Authentic Gastronomy & Wine Experiences Across the Basque Country and Northern Spain
Boutique tours for the discerning traveller, created by passionate locals , top rated in tripadvisor, online booking, free cancellation.
THE LEADERS IN WINE AND FOOD EXPERIENCES IN BILBAO
COOKING CLASSES IN BILBAO
WINE TASTINGS IN BILBAO
SAN SEBASTIAN
At Northern Spain Gastronomy, we take the road less travelled, offering guided tours away from the typical tourist hot spots throughout the Basque Country and Northern Spain combining both authentic, cultural and gastronomic experiences.
TRANSFER TOURS IN/FROM BILBAO
WINE TOURS FROM BILBAO
FOOD TOURS IN BILBAO
DAY TOURS FROM BILBAO
Each of our tours and experiences fuse boutiq ue vineyards and traditional cuisine, together with stunning landscapes, historic towns and quaint villages. Wether you want to learn how to cook Basque food, tour the traditional wineries of La Rioja, spend the day seeking out the best pintxos in the foodie capital of San Sebastian or combine history with cuisine in Bilbao, we've got you covered.
Our tours guide you through the best areas Northern Spain has to offer, taking you off the beaten track, to show you not only the hidden treasures in the famous Northern Spanish cities, but also the authentic small towns and villages, which are rarely visited by tourists.
We enable you to inmerse yourself in our culture and appreciate our traditions, quality produce and way of life, just as we do.
Top Rated in Tripadvisor 5/5
"Only one word to describe our holiday with Northern Spain Gastronomy - AMAZING !!!"
"Definitely, a great choice if you are looking to learn about the Basque culture and enjoy the best food and wine in town at the same time"
"This was truly such a special, special evening and hands down the highlight of my trip to Bilbao--I will never forget it."
"What can I say about this experience other than perfect classy personal educated and wonderful."
We are a small family business based in Bilbao providing tours across Northern Spain.
We are a fully Registered & Licensed Travel Agency CIE2546.
We have over ten years' experience in the tourism & travel sphere. We offer the best quality services in all that we do.
For your comfort and safety, our tours are deliver in new high end vehicles (new vans with leather seats, automatic transmission and A/C)
We accept all types of debit/credit cards and PayPal.
Our partnerships are with small family businesses who maintain a respect for sustainability and authenticity.
We consider wine to be an art, and each cellar we visit has a great story behind it.
We partner with traditional local restaurants that use only seasonal produce.
We go to infrequently-visited small towns & villages that rarely appear in the travel guides.
Knowledgeable
We are a team of four, each with experience in the wine and gastronomy worlds.
Our team are locals who genuinely love and know the North of Spain inside out.
Whilst we have carefully planned our tours, we aim to cater to our clients' needs, and will adjust the itinerary when needed.
With us you will not feel like you are on a tour, but rather having a trip with local friends.
BASQUE COUNTRY FOOD & WINE TOUR
Basque country, a land the world over known for its gastronomy.
CÚRATE Trips welcomes you in a meaningful expedition that embraces the essence of the Basque whose lives enshrine every aspect of its culinary repertoire and a feeling of connection to a singular collectiveness.
It is impossible to exaggerate to what extent gastronomy permeates almost every social activity and every social class. Time is valued over money. At the core of this adventure are the tenets of authenticity, exclusivity and personal enrichment brought all together by a team of passionate experts.
Make your taste buds dance with the best food and the best Basque pintxos , and your soul fly tasting some of the most exceptional reds and whites from Rioja , or the coastal and slightly fizzy white wine Txakoli .
Explore Northeast Spain in a dream trip across the Basque Country . Make your taste buds dance with the popular merluza en salsa verde – a yummy hake fish in “green” sauce -, the most incredible kokotxas de bacalao al pil-pil (cod fish cheeks in pil-pil sauce), not to mention the txuletón – beef steak – and Rioja wines.
Reveal all the secret gems in this spectacular 8-day unique and therapeutic escape limited to 20 participants .
San Sebastian, arrival
San Sebastian
San Sebastian - Saint-Jean de Luz - Hondarribia - San Sebastian
San Sebastian - Biarritz - Espelette - Ainhoa - San Sebastian
San Sebastian - Getaria - Bilbao
Bilbao - Rioja - Bilbao
Bilbao, end of journey
CÚRATE has joined forces with the specialist food and wine tour operator Paladar y Tomar to provide the most seamless journey that only two in-the-know insiders can assure.
Experience an exceptional 8-day culinary adventure across Basque Country , led by local experts Valeska and Fernando. Immerse in the vibrant culinary scene and learn from celebrated chefs, gaining insider knowledge and insights into gastronomic traditions. Expect an unforgettable journey of sophistication and excellence
Immerse yourself in the rich foundation and techniques of the Basque culinary culture, and discover the essence of the Basque soul . Let us transport you to a world of flavor and tradition, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
PINTXOS IN SAN SEBASTIAN, WHERE SMALL IS BIG
San Sebastián, this small but gorgeous seaside city boasts Belle Époque architecture, a profound cultural heritage and arguably the best cuisine in the Basque Region. It has the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita in the world, but even the quality of the everyday food is sublime.
A walking pintxos tour reveals the best of the local gastronomic essence. Be ready for the most genuine experience . We will tell you stories and explain the singularities of this way of eating. We will recommend the best pintxo at each place and the best wine to pair among our preferred pintxos bars.
ASADOR EXPERIENCE
Asadores are traditional grill houses in the Basque Country, with coal being the greatest taste-enhancer. Cooking over an open fire is now experiencing a new wave and it is the most ancestral cooking method too. You shouldn’t miss trying some good grill! This will be the icing on the cake of a first memorable day.
SAN SEBASTIAN
Enjoy a lovely promenade across this fascinating small city. Shaped by the river Urumea and later up by the hills, the city expanded when the walls were demolished 1863. The first expansion of the old town stretched out to the river’s mouth, on the old quarter called Zurriola, which now shows a dynamic commercial activity, recently boosted by the presence of the Kursaal Congress Centre by the beach. The arcades of the Buen Pastor Square were fashioned after the ones of the Rue de Rivoli, with the Maria Cristina Bridge being inspired by the Pont Alexandre III that spans the Seine.
