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The Ancient Pilgrims Trail

Travel the Way of St James by train on this unique, 9 night holiday through San Sebastian, Leon, Santiago and Segovia. Spend a night in the wine capital of France, Bordeaux before continuing to San Sebastian to sample Michelin starred cuisine and golden beaches. Continue to Leon, famous for its cathedral and historic Parador, legendary as a stop off for pilgrims. Travel on to Santiago De Compostela, the final destination of the Pilgrims Trail. After two days exploring, take the train to Segovia and visit the Alcazar castle before returning home via Madrid.

From $2,134 per person

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Itinerary - 9 Night Holiday by Air + Rail

Day 1

London to Bordeaux

Travel under the Channel Tunnel from London to Paris before transferring on to the high speed TGV to the wine capital of France - Bordeaux. Check in at the Best Western Bordeaux Bayonne Etcha-Ona for your overnight stay.

As a city of art and history, Bordeaux is a delightful place for an overnight stay. The city has some of the most beautiful 18th century urban areas, much sought after by film makers and artists. Visit the Basilica of Saint-Seurin, Bordeaux's oldest church and the Musée des Beaux Arts (Fine arts museum), which includes in its collection some of the finest works in France.

Days 2 and 3

Bordeaux to San Sebastian

From Bordeaux, travel to San Sebastian stopping at the French-Spanish border town of Irun on your way. From here, take a regional train through the Basque countryside to San Sebastian.

On arrival, check in at the stunning Astoria 7 for a 2 night stay. This beautiful Belle Epoque hotel features a relaxing Hydra Wellness Spa and a gourmet restaurant, all located just steps from the famous La Concha beach.

Situated on the Bay of Biscay and a hub of Basque culture, San Sebastian offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and relaxing. Wander through the streets, passing the Iglesia Parroquial San Salvador, a 15th Century church with a fascinating history, Muralla del Puerto (the city walls) and the Palacio de Miramar, built for Queen Maria Cristina. Or simply relax on the beach before enjoying dinner in one of the great restaurants along the seafront.

Days 4 and 5

San Sebastian to Leon

After breakfast, take the regional Arco train south through the Basque country and picturesque Rioja region to the capital of Castilla y Lyon. Journey time is approximately 5 hours.

Arrive in Leon and check in to the historic Parador De Leon for your 2 night stay.

Spend two days enjoying the sights and sounds of this ancient Spanish city. León’s most impressive sight is its cathedral, one of the stops on the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela. Visit the Basilica San Isidoro and Royal Pantheon, the burial place of 40 kings, queens and princes of Leon and Castile and featuring impressive 12th century Romanesque frescoes. In the evening, head to Barrio Húmedo where there are plenty of lively tapas bars perfect for sampling the fantastic food and traditional cortos (small beers).

Days 6 and 7

Leon to Santiago De Compostela

From Leon, board the Spanish Arco train to Santiago De Compostela. Enjoy a snack in the bar car or stock up on refreshments before sitting back and watching the Spanish countryside roll by. Arrive in Santiago De Compostela in the evening and check in to the beautiful Parador Santiago De Compostela for your 2 night stay.

For 1000 years, pilgrims have been journeying to this ancient city. Supposedly the final resting place of the Apostle Saint James the Great, the brother of John, the city is a fascinating destination to explore. Visit the impressive cathedral, shop for silver in Plaza de las Platerias and feast on fabulous seafood, Galicia's most prized cuisine.

Day 8

Santiago De Compostela to Segovia

Following a morning in Santiago, take the Talgo train to Segovia. Journey through the Galicia region and back through Castilla y Leon. On arrival, check in to the Parador de Segovia for your overnight stay.

Spend the evening admiring the beautiful Romanesque architecture and wandering through the narrow streets of this pretty town. Visit the impressive Roman aqueduct and take a walk along the city walls. Have dinner in one of the traditional restaurants serving ancient recipes along with fine wines produced in the region of Ribera del Duero.

Day 9

Segovia to Madrid

After breakfast, travel on the new high speed AVE train from Segovia to Madrid. Journey time is just 35 minutes. On arrival check into the Catalonia Puerta del Sol for your overnight stay.

Spend your afternoon sightseeing in this energetic capital. Visit the Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, filled with some of the most beautiful Spanish Art. Wander through the city enjoying Madrid's finest attractions such the Prado Museum before relaxing in Parque del Retiro, the city's largest and most impressive park.

During the evening, enjoy Madrid's effervescent nightlife. Have dinner in one of the many traditional tapas bars, decorated "Belle Epoque" style and sip a Cava or Rioja in Gran Via or the ultra-trendy Paseo de la Castellana.

