Signature Series: Exclusive 12-Day Spain Foodie Tour with Matt Preston & Gary Mehigan

Awake to your first full day in Spain and step into the hotel’s El Bosc Garden Restaurant for a fresh, a la carte breakfast.

Then, it’s time to wander two blocks to Sagrada Familia. If the spires call to you as they have to millions of cultural pilgrims and architectural aficionados, this afternoon may be the perfect time to explore the sacred site and even ascend its great spires. Enjoy the anticipation of stepping through its hallowed doorways to witness how light dances through the stained-glass windows, transforming the interior into a kaleidoscope of colour. Tree-like columns soar overhead to create an impossibly tall forest canopy effect, dotted with subtle touches of intricate meaning. When you visit, be sure to indulge a free audio tour to appreciate the full scale and sanctity of Gaudi’s ‘cathedral for the poor’.

For now, though, it’s time for a half-day guided city tour that unveils the artistic soul of Barcelona, blending modernist architecture, culinary heritage and the city’s Mediterranean flair. Discover how the city became a canvas for two of Spain’s greatest creatives, witnessing the whimsical, nature-inspired architecture of Antoni Gaudí and the revolutionary cubist vision of Pablo Picasso. Beginning with a scenic drive along Passeig de Gràcia, home to Gaudí’s masterpieces Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, your expert guide will reveal how these masters shaped Barcelona’s identity and left an indelible mark on its streets, buildings and cultural landscape. Afterwards, you’ll reach the majestic Sagrada Familia, his unfinished basilica and a symbol of the city’s creative spirit – with views over Montjuïc Hill, the Gothic Quarter, and the vibrant Port Vell waterfront along the way.

Signature Highlight: Cucina de Santa Caterina

As afternoon approaches, reconvene with Matt, Gary and fellow travellers for lunch at Cucina de Santa Caterina, a vibrant restaurant nestled alongside the historic Santa Caterina Market. Here, amid the buzz of local life, contemporary Catalan cuisine comes alive in a celebration of the market’s exceptional produce.

Accompanying you are Matt and Gary, sharing insights into the regional ingredients and techniques that make Barcelona’s food scene so powerful.

Following your spectacular lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Consider delving deeper into Picasso’s world at the Museu Picasso or perhaps stop by La Sagrada Familia back near the hotel for a sunset ascension up to its hallowed spires. Tonight, dinner is yours at leisure.

After breakfast, it’s time to taste your way through Barcelona’s best bites with the first of your trip’s foodie tours.

Signature Highlight: Exclusive Mercat de la Boqueria walkthrough and tasting event

Dive headfirst into Barcelona’s legendary food scene with Matt and Gary, as your group follows a local guide through one of Europe’s most famous food markets. Located just off La Rambla, this sensory wonderland has been the beating heart of Barcelona’s culinary culture since the 13th century.

Inside, discover a maze of colourful stalls. Stop to sample delicate gildas (the beloved Basque pintxo of anchovy, olive and pickled pepper), savour the satisfying saltiness of traditional bacalao (salted cod), indulge in creamy artisan cheeses and let paper-thin slices of premium jamon iberico melt on your tongue.

The day’s highlight: an exclusive Boqueria event held in a glass room in the market’s centre, where stallholders will approach to share their produce. It’s a whirlwind introduction to the city’s culinary delights – expect aperitifs, traditional gildas, hand-carved Iberian ham, rustic bread with tomato and more. Matt and Gary will share their knowledge of these essential ingredients, explaining how they form the foundation of Spanish cuisine.

Between tastings, absorb the market’s lively energy as passionate vendors call out their daily specials and locals haggle over the freshest catch. This is Barcelona at its most authentic.

Signature Highlight: Catalan cooking class

This afternoon, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on Spanish cooking class, located in the heart of Barcelona’s old town. Under the guidance of knowledgeable locals, you’ll cook up a tantalising collection of Catalan dishes – including seasonal vegetables with romesco sauce, fideuà (Catalan-style seafood noodle paella) and cream and almond tuille – with Matt and Gary moving between the groups to help bring your MasterChef dreams to life.

