San Sebastian Blog

Few summer destinations offer such a captivating combination of culture, gastronomy, sporting traditions, and coastal beauty quite like San Sebastian. Set along the stunning Bay of Biscay, this elegant Basque city provided the perfect setting for an unforgettable five-day experience, combining the vibrant celebrations of Semana Grande, an exclusive wine tasting, the prestigious Copa de Oro, and plenty of time to discover the charms of San Sebastian and its surrounding coastline.

The adventure began on Thursday morning as guests departed London on their flight to Bilbao. Upon arrival, the group was met and transferred by coach from Bilbao to San Sebastian, enjoying the beautiful Basque scenery along the way as anticipation grew for the days ahead.

On arrival in San Sebastian, guests checked into the hotel, which provided a comfortable base for the duration of their stay on a bed and breakfast basis. Following time to settle in and relax after the journey, the group came together for their first evening meal at a traditional Basque Cider House Restaurant. Enjoying delicious food and cider, it was the perfect introduction to the warmth and hospitality of the Basque Country.

Friday began with breakfast at the hotel before guests were transferred to the renowned Txomin Etxaniz vineyard for a fascinating 90-minute guided tour. Set against the beautiful vineyards of the Getaria area, the tour provided a wonderful insight into traditions and craftmanship behind the region’s celebrated wines.

During the guided tour, guests learnt about the winemaking process, discovering more about the vineyard, its history and the techniques used to produce its wines. The experience was followed by a tasting of the vineyard’s wines, accompanied by a selection of delicious local nibbles. Surrounded by the picturesque vineyard landscape, the tasting offered a memorable opportunity to experience some of the authentic flavours of the Basque Country.

Following the wine tasting, the group was transferred to the beautiful fishing village of Getaria. With a couple of hours to explore at leisure, guests were able to wander through the charming streets, browse local shops and enjoy the character of this picturesque coastal destination.

After returning to the hotel for some time at leisure, guests headed out in the evening to experience one of the most spectacular highlights of the trip, the famous Semana Grande fireworks over San Sebastian Bay.

As darkness fell, crowds gathered along the waterfront in anticipation of the evening’s display. With the magnificent bay providing a dramatic backdrop, the night sky was illuminated by a spectacular succession of colour and light. The atmosphere throughout the city was electric, with locals and visitors coming together to enjoy one of the defining moments of San Sebastian’s annual celebrations.

Saturday began with breakfast at the hotel before guests had the morning and early afternoon at leisure before they made their way to the Hipódromo de San Sebastián for the Copa de Oro, San Sebastián Gold Cup, the highlight of the city’s summer racing season. Before the racing, the guests enjoyed a guided tour and behind the scenes of the racecourse by two former Spanish jockeys.

Set in a stunning seaside location, the racecourse provided the stage for an exciting day of top-class racing as locals and visitors gathered to enjoy one of the most anticipated sporting occasions of the summer.

The Copa de Oro offered guests the opportunity to experience a different side of Basque culture, combining the excitement and tradition of horse racing with the relaxed atmosphere. From the anticipation before each race and the chance to experience the parade ring to the excitement of the finishes, the day provided a memorable experience for racing enthusiasts and those simply looking to enjoy a unique day out.

Sunday provided guests with the perfect opportunity to explore San Sebastian at their own pace, whether taking a leisurely walk along La Concha Bay, relaxing on the beach or discovering the city’s renowned pintxo bars and sampling some of the small dishes for which the Basque Country is famous. For those looking to take in the city from a different perspective, a journey on the funicular up Monte Igueldo offered spectacular panoramic views across San Sebastian and the sweeping bay, providing a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the beauty of this remarkable coastal city.

With the evening at leisure, there was plenty of opportunity to enjoy one final dinner, explore the city’s lively streets or simply relax and take in the atmosphere of San Sebastian on the final night of the trip.

Monday morning began with breakfast at the hotel before guests checked out and prepared for their journey home. Following the transfer to the airport, guests boarded their return flight to London, bringing an unforgettable few days in the Basque Country to a close.

The combination of world-class racing, exceptional local food and wine, vibrant Basque traditions and breath-taking coastal scenery created a truly memorable experience. With its unique character, outstanding hospitality and remarkable setting on the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian proved to be the perfect destination for an unforgettable summer escape.

If, sun, wine, racing and tradition sound like your idea of a perfect getaway, San Sebastian 2027 is now available to book: San Sebastián Semana Grande 2027 Tour | Racing Around The World