You will stroll across some of the most centrally located highlights and we’ll explore some of the historical food and wine shops.
MARTIN BERASATEGUI***
He is the only chef with two restaurants awarded with three Michelin stars: Restaurante Martin Berasategui in Lasarte-Oria, and Restaurante Lasarte in Barcelona. In total he holds now 8 Michelin stars. Martin Berasategui is a legend and he played a crucial role in the Basque cuisine’s revolution in the 1980’s and contributed to develop a Basque nouvelle cuisine capable to establish the Basque Country as one of the world’s leading gastronomic regions.
SAINT JEAN DE LUZ & HONDARRIBIA
Let’s cross the border for the first tim to discover the flavors of the neighboring French Basque Country. In the morning depart towards the French coast. From Hendaia take the winding coast road -the Corniche- to the small town of Saint Jean de Luz, where we’ll visit its bustling and colorful market, stop by one of the best cheese masters, who serves Michelin star restaurants in the area. You won’t miss the first producer of the famous “French Macarron”, the cookie that became famous all over the world before heading to Hondarribia.
As stated by The New York Times in July 2010, “with its abundant variety of local produce, a daily influx of fresh seafood, and what has become a critical mass of new talent, the tiny town of Hondarribia has emerged as one of the best places to experience the region’s ambitious cuisine, and without the parading crowds of San Sebastian, just 13 miles away”. The castle is Hondarribia’s most notable monument. Built in the 10th century by the kings of Navarre, it provided strategic fortification against periodic incursions by the French.
After strolling around, our stomachs will feel hungry and it is time to get ready for an exceptional lunch.
SOCIEDAD GASTRONÓMICA
Access to one of the most persuasive experiences a gourmet could ever dream of: enjoying a meal at a Sociedad Gastronómica. These members-only clubs play an important role and serve as meeting places where people of all social classes, known as cuadrillas , go to cook, eat and socialize.
Backt to San Sebastian, enjoy on your own pace.
BIARRITZ & AINHOA
The French city of Biarritz, 20 kilometers from the Spanish border, is ideal for a cultural and gastronomic break. From its medieval past as a small fishing village, Biarritz preserves in its coat of arms an image of its original inhabitants, the reckless whale hunters. It was not until the middle of the 19th century that this town reached its greatest splendor by becoming a summer resort of Napoleon III and his wife, Empress Eugenia. Far from the luxury of that time, Biarritz is today a much more popular summer resort.
Stroll across the bustling Les Halles market, before continuing the serpentine roads towards the French countryside.
Xavier Isabal leads Ithurria’s cuisine, keeping the Michelin star for over 40 years. Located in Ainhoa, one of the most beautiful villages in France dotted with red and white houses, Ithurria is settled in a sublime house steeped in history. Take this opportunity to relish French flavors.
Home town of the prestigious couturier Balenciaga, this is the land of Txakolina, the bracing, refreshing, often fizzy white wine that is enjoyed throughout Basque Country. In restaurants and pintxos bars, on terraces overlooking the Cantabrian Sea or in dark, rustic wood-and-stone cellars, you can’t help but notice Txakolina everywhere. Wine production was a way of life for centuries in Basque country through the end of the 19th century but phylloxera wiped out the vines around the turn of the 20th century, and the industry was slow to recover. Now, with the food revolution in Basque Country, txakoli is living a survival process and quality prevails. Let’s visit a winery and enjoy it in full while overlooking the sea.
Down, the legendary fishing town of Getaria is home of one of the best seafood cuisines. And undoubtedly the main attraction is the whole chargrilled fish – specially the turbot – which is grilled in special crafted metal fish baskets. This technique was conceived by Pedro Arregi from Elkano – who passed away in 2014 being the business now run by his son Aitor Arregi -. He pioneered the respect for the local produce and for his environment.
GUGGENHEIM BILBAO
Arrival to Bilbao and check-in before a private visit to the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Afterwards, free evening to explore the city on your own.
La Rioja turns out what most people have in mind when they think of Spanish wines. Enjoy a great day among vineyards around one of the best wineries in an exclusive private-guided tour. The region produces wine since ancient Roman times. Taste terrific wines and discover small charming villages from Middle Ages. It’s no accident that when phylloxera hit Bordeaux in the late 19th century, French winemakers chose Rioja as a location to make wines for the French market.
Not only will you have a chance to access one of the most remarkable wineries in exclusivity, but also you will try astonishing new style wines that express a sense of place. Winemakers are making wines that reveal the terroir of the region, village, estate, and, increasingly, the vineyard. A pairing lunch is foreseen at the winery.
Back to Bilbao, free evening.
LIVE COOKING
Visiting the Ribera Market is a must; it is a massive paradise of fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, mushrooms, cheese, sausages, cured meats, and fresh meats and game in season. The space is located next to the river, in the Casco Viejo neighborhood, which is Bilbao’s oldest, medieval part of town. Enjoy strolling around before entering a private kitchen atelier to start preparing the freshest and yummiest home meal!
STARRED FAREWELL DINNER
Be ready to enjoy a seductive and cozy last dinner in Boroa* a 15th century farmhouse with scrupulous respect for its original architecture, where Jabier Gartzia – great defender of Bilbao’s cooking, awarded with a Michelin star since 1999 – follows the ancient lineage of a noble and bourgeois society from the 19th century that laid the foundation of the cocina vizcaína (Bilbao cuisine).
END OF JOURNEY
Following breakfast, private transfer to Bilbao airport or train station at your appointed time, or continue your journey if you decided to extend your trip.
dates & Prices
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
AVAILABLE SPOTS
27 AUG - 03 SEP 2024
READY TO JOIN A DREAM TRIP
Please, fill the form to book your spots, we will get back to you by e-mail in the next 24 hours (remember we are based in Spain and we might be sleeping when you send your request). Feel free to share with us any special details we should consider.