As you prepare an authentic Spanish feast, you’ll learn the techniques behind traditional tapas, and discover the secrets of a classic Spanish dessert. This will afford you a deeper appreciation of the flavours and dishes to come throughout your Spanish experience.

As timers ring out and your efforts turn golden-brown, sit together with the fruits of your labour, accompanied by excellent local wines. You’ll leave with access to each recipe and newfound skills to recreate the magic of Spanish cuisine back home.

With the remainder of today at your leisure, you’re well placed to visit one of the many museums that dot these central suburbs. Perhaps the Museum of Contemporary Art or the Banksy Museum catch your eye, or an evening of opera at the Gran Teatre del Liceu (at own expense). For a more low-key evening, use the twilight to wander through Parc de la Ciutadella and pass the Arc de Triomf on the way back to your hotel.

Tonight, enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Bid farewell to Barcelona this morning and journey towards Spain’s most celebrated wine region. En route, stop in the historic city of Zaragoza, where layers of Roman, Moorish and Christian heritage converge along the banks of the Ebro River.

Explore the ancient Roman ruins that whisper tales of Caesaraugusta, the city’s former name, before making your way to the breathtaking Basilica del Pilar. Step inside this Baroque masterpiece to admire frescoes painted by Goya himself and learn the legend of the Virgin Mary’s miraculous appearance.

After lunch at your leisure in Zaragoza, continue your journey through the rolling hills and vine-covered landscapes of La Rioja.

Signature Accommodation: Hotel Palacio Tondón

As you arrive in Spain’s premier wine country, check-in to the stunning Palacio Tondon, La Rioja Brinas, an exquisitely restored 16th-century noble palace that seamlessly blends historic grandeur with a-la-mode luxury. With its elegant stone facades, original architectural details and refined interiors, this boutique haven offers an intimate escape in the heart of Rioja wine country. Better yet: the centuries-old size of this intimate accommodation means your group of foodies will likely fill its books.

This evening, dine at the hotel’s Restaurante Gran Reserva. The region yields vegetables such as artichokes, cardoons and borage, while the southern hills sustain local livestock for Camerana beef and lamb chops. La Rioja is also known for its seafood such as salted cod dishes (locally, bacalao), paired perfectly with a view over the Ebro River.

Aside from the food, views and atmosphere, the best part of any hotel restaurant is the short walk back to your room, giving you plenty of rest in a remarkable slice of Spanish accommodation.

Travel Time: Driving – approx. 5.5 hours

Wake to the tranquil beauty of Palacio Tondon, La Rioja Brinas and enjoy the hotel’s leisurely buffet breakfast before preparing for another tasty experience.

Signature Highlight: Finca La Emperatriz

Today you’ll journey to Finca La Emperatriz, the stunning 101-hectare estate of Hermanos Hernaiz, where generations of winemaking tradition unfold. Stroll through meticulously tended vineyards with expert guides to introduce you to the art and passion of Riojan viticulture, sharing the secrets behind every grape and the terroir that makes this region legendary.

Following your vineyard walk, settle in to taste four of the estate’s most popular wines, each one a testament to the family’s craft and dedication. Matt and Gary will be on hand to share their tasting notes. Sit down to lunch in El Pabellón, the estate’s most spectacular dining space. Housed in a beautifully restored barn, naturally lit with soaring timber beams, this venue creates an atmosphere that is at once intimate and grand, rustic and refined.

An authentic Riojan feast is prepared with premium local ingredients: a generous board of traditional cold cuts (pork loin, cheese and chorizo), black pudding with peppers, leeks in vinaigrette, braised meats, Rioja-style potatoes and pears in red wine. Every course is paired with the estate’s own Jardín de La Emperatriz wines, capturing the soul of La Rioja.

