The Great Cuisine of Northern Spain. |
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Although Galicia has long been a favorite of European gourmands, it has yet to be discovered by gastronomy aficionados from this side of the Atlantic. One reason is that off the rugged Galician coast, are some of the best fishing waters in the world. With over two hundred varieties of fish and 54 kinds of shellfish alone. Like Mariscos a la Plancha (shellfish simmered in olive oil, garlic and paprika) or Fideos con Pulpo (grilled octopus over pasta). Another reason the full flavored fruits and vegetables that its rich soil provides: extra-large turnips, peppers, maize, tomatoes and mushrooms so large and luscious they’re often served as a main dish. Their unique cheeses and grass-fed meats are also known throughout Spain. Be sure to try Capon, Grandma-style (slow roasted duck in cognac) served with Grelos Gallegos (turnip greens simmered in olive oil, garlic and pimentòn). Still another reason is the array of delectable white wines Albariños. Along its five rivers, you’ll find some of the finest vineyards in Spain. The Miño River, which flows through beautiful steep valleys, to the renowned vineyards of Ribadavia, home of the famous Ribeiro whites. The picturesque Sil, which meanders past stately chestnuts and oaks to the vineyards of Ribeira Sacra, which produces crisp whites from the Godella grape as well as lush reds from the Mencìa grape. Your gastronomy adventure will take you to towns and villages that are off the beaten path. There you’ll stay in lovely pazos (inns), former manors and small quaint hotels surrounded by Galicia’s beautiful landscape and rich history. And you’ll partake of local favorites like Caldo Gallego (a delicious country soup made of beans, greens, turnips, onions and chorizo or pancetta) a meal in itself. This is why some of Spain’s finest seafood chefs can be found in Galicia. Like Pepe Solla, Marcelo Tejedor, Iñaki Bretal or Pepe Vieira-Xose Canos to name a few.
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| ITINERARY • 4 Nights / 5 Days | ||||||||||||
Day 01 - Santiago de Compostela Day 02 – Santiago de Compostela Then continue to the historic Hostal dos Reis Catolicos now a Parador and Town Hall. The historic quarter is full of narrow winding streets, lined with historic buildings and typical ‘tapas’ bars and old restaurants that come to life in the evening. After your visit partake a delicious ‘comida’ lunch in one of Santiago’s best restaurants. Day 03 – Padron / Cambados – Rias Baixas / Pontevedra This morning you travel to Cambados, along the coastal Rias Baixas, while you take in the beautiful scenery. Today you’ll visit one of the most established Bodegas (winery) in the Valley of O Salnes. As well as tour some of the vineyards that produce the highest quality of Galician Albariño Wines. Cambados is known for its Albariño white wines. This area of Galicia provides perfect climate for the type of grape and aroma to produces an ideal Albariño wine. This excellent wine is also known as ‘the sea wine’ due to the location of the vineyards near the ocean, and for being the perfect complement to Galicia’s famed seafood. Cambados, is also known for its excellent seafood, some of it which comes from La Ria de Arousa. After an excellent comida (lunch) continue to Pontevedra. The beautiful medieval city of Pontevedra, was built between the green Valleys surrounding it and the Tomeza and Lerez Rivers. As you walk through its old winding streets, you’ll admire their stone medieval homes and buildings, several Plazas and a Church featuring a main area shaped liked a typical Camino shell. After your visit, relax and enjoy the local gastronomy during dinner. Day 04 – Ribadavia / Miño River Day 05 – Santiago de Compostela – San Sebastian Note: All itineraries can be modified to fit your travel time, budget and specific interests. We can also provide add on stays in Madrid or Barcelona. |
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