Beyond the Vineyards: Our Basque Country & San Sebastian Pre-Cruise Adventure
- Michelle Cypher
- Jul 18
- 3 min read
Beyond the Vineyards:
Our Basque Country & San Sebastian Pre-Cruise Adventure
At Travel There and Back, Michael and I firmly believe that the most unforgettable journeys are often those that seamlessly extend beyond the main event, revealing hidden gems and contrasting landscapes. While our "Taste of Bordeaux" river cruise with the Jacobs Winery group was undoubtedly the star of our recent French adventure, we knew that starting a few days early would add incredible depth. That's why, in June 2025, several members of our Jacobs Winery group, including Michael and myself, opted for the captivating Bilbao and San Sebastian AmaWaterways Pre-Cruise Experience.
This extension wasn't just about shaking off jet lag; it was about immersing ourselves in the stunning beauty and unique culture of Spain's Basque region, serving as the perfect prelude to the renowned wine country that awaited us. It’s a prime example of how we help you turn your dreams into truly comprehensive memories.
Bilbao: Modern Marvels in the Heart of Basque Country
Our adventure began in Bilbao, Spain, a city that has masterfully transformed itself into a hub of art, architecture, and gastronomy. Michael and I, along with our fellow travelers, were immediately captivated by its striking modern landmarks, most notably the shimmering titanium curves of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Spending time exploring this architectural masterpiece and its surrounding artworks was a truly inspiring experience.
Beyond the iconic museum, Bilbao offered a vibrant atmosphere. We strolled along the Nervión River, explored its charming Old Town (Casco Viejo) with its fantastic pintxos bars, and admired the blend of traditional Basque culture with cutting-edge design. It was a dynamic and culturally rich start to our journey, providing a fascinating contrast to the historic wine regions we would soon explore.
San Sebastian: A Culinary Oasis on the Bay
Just a short, scenic drive from Bilbao, San Sebastian welcomed us with open arms and an explosion of flavors. This city is a world-renowned culinary capital, particularly famous for its pintxos (Basque tapas). Michael and I, along with our group, spent delightful hours hopping from one bustling pintxos bar to another in the Parte Vieja (Old Town). Each tiny bite was a revelation, a testament to the region's innovative gastronomy, often accompanied by local cider or txakoli wine.
Beyond the food, San Sebastian enchanted us with its breathtaking beauty. We walked along the crescent-shaped La Concha Bay, often hailed as one of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe, and took in the panoramic views from Monte Igueldo. The blend of vibrant urban life, stunning natural scenery, and unparalleled culinary delights made San Sebastian an absolute highlight.
The AmaWaterways Pre-Cruise Advantage: Seamless Exploration
Participating in an AmaWaterways pre-cruise extension proved to be incredibly convenient and seamless. All transfers, accommodations, and guided tours were expertly handled, allowing our group to fully relax and immerse ourselves in the experience without any logistical worries. It's this kind of meticulously planned end-to-end journey that truly elevated our trip, making every moment enjoyable and stress-free before we even embarked on the river cruise.
Become a River Cruise Insider!
Does the thought of savoring exquisite flavors, exploring diverse cultures, and enjoying seamless luxury travel appeal to your wanderlust? Are you considering adding a unique pre- or post-cruise extension to your next river adventure? Join our "Travel There and Back River Cruise Insider" list! You'll receive exclusive insights, early access to new itineraries, and special offers on the world's most luxurious and culturally rich river cruises.
Your Comprehensive Journey, Curated by Us
Our personal experience on the Bilbao and San Sebastian pre-cruise extension, shared with members of our Jacobs Winery group, reinforced our belief in the power of well-planned extensions. It allowed us to truly embrace the diverse beauty of northern Spain and its unique Basque culture before embarking on our AmaWaterways ship in Bordeaux.
At Travel There and Back, we excel at crafting these complete, customized journeys. We understand that your travel is about Taking Dreams and Returning Memories, and that often includes discovering incredible destinations both on and off the ship. Let us help you design your next adventure, ensuring every detail, from the moment you leave home until you return, is perfectly orchestrated.
Ready to embark on your own magnificent European adventure, complete with unique pre- or post-cruise experiences?
Schedule a call with me, Michelle, to discuss your personalized travel plans, or visit our dedicated River Cruise webpage to explore more options.
Who Am I
I'm your guide to unforgettable European voyages, curated for wine connoisseurs, food enthusiasts, golfers and culture aficionados, ensuring each journey is a masterpiece of taste, history, and connection.
Michelle Wicks Cypher
425-361-5212
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