Dates: 27 AUG - 03 SEP 2024
Price: €7,350
Single Suplement: €1,700
Available spots: SOLD OUT
03 SEP - 10 SEP 2024
Dates: 03 SEP - 10 SEP 2024
26 AUG - 02 SEP 2025
Dates: 26 AUG - 02 SEP 2025
Price: €7,600
Single suplement: €1,700
Available spots: 18
02 SEP - 09 SEP 2025
Dates: 02 SEP - 09 SEP 2025
Available spots: 2
- 7-Night accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
- 7 lunches and 2 dinners (food and wines paired)
- Private deluxe transportation throughout
- Airport private transfers in and out from Bilbao / San Sebastian Airport
- Two tour leaders throughout
- Limited to 20 guests
NOT INCLUDED:
- International flight
- Travel insurance
- Personal purchases and expenses
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
- Rates are in Euros per person, on double occupancy basis.
BOOKING DEPOSIT:
At the time of reservation: 25% of journey cost per person.
- 90 days before departure: Balance due.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
- Payment method: Bank transfer or major credit cards are accepted (Visa, American Express, Mastercard)9
The Experts
KATIE BUTTON
Chef Katie Button was born in the South, raised in the North, and educated in Europe. Four-time James Beard Award nominee and cookbook author, Katie Button is the co-Founder and CEO of Katie Button Restaurants in Asheville, North Carolina, including the beloved Cúrate Bar de Tapas, Cúrate Spanish Wine Club, and La Bodega by Cúrate. A Southern chef with a scientific mind, Button honed her craft in the kitchens of some of the world’s best chefs, most notably Ferran Adrià and José Andrés, before venturing out to open her own restaurant with husband Felix Meana and her family. Katie Button was featured as one of Food & Wine’s 2015 Best New Chefs . Cúrate was named as one of the “ 40 Most Important Restaurants of the Past 40 Years ” by Food & Wine and one of the “ Most Important Restaurants of the Decade ” by Esquire.
FÉLIX MEANA
Originally from Roses, a small town on the Costa Brava in Catalunya, Spain, Felix Meana jumped in to the deep end of the hospitality industry at 19 and finally worked as front of the house service manager for five years at Ferran Adrià’s world famous restaurant, elBulli. Then he moved to Washington DC with José Andrés at ThinkFoodGroup (it was here where he met Katie Button), and he worked as Director of Service and helped with developing and opening new restaurants, including The Bazaar by José Andrés in SLS Hotels across Beverly Hills, CA, Las Vegas, South Beach, Miami, and Puerto Rico. Co-partner at CÚRATE , Felix’s close relationships with Spain, coupled with a sense of adventure and desire to share that with others, has helped him build a unique travel experience through Cúrate Trips.
VALESKA IDARRAGA
Valeska inherited a taste for gastronomic culture from her French father and a talent for cooking from her Basque grandmother, a good reputed chef in that times. After studying Economics and Journalism in her native Barcelona, she went to Switzerland to pursue hotel management studies and she worked at some of the most prestigious hotels. Valeska speaks five languages. She is a Certified Sherry Wine Cellar Advance Expert, and WSET 3 with merit. Valeska is co-founder at Paladar y Tomar , she is marketing director and manages client relationships and operations at CÚRATE Trips .
FERNANDO PAREDES
Fernando Paredes is the CEO, financial director, and wine responsible of Paladar y Tomar . The Barcelona native was well into a career in economics when he discovered his true callings—travel, food, and wine. He entered the tourism industry as General Manager of a bespoke travel group, earned a degree in Food Event Design from the European Design Institute, became a Certified Sherry Wine Cellar Advance Expert and passed WSET 3 ( Wine & Spirits Education Trust ) with merit. Fernando’s journeys, and passion for food, have taken him to all corners of the world and now besides his many responsibilities he personally leads every tour at CÚRATE Trips .
8 Reasons to join us
At CÚRATE Trips the excellence of the landscape’s cuisine along with its breathtaking natural surroundings, exceptional wine varieties, and tranquility of the hand-picked singular accommodations create a getaway unparalleled in value and authenticity.
Martin Berasategui***, Ithurria*, Elkano* and Boroa* summarize some of the finest cuisine from both Basque Countries; Spain and France. This is an opportunity to celebrate San Sebastian has been named "The Best World's City for Food" and Bilbao rooted cuisine traditions are being internationally acclaimed.
Stepping into a members-only eating club is not an easy task. For anyone the challenge is knowing somebody that is a member to be invited. You are in.
Rioja has been at the top of Spanish wines for almost a century since this small region concentrates some of the best wines, terroirs and wine makers in the world. Immerse yourself in the heart of la Rioja Alavesa to uncover two of the best wineries in a unique and very personal experience.
Not only Getaria is a charming coastal town between the Cantabrian Sea and the steepy mountains, one of the cradles of the crispy txakoli white wine, and home town of the admired haute couture designer Balenciaga, but its daily caught chargrilled turbot is worldwide lauded. Learn the secrets.
Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, opened twenty years ago, changed the history of Bilbao and transformed the city forever. Art played the role as an economic, social and cultural driver. Take this opportunity to spotlight both one of Europe's most iconic buildings, creator of the “Guggenheim” effect, and the museum's works on display.
The Basque Country is made up of seven provinces, three of which are in southwestern France. Too often overshadowed by the fame of Spain, the local French are very proud to be Basque and even speak Euskera. You'll quickly feel its distinct architecture, a scenery dotted with red and white farms, and a different lifestyle easily recognizable in their schedules but sharing the passion and "savoir faire" for the good table.
Live the most trascendent, immersive authentic experiences with the best connected people. "Real" experiences cannot be replicated. We're taking exclusivity to a whole new level.
En route from Bilbao to San Sebastian, the meandering drive reveals an astonishing array of awe-inspiring natural landscape, from the greatness of its mountains to its stunning coast. Be seduced by the rugged coast and the captivating Flysch formation, stopping at scenic coastal fishing ports and scenic outlooks, or explore the green "Basque Highands".
