A pretty town in Catalonia

The traditional Catalonian dish of calcotada

Walking the charming old streets of Cadaques - Cava to the Coast with Ben Groundwater, Spain

Walking the charming old streets of Cadaques | Jaime Elfrances

Barcelona menu board

The colourful harbour at St Jean de Luz

Too perfect to eat! - Cava to the Coast with Ben Groundwater, Spain

Too perfect to eat! | Ben Groundwater

Exquisite dining in San Sebastian - Cava to the Coast with Ben Groundwater, Spain

Exquisite dining in San Sebastian | Ben Groundwater

Carcassonne citadel - Cava to the Coast with Ben Groundwater, Spain

Carcassonne citadel | dit photo mairie Carcassonne

Cava to the Coastwith Ben Groundwater

From the cava cellars of Catalonia to the pintxos bars of San Sebastian.

Spain, France

12 Days from

Trip Code: BGCC

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Duration

12 Days

Activities

Food and wine discovery
Behind the scenes visits
Day walks

Accommodation

11 nights in stylish and characterful hotels

Meals

4 Dinners
6 Lunches
11 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading: 2 / 10
Adventure touring

Trip highlights

Escorted by author, journalist and passionate food writer Ben Groundwater, whose curiosity and local connections bring each destination to life
Feast on flame-grilled calçots in the Catalan countryside - a smoky, seasonal tradition best enjoyed with good company and plenty of romesco
Balance indulgent meals with scenic walks through medieval hill towns, coastal paths and a section of the Camino del Norte
From cava and Jurançon to Txakoli, Rioja, Basque cider and craft beer, discover the drinks that define Catalonia, the French southwest and the Basque Country

Overview

From the cava cellars of Catalonia, via the bistros of Toulouse, to the pintxos bars of San Sebastián, this relaxed food and wine journey traces a delicious path through northern Spain and southern France. Hosted by travel writer and devoted food lover Ben Groundwater, you’ll travel from Barcelona to the Basque coast via Girona, Carcassonne, Toulouse and Saint-Jean-de-Luz - tasting chargrilled calçots in the Catalan countryside, sipping wines in family-run vineyards, exploring vibrant markets and dining in neighbourhood gems. Along the way, there are medieval hill towns to uncover, a stretch of the Camino del Norte to walk and seafood feasts by the Atlantic. In San Sebastián, a city Ben knows intimately, he’ll share his favourite spots and personal connections, bringing this gourmet capital to life. Curious, convivial and always up for a great meal, Ben makes this an easygoing yet deeply satisfying way to eat, drink and explore your way through two of Europe’s most flavourful regions.

Itinerary

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Benvinguts a Barcelona, where Catalan culture gives Spanish classics its own proud twist, and where a glass of chilled cava - or perhaps a vermut - is never far from reach. Vermouth hour is a ritual here, enjoyed with olives or anchovies before lunch. This is also where “tapas” quietly become platillos - small, beautifully considered dishes that reflect Catalonia’s identity, shaped by both the Mediterranean and the mountains beyond. In the evening, join Ben and your fellow travellers for a festive welcome dinner, where we’ll toast the journey ahead and dive into the flavours of the city. Overnight: Hotel Astoria, Barcelona (or similar)

Meals: D

We head west from the city into the gently rolling hills of Penedes, one of Europe’s most celebrated wine regions. Just under an hour from Barcelona, the landscape shifts to rows of vines, stone farmhouses and cellar doors tucked into the hills. Here we visit a family-run cava producer where the traditional method - the same secondary fermentation in bottle used in Champagne - has been practised for generations. After learning how Catalonia turned sparkling wine into a point of regional pride, we sample a selection of vintages. Lunch is devoted to one of Catalonia’s most joyful seasonal traditions: the calcotada. Calçots - a sweet, tender variety of spring onion grown only in this region - are grilled over open flames until their outer layers are blackened and caramelised. Peeled by hand and dipped generously into nutty romesco sauce, they are messy, communal, smoky, and absolutely delicious, which is why we’ve timed this journey to catch them at their peak. Later, we return to Barcelona for a free evening, there are plenty of options for wine bars or walks through Barcelona's arty streets. Overnight: Hotel Astoria, Barcelona (or similar)

Meals: B,L

Northward we go, trading Barcelona’s buzz for the old-world elegance of Girona, a compact city where medieval walls, Romanesque churches and riverside houses set a magical scene. Girona’s ancient quarter is a maze of stone steps, arched alleys and cobbled laneways, many of which might familiar as Game of Thrones was filmed here. Girona shines on the plate too, with a strong culinary reputation. For lunch, we dine at a restaurant from the celebrated Roca brothers, whose family name is synonymous with Girona’s gastronomic rise. Overnight: Hotel Historic, Girona (or similar)