Day 10

Madrid to London

Fly with British Airways Euro Traveller from Madrid to London.

Bordeaux Best Western Bordeaux Bayonne Etcha-Ona San Sebastian Astoria 7 Leon Cathedral Parador De Leon St James Cathedral Parador Santiago De Compostela Segovia Parador de Segovia Madrid Catalonia Puerta del Sol

Bordeaux

Bordeaux

Bordeaux has been producing wine since the 8th century and is capital of the Aquitaine region of France. It is home to the longest shopping street in Europe and a number of historically important buildings such as the Saint-André Cathedral and Église Sainte-Croix, both of which are connected with the historic pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Don’t leave without taking a wine-tasting tour of the Bordeaux vineyards or a ferry ride down the River Garonne.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a gem of the northern Basque country. The city is home to three beautiful beaches (the most famous being Playa de la Concha) as well as host of sightseeing opportunities. Within the lovely old quarter are the Baroque Church of Santa Maria, the Gothic Church of San Vicente and the Museo de San Telemo as well as picturesque parks and bustling farmers markets. San Sebastian is also the cultural capital of Spain with more restaurants per head than anywhere else in the world!

Leon

Leon

Capital of the Castilla y Leon region, Leon is located in one of the most diverse Provinces in Spain, surrounded by towering mountains, steep cliffs and vast valleys. It benefits from a year round temperate climate and plenty of picturesque rivers and streams making it perfect for providing pastures and crops. The Parador De Leon (originally a hostel to shelter pilgrims, a monastery and a prison) is a stunning piece of architecture with a great history. The city offers impressive sights such as the 12th Century Leon Cathedral, the beautiful Casa de Botine, built by Gaudi, and MUSAC, a modern art gallery holding many famous Spanish works.

Santiago De Compostela

Santiago De Compostela

World famous as the final destination of the legendary Way of Saint James (the medieval pilgrimage - Camino de Santiago), Santiago de Compostela attracts thousands of visitors and pilgrims from across the world. The town is named after the Apostle Saint James “Santiago” who is buried here and benefits from a rich history and culture guaranteeing its title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral, begun in 1075 is the heart of the city alongside further sights such as the Romanesque Gelmirez Palace and the 15th Century Colegio de San Jerónimo monastery.

Segovia

Segovia

Located in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula and prominent as part of the Pilgrims route to Santiago de Compostela, Segovia is a fascinating destination. It holds the highest concentration of Romanesque churches in Europe all surrounded by an impressive medieval wall. The city is home to the famous Alcazar castle (the source of inspiration to Walt Disney), the impressive Roman aqueduct, built under the Roman Empire and dozens of sidewalk cafes and terraces on the streets and plazas.

Madrid

Madrid

Spain’s capital Madrid is a vibrant city with world class museums and a lively tapas fuelled nightlife. Visit the famous Prado Museum and the Museo Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, home to Picasso’s epic Guernica, people-watch from the cafés lining Plaza Mayor, or shop along Gran Via and in the fashionable Salamanca area. Madrid is a city with its own rhythms and a culture all its own. Don't expect to eat early (many restaurants don't even open their doors till gone 9pm) but do expect to eat well. You may even catch a performance of flamenco!

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Best Western Bordeaux Bayonne Etcha-Ona Exterior

Best Western Bordeaux Bayonne Etcha-Ona 3 Star

The Best Western Bordeaux “Bayonne Etche-Ona” Hotel is set in a historical 18th century building. The hotel is located in the centre of Bordeaux, close to the Opera. Bordeaux's main attractions, sights, shops and restaurants are within walking distance from the hotel.

Hotel Facilities

  • Bar
  • Shoe Shine Machine
  • Laundry
  • Ice Machine

Room Facilities

  • Safe
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cable/Satellite TV
  • Hairdryer
  • Minibar
  • Room Service
  • Tea/Coffee Making Facilities
  • Trouser Press
  • Iron and Ironing board
  • Non-smoking Rooms

Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.

Astoria 7 Café

Astoria 7 4 Star

The Astoria 7 is a unique hotel with 102 individually decorated rooms dedicated to the San Sebastian Film Festival. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and complimentary WIFI. The hotel is situated on a pleasant main road 15 minutes walk from the old town and only 10 minutes from the station.

Hotel Facilities

  • 24 hour reception
  • Lift
  • Wake up calls

Room Facilities

  • Air Conditioning
  • Cable/Satellite TV
  • Hairdryer
  • Minibar
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi

Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.