Hand-picked Accommodations
CÚRATE Trips benefit from the expertise of Paladar y Tomar curating every hotel in search of the most unique nature of each location. This allows us to cater for every different type of personality and taste and have selected for this occasion singular hotels with immense value that enhance every moment. Our stories start from the moment you arrive.
Other CÚRATE Trips
SUBSCRIBE TO CÚRATE Trips
Sign up to receive updates on our current journeys, inspiring stories, bite-sized news, and more!
- CÚRATE Trips
- DESTINATIONS
- The Experts, who we are
- IN THE PRESS
Paladar y Tomar is a Registered and Fully Bonded Tour Operator and Travel Agent License Number: GC-003929 Paladar y Tomar is a registered trademark of PYT Travel Design S.L. CIF B-11923604
First name*
Confirm Email*
Please leave this field empty.
PHONE NUMBER*
NUMBER OF GUESTS*
CHOOSE THE DESTINATION YOU ARE INTERESTED IN: —Please choose an option— Morocco Portugal Barcelona & Catalonia Andalusia Basque Country Sicily Madrid & Castile
IS THERE ANYTHING WE SHOULD CONSIDER?
HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT US? —Please choose an option— Internet CÚRATE Tapas Bar Referral Magazine Open House I have already traveled with you
Sign me up for the Newsletter !
By checking this box, you accept CÚRATE Trips Privacy Policy *
Privacy Protection Your personal information is kept confidential at all times.
Our office time UTC +1 HOUR We are 6 hours ahead of New York We are 9 hours ahead of California
THIS TRIP HAS BEEN FULLY BOOKED BUT...
You could join us on another journey.
Please fill the form to express you interest in future editions of this trip. Might you be interested in different dates or wish you to share any further thoughts, we’ll be glad to read you and will get back to you within 48 hours.
– Private Guided Tours in San Sebastian, Basque Country, and Rioja Wine Region –
Our tours in the basque country, sightseeing tours, active tours, why go basque with us.
We want you to live unique experiences and make unforgettable memories during your stay in the Basque Country. To achieve this, we offer an adaptable array of tours and activities that gather the essence and character of the Basque region. Join us and you will have the opportunity to interact with locals, get to know first-hand the work of our people, and become one more Basque during the time that you spend with us. Our team is composed of passionate local people committed to a sustainable tourism of quality in this small but intricate region of the world, and we want you to get to feel, know, and live the Basque Country like we do.
It’s Authentic
Thanks to our local guides and our extensive framework of contacts across the Basque geography, you will experience a full immersion into the culture and identity of the Basque Country.
It’s Exclusive
Our tours are specially designed for private or very small groups so that you can interact with us and your surroundings directly and personally.
It’s Varied
We have a wide range of tours catering for all tastes and interests. From gastronomic experiences for food enthusiasts to active excursions for restless spirits, we have plans for everyone.
It’s Personalized
We give you the possibility to design or adapt any of our tours to fit your interests and preferences during your stay in the Basque Country.
It’s Quality
We take care of the smallest detail when selecting our partners, guaranteeing top-quality Basque Country products and services within a context of sustainable tourism.
It’s Convenient
Forget about all the planning, research, and logistics, just lay back and enjoy while we take care of all of the details for your unforgettable trip in the Basque Country.
ABOUT THE BASQUE COUNTRY
The Basque Country, or how we natives refer to our land: “Euskal Herria,” is the home of the people who speak Basque. By definition, the Basque language, “Euskera,” delineates our borders, and Basque has been spoken here prior to the arrival of any of the Indo-European languages, including the Romance languages, making us one of the oldest surviving cultures in Europe. Although much of the origins of the language remain muddled in mystery, the identity of the Basques is evidently deep-rooted.
Encapsulated between Northern Spain and Southwestern France, the Basque Country is a small region that crosses borders. Since the very beginning, our land and people have been ruggedly determined by the might of the Cantabrian Sea and protected by the imposing summits of the Pyrenees, and our unique language and ancient traditions have united us under one identity.
Although the region has for a long time remained practically unexplored, it is increasingly becoming more popular to travellers worldwide because of its uniqueness and inexhaustible offer of things to taste, admire, and explore. The Basque Country’s cuisine and wines are some of its main known attractions. However, there is no shortage of options when visiting this beautiful and enchanting region, where rural landscapes mix with industrial ones, and where the sea, mountains, gastronomy, and culture all merge together to provide our visitors with the experience of a lifetime.
For these and many more reasons, we like to say that there is no other place on earth like the Basque Country.
DISCOVER IT WITH US
GO BASQUE is a boutique travel agency based in San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain that specializes in designing private and bespoke tours throughout the Basque Country and Rioja wine region.
- BASQUE HERITAGE TOURS
- CUSTOM TRAVEL
- CORPORATE TRAVEL
HIGHLY RATED ON
PARTNERED WITH
CONNECT WITH US
Tel: +34 623 434 104
Email: info@gobasque.com
- Last minute guaranteed trips
- Covid Info Hub
- Info nights & events
- How to book
Gourmet San Sebastian - An Insiders Food Tour with Ben Groundwater
- Food and wine discovery
- Behind the scenes visits
- Market and City Tours
- Day walk on the Camino
- 7 nights boutique hotel based in San Sebastian
- 7 Breakfasts
Share this trip with a friend
Destination
Antarctica & the arctic, australasia, central america, central asia, indian subcontinent, middle east, north america, south america, vessels & boats, advanced search, thoughtful travel.
