El Expreso de La Robla: León to Bilbao

El Expreso de La Robla

Highlights

Indulge in a gastronomic journey with expertly crafted dishes featuring fresh, local ingredients. Typically, in order to fully experience the visits, guests partake in lunch and dinner, indulging in the local cuisine of the towns that are being explored (inclusive of water, wine, soft drinks, and coffee).

Relax in the lounge car, offering a space to mingle with fellow travellers, savour a cocktail, or admire the passing landscapes.

Explore beyond the confines of the train and immerse yourself in the heart of Spain's enchanting towns and cities. Guided tours are provided for all excursions, encompassing all tickets and visits. A bus consistently accompanies the train, facilitating the group's access to various destinations and restaurants along the route.

León, Medieval Capital and Pilgrimage Hub; it boasts a vibrant present with modern attractions like the City Auditorium and the Museum of Contemporary Art. With its rich history, cultural offerings, and status as a key waypoint on the Camino de Santiago, León offers an array of tourist options that promise an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Visit the heart of the city's historic center, where you'll marvel at architectural wonders such as the majestic San Isidoro Basilica and the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Santa Maria.

Embark on an unforgettable underground adventure to explore the enchanting Valporquero Cave, nestled in the heart of the stunning mountains of northern Spain.

Visit the impressive Temple of San Martin and the Canal de Castilla, which is one of the most important engineering works of its time and its construction lasted almost a century.

3 days

From

AUD 1,987

per person, twin share

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All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Blending the nostalgic allure of legendary European trains with the modern comforts and technological innovations of today, El Expreso de la Robla exudes a youthful charm. This dynamic and contemporary train invites travellers to experience the stunning scenery of Castile and León.

Originally established in 2009 as an educational train, El Expreso de la Robla seamlessly transitioned into offering tourist excursions alongside its educational endeavours. Following the conclusion of its educational programs, the train persisted in facilitating memorable tourist journeys throughout the narrow-gauge network of Northern Spain.

Inclusions

Private ensuite accommodation in a double compartment (upper and lower berth bunks) onboard the train

Complimentary standard Renfe train travel both before and after your tour. Please be aware that this service is not a private transfer & seat reservations are allocated automatically

Onboard the train, enjoy a welcome beverage and snack to commence your journey with a touch of elegance

Every day, enjoy a buffet-style breakfasts served on the train

Exceptional dining experiences for all dinners and lunches, whether served on board the train or in esteemed first-class restaurants, complete with inclusive offerings of wine, soft drinks and coffee

Each guest will be provided with a toiletry bag containing amenities and slippers

All entrance fees to museums, monuments, and shows, as well as scheduled excursions and guided visits

The onboard team is available around the clock, trained to provide personalised assistance in multiple languages and to assist guests

Itinerary

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Day 1 León Cistierna

Begin your journey by checking in your luggage at the National Parador of San Marcos at midday.

Following lunch, the bus will transport you to San Feliz, where El Expreso de La Robla awaits. Upon arrival, meet the crew, settle into your comparntment and transfer to Matallana. From there, embark on a captivating excursion through the spectacular Hoces de Vegacervera. The next stop is Valporquero, renowned for its extraordinary Caves featuring stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and whimsical formations, including the impressive Gran Rotonda, an expansive underground space. Return to the train for dinner and an overnight stay onboard in Cistierna.

Dinner

Day 2 Cistierna Espinosa de Los Monteros

As you enjoy your first breakfast on board, the train will transport you to Guardo, a picturesque town in Palencia. From there, a bus will take you to explore the Roman Villa of La Olmeda, showcasing a remarkable collection of mosaics. Continuing your journey, discover some of Europe's finest Romanesque art along the Camino de Santiago, including visits to Saldaña, Carrión de los Condes, and Frómista, where lunch awaits. After exploring the awe-inspiring San Martín temple and the Canal de Castilla, return to the train for your journey to Espinosa de los Monteros, a charming village nestled in the Merindades region of Burgos. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Espinosa.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Espinosa de los Monteros Bilbao

Savour breakfast as you traverse the breathtaking landscape of the Valley of Mena en route to Bilbao. Upon arrival, guests will explore the city and visit the renowned Guggenheim Museum. Enjoy some free time before concluding your journey at Bilbao Concordia Station after the city tour.

Breakfast

Accommodation

El Expreso de La Robla

STANDARD COMPARTMENT (UPPER & LOWER BERTH BUNKS only):
All compartments on El Expreso de La Robla feature bunk beds, two per compartment, along with amenities such as a luggage closet, reading light, air-conditioning, background music, loudspeakers and telephone. The modern and youthful ambiance ensures a comfortable rest. Each compartment includes its private bathroom equipped with a hydromassage shower, washbasin, toilet, and hairdryer. The electricity supply operates at 220 V. The train is entirely interconnected, allowing passengers to move freely throughout its length. With four sleeping cars, each car comprises seven compartments.

Standard compartment (upper & lower bunks)

Additional information

2025 Departure dates:

27 June
19 September

Excluded

International airfares and taxes
Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.),
Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package

FAQs

What is the dress code onboard the train?

The atmosphere on board is one of relaxed nature. During the day dress for relaxed comfort for onboard the train and when embarking on excursions. We suggest wearing durable shoes for excursions, and please be prepared for change of weather. In the evening, guests have the option to choose a more formal outfit.

Which drinks are available aboard the El Expreso de La Robla?

Complimentary wine, beer, soft drinks, tea, and coffee are provided during mealtimes. Outside of mealtimes, the lounge cars offer guests various options to purchase soft drinks, juices, tea, coffee, and water. Additionally, a thoughtfully curated menu of alcoholic beverages is available for purchase, encompassing wines, beers, and spirits, ensuring passengers can enjoy a delightful and refreshing experience while traveling onboard.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard the train?

Yes, there is Wi-Fi connectivity in all rooms and lounges. Each suite is equipped with a computer, and there is also a communal computer available in the Train Lounges (availability subject to carrier coverage).

Can special dietary preferences be requested?

Provided a detailed request has been made at time of booking – special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian and adhering to religious requirements, may be arranged.

Will I need to tip the train staff?

Gratuities for staff and guides are at the passenger’s discretion.

Is there air conditioning on board?

Onboard air-conditioning is provided, with individual control available for cabin air conditioning.

What is the luggage allowance for travelling guests onboard the train?

For ease while on board the train, it is recommended to utilise a travel bag or soft suitcase. Nevertheless, two large suitcases per room can be accommodated in the Suites, with staff onboard to help with loading the luggage.

Is it possible for individuals with mobility limitations to participate in the journey?

While the train has been renovated and features state-of-the-art technologies, it remains a historic and vintage train, lacking interior adaptations for wheelchair or walking frame access. Consequently, these trains are not considered accessible. However, individuals with reduced mobility who rely solely on wheelchair support outside the train can embark on the journey, provided they are accompanied by a companion to help.

Is smoking permitted onboard?

In Spain, smoking is not allowed in enclosed public spaces, including public transport or collective transport vehicles. Consequently, in compliance with existing regulations, travellers are prohibited from smoking while on board. It's important to note that train journeys typically do not exceed 3-4 hours.

Will I need travel insurance?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. Please consult with our agents at time of booking and we can assist you with this.

El Expreso de La Robla: León to Bilbao

León / Bilbao

From AUD 1,987

Enquire