Embark on a self-guided adventure through Castile, where the wines of Spain meet the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Discover the world-renowned Toro Valley wines, indulge in authentic Castilian cuisine, and explore medieval towns and ancient vineyards at your own pace.
As you savour every bite and sip, immerse yourself in the legends and royal history of Castile, each stop along your journey unveils a piece of Spain’s rich past, from timeless folklore to culinary treasures.
Whether you’re a wine lover or a food enthusiast, Grapes and Legends of Castile offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Spanish culture and gastronomy.
Here’s What You’ll Experience
- Discover Leon’s grand cathedral, medieval streets, and deep Camino heritage.
- Explore the wine traditions of Toro and the Romanesque treasures of Zamora.
- Experience Salamanca’s golden sandstone architecture and Avila’s iconic medieval walls.
- Journey through Segovia, Santo Domingo de Silos, and Burgos, rich in Gothic art, monastic culture, and Castilian history.
ravel through the heart of Castile, from Leon’s Gothic beauty to the wine lands of Toro, the Romanesque charm of Zamora, and the golden cities of Salamanca, Avila, Segovia, Santo Domingo de Silos, and Burgos—an immersive journey into Spain’s enduring heritage.
Welcome to Leon! Upon arrival, take the opportunity to unwind or begin exploring at your own pace and discover the local neighbourhood at your leisure.
- Accommodation: Parador de Leon / Heritage Hotel 4-star or higher.
Leon, is a cultural gem in northern Spain, boasts a remarkable Romanesque legacy and deep roots in medieval history.
Begin your journey at the majestic Cathedral, renowned for its breathtaking stained glass windows—some of the finest in Europe. Just a short walk away, discover the Basilica of San Isidoro, often called the Sistine Chapel of Romanesque Art, home to beautifully preserved frescoes and royal tombs.
Continue your stroll through Leon’s charming historic centre, soaking in its rich past, until you reach Casa Botines—a striking modernist building by Antoni Gaudi, offering a rare glimpse into his work beyond Barcelona. Now a museum, it features exhibitions on Gaudi and the city’s artistic heritage.
Take a break at the Plaza Mayor, a lively 17th-century square perfect for a coffee or people-watching.
For lunch, immerse yourself in local flavour in the Barrio Humedo, famous for its traditional tapas bars. Sample regional specialities like cecina (air-dried beef) or morcilla (black pudding), best enjoyed with a glass of Bierzo wine.
Wrap up the day with free time to explore at your own pace, or visit the impressive Convento de San Marcos—a Renaissance masterpiece that now houses a luxury hotel and museum, blending history with elegance.
- Accommodation: Parador de Leon / Heritage Hotel 4-star or higher
- Meals: Breakfast
- Activities (On Request): Leon Tour guided
Upon arrival in Zamora, and after settling in at your hotel, you may choose to venture to Toro—either independently or via private transfer (available upon request).
Just 40 minutes from Zamora, Toro is famed for its medieval heritage and renowned wine and cheese traditions. Home to over 300 wineries, the region invites you to visit a traditional bodega, where you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of Toro wine and artisanal sheep’s cheese.
Take time to appreciate the sweeping views of vineyards, open plains, and charming villages—an authentic slice of rural Castile and Leon.
Back in Zamora by the afternoon, explore the striking Zamora Cathedral, noted for its rare Byzantine-style dome and rich collection of sacred art.
As the evening sets in, wander the ancient city walls, soak in panoramic views, and discover why Zamora is considered one of northern Spain’s hidden cultural treasures.
- Accommodation: Parador de Zamora
- Meals: Breakfast
- Activities (On Request): Private transfer from Zamora to Toro and return
- Tasting: Toro Wine and Cheese Tasting
Today, you’ll spend the day discovering Zamora, guided by a knowledgeable local expert.
Known as Spain’s Romanesque capital, Zamora is home to an extraordinary number of historic churches and medieval landmarks. Explore the city’s atmospheric old town, visit the iconic castle, and admire its unique architectural heritage at every turn.
