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Impressive Iberian Peninsula: NW Spain & Portugal

Discover the impressive Iberian Peninsula with Premier Tours & Travel. From Santiago de  Compostela through Porto and Lisbon, Portugal, experience the cultural, culinary, and vitacultural riches of Northwest Spain and Portugal on our small group tour.


June 15-24, 2023 (departing June 14, 2023)
June 29-July 8, 2023 (departing June 28, 2023)
August 17-26, 2023 (departing August 16, 2023)
September 14-23, 2023 (September 13, 2023)

From $7,299 Per Person (DBL); Single Supplement $1,800; Limited to 20 passengers

Details of Your Stay in Spain (3 Nights)
Your journey begins with overnight flight to Madrid from the United States, connecting with your flight to Santiago de Compostela.

DAY 1:   SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

Premier Tours & Travel will be on hand to meet and greet you at the airport in Santiago de Compostela — the capital of the Galicia region, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the shrine of Saint James the Great (the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela), and a crucial stop on the infamous Camino de Santiago.

Transfer to your accommodations, A Quinta da Auga (or similar) to settle in for the next four nights. A Quinta da Auga is a Relais & Chateaux property in Santiago de Compostela and is an homage to the heritage of the capital city of Galicia. Formerly an 18th-century paper mill, A Quinta da Auga surrounds you with its unique industrial architecture set on a picturesque farm surrounded by water canals leading to the Sars River. After a full day of travel, enjoy the balance of your day at leisure.

This evening, join us for a cocktail while being serenaded by local folklore music, including traditional bagpipes, in the beautiful hotel gardens. A Welcome Dinner follows at Filigrana, the renowned Galician gastronomy restaurant on property (or similar).

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DAY 2:   SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

Following breakfast, enjoy a private, guided walking tour in Santiago de Compostela. Santiago de Compostela, with its Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque buildings, is one of the world's most beautiful urban areas. In the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, find the oldest monuments grouped around the tomb of St James and visit the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, which contains the remarkable Pórtico de la Gloria — a Spanish masterpiece commissioned in 1168 by King Ferdinand II and created by Master Mateo. Wander the Praza do Obradoiro to learn about the other three imposing structures lining the square along with the Cathedral: Hostal dos Reis CatólicosPazo de Raxoi, and the Colexio de San Xerome. Following your guided tour, the balance of your day will be at your disposal to stroll this beautiful city.

DAY 3: SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA – CAMBADOS

Set off for a full-day tour of Cambados, capital of the Pontevedra region of Spain most famous for its Albariño wines.  Cambados is a fusion of three medieval villages -- Fefiñáns at the north end of town (centered on beautiful, broad Praza de Fefiñáns), Cambados proper in the middle, and the fishing quarter Santo Tomé in the south. Following the tour, enjoy the first wine tasting of the day at the winery Adegas do Pazo de Fefiñáns (or similar) on the plaza. Adegas do Pazo de Fefiñáns was recently nominated to Wine Enthusiast magazine’s 2020 Wine Star Awards as Best European Winery of the Year.

The Albariño adventure continues with a winery tour, tasting, and lunch at one of the most extensive wine estates in Galicia, Bodegas Fillaboa (or similar). Fillaboa, which means “good daughter,” is a 17th-century estate whose name comes from a local legend with many parallels with the tale of Cinderella by Charles Perrault in which two daughters of a Count envied their younger sister to whom her father left the best lands as an inheritance. Enjoy the fairytale surroundings while tasting the exceptional, small production wines of the estate — some of which won the prestigious Best in Show award at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2019.

Details of Your Stay in Porto (3 Nights)

DAY 4:   SANTIAGO – PORTO

Say farewell Santiago de Compostela, Spain and depart for Portugal. Enjoy the magnificent landscape en route, with a stop at Vigo, Spain. Vigo is the westernmost city in Iberian Spain situated on the Atlantic Ocean with captivating views of the Cíes Islands and mountains all around. Stroll Casco Vello, the city’s old town, which is set on a slope that leads to the old port with enticing alleys that lead to arcaded squares, such as Praza da Constitución. Vigo is a seafood lover’s dream, so be sure to visit the oyster market to enjoy the freshest local oysters from Vigo Bay during lunch at leisure. Continue to Oporto (Porto), second largest city in Portugal, to settle into the heart of the city for the next four nights at the 5-star Maison Albar Le Monumental Palace — a member of the Leading Hotels of the World (or similar). A dinner a nearby restaurant will end the day.