- Accommodation
- Bike Information
- Trail Surface
- About your leader
- Departure dates
- Essential information
Trip reviews
- Related articles
- Similar trips
Suggested extensions
Share this trip
Trip highlights
- Escorted by the author, journalist and Basque food enthusiast Ben Groundwater
- Dinner at a 3 Michelin star restaurant
- An insiders tour of the best foodie finds
- Handpicked restaurants you'll be talking about for years to come
- San Sebastian food market tour with local chef
- Pinxtos tour through San Sebastian's Old Town
- Basque wine tasting
- Visit Les Halles market in St Jean de Luz
- Entrance to the museum of fashion house Balenciaga in Getaria
- Art walk led by local San Sebastian artist
- Walk a section of the Camino Norte pilgrimage path
- Craft beer tasting in Gros
Join Ben Groundwater, Australia’s favourite travel journalist to discover the hidden gems he uncovered during his eighteen month sabbatical in the Basque region. Ben has come to know and love the food culture of the Basque people, and has been able to experience so many of the area’s culinary touchstones – which, for the first time, he is about to share on this deeply personal journey.
Read more...
Expand all | Collapse all
Day 1 Arrive in San Sebastian
Day 2 day trip to getaria.
Meals: B,L
Day 3 Three Michelin Star dining in San Sebastian
Meals: B,D
Day 4 Walk on the Camino de Norte
Meals: B,L,D
Day 5 Day trip to St-Jean-de-Luz in France
Day 6 day trip to tolosa, day 7 san sebastian, day 8 trip concludes, what's included.
- Escorted by Ben Groundwater
- 7 nights boutique hotel accommodation in San Sebastian on a twin share basis
- 4 dinners including at a local cider house & at a 3 Michelin star restaurant
- 5 sumptuous lunches at some of the regions finest restaurants
- Evening pinxtos crawl
- Basque wine tasting at a local San Sebastian bar
- Craft beer tasting in San Sebastian
- Visit San Sebastian market with a local chef
- Day walk on the ancient pilgrimage path, the Camino del Norte
- Visit the 150 year old Les Halles market in St Jean de Luz
- Art walk through San Sebastian with local artist
- Day excursion to Guetaria with local guide
- Day excursion to St Jean de Luz with local guide
- Entrance fee for Balenciaga museum
- 7 breakfasts
- Visit the market near Tolosa
- An insiders guide written by Ben with all his favourite places to eat & shop in San Sebastian.
What's not included
- Travel to & from San Sebastian
- Meals not noted on itinerary
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
About Your Leader
Ben Groundwater is one of Australia’s best-known travel and food writers, and someone who holds a deep passion for the Basque Country of Spain and lived for 18 months in the beautiful town of San Sebastian.
Ben is a newspaper columnist with the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, a feature writer, a broadcaster, and the author of five books. He loves to combine his twin passions, travel and food, and is so excited to share the Basque culinary experiences that were most memorable and formative during his time living in this unique area.
Per Person, Twin Share
Select your dates and book now
The following errors occured:.
Rating: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Other trip reviews
Why travel with us.
Award Winning Adventures
Enhancing your journey with authentic experiences, genuine cultural exchange and real exploration are the focal points on all of our adventures. In 2019, we were crowned by our peers as the best in adventure travel at The Travel Awards in Sydney.
Our vision is to leave the world a better place by following our sustainable active outdoor travel charter . All our adventures are 100% carbon offset and our Regenerative 2030 Project aims to integrate ‘regenerative’ projects into every one of our global operations by 2030.
Ultimate Value
When you book one of our adventures, you will receive quality services at the best prices with plenty of inclusions. There are no hidden costs, single travellers don’t pay more and you’ll enjoy many ‘extra touches’ that ensure your holiday is excellent value for money.
Burgundy Highlights
Activities:.
- Cookie Policy
- Strictly Necessary
- Performance
When you visit any web site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be about you, your preferences, your device or used to make the site work as you expect it to. The information does not usually identify you directly, but it can give you a more personalized web experience. You can choose not to allow some types of cookies. Click on the different category headings to find out more and change our default settings. However, you should know that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on the site and the services we are able to offer.
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will no longer work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.
These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources, so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. If you do not allow these cookies, we will not know when you have visited our site.
These cookies allow the provision of enhance functionality and personalization, such as videos and live chats. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, then some or all of these features may not function properly.
These cookies are set through our site by our advertising partners. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant ads on other sites and promotional activities through our newsletters. They work by uniquely identifying your browser and device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will not experience our targeted advertising across different websites or via newsletters.
Basque Country Food Tour
- Dégustations
- Bottled water
- All Fees and Taxes
- 6 Av. de la Plage, 64200 Biarritz, France Rendez-vous sur le parking en face de la "Cité de l'Océan" à Biarritz.
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travelers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Similar experiences
- You'll start at 6 Av. de la Plage 6 Av. de la Plage, 64200 Biarritz, France Rendez-vous sur le parking en face de la "Cité de l'Océan" à Biarritz. See address & details
- Pass by Biarritz
- 1 Ainhoa Stop: 45 minutes See details
- 2 Itxassou Stop: 45 minutes See details
- 3 Espelette Stop: 60 minutes See details
- You'll return to the starting point
More to explore in Biarritz
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Basque Country Food Tour provided by Txiki Combi
THE 10 BEST Basque Country Food Tours
Basque country food tours.
- Wine Tours & Tastings
- Walking Tours
- Up to 1 hour
- 1 to 4 hours
- 4 hours to 1 day
- 5.0 of 5 bubbles
- 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- Likely to Sell Out
- Special Offers
- The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.
