday Galician life that defines this remarkable city.
The day concludes with a welcome dinner celebrating the beginning of our journey at one of our favorite restaurants in Santiago de Compostela.
San Francisco Hotel MonumentoSantiago de Compostela,
Located near the cathedral in the center of Santiago de Compostela, this property is housed in a converted 18th-century Franciscan convent, whose origins date back to 1214. Today, the San Francisco Hotel Monumento is a charming, 4-star hotel surrounded by gardens, with an indoor pool and hot tub. Rooms at the hotel are spacious and elegant, and the restaurant serves creative regional dishes with fresh produce from the hotel gardens.
Excursion to Fisterra
This morning, travel westward to Fisterra, long believed to be the edge of the known world. Before reaching the village, enjoy a seaside walk along the beach, breathing in the Atlantic air and taking in the lively summer atmosphere, with time to take a dip in the sea.
Beyond the village, the landscape changes dramatically as rugged cliffs rise above the Atlantic, leading toward the lighthouse. Standing here, you will reflect on ancient myths, the symbolism of the setting sun, and the generations who once believed the world ended at this horizon.
After an invigorating day by the coast, return to Santiago for dinner and a relaxed evening.
Santiago to Villafranca del Bierzo
Today, journey inland into the mountains, arriving at O Cebreiro, a stone village with deep Celtic roots and sweeping views. From here, Visit the tiny church of Santa María La Real, the site of a famous Eucharistic miracle before enjoying a downhill walk through a series of Camino hamlets such as La Faba and Las Herrerías, on a comfortable and scenic walk in the summer heat in the opposite direction to the pilgrims. You will then continue on to the vineyards of the Palacio del Canedo.
At day's end, we arrive in Villafranca del Bierzo, where we settle in for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.
Hotel Parador de Villafranca del BierzoVillafranca del Bierzo,
The modern rooms at Parador de Villafranca feature stylish décor with parquet floors. Each offers views of the gardens, terrace, mountains, or the town of Villafranca del Bierzo. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the hotel’s two swimming pools, and relax in the bar and lounge. The hotel restaurant serves traditional Spanish cuisine, specializing in local cured meats, cheeses and pastries.
Villafranca del Bierzo to Leon - Eclipse Day
The day begins with a visit to Astorga, where you will explore Gaudí's Episcopal Palace, its fairytale-like form rising above the ancient Roman city. Given the importance of the events ahead, you will enjoy only a short walk here, allowing time to absorb the setting without rushing.
The next stop is Leon to prepare for the celestial highlight of the journey. In the afternoon, you will be treated to a presentation that introduces ancient sky myths, astrology, and the science of eclipses, setting the stage for what is to come.
In the early evening, travel to a carefully selected observation site to witness the total solar eclipse, a rare and awe-inspiring event. After the eclipse concludes, return to Leon for a celebratory dinner, sharing reflections on a moment that few ever experience.
Hospederia Monástica PaxLeón,
Hospederia Pax is located just steps away from the city’s numerous attractions, in the main wing of a restored monastery that is still active. Enjoy traditional Leonese cuisine in the hotel restaurant, and mingle with pilgrims at the on-site hostel.
Leon
Your day in the historic city of Leon begins with a visit to the extraordinary Leon Cathedral, famed for its vast stained-glass windows that transform light into color and storytelling.
You will also explore the Royal Pantheon, often called the Sistine Chapel of Romanesque art, before enjoying time in Leon's lively plazas and cafes. The afternoon invites us to linger, observe daily life, and reflect on the artistic and spiritual achievements of the Middle Ages.
After a rewarding day of architectural discovery, the group will gather for dinner in town.
Leon to Haro
Set out early this morning for Burgos, where you will visit its magnificent Gothic cathedral. Here, architecture, astronomy, and faith intersect through ancient timepieces and carefully designed solar alignments. Then, you are off to hike the valley of Rio Oja before sitting down for a well-deserved late lunch.
Later, continue to Haro, the wine capital of La Rioja. Upon arrival, enjoy a gentle stroll through town, soaking up its relaxed atmosphere.