DAY 5:   PORTO – VILA NOVA DE GAIA

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Porto this morning, including the historic center that was designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring sites such as the Porto Cathedral, Dom Luís Bridge, São Bento station, Lello Bookstore, and Clérigos Church. Lunch and the afternoon will be at leisure for you to explore “Cidade Invicta,” the Invincible City. Late afternoon, sail across the Douro River on the infamous “Barcos Rabelos” (wooden boats) from Cais do Ouro to Afurada. It is here in Vila Nova de Gaia to learn firsthand why the city is world famous for its fortified Portuguese wine — port. Following a walking tour on the narrow lanes and up and down the zigzagging staircases, visit Taylor Fladgate Port cellar to learn about and enjoy a tasting of their exceptional ports. A special dinner of Petiscos — like Spanish tapas — will follow at a nearby, traditional Taberninha.

DAY 6:   PORTO – DOURO RIVER VALLEY

Today, experience the sun-drenched vineyards, captivating villages, and historical landmarks of the Douro River Valley on a full-day tour. A tour to Portugal would be incomplete without meandering through some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and experiencing some of the finest vineyards in the world. Starting with one of the oldest and most famous estates in the Douro Valley, Quinta do Vallado, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Corgo River from the vineyard while tasting its award-winning wines and ports. Next, visit Quinta do Bomfim — owner of such leading port houses as Graham's, Dow's, Ware’s, and Cockburn's, as well as a portfolio of Douro wines. Enjoy a wine tasting and a private picnic in the vineyards to bask in the fruits of this exceptional vineyard. Following lunch, set off on a private, small group two-hour sail on vintage “Gentleman’s boat” on the Douro River to relax in the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. While the balance of the group is sailing, partake in a tour and tasting at Quinta da Roeda, the oldest port wine houses still in operation and described as the jewel of port wine estates. Return to Porto for evening at leisure.

Details of Your Stay in Lisbon (3 Nights)

DAY 7:   PORTO – LISBON

Today, the journey continues from Porto to Lisbon by way of Santa Maria de Lamas and Coimbra. Santa Maria de Lamas is home to one of the world’s most technologically advanced producers of cork. Learn about cork oak forests (Montado in Portuguese) native to Portugal and the harvesting, processing, use and sustainability of cork. Next, visit the amazing city of Coimbra with its preserved medieval old town and the famous University of Coimbra —one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world. Stroll the magical streets and gaze upon the multitude of architectural styles, from Romanesque Old Cathedral to the Baroque University Tower. Enjoy time at leisure for lunch before departing for Lisbon. Upon your arrival in the capital of Portugal, enjoy time to settle into your centrally located, 5-star accommodations, Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Hotel (or similar). A dinner awaits this evening to welcome you to Lisbon.

DAY 8: LISBON

Set out after breakfast on a guided city tour to discover Lisbon and experience why it is nicknamed the “White City’ as you bask in the sunshine reflected onto the city from the Tagus River. Explore iconic sites such as Praça Marquês of Pombal, Eduardo VII Park, Belém Tower, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Continue across the Tagus River on the magnificent Ponte 25 April (bridge) to Almada to view Cristo Rei — the imposing Statue of Christ the King and enjoy spectacular views of Lisbon. Return to the hotel for the balance of the day and evening at leisure. Be sure to visit the spectacular rooftop bar, Skybar, to experience some of the most amazing views of the city while sipping on their exceptional cocktails.

DAY 9: LISBON – SINTRA – CASCAIS

Experience a full day meandering through some of the most mystical, romantic mountain and seaside towns a short ride away from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon. Feel like royalty in Sintra — a longtime royal sanctuary with its forested landscapes studded with pastel-colored villas and palaces. Explore Palácio Nacional da Pena and see why the king of fairytales, Hans Christian Anderson called Sintra “the most beautiful place in Portugal.” Meander the cobbled streets through the historical center of town, visit shops, take pictures of Palácio Nacional de Sintra, and enjoy a stop at the Periquita Pastry Shop to taste the famous “Travesseiro de Sintra.” Visit the Cabo da Roca, “where the land ends and sea begins.” and stop for a visit to Cascais, a coastal beach town known for its sandy beaches and busy marina. Enjoy a traditional seafood lunch at leisure. Return to Lisbon for any final exploration before a Farewell Dinner at a traditional restaurant.

DAY 10: DEPART LISBON

Following breakfast, transfers will be provided to the airport. We hope you enjoyed Spectacular Spain & Portugal! ¡Buen viaje! Boa viagem!

Optional: Pre- and Post-Tour Extensions in Madrid, Lisbon, and Throughout the Iberian Peninsula. Call today to learn more.

*IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Itinerary subject to change. Premier Tours & Travel reserves the right to modify programs and itineraries (including arranged sightseeing, accommodations, dining experiences, aircraft, trains, vessels, and so forth) at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond Premier Tours & Travel’s control, including force majeures. In the instance our Expert host cancels due to unforeseen circumstances, Premier Tours & Travel has the right to substitute another Expert host, such as a chef, in such an emergency (timing allowed) and/or the tour will continue in its entirety. Every effort is made to operate our itineraries as planned but alterations may need to be made after the final itinerary has been issued. Airfare is not included. Deposits are utilized to secure services on your behalf and are nonrefundable. Deposits are transferrable to a future Expertly Done Culinary & Wine Travel tour. One glass of wine is included unless otherwise noted. Additional alcoholic beverages are the responsibility of each adult guest. Guests are limited to one carry on and one checked baggage and will be responsible for any additional fees charged for additional luggage. Please see Key Items to Know Before You Leave Home in Terms & Conditions. One glass of wine is provided with the Welcome and Farewell dinners; additional beverages will be the responsibility of each passenger at the time of service. Airfare is not included. Transportation is provided if your flight arrives during the designated time for group transfers; if not, transportation from the airport will be your responsibility.

Premier Experiences, Premier Advantages

 

  • English-speaking Premier representatives
  • Airport meet and greet
  • Private transfers
  • Curated luxury accommodations: A Quinta da Auga, Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace, and Tivoli Avenida Liberdade (or similiar)
  • Full breakfast daily; lunches and dinners as noted
  • Hand-selected renowned winery tours in Cambodos/Pontevedra, Spain and Douro River Valley, Portugal
  • Guided city tours and other private experiences, such as a cork factory tour, a vintage boat sail on the Douro, and Pena Palace tour
  • Internet (where available)
  • 24/7 Premier support

 

About Chef Bob Waggoner

Chef Bob Waggoner received his formal training with Michael Roberts at Trumps in Los Angeles from 1981 to 1983, and later in France at a constellation of Michelin-rated restaurants with chefs Jacques Lameloise, Charles Barrier, Pierre Gagnaire, Gerard Boyer and Mark Meneau. At 23, he took on his first chef position at the private club “Members” in Caracas, Venezuela. Chef Bob Waggoner returned to France at age 24 to become chef of the Hotel de la Poste in Avallon for three years. Then, in 1988 at age 26, in the town of Moneteau in Burgundy, he became the first American chef to own his own restaurant in France, the much acclaimed Le Monte Cristo. He is one of the few Americans to be Knighted with the “l’Odre du Mérite Agricole” from the Government of France. In 1991, Waggoner was offered the opportunity of Chef de Cuisine with Chef Jean-Pierre Silva, the two-star Michelin, at Le Vieux Moulin in Beaune, France. After 11 years in France, he returned to the States in 1993 to cook at the award-winning Turnberry Isle in Florida, before joining The Wild Boar in Nashville, where he earned the restaurant a coveted AAA Five-Diamond Award and the Grand Award from Wine Spectator.

He finally found his way to Charleston where he was Executive Chef of Charleston Grill at Charleston Place for a dozen years. Every year, Chef Bob Waggoner was at the Charleston Grill, it was awarded AAA Four-Diamond and the Mobile Four-Star award, and in 2001-2005 he was nominated four times for The Beard Foundation "Best Chef Southeast" award. He is the author of Charleston Grill at Charleston Place: French Influenced Lowcountry Cuisine. Always well regarded as a media-savvy chef, he has won an Emmy for his television show, Off the Menu with Turner South. He also hosted 2 cooking shows with PBS, U Cook with Chef Bob and Sing for Your Supper with Chef Bob.  Currently, he is the owner of “In the Kitchen with Chef Bob Waggoner” where he hosts cooking classes in a relaxed, casual, and sophisticated atmosphere. With his easygoing nature, he can teach anyone the culinary tips and techniques for "how it's done" in the finest restaurants.

Call 843.237.9903 to learn more or to book!

About Chef Maria Jimenez Latorre

Premier Tours & Travel is proud to introduce our tours with Chef Maria Jimenez Latorre, a native Spanish celebrity chef. Chef Maria Jimenez Latorre is a renowned chef in Spain with a following throughout the country for her magnetic personality and culinary style. She is a radio and television personality, as well as the leading chef at Alambique Escuela de Cocina cooking school, founder of We Present catering company, and the face of Orujo de Aceite de Oliva in Spain.

Languages: Spanish (native speaker),  English (fluent) , French (fluent)

Highlights of Recent Work Experience

2009 to present  -  Alambique Escuela de Cocina cooking school

Chef leading cooking events at Alambique.: hands-on gastronomic events, team-buildings and corporate events, specialising in traditional Spanish cuisine.  Also teaching hand-on beginners courses and cooking with confidence classes, as well as  cookery classes for children including classes which combine cooking and magic

2013– present – Founder and partner in catering company We Present

Serving weddings, christenings, first communions , birthday parties, dinners and corporate events with chef Sergio Fernandez.

2018 to Present  - Ambassador For ORIVA

Cooking demonstrations and helping professionals and hotelerie schools learn how to use Orujo de Aceite de Oliva in particular in frying techniques. Included trainning for the “perfect fritter ” challenge.  Over 2020 this took the form of remote classes and videos for social media.