Return to Palacio Tondon, La Rioja Brinas with the afternoon at your leisure. Perhaps wander through the charming village of Brinas, where narrow streets wind past traditional stone houses and locals gather in quiet plazas. Just across the Ebro River lies the historic town of Haro, the wine capital of La Rioja Alta, where you can explore its atmospheric old quarter, browse family-run wine shops or simply enjoy a coffee in a sunny square.

Guests who have purchased the Superior Upgrade will savour dinner at the Michelin-listed Echaurren Tradición, accompanied by expertly curated wine pairings. Founded in 1898 and spanning five generations, this temple of traditional Rioja cooking preserves the legendary recipes of Marisa Sánchez – the driving force behind the restaurant’s success and mother of Francis Paniego, the first chef in La Rioja to earn two Michelin stars. The meticulously appointed dining room showcases signature dishes prepared with the minutest of detail, from Marisa’s famous soft and creamy croquettes to slow-cooked caparrones (kidney bean stew) and roast lamb that have defined Riojan cuisine for decades.

After a light breakfast (leaving plenty of room for a food-filled day ahead), leave the vineyards of La Rioja behind as you travel onwards to the dramatic Basque coastline. Your route takes you through the charming fishing village of Getaria, a picturesque harbour town clinging to the slopes above the Bay of Biscay. This historic port – birthplace of the first explorer to circumnavigate the globe, Juan Sebastián Elcano – is renowned for its fresh seafood and the unique txakoli wine produced on its surrounding hillsides.

Signature Highlight: Kaia-Kaipe Restaurant

Join Matt and Gary for lunch at the acclaimed Kaia-Kaipe Restaurant, a family-run institution serving exceptional coastal cuisine since 1962. With a recommendation from the Michelin Guide and two awards from the Spanish Soles Repsol, this beloved restaurant follows a philosophy of letting pristine ingredients speak for themselves. While overlooking a fishing boat-filled harbour, you’ll be presented the fresh, grilled seafood that has earned Kaia-Kaipe its stellar reputation. A locally sourced, seasonal menu and a wine cellar of some 40,000 bottles make this a dining experience to remember, all complemented by Matt and Gary’s expert insights.

Travellers who have purchased the Superior Upgrade will instead enjoy lunch at Elkano, a legendary Basque grilled seafood house that’s ranked #24 on The World’s Best 50 Restaurants list. It’s Matt and Gary’s top pick of restaurants to dine at in Spain, with breathtaking seaside views and a menu that dances between simplicity and brilliance. 

Signature Accommodation: Hotel de Londres y de Inglarerra

Continue along the coastline to the jewel of the Basque Country, San Sebastian, and check in to the legendary Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra. Here lies a Belle Époque masterpiece that has stood sentinel over La Concha Bay for over 150 years. Commanding the most enviable position in San Sebastian, this historic hotel places you directly on the promenade with the golden crescent of La Concha beach stretching before you. This hotel blends the architectural elegance of a gilded era with all the modern comforts. Once unpacked, step out onto a balcony or terrace for a front-row seat to the picturesque bay.

Free to enjoy the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps consider a stroll down La Concha beach, choose to explore the winding streets of Parte Vieja (the Old Town), or simply relax and prepare your appetite for the evening ahead.

Signature Highlight: Pintxos crawl with Basque burnt cheesecake

As dusk falls, embark on an unforgettable pintxos crawl, meeting Matt and Gary at one of the most sought-after eateries in all San Sebastian, La Viña – a place that attracts thousands of fellow foodies for one small but significant slice of local lore. This institution is the irrefutable birthplace of Basque burnt cheesecake, where you’ll taste the dessert that launched a thousand imitations and hear the story behind this incidental creation.

Next, head off with your local guide to Bretxa Market to sample the building blocks of Basque cuisine: premium slices of jamon iberico, smoky chorizo, artisan regional cheeses, briny olives, golden olive oil and the classic gilda.