Zamora also holds a special place in Spanish tradition for its Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations—some of the most revered in the country. You’ll visit a dedicated museum showcasing religious sculptures and procession artefacts, offering a deeper understanding of the devotion that transforms the city each Easter.
As evening approaches, return to the ancient city walls for sweeping views and a final glimpse of the city’s layered history.
To end the day, enjoy an exclusive dinner in a private underground winery, where you’ll savour local meats, cured delicacies, regional cheeses, and fine Zamoran wines—a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
- Accommodation: Parador de Zamora
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (Underground Bodega)
- Activities: Zamora (full-day guided Tour)
Take one last stroll through Zamora’s historic streets before continuing your journey to Salamanca.
Along the way, travel through the picturesque Castilian countryside, a landscape shaped by vineyards, cheese-making traditions, and centuries of medieval heritage.
Upon arrival in Salamanca, check in at your hotel and enjoy a relaxed afternoon discovering the city’s highlights.
Visit the magnificent Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful squares in Spain, or wander through Salamanca’s atmospheric old town, where you’ll find architectural gems like the Casa de las Conchas, adorned with its famous shell-covered façade.
- Accommodation: Hotel D.Gregorio / Palacio San Esteban / NH Palacio Castellanos,etc...
- Meals: Breakfast
Today, delve deeper into the rich heritage of Salamanca with a guided tour led by a local expert.
Begin at the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest in Europe, renowned for its scholarly history and ornate Plateresque façade. Continue to the majestic Old and New Cathedrals, where centuries of religious art and architecture coexist in stunning harmony.
Your journey through Salamanca’s history also includes visits to the Convent of San Esteban, the elegant Palacio de la Salina, and the modernist Casa Lis Museum, home to an impressive collection of Art Nouveau and Art Deco pieces. The city’s past is woven into every street and sandstone building, inviting you to explore its legacy at every turn.
In the afternoon, take a private transfer to Guijuelo, a town celebrated for producing some of Spain’s finest jamon iberico. Visit a local producer to learn about the traditional curing process—from the careful selection of Iberian pigs to the slow aging that defines its deep flavour.
Finish with a tasting session paired with regional wines.
On Request: Hands-on ham-cutting class for those interested in mastering the art.
- Accommodation: Hotel D.Gregorio / Palacio San Esteban / NH Palacio Castellanos,etc...
- Meals: Breakfast / Dinner (Live Fado Music)
- Activities: Salamanca (Full-day guided tour)
- Activities: Private transfer from Salamanca to Guijuelo and return
- Tasting: Guijuelo Jamon Iberico tasting
Continue your journey to Avila, a city renowned for its medieval walls, spiritual heritage, and timeless charm.
Explore the Cathedral of Avila and stroll through the UNESCO-listed old town, where Romanesque churches and noble palaces evoke the grandeur of Spain’s medieval past.
In the afternoon, arrive in Segovia, home to one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks—the Roman aqueduct, a breathtaking feat of ancient engineering. Wander through the charming Plaza Mayor, admire the striking Gothic cathedral, and enjoy a guided visit to the Alcazar of Segovia, a storybook castle said to have inspired Walt Disney.
To end the day, indulge in Segovia’s most celebrated dish—cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig)—a regional specialty and an unmissable culinary experience.
- Accommodation: Heritage Hotel 4-star or higher
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (Roast Suckling Pig)
Start your day in Segovia with a traditional Spanish breakfast—perhaps pan con tomate or churros con chocolate—at a local café near the majestic Roman Aqueduct.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided visit to the Alcazar, Segovia’s iconic castle that resembles a fairytale fortress. With its towers, views, and royal history, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.
Then, take one last stroll through the Plaza Mayor, admiring the stunning Segovia Cathedral before continuing your journey.
Next, travel towards the prestigious Ribera del Duero wine region, famous for its bold Tempranillo-based red wines. Visit a carefully selected winery for a guided tour of the vineyards and cellars, followed by a tasting session that showcases the rich, full-bodied wines of this celebrated area.
