Experts + Insiders: Yvonne Power

Yvonne's journey with B&amp;R started over a decade ago, when a good friend working from our headquarters in Beaune revealed to her that B&amp;R was in search of Guides for the upcoming season. While she was based in Ireland at the time, Yvonne had already spent a year living in Italy and was yearning to live out la dolce vita once again. She hopped on board to guide her first B&amp;R Walking trip in the Cinque Terre and hasn't looked back since."I still have fond memories of leading travellers through those spectacular cliffs and making fresh pesto at a local friend's house at one of our lunch spots. I got hooked on the B&amp;R way of life straight away - travelling and slowing down to see the world."Since making Madrid her home eight years ago, this guide-turned-Experience Designer has become a true expert in all things Spain-related and loves nothing more than to plan amazing adventures to her adopted Spanish soil. Get to know more about Yvonne in our Q&amp;A below!

<h2>Vital Stats:</h2>Years in Travel Business: 25Years with B&amp;R: 16Regions of Expertise: Spanish Wine Country, Camino de SantiagoCountries visited: 20+Countries lived in: Italy, Spain, Ireland, UK, ArgentinaTrips planned: 15+Trips guided: Lots! 40+

<h2>Q&amp;A with Yvonne:</h2>This officially marks your first year as a B&amp;R Experience Designer after gaining a wealth of experience guiding over 40 trips. And what a year it's been! Any favourite moments or lasting impressions from the season?It’s been a special year for planning trips as many of our travellers were hitting the road for the first time since before the pandemic. I felt their travel experiences were almost more sacred than ever before and that made it a real privilege for me to be part of the process.After spending a lot of time before the trip communicating by email or phone it’s always really special to receive photos or videos from our guides of the group out on the road, cycling around La Rioja or dancing up a storm during their final night celebrations! That’s when it makes it all worthwhile.

What’s your preferred method for immersing yourself in a new place?Shopping for food. It sounds basic but I make a real effort to seek out local food markets and shop in small, independent butchers, fishmongers and fruit shops when I spend time in a region. There's no better way to learn the language, speak with the locals and get a feel for what’s going on in the area.Food is a huge part of any culture and speaking about food with others creates a universal connection that taps into historical and cultural habits and norms. I learn so much about a place and its people by trying their food and getting curious about their cooking traditions. Needless to say, It also pleases my palette immensely!Favourite hotel in the world?It has to be Ballynahinch Castle in Connemara in the west of Ireland. Being Irish I am, of course, a bit biased but that hotel for me personifies Irish charm and elegance.As soon as you walk in the hotel’s main door you're greeted by friendly staff at the front desk and the peaty smell of the open fire with its trusty old leather armchairs perched to the side, just inviting you to sit down and relax beside the cozy hearth. Combine that rustic charm with beautiful natural surroundings and I think that Ballynahinch really is the most idyllic country haven (and you can experience this incredible stay on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/destination/europe/ireland" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ireland Biking</a> trip!).

Favourite bar/wine bar/watering hole in the world?It has to be Casa Gonzalez in Madrid. It’s an old-school deli and wine bar that’s been around for almost 100 years and is still in the same family. The owner Paco is a real character and serves a great variety of wines by the glass and top-quality Spanish cheeses and cured meats. This place is a much-loved institution in the Huertas neighbourhood and the front-window table is the ideal place to watch the world go by over some tasty treats.Favourite restaurant in the world?OK, I am going to cheat here a bit as this is not a restaurant but I have to say the street food at the local markets in South East Asia and I am specifically thinking of <a href="https://butterfield.com/destination/asia/vietnam" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vietnam</a>.If I think about my favourite food experience this is absolutely what springs to mind. I’ve had the most delicious foods on an early morning trip to the fish market in Hoi An where all of your senses are just blown away by the bustling market scenes, the loud chatter of the vendors, the pungent smells of the fresh fish and the first tastes of exotic foods that I had never tried before. It’s a truly memorable place to eat and it makes me smile every time I think back to it!

