Northern Spain: Basque Country and Rioja
Championship fairways, Michelin-starred flavors, and architectural wonders in Spain’s green north.
Golf in Northern Spain: Basque Country and Rioja
Discover the soul of Northern Spain on a journey that blends world-class golf with the culture and cuisine of Rioja, San Sebastián, and Bilbao. Stay in the architectural masterpiece of Marqués de Riscal, dine among the vineyards, wander through cobbled streets where pinchos reign supreme, and play iconic courses, from Jon Rahm’s home club to the elegant seaside fairways of Pedreña. This itinerary is crafted for travelers who want their golf seasoned with art, wine, and slow luxury.
What Awaits You:
- 9 days / 8 nights through Rioja, Basque Country & Cantabria
- 4 rounds of golf (Larrabea, Real Club de Golf San Sebastián, Real Sociedad de Golf de Neguri, Real Club de Pedreña)
- Private airport & golf transfers throughout
- Private boutique winery visit & gourmet lunch in Rioja
- Guided pintxos experience in San Sebastián
- Private Guggenheim Museum tour in Bilbao
- 24/7 Local Concierge Assistance
- Golf with HeritagePlay iconic courses shaped by Spanish legends.
- Wine & Architecture IconsStay amid Gehry’s titanium curves at Marqués de Riscal and explore Rioja’s finest wineries.
- Basque GastronomyTaste your way through Spain’s culinary capital, where pintxos are an art form.
Sample itinerary
Every itinerary can be personalized or extended upon request: courses, hotels, pace and experiences.
- 1
Day 1
Arrival in Rioja
Private transfer to Hotel Marqués de Riscal. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the spa and surroundings.
Casanova tipThe art of arrival is learning to slow down.
- 2
Day 2
Golf at Larrabea
Play at Jon Rahm’s home club, set among Basque hills. Evening relaxed dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant.
Casanova tipChampions are born on quiet fairways.
- 3
Day 3
Boutique Winery Visit & Gourmet Lunch
Private visit to a boutique bodega followed by a tasting menu among the vineyards. Optional stop in medieval Laguardia before returning to Marqués de Riscal.
Casanova tipexplore the hotel’s wine cellar or take a sunset walk through the vines.
- 4
Day 4
Transfer to San Sebastián
Scenic drive through the green Basque countryside. Check-in at a seaside boutique hotel and evening free to stroll La Concha promenade.
Casanova tipEnjoy a glass of Txakoli at a terrace overlooking the bay
- 5
Day 5
Golf at Real Club de Golf San Sebastián
Stop in Getaria or Zarautz en route for a coastal lunch. Check-in at a 5-star hotel in Bilbao. Evening at leisure.
Casanova tipStroll along the Nervión riverfront or dine at a contemporary Basque bistro.
- 6
Day 6
San Sebastián Culinary Experience
Private pintxos tour through the Old Town’s iconic bars with local expert. Optional: visit a Michelin-starred restaurant or take a coastal walk to Monte Igueldo.
Casanova tipHappiness fits on a small plate.
- 7
Day 7
Drive to Bilbao
Stop in Getaria or Zarautz en route for a coastal lunch.
Casanova tipStroll along the Nervión riverfront or dine at a contemporary Basque bistro.
- 8
Day 8
Golf at Real Sociedad de Golf de Neguri
Play one of Spain’s classic seaside courses. Afternoon private tour of the Guggenheim Museum with art curator.
Casanova tipEvery masterpiece starts with imagination.
- 9
Day 9
Golf at Real Club de Pedreña & Departure
Final round at Seve Ballesteros’ home club in Cantabria. Private transfer to Bilbao Airport for departure.
Casanova tipLeave the north richer than you arrived, soul included.
Choose from 3 hotels
Since its grand opening in 1912, the legendary Hotel María Cristina has been at the heart of San Sebastián’s cultural and social life. Fully restored to its Belle Époque splendor, it offers timeless elegance with contemporary comfort. The rooms and suites—dressed in soft greys and whites—create a serene haven of understated luxury, blending classic style with modern technology and impeccable service. A stay here is not just accommodation, but a glimpse into the city’s glamorous soul.
An emblem of Bilbao’s elegance since 1926, the Hotel Carlton rises majestically over Plaza de Federico Moyúa, right in the heart of the city. Behind its neoclassical façade, guests discover spacious rooms blending timeless sophistication with modern comfort—each featuring refined décor, marble bathrooms, and thoughtful amenities. The hotel offers a fitness center, business lounge, and complimentary minibar, all wrapped in discreet luxury. Just steps from Gran Vía and a short stroll from the Guggenheim Museum, the Carlton remains Bilbao’s most iconic address for travelers who value tradition with contemporary flair.
The Hotel Marqués de Riscal, designed by Frank Gehry, is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture set amid the vineyards of Rioja Alavesa. Its iconic titanium curves rise above Elciego like a piece of living art, blending modern design, wine, and luxury in perfect harmony. Inside, avant-garde lines meet the warmth of the region—rooms with panoramic vineyard views, a vinotherapy spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and direct access to the historic Marqués de Riscal winery.
More than a hotel, it’s an experience of sleeping inside a sculpture that smells of wine and genius.
Request your tailor-made itinerary
Tell us your dates and group and we will tailor courses, hotels and experiences for you, with a reply within 24 hours. Prefer to talk? Schedule a short call with our team.
Good to know
When is the best time to play golf in Northern Spain?
From May to October. Spring and early autumn offer the best mix of mild weather and vibrant landscapes.
Can non-golfers enjoy this trip?
Absolutely. Between the wineries, architecture, gastronomy, and coastal charm, this is one of Spain’s best regions for culture and leisure.
Are the transfers private?
Yes, all transfers are private and adapted to your pace. No group buses, ever.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Every part of it. Extend stays, add extra rounds, or include day trips to Santander or France.
Is it suitable for groups?
Ideal for couples or small private groups seeking a blend of golf, gastronomy, and culture.
In their own words
- The whole trip was awesome. You take very good care of all aspects, hotels, golf, meals, tours, transportation… I enjoyed it all!
Allan R., CanadaTour: Lisbon, Algarve, Marbella
- Thanks again for helping to organize a great trip! Really appreciated your responsiveness and the quick changes you were able to make!
Eric Y., SwitzerlandTour: Canary Islands
- Everyone had a great time and love Spain. I will be in touch again for another group next summer.
Peter W., USATour: Marbella & Barcelona
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Ready to plan your trip?
Tell us how you like to travel and we will design every detail around you.
Prefer a shorter getaway with hotel and golf included? See our Stay & Play packages