Meals: B,L

Our day begins just steps from our hotel at Girona’s Lleó Market, a lively neighbourhood institution where locals shop for the day’s produce - seasonal vegetables and freshly caught seafood from the Costa Brava, it’s a window into everyday Catalan cooking. From the market, we make our way to Girona’s Cathedral, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with sweeping views across terracotta rooftops and church towers, before we continue on a circular walk through the old quarter and up to the Mirador de Can García. This gentle 6km/4mi loop takes us along sections of the medieval walls and through quiet residential lanes, eventually opening onto one of the finest viewpoints over the city and surrounding hills. Lunch today celebrates one of Spain’s most beloved culinary traditions: rice. In Catalonia, rice dishes reflect both sea and land - and this is a delicious way to understand that balance. The afternoon is yours to explore further, browsing artisan shops or lingering over coffee in one of Girona’s elegant squares. Overnight: Hotel Historic, Girona (or similar)

Meals: B,L

Travelling east toward the Costa Brava, our first stop is Figueres, birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dali, and home to the mind bending Dali Theatre Museum. Designed by the artist himself, it’s a kaleidoscope of bizarre architecture, dreamlike art and theatrical design. On to the whitewashed fishing village of Cadaques, with it's pretty blue shutters and fishing boats. The light here is famously beautiful, and it’s easy to see why artists like Dali, Picasso and Miro were drawn to its palette. Lunch celebrates the flavours of the Catalan coast in the historic centre of Cadaqués, at a restaurant founded by chefs who trained at the legendary elBulli. Expect refined yet unfussy cooking that honours local seafood, olive oil and seasonal produce. The afternoon is free to soak up the scenes of Cadaques. You might choose to follow a section of the Camí de Ronda - the old coastal footpaths that trace the cliffs and offer sweeping Mediterranean views. Overnight: Boutique Villa Gala Hotel, Cadaques (or similar)

Meals: B,D

Today we cross the border into France, to Carcassonne. We arrive in time for the Saturday market - a quintessential French ritual. Stalls brim with ripe cheeses, crusty baguettes, seasonal fruits and charcuterie, and we gather provisions for a picnic lunch. From the market, we step into the fortified citadel of Carcassonne, it's stone walls, turrets and drawbridges seem lifted from a storybook. In the afternoon we continue to Toulouse, set along the Garonne River, the elegant “Pink City,” named for the warm terracotta bricks that glow in the late afternoon light. This evening we settle into a classic bistro-style dinner - an exploration of southwest France. Total driving time: 5 hours Overnight: Hotel de Brienne, Toulouse (or similar)

Meals: B,D

We step into the kitchen for a hands-on cooking class focused on the cuisine of southwest France. We’ll learn techniques and traditions that define this region before sitting down together to enjoy the fruits of our labour. The afternoon and evening are free to explore Toulouse. Overnight: Hotel de Brienne, Toulouse (or similar)

Meals: B,L

We journey southwest toward France’s Pays Basque and rolling foothills beneath the Pyrenees. Our first stop is Pau, gateway to the Jurançon wine region. Sheltered by Atlantic breezes and mountain air, Jurançon is best known for its aromatic whites made from the Gros Manseng and Petit Manseng grapes. At a local domaine, we’ll learn how altitude, ocean influence and traditional harvesting methods shape these expressive wines before enjoying a guided tasting overlooking the vineyards. On to the coast, we arrive in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, where French elegance meets the salty sea air of the Atlantic. The town is known for its distinctive Basque architecture - white façades trimmed in deep red or forest green - and its lively harbour lined with fishing boats. This evening is free to wander the colourful harbour, perhaps stopping for oysters, local Basque cider or a glass of Irouléguy wine as the sun dips over the bay. Total driving time: 5 hours Overnight: Parc Victoria Hotel, Saint-Jean-de-Luz (or similar)

Meals: B

This morning we explore the weekly market of Saint-Jean-de-Luz with Ben, a colourful showcase of Basque produce: glossy peppers, wheels of sheep’s milk cheese from the Pyrenees, and the region’s prized piment d’Espelette - a gently smoky chilli that finds its way into everything from stews to charcuterie. For lunch, we dine at a beloved countryside inn where Basque cooking is generous, seasonal and firmly anchored in tradition. Arriving in San Sebastián, the culinary capital of the Basque Country, set around the sweeping curve of La Concha Bay. Ben knows this city intimately, having lived here with his family and forged lifelong friendships over shared plates and good wine. Over the next three nights, you’ll experience it not just as a visitor, but as a well-connected guest. This evening we head into the Parte Vieja (Old Town) for a brief introductory tour, before you're free to dive into San Sebastian's famous pintxos scene, with everything from anchovy-laced gildas, to slices of jamón ibérico, seared foie gras, silky cod and seasonal seafood creations served up in bustling bars. Overnight: Hotel Niza, San Sebastian (or similar)

Meals: B,L

We lace up our walking shoes and step onto a section of the Camino del Norte, the northern pilgrims’ route that has traced Spain’s rugged Atlantic coastline for centuries. Beginning on the eastern edge of San Sebastián, the trail rewards us with sweeping views over the Bay of Biscay before winding along green headlands. The walk to Pasaia covers approximately 8 km (5 miles) and takes around 3 hours at a relaxed pace. The terrain is undulating, with some steady climbs and descents. We descend into Pasaia, a sleepy fishing village where a small local ferry carries us across the harbour. Lunch awaits at a seafood restaurant that has been serving fishermen and travellers alike since the 1880s. After returning by bus to San Sebastián, there’s time for a traditional siesta or a quiet moment overlooking La Concha. The evening is yours to revisit a favourite pintxos bar or discovering a new one, with plenty of recommendations from Ben. Overnight: Hotel Niza, San Sebastian (or similar)