1. San Sebastian Pintxo, Wine & Market Foodie Tour(Small Group)
2. The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairing
3. Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries Visit with Tasting from San Sebastian
4. The Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour with a Local
5. Rioja Wine Tour: Winery, Tasting & Lunch from San Sebastian
6. Evening Pintxo-Tapas Tour with Discover San Sebastian
7. Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from San Sebastian Private Tour
8. Pintxo and Tapas tour with local Food Expert
9. San Sebastian Top Pintxos Private Tour
10. History and flavors of San Sebastian with Lunch
11. The Real Basque Way: San Sebastian, Beyond the Stars
12. The High End Food Tour of Bilbao with a Local
13. Gastronomic Tour of Pintxos in San Sebastián
14. San Sebastian Pintxos Tour for Gourmets in the Old Town
15. Bilbao Pintxo Tasting Paired With Spanish Wines
16. SAVEURS of French BASQUE COUNTRY - Private Gastronomic Adventure
17. SUNSET on a YACHT in San Sebastian
18. Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Vitoria
19. " Basque Farm House & Cider house" tour + meal from San Sebastian
20. BASQUE CHEESE and TXAKOLI WINE - Private Gastronomic Adventure
21. CERTAL TOURS: Bilbao MARKET GASTRONOMY (2 hours)
22. 3 Day Basque Country Private Tour
23. Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Pamplona
24. Visit Marques de Riscal & Picnic in Vineyard from Bilbao
25. I travel for Food Tour in San Sebastian
26. San Sebastián Pintxos Tour: Delicious Food, Drinks & Ambience
27. Insider Best Culinary Gems Guided Food Tour in San Sebastian
28. Bilbao and Guggenheim Museum Private tour
29. Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Bilbao
30. 2 Basque Country Private Tours from San Sebastian
What travellers are saying.
The Best of Basque
Bilbao Food Tour
Food tour bilbao spain.
We will do as the Basques do! A bar hopping tour of the old part of Bilbao. This activity is referred to as pintxo-pote in the Basque culture. A pintxo is the Basque version of the Spanish tapa accompanied with typical drink (usually wine or a small beer!). Sampling pintxos in the Basque Country is an absolute must! The Basque people demonstrate their love of gastronomy with these tasty little bar snacks.
Basque Culinary Tour Itinerary
The best pintxo bars in bilbao.
We know the best bars in the city! There are many mentioned online, but you are sure to experience some of the best lesser known local establishments on a Basque pintxo tour with us! Get an insider's perspective of the oldest part of the city that dates back to 1300. Consider booking this tour at the beginning of your Bilbao vacation so you can return to your favorite hotspots for more pintxo sampling. In between stops at the bars we will explain unique aspects of Basque culture, history and a few historical sites of Bilbao. We will visit 5 BARS WITH 8 PINTXOS AND 5 DRINKS INCLUDED.
Award Winning Pintxos in Bilbao!
We will try the special pintxos, the ones you don't see on the bars! We will order them for you and the chef will make them instantly for you. This is one of the many insider tips we will show you on my tour of Bilbao. We are going to sample the traditional pintxos and also others that have been given AWARDS in the famous pintxo competitions! You will experience all Bilbao has to offer on this tour with stops at very modern bars, and also stops at some of the oldest bars in the city! We will teach you how to order pintxos as it can be quite overwhelming to a first time visitor. After our tour you will have the confidence to go in any bar in the city! After the Bilbao food tour, you will know all the best bars of the city, and exactly what to order on your own!
Local Drinks and Basque Pintxos
We pair the pintxos with a wine most suitable to type of food we are experiencing. We will sample red and white wine, cider, and other drinks on this tour. We know the best bars in my city and what to order as I was born and raised in Bilbao! There are many mentioned online, but you are sure to experience some of the best lesser known local establishments on a Basque pintxo tour with me! Other things to note: Please come hungry! This will be a FULL MEAL!!!
Bilbao Food Tours Price
- Includes 8-10 pintxos and 5 drinks at 5 separate bars
- Bilbao local guide
- Other food and drinks
- Entrances to venues, museums, etc...
- Any other not specified items in the tour description
- Small group tour (maximum of 10 guests)
- Start time: 6:00pm
- Duration: 3 hours
- Tour starts and finishes in front of the San Nicolas Church
- Fully insured and licensed by the Basque Government
Bilbao Tours
You may also like
Bilbao Tour for Cruise Ship Guests
Duration: 6h
Basque Cooking Class in Bilbao
Duration: 3h
Bilbao Architecture Tour
Duration: 3.5h
Irene Krespo
Read our fantastic reviews.
BASQUE TOURS
Private food and wine tours in san sebastian, food & wine tastings and cooking classes in san sebastian.
SAN SEB CITY + PINTXO TASTING TOUR
EXPLORE THE CITY, ENJOY ITS FAMOUS FOOD & WINE SCENE WITH US
MARKET STROLL + GASTRONOMIC CLUB LUNCH
Shop in the market, cook & lunch in a Private Gastronomic Club!
TXAKOLI WINE TOUR
Coastal soft Hike, Txakoli winery tasting with Local food and Getaria
E-BIKE PINTXO TASTING TOUR
THE LOCAL FAVORITES IN THE NEIGHBORHOODS BY E-BIKE
PRIVATE PINTXO TASTING TOUR
DO IT AS THE LOCALS DO, FROM TRADITIONAL TO SOPHISTICATED, BUT ONLY THE BEST PINTXOS!
SAN SEBASTIAN CITY TOUR
Discover the stories that are not told in the History books,and get tips from our guide for your next days in town!
Indulge in San Sebastian's Culinary Delights
Foodies heaven in earth, immerse yourself in pintxo paradise, uncover the secrets of private gastronomic clubs, tailor your experience on foot or by bike, you may also like.
SIGHTSEEING DAY TOURS
Guggenheim, Biarritz, Getaria...
UNIQUE FOODIE TOURS
OUT OF THE BOX, ONLY FROM OUR HAND
RIOJA WINE TOURS
Discover this world-class Wine region!
HIKING & SAILING TOURS
Pyrenees & Bay of Biscay
From Street Food to Gourmet: 15 Culinary Tours That Challenge Your Palate
Posted: May 17, 2024 | Last updated: May 17, 2024
For those who love to explore the world through their taste buds, culinary tours offer an immersive way to experience a destination’s culture, history, and traditions. Food is a universal language, and these tours are designed to guide you through the vast array of global cuisines, from bustling street markets to high-end dining experiences.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a culinary novice, these 15 culinary tours will tantalize your palate and enrich your understanding of local flavors and cooking techniques. Get ready to embark on a mouth-watering journey that will take you to some of the world’s most flavorful destinations.
Street Food Tours in Bangkok, Thailand
Explore the bustling streets of Bangkok, sampling iconic dishes like Pad Thai, Som Tum, and Mango Sticky Rice.
