Small Group
Spain Basque & Rioja Biking
A sensory experience from Basque & Rioja to Duero
6 Days, 5 Nights
Maximum Group Size
16
Activity Level:
B&R Activity Levels
Priced per person from
$6,695 USD
Single Supplement: $1,900 USD
Jan
Feb
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Dec
Carbon Neutral Trip
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.
From the Ocean Bay of Biscay to the Castilian plains, you’ll ride through a variety of dramatic landscapes.
Meet our local friends who bring the region and its vibrant culture to life, including txalaparta players during an intimate performance.
Experience the world famous wines of Northern Spain, where modern winemakers are continually innovating while always respecting the old traditions of the Rioja & Duero regions.
Preview the itinerary
No two trips are ever the same, but this will give you a taste of what your journey will be like.
Day 1
Our adventure begins in the Basque country, where we'll ride quiet roads through charming hamlets and toward the sea breeze, pausing for a traditional Basque lunch. This evening, toast to the journey ahead with a welcome cocktail and dinner at the hotel.
Activity:
52 km (32 mi.) loop ride along the ocean and through the rural Basque countryside | Elevation gain: 762 m (2,500 ft.)
Day 2
Today begins with a scenic drive into wine country, where we'll cycle from Miranda de Ebro through wildflower-lined villages and vineyard-covered hills. Pause for a wine tasting and lunch at a beloved local spot before arriving at the hotel, followed by cocktails and a modern twist on traditional Riojan cuisine.
Activity:
48 km (30 mi.) ride from Ircio via Rivas de Tereso to Marques de Riscal | Elevation gain: 556 m (1,824 ft.)
Optional ride | total of 55 km (34 mi.) | Elevation gain: 701 m (2,300 ft)
Day 3
Cycle a stunning loop through the western vineyards of Rioja Alavesa, framed by the rugged Sierra Cantabria mountains. Enjoy a wine-paired lunch at a renowned bodega—complete with a traditional txalaparta performance—before exploring the medieval village of Laguardia with our local guide, Javi. Dinner is yours to discover tonight.
Activity:
43 km (27 mi.) loop ride from Marques de Riscal to El Puntido | Elevation gain: 654 m (2,146 ft)
Optional ride | 56 km (34 mi.) | Elevation gain: 872 m (2,860 ft.)
Day 4
Begin the day riding through the heart of Ribera del Duero, where quiet roads and castle views guide us along the banks of the Duero River. After a paella lunch at a prestigious winery, continue to the stunning Abadia Retuerta, where we'll unwind before an exclusive vineyard tour, tasting, and private dinner at the Vinoteca Restaurant.
Activity:
55 km (31 mi.) ride from Roa de Duero to Abadia Retuerta | Elevation gain: 331 m (1,068 ft.)
Day 5
On our final day of riding, pedal through rolling vineyards and farmland en route to a fresh, local lunch. After a relaxed return to the hotel, celebrate the journey with a Michelin-starred farewell dinner in a stunning 12th c. deconsecrated church.
Activity:
42 km (26 mi.) loop ride to Pico Melero & the Abadia Retuerta | Elevation gain: 307 m (1,007 ft.)
Optional ride | 58 km (36 mi.) | Elevation gain: 499 m (1,637 ft.)
Day 6
After a final breakfast together, our driver will take us to Valladolid for connections on the high-speed AVE train to Madrid. Adios!
Laura Benn
Director, Small Group Trips
Get in touch
We always love to chat travel. Let’s see what trip is right for you.
Rendezvous
Airport City: Bilbao
Trip Start: Palacio Arriluce Hotel
Time: 8:30am
Farewell
Airport City: Madrid
Trip End: Valladolid Train Station
Time: 11:00am
* Itineraries are subject to change. Please confirm exact Trip Start and Trip End locations upon booking.
Featured stays
Palacio Arriluce Hotel
Location: Getxo, Spain
Hotel Marqués de Riscal
Location: Eltziego, Spain
Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine
Location: Ribera del Duero, Spain
Dates & availability
Dates
Price
per person, double occupancy
Join
Join a group of up to 16 like-minded travellers.
Privatize
8+ people
Pricing depends on group size
Detailed Itinerary
Uniquely tailored for each date
Can't find your dates?
Get in touch to craft a Bespoke itinerary or request an additional date to Privatize.
What's included
Accommodation & dining
All breakfasts, lunches and dinners as indicated. on the itinerary.
All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary.
Thoughtfully selected local wines, beers, cocktails or non-alcoholic beverages with all meals.
Active essentials
Choice of bike as appropriate for terrain (see below), equipped with handlebar bag and helmet.
A biodegradable B&R water bottle.
Use of a smartphone with downloaded GPS routes provided via RideWithGPS.
Guided services & gratuities
Services of B&R guide(s).
All special events, private tours, guest experts and entrance fees.
All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel services.
Transportation & logistics
Transportation from pick up to drop off.
Baggage transportation.
Access to the B&R support van every step of the way.
What's Not Included: International flights, travel protection, gratuity for your B&R guides.
This trip is carbon neutral. Learn more about our Sustainability commitment.
Experience Designer
Good to know
Dining
Be aware that lunches and dinners are scheduled later than you may be used to, as is typical in Spain.
Wine
Even if you don’t like wine, this trip is great as it shows you many aspects of the history and culture of Spain and the Basques.
Why choose a Small Group trip?
An Effortless Journey
Our expert Experience Designers are perfectionists, using first-hand knowledge of routes, restaurants and hotels to create an unforgettable experience. This means all the planning is taken care of for you. All you need to do is enjoy.
Active Exploration
From emerging destinations to iconic sights, B&R trips show you the world in a new way on our expertly developed cycling, walking and hiking routes. Travelling through historic villages and romantic vineyards and up to striking viewpoints, our routes offer a variety of challenges for every activity level.
Friends for Life
Your fellow travellers are as passionate and curious about the world as you are, which means the conversations and laughs will be as free flowing as your drink of choice. Don't be surprised if your group starts planning a reunion before the trip is done.
Room for Surprises
We love a plan, but we adore a spontaneous moment even more. Whether it’s an impromptu al fresco meal or a moon-lit musical performance, our advice is to expect the unexpected.
Speak to an Expert