Then, dive into the heart of the Old Town and wind through narrow streets to Fermin Calbeton Kalea, San Sebastian’s most celebrated pintxo street. Here, hop between four carefully chosen bars – from time-honoured institutions that have perfected their craft over generations to in-vogue favourites that push the boundaries of this miniature art form. Along the way, meet up with Matt and Gary to discuss your favourite bites.

The pintxos you enjoy throughout the evening serve as your dinner, so you can graze, explore and experience San Sebastian the way locals do. Afterward, the night is yours to continue discovering this enchanting city freely.

Travel Time: Driving – approx. three hours

This morning, enjoy breakfast and time at leisure.

Guests who have purchased the Superior Upgrade will instead enjoy a cooking class with renowned gastronomy centre Mimo, recognised by National Geographic as one of the best cooking schools in the world. It’s an insider look into what makes San Sebastian’s cuisine one of the most world’s most beloved (it’s a city with more Michelin stars per square metre than anywhere else in the world). Splitting into small groups, discover the secrets of traditional Basque cuisine alongside modern kitchen techniques, working with magnificent local produce sourced from San Sebastian’s storied markets to uncover what makes this coastal city one of the world’s most revered culinary capitals.

Signature Experience: Txakoli wine tasting

Rejoining your group, continue your journey into Basque wine country with a visit to Hiruzta Winery in Hondarribia on the French border. This family-run estate, born from the dream of father Asensio Rekalde and his two sons Txarli and Angel, has revived a winemaking tradition that dates back to 1186.

Enjoy a tour of the estate while learning about the unique characteristics of txakoli – the crisp, slightly sparkling white wine that is quintessentially Basque – before settling in for a tasting of Hiruzta’s own acclaimed efforts. Paired with lunch featuring the region’s finest produce – everything from jamon and local cheese boards to confit pork rib and Basque ‘pantxineta’ made with moreish almond and custard – appreciate a moment with wines that represent centuries of viticultural heritage.

Spend the afternoon exploring the enchanting medieval old town of Hondarribia itself, where centuries-old cobblestone streets wind past colourful half-timbered houses with wrought-iron balconies overflowing with flowers.

Signature Highlight: Dinner at a private gastronomic society

Tonight, experience one of the most exclusive and authentic aspects of Basque culture: dinner at a private gastronomic society. These member-only culinary clubs are the beating heart of the region’s food traditions, where members gather to cook, share meals and preserve timeless techniques and recipes.

Your access to one of these closed-door societies is a privilege rarely afforded to outsiders. Join Matt and Gary as you’re welcomed into this intimate, convivial space and dine on traditional Basque dishes prepared with pride and passion. Toast with crisp txakoli and local cider to experience la buena vida in true San Sebastian style. This is Basque culture at its most genuine and generous.

This morning, take one last look at the Basque coast before embarking on your journey south, into the heart of Spain’s vast and historic heartland, Castilla y Leon. The landscape transforms as you travel – from green coastal hills to the golden plains of the Meseta.

Along the way, stop in the medieval city of Burgos. Famed for its Gothic architecture, you’ll delve into its fascinating heritage as you step inside the jaw-dropping Burgos Cathedral. Regarded as one of the greatest works of French Gothic architecture, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos was constructed over near 350 years. As you walk through its historic halls, take time to study the intricate craftsmanship of its stained-glass windows, as well as its impressive collection of artworks.

Continue to Ribera del Duero, the legendary wine country that produces some of Spain’s most powerful and elegant red wines. Here, resilient vines dig deep into limestone soils, and the extreme continental climate – scorching summers and harsh winters – produces wines of terrific concentration and character.

Signature Accommodation: Castilla Termal Monasterio de Valbuena

Check into the breathtaking Castilla Termal Monasterio de Valbuena, a meticulously restored 12th-century Cistercian monastery that stands as one of Europe’s best-preserved. This exclusive five-star wellness retreat was a regional first and rises majestically from the town’s heart surrounded by vineyards and fragrant pine forests.

