Exploring Northern Spain by Narrow-Gauge Railway

Day 1

Arrival in Bilbao
Stay In Carlton Bilbao 5*

Bilbao is the biggest city in the Basque Country and the perfect starting point for a tour combining the north of Spain and the southwest of France. Today, Bilbao is a modern city, but rich in history and culture and gastronomy. At its centre you will find the Guggenheim Museum, a place definitely not to miss. For foodies, you’ll find several pintxos bars and Michelin-starred establishments. 

Carlton Bilbao is an elegant 5* hotel located in the city centre. Originally built in 1926, this hotel is an iconic example of neo-classical architecture that offers guests a taste of old-world glamour with modern amenities.

Overnight: Bilbao

Day 2

Train to Santander,
Stay In Bahia Santander 4*

Today take the train towards Santander, the capital of Cantabria. Here you can spend some time enjoying the city’s pristine beaches and lively tapas bar. One speciality worth trying is chorizo a la sidra (chorizo cooked in cider).  In Santander it is also worth visiting the cathedral, the Centro Botín and the Palacio de la Magdalena.  Playa del Sardinero is the ideal place for an evening stroll and to book a surf lesson if you are feeling adventurous!

Tonight you will be staying at Bahia Santander Hotel, located in a tranquil pedestrianised area in the shopping centre of the city. The rooms are designed to offer the best accommodation option in Santander, as they are spacious and comfortable, while offering a fantastic view of the sea and the city. 

Overnight:  Santander

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3

Train to Torrelavega,
Stay In Cuatro Caminos Room

Today the train will take you to Torrelavega, known for its historical and artistic patrimony of palaces and houses from the 17th-19th centuries. Gastronomically speaking, the puff pastry is very famous and you can taste a couple of different delicacies made from it. 

For tonight, Cuatro Caminos Room will be the perfect place for a short stay: the room will provide complimentary toiletries, robes, tea and a coffee station. Breakfast not included but there are coffee shops and restaurants close by.

Overnight: Torrelavega

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4

Train to San Vicente de la Barquera,
Stay In Pensión Liebana

After breakfast, hop on the train to San Vicente de la Barquera, a fishing town that is well worth the visit. With the Picos de Europa mountains in the background of the Cantabrian sea town, this place is home to beaches and a charming old town featuring Renaissance palaces and a medieval castles. 

For tonight, stay at a local guesthouse called Pensión Liebana, that will welcome you with all the warmth. It is centrally located, comfortable, cozy and breakfast is included.

Overnight:  San Vicente de la Barquera

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5

Train to Ribadesella,
Stay In Hotel Vila Rosário 4*

Take the train and embark on a journey to Ribadasella, a seaside town that is very famous for its cider. While here, make sure you go to a cider house to taste this local product, and to walk around the river Sella. The rocky formations of Acantilados de Castro Arenas is the perfect place to see the sunset and spot the Picos de Europa mountains. 

Hotel Vila Rosário is a “Palacete” (small palace) that offers very comfortable rooms and a restaurant with delicious options for your meals. The hotel was built in the beginning of the 20th century and offers luxury and an incredible sea view frontage.

Overnight: Ribadesella

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6

Train to Oviedo
Stay In Exe Oviedo Centro 4*

After breakfast, take the train to Oviedo: Asturia’s capital. This medieval city is one of the most popular regions the north of Spain, with a unique landscape, Gothic monuments and ancient history. While in Oviedo we recommend visiting the Mercado El Fontán, the best place to buy Asturian specialities, and the Cathedral of Oviedo - the starting point of the Camino Primitivo, one of the oldest paths of the Camino de Santiago.

Exe Oviedo Centro is a modern 4* hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers contemporary rooms and a on-site restaurant serving local cuisine. 

Overnight: Oviedo

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7

Train to Ribadeo
Stay In a Cortiña

Today hop on the train towards Ribadeo, a harbour town that stands between Asturias and Galicia, and very famous for its seafood, so don’t miss the chance to try it out while you are there! You can’t leave without visiting Praia As Catedrais, a beach with stunning rock formations.

For this evening, you will be staying at A Cortiña, a country-style guesthouse that will allow you to rest and disconnect from the rest of the world. Being in the house will feel like being at home, with very comfortable and personal rooms, and a delicious breakfast served in the morning.

Overnight: Ribadeo

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8

Train to Ferrol
Stay In Hotel Carris Almirante 4*

Ferrol is your next stop, and a charming coastal city in Galicia. It is known for its maritime history and naval heritage, so don’t miss the Magdalena neighbourhood and the military fortresses. Here you can also visit several museums and a Neoclassical church, or get a ride to Mirador Cabo Prior for the incredible views over the sea.  The Narrow-Gauge Train Rails ends in Ferrol.

For tonight you will stay at Hotel Carris Almirante, a hotel that offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms. Its central location is ideal to explore the city and it offers a on-site restaurant.

Overnight: Ferrol

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9

Train to Santiago de Compostela
Stay In Hotel Praza Quintana 3*

Take the train to Santiago de Compostela, as this will be your connecting city to depart the country. Upon arrival, enjoy the free time to explore this iconic city - the final stop of the pilgrims that walk the Caminos de Santiago. The architecture is remarkable, and can be seen in the streets, churches and monasteries. You can’t miss Plaza del Obradoiro, and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. All the main monuments here are UNESCO World Heritage sites. In Santiago you’ll also find great restaurants and tapas bars for seafood and wine. 

The last stop for today will be Hotel Praza Quintana, an elegant boutique hotel that will be your home with an exclusive location and a continental breakfast.

Overnight: Santiago de Compostela

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10

Departure from Santiago de Compostela

After breakfast, your private chauffeur will transfer you to the airport for your departure. Take with you the unforgettable memories of Northern Spain—a perfect mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal landscapes.

Promise yourself “I’ll be back” – as we will be waiting for you for your next adventure!

Meals included: Breakfast