Continue to Lerma, a town rich in Renaissance architecture. Explore the impressive Ducal Palace, now a parador, and enjoy lunch in the expansive Plaza Mayor, one of the largest and most historic squares in Spain.
Your final destination is Covarrubias, a beautifully preserved medieval village often called the “Cradle of Castile.”
Stroll through its cobblestone streets, admire the half-timbered houses, and visit the Collegiate Church of San Cosme y San Damian, home to the tomb of Princess Kristina of Norway and an intriguing art collection.
End the day with a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, savouring cordero lechal asado (roast suckling lamb) or Judiones de la Armuña, two regional specialities that reflect the deep culinary roots of this part of Castile.
- Accommodation: Rural Hotel Princesa Kristina
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Activities: Segovia Alcazar (tickets and guided included)
- Tasting: Tempranillo Wine tasting
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Santo Domingo de Silos, a spiritual and architectural gem nestled in the Castilian countryside.
The highlight here is the Monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos, famed for its exquisite Romanesque cloister adorned with intricately carved capitals, and for the moving beauty of its Gregorian chants. Attend a mid-morning chant session to experience the tranquil, almost otherworldly atmosphere that draws visitors from around the world.
Stroll through the monastery’s serene gardens and gain insight into the monastic traditions that have shaped this sacred site.
For lunch, indulge in regional Castilian cuisine, such as sopa castellana (garlic soup) or cordero lechal (suckling lamb), specialties of the area.
In the afternoon, continue to Burgos, a city rich in history and monumental beauty. Visit the magnificent Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture. Wander the atmospheric old town, where medieval lanes reveal centuries of architectural evolution.
For dinner, embrace the local tradition of pinchos-hopping, moving from bar to bar in the historic quarter, sampling small bites and regional wines—a perfect way to savour Burgos’ vibrant culinary culture.
- Accommodation: NH Palacio de Burgos / Crisol M. del Cid / Etc...
- Meals: Breakfast
- Activities: Live Gregorian chant session
Spend your final day in Burgos on a guided tour led by a knowledgeable local expert.
Begin with a comprehensive visit to the Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true Gothic masterpiece. Wander through its majestic chapels, admire the intricate stained glass, and learn about the tomb of El Cid, the legendary Spanish knight and national hero.
Continue your discovery with visits to key landmarks, including the Monasterio de las Huelgas, a royal 12th-century monastery, the Casa del Cordon, and the Paseo del Espolon, a picturesque promenade lined with sculptures and historic façades.
For lunch, indulge in traditional Castilian cuisine at a local restaurant, tasting regional specialities like morcilla de Burgos (black pudding) and cordero asado (roast lamb), perfectly complemented by a glass of Ribera del Duero wine.
In the early evening, delve into the Museum of Human Evolution, which showcases fascinating discoveries from the nearby Atapuerca archaeological site, offering unique insights into Europe’s prehistoric past.
Conclude your journey with a final dinner in Burgos, reflecting on the region’s rich history, architecture, and culinary traditions.
- Accommodation: NH Palacio de Burgos / Crisol M. del Cid / Etc...
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Activities: Burgos (Full-day Guided Tour) & Museum of Human Evolution (tickets included)
It’s time to say goodbye after an unforgettable journey through Spain. After breakfast, we’ll arrange your private transfer to the airport, train station, or your next destination—ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.
¡hasta pronto!
- Meals: Breakfast
Travel Perks
- 10 nights in a luxury heritage 4-star hotel / Rural hotel or higher
- Breakfast daily & 4 Dinners
- 3 Tasting experiences:Toro Wine, Tempranillo Wine & Guijuelo jamon Iberico
- Admission tickets to Segovia Alcazar, Gregorian chant Session & Museum of Human Evolution
- Special Dinner in traditional Underground Bodega
- Experiences and knowledgeable guides
Not Covered
- Single Supplement (available if required)
- Entry to museums and other attractions is not included unless specifically stated as part of a travel perk
- City Tax: Some City Councils may introduce a tourist tax that has to be paid directly at the hotel
- Meals and beverages other than those specified
- Everything which is not clearly specified under inclusions