In these historic halls, each room incorporates original architectural features such as exposed stone walls, soaring vaulted ceilings and elegant arches, all complemented by vintage furnishings and contemporary luxuries. This is a place where centuries of monastic tranquillity meet modern indulgence, like a 2000-square-metre thermal spa fed by natural hot springs. These mineral-rich thermal waters, first discovered by monks in the 12th century and used to irrigate the countryside, now flow through thermal pools, spas, water curtains and contrast circuits to promote deep wellbeing for an idyllic Spanish spa treatment.

Signature Highlight: Monasterio de Valbuena Restaurant

This evening, gather with Matt and Gary for dinner at the monastery restaurant, where an executive chef crafts seasonal, slow-cooked Castilian flavours that honour the region’s rustic culinary heritage. The star of the show: lechazo asado – traditional suckling lamb roasted to perfection in a wood-fired oven, its skin crackling and golden, the meat impossibly tender and fragrant with rosemary and thyme.

Accompanying this centrepiece are local treasures like sweet piquillo peppers and creamy torta de queso. For those who book the Superior Upgrade, each meticulously crafted course is thoughtfully paired with boutique wines from the monastery’s estate and the surrounding ‘Golden Mile’ of Ribera del Duero, showcasing the depth and elegance of Tempranillo.

Travel time: Driving – approx. 3.5 hours

This morning, venture to a hidden gem of Ribera del Duero’s Golden Mile for a special wine tasting experience.

Signature Experience: Ribera del Duero wine tasting experience

Sampling a selection of wines, you’ll discover why the region is so renowned for its exceptional wines. This is Spain’s most celebrated wine country, a place where Tempranillo vines (known locally as Tinto Fino) sprawl along the ancient Duero River at almost 900 meters above sea level. Here, hot summer days acquiesce to cool nights, leading to the perfect conditions for Spain’s ‘noble grape’. There’s no finer introduction to Spain’s most treasured drop: enjoy a glass with an included lunch at a local winery, then tour the picturesque vineyard rows and learn about the region’s legendary terroir, uniquely loaded with limestone, chalk and marl.

Following your vineyard exploration, return to Castilla Termal Monasterio de Valbuena with the afternoon and evening entirely at your leisure.

After a leisurely breakfast at the monastery, take a moment to remember the tranquil vineyards of Ribera del Duero before the tour continues to Spain’s vibrant capital. As the tour rolls along, notice the scenery change from lush wine country to the sprawling metropolis of Madrid.

Signature Highlight: Matt and Gary’s favourite churros

En route, visit Matt and Gary’s two favourite churrerias, each with its own devoted following and unique take on Spain’s famed sweet treat. Watch as golden loops of fried dough emerge from hot oil at each location, some dusted with sugar, others left plain for dipping into thick, rich chocolate. Compare textures and debate which spot deserves the crown.

Continue to Madrid, arriving in the early afternoon with time to settle into your accommodation at the JW Marriott Madrid. Located in the heart of the city’s Canalejas district, this five-star haven offers renowned comfort just steps from Madrid’s most celebrated landmarks, world-class shopping and acclaimed dining scene.

Guests who have purchased the Superior Upgrade will enjoy lunch at Sobrino de Botín, recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest continuously running restaurant in the world. Founded in 1725 in the heart of Madrid’s historic center, this legendary establishment has been serving Castilian specialties from the same cast-iron wood-burning oven for nearly 300 years (where locals say the flame has never been extinguished). Immortalized by Hemingway in The Sun Also Rises and frequented by everyone from Spanish royalty to literary icons, Sobrino de Botín’s four floors preserve the atmosphere of an 18th-century inn while serving their world-renowned roast suckling pig – crisp-skinned cochinillo cooked in the Castilian style.