Alternatively, those seeking more walking may opt for a countryside hike near Ezcaray or along the Río Oja valley, offering beautiful scenery and a deeper connection to the landscape.
After an engaging day of travel and discovery, the evening in Haro is free for independent dining.
Eurostars Los AugustinosHaro, Spain
Eurostars Los Agustinos is an atmospheric hotel set within a beautifully restored 14th-century convent in the heart of Haro, the wine capital of La Rioja. Blending historic elegance with modern comfort, the hotel features cloistered courtyards, stone arches, and vaulted ceilings that reflect its monastic past, while spacious rooms offer contemporary amenities and quiet refinement.
Haro to Bilbao
Today begins with an attractive vineyard walk just outside Haro, immersing yourselves in the landscape that produces some of Spain's finest wines. Then, visit a renowned Rioja bodega, learning about local grape varieties and wine making traditions.
After a convivial lunch, travel north to Bilbao, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the Guggenheim Museum. Its striking titanium forms reflect light and movement, offering a powerful contrast to the historic architecture that you encountered earlier in the journey.
After an inspiring day, enjoy a sumptuous farewell dinner at one of our favorite restaurants in Bilbao.
Hotel Barceló NerviónBilbao,
Design, technology, art, and sustainability characterize the Barceló Bilbao Nervión hotel, which reopened its doors in 2013 after reinventing itself as a modern eco-urban establishment. The hotel stands in the heart of Bilbao, only a 10-minute walk to the Guggenheim Museum. The hotel offers an excellent and varied menu in its Ibaizabal restaurant and also in the hotel’s café, famous for its creative signature tapas to enjoy at your table or in the wine room.
Bilbao Maritime Museum and Departure
On this final morning of the journey, enjoy a walk along Bilbao's waterfront to the Maritime Museum, where you will learn about Basque mariners, cartographers, and the traditions of navigation and trade that shaped this region.
After returning to the hotel, check out and say farewell , carrying with you memories of shared walks, extraordinary landscapes, and the unforgettable moment of the eclipse over the Spanish countryside.
Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.
8 Days
Aug 9-16, 2026
From $6,595 Per Person
$1,195
See single supplement policy below.
Please note that a 20% deposit is required for this special departure. This deposit becomes non-refundable after March 1st.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.
Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.
If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).
Single Supplement for Custom Tours. Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.
Boundless Journeys' tours are designed for active individuals who have a spirit of adventure. This tour is rated 2, easy to moderate, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). The walks and hikes on this trip average 2-4 hours a day on a combination of dirt and grass trails, and paved roads.
Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Most Convenient AirportsArrival: Santiago De Compostela Airport (SCQ)Departure: Bilbao Airport (BIO) or Madrid Barajas International Airport (MAD)
Meeting Time and PlaceThe trip begins at 3:30 p.m. in the lobby of the Hotel Monumento San Francisco in Santiago de Compostela.
Departure Time and Place1:00 p.m., Bilbao
In August, the regions we are visiting in northern Spain experience warm, generally pleasant summer weather, with some variation depending on proximity to the coast, elevation, and inland location. Overall, conditions are very suitable for sightseeing and walking, with heat that is usually manageable—especially compared to southern Spain.
Bilbao
High: 82 Low: 75
Haro
High: 90 Low: 80
High: 90 Low: 82
Santiago de Compostela
High: 77 Low: 75
The delights of Spanish cuisine are as wide and varied as its landscapes. Hearty stews, steaks, black pudding, lamb, cured meats, and fine red wine are staples in the north. Trout, tuna, cod, and a variety of cheeses are present in most menus, and fresh vegetables are typically in plentiful supply. We generally dine at small restaurants in the villages we visit that offer authentic and delicious cuisine. Dinner in Spain is late, and we eat on the “early” side at 8:30 p.m. Local wines and beer are included with dinner each evening.
Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice, though choices may be more limited. Contact our office with any questions or concerns about our ability to meet your needs.
With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.
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