Parador De Leon Breakfast Buffet

Parador De Leon 5 Star

The Parador De Leon is a luxury 5* hotel founded in the 12th century to provide lodging for the pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. It is one of the most beautiful Renaissance buildings in Spain featuring 226 beautiful rooms and suites. Paintings, carvings and tapestries line the walls of the public areas and the gourmet restaurant serves delicious Spanish cuisine. The hotel is located 1km from Leon train station in the centre of the historic city.

Hotel Facilities

  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Garden
  • Wake up calls
  • Wheelchair Accessible

Room Facilities

  • Safe
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cable/Satellite TV
  • Minibar
  • Pay TV
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi

Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.

Parador Santiago De Compostela Standard Twin Room

Parador Santiago De Compostela 5 Star

The Parador Santiago De Compostela is a stunning 5* hotel located next to the world famous Santiago do Compostela cathedral. Arguably the oldest hotel in the world, the Parador originated as a Royal Hospital in 1499 gave lodging and shelter to the numerous pilgrims making their way to Santiago. Its 4 cloisters offer 147 spectacular bedrooms and many impressive public areas. Enjoy a typical Galician meal in the hotel's restaurant after a day's sightseeing in the charming town. The Parador Santiago De Compostela is located approximately 3km from the train station.

Hotel Facilities

  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Garden

Room Facilities

  • Safe
  • Air Conditioning
  • Minibar
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi

Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.

Parador de Segovia Standard Room

Parador de Segovia 4 Star

The Parador de Segovia is situated on the El Terminillo estate, a site which was chosen specifically for the wonderful panoramic views of the city including the famous cathedral and the alcazar (castle). The hotel features spacious bedrooms, an indoor and outdoor pool, tennis court and sauna area. Its gourmet restaurant features a number of local specialities perfect for enjoying an evening meal after a days sightseeing. The Parador de Segovia is located approximately 3km from Segovia town centre.

Hotel Facilities

  • Swimming Pool
  • Bar
  • Fitness Centre
  • Restaurant
  • Sauna
  • Garden
  • Wake up calls

Room Facilities

  • Safe
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cable/Satellite TV
  • Minibar
  • Pay TV
  • TV

Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.

Catalonia Puerta del Sol Exterior

Catalonia Puerta del Sol 4 Star

The Catalonia Puerta del Sol Hotel is a modern hotel. The hotel has a peaceful reading room. The hotel is in the centre of Madrid, close to Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor.

Hotel Facilities

  • 24 hour reception
  • Lift
  • Bar
  • Restaurant

Room Facilities

  • Safe
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cable/Satellite TV
  • Hairdryer
  • Minibar
  • Room Service

Some facilities may be subject to an additional charge at the hotel.

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Catalonia Puerta del Sol

Excellent hotel in the centre of Madrid within walking distance of all major museums and attractions, with plenty of restaurants and cafés in the vincinity.

Railbookers - Apr 2008

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9 Night Holiday by Air + Rail

This package includes standard single Eurostar travel to Paris, rail travel from Paris to Bordeaux, standard single train travel from Bordeaux to San Sebastian (via Irun), standard single train travel from San Sebastian to Leon, standard single train travel from Leon to Santiago De Compostela, standard single rail travel from Santiago De Compostela to Segovia, standard single rail travel from Segovia to Madrid, British Airways Euro Traveller flight from Madrid to London, 1 night accommodation in Bordeaux, 2 nights accommodation in San Sebastian, 2 nights accommodation in Leon, 2 nights accommodation in Santiago De Compostela, 1 night accommodation in Segovia and 1 night accommodation in Madrid. Prices are subject to availability and based on 2 people travelling and sharing a twin or double bedroom. Please note - this itinerary does not include tickets from Irun to San Sebastian as these are occasionally only payable locally at approximately 10EUR (adult single).

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Prices are shown in United States Dollars $

Price per person for 9 night holiday:

2012

  • April
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  • May
    from $2,134
  • June
    from $2,134
  • July
    from $2,166
  • August
    from $2,213
  • September
    from $2,213
  • October
    from $2,213
  • November
    On Request
  • December
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2013

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  • April
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  • May
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  • June
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  • July
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  • August
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  • September
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  • October
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  • November
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  • December
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2014

  • January
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  • February
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  • March
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  • April
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Holidays can be tailor-made for you (including stopovers or additional nights) call us on (646) 770 2894.
Prices are subject to availability, based on 2 people sharing a twin / double room and based on best priced seats on trains.
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Hotel and room facilities may be subject to an extra charge or are on request.
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The Ancient Pilgrims Trail, France

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