Favourite bottle of wine?Well, this changes regularly as I love to try lots of different wines but they are always Spanish and, over the years of living here, I have made it my mission to try as many of the different varieties available. That keeps me busy as Spain has 69 wine regions or DOs!! So, while I still have lots more to get through I will say that my most recent favourite is a red blend of tempranillo and mencía grapes from Galicia, in the north of Spain, called Pajaro Loco or Crazy Bird in English. So delicious!

Are there any destinations you haven’t been to, but want to visit?Yes, many! Nepal, New Zealand and Iceland are probably up there in my top three.What are your three most underrated destinations?I would say Bangkok, Naples and New York. They all just happen to be big cities that often get a bad rap and I guess I like them because I love the buzz and chaotic energy of big cities and the random encounters you can have there.When I was in New York people couldn’t have been friendlier to me with strangers stopping on the street one day to help me with directions, which obviously goes against all the negative stereotypes you hear of New Yorkers!&nbsp;What items are absolute musts on your packing list?A refillable water bottle, Mac red lipstick and a notebook and pencil.And finally, what’s your favourite trip you’ve ever taken?Oh, that’s a difficult question but I would have to say the hiking trip that I did in Patagonia, Argentina. Never have I felt such awe and respect for nature as I did in that part of the world. You can’t help but be overwhelmed by the beauty and sheer magnificence of the scenery there. It puts a lot of things into perspective and makes you realize how small we are in the grand scheme of things.

Spain

Andalucia, Catalonia, Rioja (to name a few)… the beauty of Spain never ceases to amaze us. We’ve spent decades whittling our journeys here to perfection. Feeling bleh? Pedal through a fiery Spanish-Arab cultural mash-up. Feeling thirsty? Aim for the Old World vineyards. Feeling reflective? Have we got a pilgrimage for you…

A fiesta of flamenco, sunsets, and savoury tapas

Riding in Rioja is a sensory experience. Your eyes won't believe the vineyard-covered hills of neighbouring&nbsp;Ribera del Duero. Your body won't believe the comfort of the 5-star Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine Hotel. Your taste buds will never tire of the tapas, pintxos, and barbecued meats—not to mention the world-famous wine. And your mind? Totally and utterly blown.

Exceptional Wines

Incredible Rides

One-of-a-kind Hotels

There’s a fresh energy pulsing through Northern Spain’s wine country. Cycle through rolling vineyards and wheat fields where bold architecture meets deep tradition. Meet visionary winemakers, artists and chefs redefining the region’s identity. From smoky txorizo to Michelin-starred magic—paired with vintages full of surprise—this is Spain as you’ve never tasted it before.

Taste and ride Northern Spain

Immerse yourself in the sensory symphony

Riding in Rioja is a sensory experience. Your eyes won't believe the vineyard-covered hills of neighbouring&nbsp;Ribera del Duero. Your body won't believe the comfort of the 5-star Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine Hotel. Your taste buds will never tire of the tapas, pintxos, and barbecued meats—not to mention the world-famous wine. And your mind? Totally and utterly blown. *Some departures run on a slightly different itinerary.

This region in northern Spain offers more than just award-winning reds. Rioja exudes creativity and boasts whimsical architecture and design, all while remaining deeply rooted in its heritage. Go Self-Guided and cycle our routes through ever-changing landscapes, immerse yourself in medieval history and follow the paths of pilgrims who've left their footprints here for millennia. It's an experience that can only be described as divine.&nbsp;

Historic Sites

Rioja: where the reds are award-winning, the architecture’s delightfully quirky, and the roads were practically made for cycling. Ride through rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and pilgrim paths carved over millennia. With divine scenery, rich history, and vino at every turn, this self-guided spin serves up Spain with just the right splash of magic.

From Mountains to Medieval Towns

A sensory experience in the heart of Spanish wine country

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

Preview the itinerary

Experience Designer

$4,995 based on four travellers. $5,295 based on two travellers.