Wine and Cheese Tasting in Bordeaux, France
Delve into the world of fine French wines and cheeses in the picturesque vineyards and cellars of Bordeaux.
Pasta Making in Bologna, Italy
Learn the art of making authentic Italian pasta in the culinary heart of Italy.
Tapas and Flamenco in Seville, Spain
Combine the flavors of Spanish tapas with the passion of Flamenco in the vibrant city of Seville.
Sushi and Sake Experience in Tokyo, Japan
Discover the delicate art of sushi making and sake tasting in Tokyo, the birthplace of sushi.
Chocolate Making in Brussels, Belgium
Indulge in the rich, creamy world of Belgian chocolate by joining a hands-on chocolate-making workshop.
Street Food Safari in Marrakech, Morocco
Navigate the colorful markets of Marrakech, sampling traditional Moroccan street food.
Barbecue Trail in Texas, USA
Embark on a flavorful journey through Texas’s best barbecue joints, tasting various styles of American BBQ.
Spice Tour in Kerala, India
Experience the aromatic world of Indian spices with a tour of spice plantations in the lush landscapes of Kerala.
Pintxos Tour in San Sebastián, Spain
Enjoy the unique Basque culinary tradition of pintxos (small tapas) in the gastronomic city of San Sebastián.
Winery Tour in Mendoza, Argentina
Savor the bold flavors of Argentinian wines with a tour of the vineyards and wineries in Mendoza.
Cooking Class in Hanoi, Vietnam
Take a cooking class in Hanoi to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine, including Pho and Spring Rolls.
Food Market Tour in Mexico City, Mexico
Explore the vibrant food markets of Mexico City, tasting local specialties like Tacos, Tamales, and Churros.
Seafood Tasting in Cape Town, South Africa
Enjoy the freshest seafood along the stunning coastlines of Cape Town, including oysters, crayfish, and local fish.
Gourmet Food Walk in Copenhagen, Denmark
Discover New Nordic Cuisine with a gourmet walking tour in Copenhagen, including a visit to the renowned Torvehallerne food market.
Culinary tours are an incredible way to dive deep into a destination’s culture and gastronomy. Each of these 15 tours offers an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience, allowing you to savor the world’s diverse flavors and culinary traditions.
Whether you’re enjoying street food in Southeast Asia or fine dining in Europe, these culinary adventures are sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for global cuisines. Pack your appetite and embark on a culinary journey that’s sure to delight every food lover’s palate!
Timeless Taste: 20 Boomer Superfoods That Are Making a Comeback
Discover the forgotten superfoods of the boomer generation! From liver to sardines, these nutritional powerhouses are making a comeback. Join us as we rediscover these classic ingredients and their health benefits. Let’s dive into the world of boomer superfoods together! Timeless Taste: 20 Boomer Superfoods That Are Making a Comeback
21 Everyday Grocery Items That Are Loaded With Chemicals
Grocery shopping can seem like a science experiment, with many products packed with artificial additives instead of nutrients. While convenient and tempting, have you considered what’s really in these items? 21 Everyday Grocery Items That Are Loaded With Chemicals
18 Must-Eat Foods for a Longer Life
In the quest for a longer life, certain foods can make a big difference. From everyday staples to exotic finds, these options span various budgets and might surprise you. Who knew the secret to longevity could be right in your pantry or at the grocery store? 18 Must-Eat Foods for a Longer Life
22 Cheap Foods Only Americans Love
In America, where creativity knows no bounds in the kitchen, some foods are both cheap and uniquely American, raising eyebrows in curiosity. Let’s explore these budget-friendly eats that have become staples in the American diet, for better or worse. 22 Cheap Foods Only Americans Love
20 Places Where You Can Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Life
Escape to places where time stands still and tradition thrives! From cozy American towns to serene countryside getaways worldwide, these destinations offer a break from the chaos of modern life. Whether you’re seeking a simpler lifestyle or a nostalgic retreat, these spots promise affordability and undeniable charm. 20 Places Where You Can Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Life
The post From Street Food to Gourmet: 15 Culinary Tours That Challenge Your Palate first appeared on elpasoNY.com .
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Glen Berlin.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
More for You
Chris Pratt’s stunt double Tony McFarr dies aged 47
5 Types of Homes That Will Plummet in Value in 2024
Ukraine launched what may be the biggest drone attack on Russia since the war started
The 50 best Netflix original series of all time, according to fans
Nuns at Benedictine College respond to Harrison Butker’s controversial speech
The Best Steakhouse in Every State
Grandma's 25 Favorite Birthday Cake Recipes
Trump and Melania attend Barron’s graduation after she failed to show at hush money trial
18 Smartest Dog Breeds, Ranked for Intelligence
The reason Odell Beckham Jr. didn't want to play with Tua Tagovaiola
Martha Stewart’s Trick for Perfectly Crispy Bacon Every Single Time
Walmart Selling Popular Bedroom Items on Clearance for As Low As $1
The Best Fast Food Fried Chicken, Ranked
Americans Are Dropping Home Prices as Buyers Lose Interest
Once-in-a-generation wind event caused deaths, extensive damage across Houston, meteorologist says
Prime Video Thrills: 25 Series That Will Keep You Hooked
LPGA Tour Release Statement After 10 Players Withdraw From Mizuho Americas Open
8 Dog Breeds That Look Like Puppies Forever
15 Unspoken Rules Inmates Have To Follow in Prison
Martha Stewart’s Secret Ingredient for the Best Banana Bread
IMAGES
COMMENTS
THE BEST OF BASQUE is a boutique, family-run tour company located in the Basque Country, Spain. We are a Basque-American team who specialize in custom PRIVATE DAY TOURS, and multi-day tour packages. Specifically, we offer food, wine, sightseeing and cultural experiences in the Basque Country & La Rioja wine country.
Traveler rating. 1. San Sebastian Pintxo, Wine & Market Foodie Tour (Small Group) Awarded 2023 Traveler's Choice Best of the Best #12 Wine Experiences in the World. "Taste the Evolution of the Pintxo through…. 2. The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairing.
