BASQUE CHEESE and TXAKOLI WINE - Private Gastronomic Adventure
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We Basques maintain a very strong bond with our surroundings and, as children, many of us develop a very special connection with the sea or the mountains. Throughout the day, we’ll explain the reasons for this idyll and how it relates to the other great Basque passion: product-based cuisine.
Available options
Regular pricing
Pickup included
What's included
All transportation costs (petrol, parking and toll)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private group
Private guide and driver
Cheese farm guided visit and tasting
Traditional lunch (grilled fish)
Visit to Txakoli winery with wine tasting
Detailed itinerary
1
We’ll leave the ‘big city’and travel to rural Gipuzkoa to learn the secrets of Idiazabal cheese production in a traditional farmhouse. A kilo of this cheese usually goes for around 20 euros, although a competition is held every year to select the best cheese of the season, sometimes reaching up to 14,000 euros per ½ kilo! We’ll do a tasting, and you’ll hear the secrets of Basque cheeses. You’ll taste traditional cheeses, all made with unpasteurized sheep's milk. This is the Real Thing, the Real Cheese.
2
There’s a Spanish expression that roughly translates as, ‘With bread and wine you walk the road’. We’ve already eaten the bread and cheese. We’ll find the wine on the coast, in the hills overlooking the Cantabrian Sea, the ideal place for growing the grapes from which txakoli is born - a typical Basque white wine with a slight acidity, ideal to pair with fish. We’ll visit a small sustainable winery that uses traditional methods and grapes called Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza. Thus you’ll learn the intricacies and power of txakoli.
3
All this will take place near Getaria, the coastal town through which we’ll take a short walk before eating. Getaria is not only the home of a mountain with a mouse-shaped profile, but it’s the hometown of two of the most well-known Basques: Juan Sebastián Elcano (the first to go around the world) and Cristóbal Balenciaga (the international designer known as the Prince of Fashion). More: our coast is famous for its charcoal-grilled fish, omnipresent in the streets closest to the port…so it makes sense to have lunch here. Do you need a more compelling reason?
4
Stop 4
Pass by
It’s a dream road for two reasons: you can take a good nap after lunch and dream of sheep (latxas, of course), but we don’t recommend it. The road back to San Sebastián is one of the most beautiful on the Basque Coast. It would be a pity to miss these winding roads (splashed by waves during heavy storms), or the cows grazing alongside quiet farmhouses on Mount Igeldo. You've been warned.
What's not included
Meals, drinks and tickets that are not listed above
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
19 reviews
5★
19
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair accessibility is extra paid - contact for details
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Important notes
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
About San Sebastian
San Sebastian is a picturesque coastal city in the Basque Country known for its stunning beaches, world-renowned gastronomy, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Sea, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and modern sophistication.
Top Attractions
La Concha Beach
La Concha Beach is one of the most famous beaches in San Sebastian, known for its beautiful shell-shaped bay and calm waters. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
2-3 hours
Free
Parte Vieja (Old Town)
The Parte Vieja is the historic heart of San Sebastian, filled with narrow streets, charming plazas, and traditional pintxo bars. It's a great place to soak up the city's atmosphere and enjoy local cuisine.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Monte Igueldo
Monte Igueldo offers panoramic views of San Sebastian and the surrounding coastline. The hill is accessible by a historic funicular and is a great spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Nature
2-3 hours
€3.50 for the funicular ride
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pintxos
Small, savory bites typically served on bread, featuring a variety of ingredients like seafood, meats, and cheeses.
Snack
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Bacalao al Pil Pil
Codfish cooked in olive oil with garlic and parsley, a classic Basque dish.
Main Course
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Surfing
Hiking in the surrounding hills
Sunbathing on the beaches
Strolling along the promenade
Visiting museums and galleries
Exploring the historic old town
Swimming
Kayaking
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the best time to visit San Sebastian for its warm weather and vibrant atmosphere. The beaches are at their most inviting, and the city hosts numerous festivals and events.
18°C to 25°C
64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Basque, Spanish
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Sebastian is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- San Sebastian Airport • 20 km from city center
- Bilbao Airport • 100 km from city center
By train
San Sebastian Station
By bus
San Sebastian Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system in San Sebastian is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Cabify, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gros
Antiguo
Day trips
Hondarribia
25 km • Half day
A charming coastal town with a historic old quarter, beautiful views, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to explore Basque culture and history.
Biarritz
50 km • Full day
A glamorous coastal town in France known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and upscale atmosphere. It's a great destination for a day trip from San Sebastian.
Festivals
San Sebastian International Film Festival • Mid-September
Semana Grande • Mid-August
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce and unique souvenirs
- Try a cooking class to learn about Basque cuisine
- Explore the surrounding hills for stunning views of the city and coastline
- Attend a local festival or event to experience the city's vibrant culture
- Take a day trip to nearby towns like Hondarribia or Biarritz
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