B&amp;R’s Women’s Only trips are designed by women, for women to experience new regions, cultures and communities from female perspectives. ﻿For centuries, women have walked along the ancient paths of the Camino de Santiago, a storied network of pilgrimage routes that weave through Europe. On this journey, you’ll follow the footsteps of countless pilgrims before you, beginning at the sacred Cruz de Ferro. Wind along cobblestone streets lined with charming houses until you reach the Palacio de Canedo—your first hotel and a place where local women once found a rare opportunity to forge their independence. Discover enchanting mountain villages and stroll through the cascading vineyards of the Sil River valley, dotted with historic chapels. Explore the medieval Cathedral de Santiago, then journey deeper into Galicia, where rugged mountain coastlines lead to the lighthouse at the end of the world. Throughout your pilgrimage, you’ll be inspired by the extraordinary women you’ll meet, each sharing stories of independence and honouring the women who helped pave the way.

Local Connections

Vibrant Culture

One-of-a-kind-Hotels

Intrepid women have been hiking the Camino de Santiago for centuries—and we're proud to follow in their footsteps. Wander cobblestone lanes, toast independence at Palacio de Canedo, and saunter through vineyard-speckled valleys. Pilgrim past historic chapels, meet trailblazing local women, and finish at Galicia, where rugged mountain coastlines lead to the lighthouse at the end of the world.

Tracing her footsteps along the Camino

Camino de Santiago Women's Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

Embark on an enchanting journey through the land of the Basques, where whispers of Europe’s ancient language echo through the valleys. Your adventure begins in the heart of the French Basque Country, winding along quaint country roads and trails that reveal breathtaking mountain views. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of rural life as you explore the charming villages surrounding Bidarray, while the distant sound of Mancech sheep bells fill the air. Cross into the Spanish Basque Country and wander through the small village of Aia to reach the serene Pagoeta Natural Park. Follow the awe-inspiring trail to Flysch Geopark, where ancient geological wonders meet the crashing waves of the sea.&nbsp;Your Basque journey ends in the vibrant San Sebastián, where you’ll meet our friend for&nbsp;an authentic pintxos tour, followed by an invitation to an exclusive evening at the Gastronomic Society.

Great Walks

Insider Access

Authentic Food

Walk from France to Spain (passport optional, appetite mandatory) through Basque Country, where sheep bells ring, and jagged cliffs hover wave-batter shores. Wander postcard-perfect villages, stroll lush Pagoeta Park, and see geology throw a tantrum at Flysch Geopark. End in San Sebastián, swapping your trail boots for pintxos, vino and an evening of culinary mischief at a secret Gastronomic Society.

Wander from the verdant countryside to coastal San Sebastián

Basque Country: France to Spain Walking & Hiking | Butterfield & Robinson

Journey to the eastern coast of Spain and uncover the enchanting islands of Menorca and Mallorca. Your adventure begins in the sun-drenched Mallorca, where you’ll cycle through picturesque villages and dramatic mountain ranges on two wheels. A short flight then whisks you to Menorca, an island steeped in history and natural beauty. Explore the Cami de Cavallas by foot or bike and glimpse into the island’s prehistoric past at the Talayotic ruins. Experience pure bliss as you cruise the sparkling waters on board your private boat and indulge in the authentic flavours of the Mediterranean at seaside restaurants. In just five days, you’ll feel a deep connection to these magical islands nestled in the Balearic Sea.&nbsp;

Mallorca and Menorca: the Balearics' dreamy duo, where the history runs deep, the beaches sparkle, and the tapas never ends. Pedal Mallorca’s sun-kissed villages, then hop over to chilled-out Menorca for ancient ruins and blissful seaside hikes. Sail turquoise waters by private boat, feast shamelessly at waterfront eateries, and embrace island life so fully, you may never return to the mainland.