Signature Highlight: Paella cooking class

This evening, don your aprons for your final hands-on cooking experience. With Matt and Gary moving between groups (and pouring the wine), enjoy an authentic paella cooking class where you’ll learn the art and ritual behind this iconic rice dish.

Beginning with an appetiser – and with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks throughout the experience – you’ll work in small groups to discover the secrets to achieving the perfect socarrat (that coveted crispy bottom layer), understand the importance of timing and technique, and debate the eternal question: seafood, meat or vegetarian? With the insight and expertise of your chef-host, as the saffron rice simmers and the kitchen rings out with the clink of wine glasses, you’ll understand why paella is more than a meal – it’s a celebration.

Sit down together to enjoy the fruits of your labour, toasting to new skills and unforgettable memories with your fellow travellers and hosts.

Travel time: Driving – approx. two hours

Your final full day in Spain begins with one last adventure through the capital’s historic heart.

Signature Highlight: Tapas walking tour through historic Madrid

Start your morning with a signature tapas walking tour that weaves Madrid’s rich history through its vibrant food culture. Begin in the city’s oldest quarters, where centuries-old stories are written in stone. Stroll past the magnificent Royal Palace, through Plaza de Ramales and down the atmospheric alleys of Calle Mayor, as each corner reveals another layer of Madrid’s fascinating past. Matt and Gary will join you at one of these stops to share in the city’s culinary delights.

First, dive into an iconic local taberna, featuring Spanish comfort food and house-made red vermut straight from the taberna’s own vineyards. Then, stop at a curated selection of Matt and Gary’s favourite bistros for a progressive tasting of classic tapas and sweet bites.

Continue on to Mercado de Jamón Ibérico, where delicate slices of Spain’s finest ham are paired with a glass of vermut – the quintessential Madrid aperitif. Here you’ll share an Iberian ham board loaded with loin, salchichón and chorizo, matched wonderfully with an olive oil tasting.

Next, head to Café La Plaza, a light-filled spot right by the best-known Plaza Mayor. Here you’ll be wooed with the classics, including gildas in olive oil, creamy white shrimp salad with quail eggs and the region’s excellent white wine.

Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth at Pastelería El Riojano, a confectionery treasure that has been crafting traditional pastries since 1855. Sample delicate napolitanas, flaky bartolillos and other sugary delights that have satisfied Madrileños for generations. Here a steaming cup of hot chocolate and warm bartolillo (Madrid pastry filled with custard cream, deep-fried and lashed with icing sugar) await.

While you won’t be hungry, guests wishing to kick on head are encouraged to head on their own to the nearby Churrería San Ginés, a legendary institution where you’ll have the chance to compare their famous churros with yesterday’s discoveries and settle any lasting debates. Return to your hotel for a moment at your leisure, then freshen up ahead of one final farewell dinner.

Signature Highlight: Farewell dinner at Lhardy

In the evening, gather with your fellow travellers, alongside Matt and Gary, for a farewell dinner at Lhardy – the city’s first luxury restaurant, which opened its doors in 1839 and introduced Madrid to French haute cuisine. Step through the mahogany facade and into a world where Bohemian glass chandeliers cast a warm glow over distinguished dining rooms, witnesses to some 180 years of Madrid’s political, social and cultural history.

The menu honours Lhardy’s origins with classic dishes that have become part of Madrid’s gastronomic heritage. From legendary Cocido Madrileño (Madrid’s famous chickpea stew) to exquisite croquettes, Wellington sirloin and the showstopping Lhardy soufflé. For nearly two centuries, Spain’s most influential figures have gathered around these very tables.

Tonight, you have a private dining room to yourselves to toast the memories made, flavours discovered and the bonds formed across two incredible weeks. Guests who have purchased the Superior Upgrade will enjoy a wine pairing with dinner.

Bid farewell to your fellow travellers as your journey comes to an end. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be transferred to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) for your onward journey.

Travel time: Driving – 20 minutes