PRIVATE IS PRIVATE, ALWAYS. At Basque Tours, we craft unforgettable journeys through the rich tapestry of the Basque Country. Our professional guides, deeply rooted in the culture and history of the Basque region, serve as your knowledgeable companions, illuminating every step of your journey with fascinating insights and local knowledge.
Each of our tours and experiences fuse boutiq ue vineyards and traditional cuisine, together with stunning landscapes, historic towns and quaint villages. Wether you want to learn how to cook Basque food, tour the traditional wineries of La Rioja, spend the day seeking out the best pintxos in the foodie capital of San Sebastian or combine history with cuisine in Bilbao, we've got you covered.
Food Tours. San Sebastian Pintxos Tour. San Sebastian Market & Wine Tasting Tour. Flavours of the Basque Countryside. Traditional Basque Cuisine Cooking Class. Traditional Basque Cider House Experience Tour. Sightseeing Tours. Private San Sebastian City Tour. Private Bilbao City Tour.
Overview of Basque Food & Wine Tour. San Sebastian, one of Spain's loveliest cities, is also quite the Gourmet Mecca and will be your base for this Basque Culinary Adventure. It is located between the Bay of Biscay and the lush green hills of the Basque Country, with some of Spain's most beautiful urban beaches. ...
The best tours to do in Basque Country with kids are: Bilbao: San Mamés Museum and Stadium Tour. San Sebastian: Boat Tour with Stop at Santa Clara. San Sebastian: Sightseeing Catamaran Bay Tour. San Sebastian: Highlights Self Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour. Madrid: eSIM Internet Data Plan for Spain high-speed 5G/4G.
The Best Food Tours in the Basque Country, all in 4 days, taste the best food and wine of the foodie capital of the world. HOME. toggle navigation. ... The best Off-The-Beaten-Path tour of the Basque Country!. MT HERNIO. Driving near to the summit of this rocky mountain, we will make a short walk out in the fields to admire both, the inland ...
CÚRATE has joined forces with the specialist food and wine tour operator Paladar y Tomar to provide the most seamless journey that only two in-the-know insiders can assure.. Experience an exceptional 8-day culinary adventure across Basque Country, led by local experts Valeska and Fernando.Immerse in the vibrant culinary scene and learn from celebrated chefs, gaining insider knowledge and ...
The Basque Country, or how we natives refer to our land: "Euskal Herria," is the home of the people who speak Basque. By definition, the Basque language, "Euskera," delineates our borders, and Basque has been spoken here prior to the arrival of any of the Indo-European languages, including the Romance languages, making us one of the oldest surviving cultures in Europe.
This tour will allow you to enjoy the region's famous miniature food in the old town of San Sebastian, in the way that locals do. We will take you to the best 5 places in town and will introduce you to this fantastic local custom. A special selection of 5 pintxos (Basque tapas) paired with 5 Spanish wines(or water or softdrinks) in up to 5 bars.
Trip highlights. Escorted by the author, journalist and Basque food enthusiast Ben Groundwater. Dinner at a 3 Michelin star restaurant. An insiders tour of the best foodie finds. Handpicked restaurants you'll be talking about for years to come. San Sebastian food market tour with local chef. Pinxtos tour through San Sebastian's Old Town.
Jump aboard our VW combi from the 70's to discover the many flavors of the Basque Country. During this tour, Clémence, your epicurean guide, will reveal the many secrets of the Basque Country, famous for its culinary traditions. Ham, Cheese, Peppers, cakes, Liqueurs… you will discover (…and taste!) the many reasons why the Basque Country ...
To sum it up, the Bilbao: Basque Food Tour With Guide is a must-try experience for visitors looking to enjoy the vibrant Basque cuisine and culture. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, participants can explore the best of Basque gastronomy, taste a variety of delicious pintxos, and learn about the history and traditions of Bilbao and the Basque ...
See More. We are food tour veterans and always choose the experience when visiting a new place. Delight Bilbao's Authentic Bilbao Pintxos Experience was fantastic - 5 great bars with traditional drinks and the delicious Pintxos snacks plus great company and an insight into Bilbao and the Basque Country. Would definitely recommend.
Basque Country of Spain & France in 9 Days Tour. from $2,995 per person + air. Straddling the modern-day borders of Spain and France is one of Europe's most ancient, independent-thinking regions: the Basque Country. Starting in Bayonne and ending in Bilbao, this tour happily immerses you in the rich art, history, and culture of Europe's Basque ...
4-5 hours. #10 Top Food Experience in the World 2022 With Discover San Sebastian you will walk through the city center and old town…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 100% of travellers. from. £189. per adult. 10. The Real Basque Way: San Sebastian, Beyond the Stars.
Food Tour Bilbao Spain. We will do as the Basques do! A bar hopping tour of the old part of Bilbao. This activity is referred to as pintxo-pote in the Basque culture. A pintxo is the Basque version of the Spanish tapa accompanied with typical drink (usually wine or a small beer!). Sampling pintxos in the Basque Country is an absolute must!
EXPLORE THE CITY, ENJOY ITS FAMOUS FOOD & WINE SCENE WITH US. MARKET STROLL + GASTRONOMIC CLUB LUNCH. Shop in the market, cook & lunch in a Private Gastronomic Club! SAN SEBASTIAN WINE TOUR. Coastal soft Hike, Txakoli winery tasting with Local food and Getaria. E-BIKE PINTXO TASTING TOUR.
Enjoy the unique Basque culinary tradition of pintxos (small tapas) in the gastronomic city of San Sebastián. ... The post From Street Food to Gourmet: 15 Culinary Tours That Challenge Your ...
My name is Albert, I was born in Barcelona and I know the city and its history very well. I will be your guide and driver during the tour. This tour is private and special, because we will be able to see the city from different viewpoints, which are not the usual ones on massive tours in Barcelona. We will be able to see the most interesting monuments of the city, which you could hardly go to ...