Explore the shimmering coast

Mallorca to Menorca Multi-Active | Butterfield & Robinson

The alluring riches of the Mediterranean are sure to seduce. Limestone cliffs, azure blue shores, swathes of almond groves and artichoke fields. Experience it all on this journey through Mallorca, a biker's paradise, with options for every riding ability, from the level interior to the leg-working coast. (On your trusty e-bike you get to decide when to sweat and when to cruise.) The permeating scent of citrus, the freshest catch of the day, secluded coves and remarkable hotels in unforgettable settings—this place offers luxury in many forms. *Prefer to sweat it out? Regular road bikes are available by request, ask your Travel Advisor for details.*Please note the hotel lineup for 2024:The Lodge, La Residencia: May, June, September, OctoberFinca Serena, Son Brull: September, OctoberFor information about the hotels assigned to your departure, kindly contact your Travel Advisor. You can also download the detailed itinerary to view the complete hotel lineup.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Mallorca is Mediterranean perfection with a pulse—an island where rugged mountain climbs meet breezy coastal spins, and vineyard picnics give way to cliffside gin tastings. Ride quiet country roads, conquer legendary passes, and roll into whitewashed villages that feel frozen in time. With sun-drenched stays, bold flavours, and one spectacular surprise after another, this trip is the ultimate island escape on two wheels.

The beating heart of the Balearic Islands

The alluring riches of the Mediterranean are sure to seduce: limestone cliffs, azure blue shores, swathes of almond groves and artichoke fields, to name a few. Experience it all on this journey through Mallorca; a biker’s paradise, with options for every riding ability, from the level interior to the leg-working coast. (On your trusty e-bike you get to decide when to sweat and when to cruise.) The permeating scent of citrus, delectable tapas, secluded coves and remarkable hotels in unforgettable settings—this place offers up luxury in many forms.

Mallorca Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

With its European charm and uncrowded appeal, Portugal's coast offers a bounty of experience for history buffs, adventurers and foodies alike. Explore from Northern Portugal to Santiago de Compostela in Spain; end your journey by cycling the final stretch of the Camino on lesser-known routes. Pedal the sparkling blue coastline, savour a Vinho Verde tasting and indulge in the region's spectacular seafood.&nbsp;

CAMINO COASTAL CHARMS

Michelin-Star Dining

Cultural Immersion

Straddling France and Spain, Basque Country plays by its own rules—and (quite literally) speaks its own language. From San Sebastián’s foodie fever to Bilbao’s modern flair, this place pulses with pride, passion and just the right amount of rebellion. Explore its green hills, drink in the crashing surf and experience pintxos worth planning a trip around.

A coastal and countryside feast for the senses

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Basque Country Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Northern Spain is having a moment—and it’s delicious. Ride through Basque, Rioja and Duero, where bold architecture rises from ancient vines, jaw-dropping shorelines beg to be explored, chefs rewrite the rules, and winemakers blend tradition with a twist. Snack on txorizo, sip unexpected vintages, and meet the makers redefining this storied land. Yes, it's Spain. But no, you've never seen it quite like this.

Spain Basque & Rioja Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

Join us to explore B&amp;R's favourite stretch through Northwest Spain, zig-zagging our way through pretty Roman villages, rows of eucalyptus trees and jaw-dropping panoramas. Our final route gives us a sample of Galicia's understated, yet majestic rugged coastline. Step-by-step we’ll tackle rewarding climbs, revel in gripping vistas and marvel at prominent pilgrimage sites.&nbsp;Please note our new hotel lineup for 2025 departures: Palacio de Canedo, Aurea Palacio de Sober, Casa Beatnik Hotel, Parador de Santiago de Compostela, Parador Costa da Morte Muxia

Diverse Landscapes

Walk the Camino’s best bits, zig-zagging past sleepy Roman villages, whispering eucalyptus forests and views worth every uphill step. Discover Galicia’s wildly underrated coast—ruggedly beautiful and delightfully drama-free. Reward your daily feats with epic panoramas, iconic pilgrim stops and enough vino tinto to fuel the soul-searching. Heaven can wait; for now, Santiago beckons.