Meals: B,L

We begin the day with a truly insider experience, joining a local San Sebastián chef on her morning visit to the market. As we stroll the stalls, tasting along the way, we gain insight into how Basque chefs think about produce - freshness, seasonality and respect for ingredients above all else. The afternoon is devoted to the wines of the Basque Country. At a local bar, we enjoy a private tasting that explores the region’s characterful styles - paired thoughtfully with a selection of pintxos. This evening, we gather for a memorable final dinner and celebrate everything we’ve tasted and experienced across Spain and France. Overnight: Hotel Niza, San Sebastian (or similar)

Meals: B,D

Our journey concludes today in San Sebastián. From cava in Barcelona to pintxos in the Parte Vieja, we’ve traced a path through some of the most compelling food cultures of Spain and France.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

1 scheduled departure between 5 Apr 2027 and 5 Apr 2027.

Departs 5 Apr 2027 – ends 16 Apr 2027 (12 days)

View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

Hosted by Ben Groundwater
11 nights in stylish and characterful hotels
4 dinners and 6 lunches showcasing ingredients and traditions of the regions
11 breakfasts
Hands on cooking class in Toulouse
Basque wine tasting at a local San Sebastian bar
Visit to San Sebastian market with a local chef
Guided tours in Girona and at the Dali Museum in Figueres
Wine tour and tasting in a Cava cellar and a Jurancon winery
Private transport days 2 through 9

Not included

Travel to Barcelona and from San Sebastian
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Single supplement - payable when staying in your own room
Public transport in San Sebastian (allow EUR30)
Airport transfers
Meals & drinks not noted on itinerary
Tips

About your guide

Ben Groundwater is one of Australia’s best-known travel and food writers, and someone who holds a deep passion for northern Spain after living for 18 months in the beautiful town of San Sebastian, and making frequent foodie adventures into southern France.

Ben is a newspaper columnist with the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, a feature writer, a broadcaster, and the author of six books. He loves combining his twin passions - active travel and great food - and believes few places in the world do both better than Catalonia and the Basque coast. This is his kind of trip: fun, insightful, low on fuss and high on flavour.

Extra trip info

Accommodation

Hotel Niza, San Sebastian ***

An elegant family run 3 star hotel, overlooking La Concha Beach in the heart of San Sebastián.

Hotel Historic, Girona ****

A character-filled hotel set within Girona’s Old Quarter, blending historic architecture with light-filled, contemporary interiors. Original stone walls and timber beams and located just steps from the cathedral and main squares.

Boutique Villa Gala Hotel, Cadaques ****

A contemporary boutique hotel in the heart of Cadaqués, featuring bright, elegant rooms with sea views and private terraces. The relaxed terrace and pool offer a peaceful retreat.

Hotel Brienne Toulouse | Hotel Brienne Toulouse

Hotel de Brienne, Toulouse ****

A contemporary 4-star design hotel near the Canal de Brienne, a short walk from Toulouse’s city centre, featuring colourful, modern interiors.

Parc Victoria Hotel St Jean de Luz | Parc Victoria Hotel St Jean de Luz

Parc Victoria Hotel, Saint-Jean-de-Luz ****

A charming historic villa, set in a peaceful garden setting just a short walk from the beach and port. Blending Victorian heritage with art deco style, it offers a relaxed stay with a pool, terrace and elegant surroundings.

Hotel Astoria, Barcelona ***

A stylish hotel just off Barcelona’s Diagonal Avenue, set in a charming early 20th-century building. Blending Art Nouveau features with modern design, it offers cosmopolitan interiors and a rooftop terrace with pool and city views.

Responsible Travel

Regenerative Travel Project

At AMP Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Romania, rescued brown bears are given a second chance to live as they should—free to roam, forage and explore within a protected forest environment. The sanctuary provides lifelong care for bears rescued from captivity, offering a safe haven for animals that can no longer survive in the wild. Support for this project helps provide nutritious food, expert veterinary care and ongoing habitat management, ensuring every bear can live in dignity and comfort. The sanctuary also plays an important role in raising awareness about wildlife welfare, ethical tourism and the lasting impacts of animal exploitation.

Your support will help care for Jimmy, one of the sanctuary’s rescued residents. For 11 years, Jimmy was confined to a small concrete cage at a bread factory, deprived of the opportunity to behave naturally. Since his rescue, he has experienced the freedom of a natural forest habitat for the first time, feeling the earth beneath his paws and living alongside other rescued bears. By contributing to Jimmy’s ongoing care, you are helping transform the life of an individual animal while supporting the broader mission of protecting bears from cruelty and promoting compassionate wildlife conservation.

Guaranteeing A Great Spain Trip

Pioneering World Firsts

Quality equipment

Quality accommodations

Innovative itineraries

Custom built, reliable transport

Our all inclusive approach

Cava to the Coastwith Ben Groundwater

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Ready to start your adventure?