El Transcantabrico Gran Lujo : Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastian
Day 1-Welcome to Santiago de Compostela
Welcome to Santiago de Compostela, whose Cathedral was the destination of the important 9th century medieval pilgrimage route, the Way of St. James. Santiago is like a jewel in a crown, with the Plaza del Obradoiro, the Platerías and its famous Cathedral. Enjoy lunch in Santiago before boarding the coach to Ferrol, where El Transcantabrico, your hotel on wheels for the next seven nights, awaits. Settle in to your comfortable cabin as your railway cruise begins, traveling to Viveiro, a lovely walled city. Enjoy dinner and stay overnight in Viveiro.
Day 2-The stunning little village of Luarca
This morning, travel further along the rugged coast to Ribadeo, which is set majestically on the mouth of the River Eo and visit Las Catedrales beach along Lugo’s coast. After lunch, the train departs for the stunning little village of Luarca, also known as “The White Town of the Green Coast.” The evening is spent in Luarca after dinner.
Day 3-Discover the Pre-Romanesque monuments of Oviedo
This morning, the train travels to Candas, en route to Gijon. Explore the second main city in Asturias followed by a delicious lunch. Continue your journey as you depart for Oviedo, the capital of the Principality that boasts a unique collection of the Pre-Romanesque monuments. Dinner and overnight in Oviedo.
Day 4-Deep into the heart of Asturias
On our way to Arriondas, we reach the heart of Asturias, the Picos de Europa National Park. Climb up to the beautiful Lake Enol, the Sanctuary of Covadonga, and finally, Cangas de Onís. After lunch, return to the train and follow the route of the International Descent of the River Sella to Ribadesella. Continue to Llanes, a marvelous fishing village in Eastern Asturias. Enjoy the charming atmosphere, dinner and an overnight stay in Llanes.
Day 5-Travel to Cabezon de la Sal
Enjoy breakfast and the beautiful sceneries as the train travels to Cantabria passing through the La Hermida pass to the Santo Toribio de Liebana sanctuary and Potes. After lunch, depart for Cabezon de la Sal and visit the Comillas – the seat of the Archbishop. Remain in Cabezon de la Sal for an overnight stay.
Day 6-Discover the cultural landmark in the history of mankind
This morning’s tour takes you to Santillana del Mar, a picturesque Medieval village captured in time. Visit the Neocave Museum of Altamira, which incorporates a replica of the nearby Stone Age caves famous for their prehistoric paintings. Rejoin the train and enjoy lunch as you travel to the capital of Cantabria. Santander is a quiet city, which combines beauty, fascination and charm. Explore the area of El Sardinero and witness the majestic building of The Casino. The train remains stationary in Santander for the night.
Day 7-Visit the famous Guggenheim Museum
Continue on to the modern city of Bilbao, where the river searches for the sea. See the sights of this enchanting city and visit Frank Gehry’s famous Guggenheim Museum, which is considered as the most important structure of its time. Return to the train where lunch is served as it makes its way to Balmaseda.
Day 8-Your journey ends in San Sebastian
Make your way to the charming city of San Sebastian this morning and fall in love with its charm. This small and cozy city boasts of its beautiful beaches, posh restaurants and shops, fascinating narrow streets, making it one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Spain. After your sightseeing tour of San Sebastian, bid a fond farewell to the train and to your newfound friends as this memorable journey comes to an end.
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