Walk the ancient route

Featured stays

Join us as we slow down on the Camino de Santiago: an ancient pilgrimage route that passes by pretty Roman villages, rows of Eucalyptus&nbsp;trees and rugged coastline. Step-by-step, we’ll tackle the rewarding climbs and revel in the open plains. While the full version of the trail spans across Europe, we take on only a stretch of it. But that’s not to say we miss the good stuff.&nbsp;Along the way, we’ll witness some of the pilgrimage’s best-known sites, including the Puerta del Perdón, the Iron Cross and the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

Camino de Santiago Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

Andalucia is the spirited soul of Spain. Spot white-washed, hilltop villages shine like beacons in the countryside. Feel the pulse of flamenco music and the swish from the dancers’ colourful dress. Dine on tapas washed down with the local sherry to your heart’s content. Did we mention the over 300 days of sunshine per year? Pack your bags, this seven-day experience is one for the books.

Sacred Trails

Path of the Pilgrims

The Camino isn’t just a walk—it’s a rite of passage (with better wine). Follow ancient paths through misty forests and stone-clad villages, swap stories with fellow pilgrims and chase the glow of Compostela. Whether you’re seeking clarity, camaraderie or just a really good tortilla española, the Camino delivers—step by step, soul first.

Find enlightenment on the Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Home to volcanic craters, coastal cliffs, Pyrenean peaks and enough tapas to fuel the whole adventure, Catalonia is a feast. Hike Garrotxa’s lava trails, bike through sun-soaked vineyards and float over it all by hot air balloon. From Costa Brava beaches to medieval towns, Catalonia serves up scenery, culture and cuisine with serious flair.

Catalonia Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Soak up the warmth of the Med in a region we adore. Ride rolling volcanic hills dwarfed by the Pyrenees and explore villages stamped by time. Cruise the Costa Brava, feast on farm-to-fork cuisine in Figueres, and let Spain’s best Dali guide lead you on an intimate tour through Dali’s marvel of a theatre-museum. Melt like a clock for this sensuous region.

Unique Gastronomy

Art and History

Spin your way through volcanic hills, Pyrenean peaks and Dalí’s surreal dreams. Cruise the Costa Brava, pedal through postcard-perfect villages, and savour flavours fresh from Figueres farms. Top it off with Spain’s ultimate Dalí whisperer at his whimsical theatre-museum. By trip’s end, you'll melt like one of Salvador’s clocks—blissfully, beautifully.

Getting Surreal in Spain

Soak up the warmth of the Med in a region we adore. Ride rolling volcanic hills dwarfed by the Pyrenees and explore villages stamped by time. Take sips and dips on B&amp;R’s sailboat while cruising the Costa Brava, feast on farm-to-fork cuisine in Figueres, and let Spain’s best Dali guide pour drinks before an intimate art tour. Melt like a clock for this sensuous region.﻿

Catalonia Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

Island Paradise

Exclusive Access

Active Adventure

Mallorca is Mediterranean magic, with a twist of lime. Ride the legendary Tramuntana, hike into secret gorges and sail to coves where the only thing on the agenda is lunch—and maybe a swim. From vineyard tastings to citrus-scented strolls and luxe stays like Son Bunyola, this island does indulgence and adventure in equal, sun-drenched measure.

The Mediterranean magic of Mallorca

Mallorca Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Traditionally, the Camino de Santiago is about soul searching, but we’re more interested in soul-stirring. It starts with riding while others walk, to feel serenity in the saddle. It continues in the farm-fresh meals we enjoy en route, and the passion of the people who prepare them. And it culminates at the resplendent&nbsp;Reis Católicos, a stone’s throw from the cathedral.

Great Biking

Rioja is more than world-class wine (though yes, there’s plenty of that). Ride through rolling vineyards, medieval towns and into the artistic buzz of Bilbao and San Sebastián. With bold architecture, deep roots and food that rivals the vino, this is northern Spain at its most deliciously dynamic.

Spoil your senses in Spain’s wine country

Rioja Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Land of Striking Contrasts

Andalucia is Spain turned all the way up—sun-soaked, spice-laced and alive with rhythm. Wander Moorish palaces, sip sweet Jerez, carve jamón like a local and lose track of time under orange trees. With flamenco in your ears and tapas on your plate, this is southern Spain in full, glorious technicolour—yours to savour, your way.

Spain

Experts + Insiders: Yvonne Power

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