El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo: San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela

El Transcantábrico

Lounge

Common Area Lounge

Bar Lounge

Suite (double)

Suite (twin)

Starts and Ends

San Sebastian to
Santiago de Compostela

Travel Periods

08 Mar 25 - 18 Oct 25

Experience

Travel Style

Rail Journeys

Highlights

Indulge in a gastronomic journey with expertly crafted dishes featuring fresh, local ingredients. From traditional Spanish fare to international cuisine, relish exquisite meals complemented by fine wines, all while enjoying stunning views from the dining car.

Relax in the lounge car, offering a space to mingle with fellow travellers, savour a cocktail, or admire the passing landscapes. Discover the onboard entertainment, ranging from live music and cultural performances to informative lectures about the regions you'll be traversing.

Explore beyond the confines of the train and immerse yourself in the heart of Spain's enchanting towns and cities. This includes excursions to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, art museums, and chances to engage with local artisans.

The Guggenheim Museum is recognised as one of the 20th century's finest architectural achievements, designed by Frank Gehry. The museum has reshaped Bilbao's global image, establishing it as a prominent destination in the world of art and architecture.

A faithful reproduction of the original Altamira cave in Santillana del Mar, created using state-of-the-art technology and scientific knowledge. Visitors can explore the three-dimensional recreation to learn about the life, art and environment of Europe's earliest settlers.

Nestled in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park in northern Spain, Lake Enol stands as a serene gem amid the rugged beauty of the Cantabrian Mountains. A tour to Lake Enol promises a tranquil escape into nature's embrace, offering visitors a glimpse of breathtaking landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere.

Oviedo is known for its significant architectural landmarks such as the Cathedral, Santa María del Naranco church, and San Miguel de Lillo chapel. The Old Town features the Museum of Fine Arts, displaying works by renowned artists like El Greco and Picasso.

8 days

From

AUD 15,573

per person, twin share

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All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Picture yourself aboard The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, a majestic hotel on rails that promises an unparalleled experience. This extraordinary train is not merely a mode of transportation; it is a lavish expedition into a bygone era, where comfort, glamour, gastronomy, culture, rest and fun converge in perfect harmony.

Embark on an eight-day odyssey that transcends the ordinary, offering you a unique blend of opulence and a captivating journey back in time. The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is more than a train; it is a lavish sanctuary on wheels, ensuring that every moment of your voyage is steeped in luxury and indulgence.

The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo awaits, promising not just a voyage, but a symphony of comfort and sophistication that will linger in your memory for years to come.

Inclusions

Private ensuite accommodation in Grand Luxury Suites 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 both à la carte and 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

Engage in a variety of onboard activities such as live music, performances, bar car parties and dancing

The onboard team of El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is available around the clock, trained to provide personalised assistance in multiple languages and to assist with luggage collection

A memorable dinner and an end-of-trip celebration

Itinerary

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Day 1 San Sebastian Carranza

Your journey begins in the afternoon with a gracious reception at Hotel Costa Vasca in San Sebastian. Following check-in for your rail journey, embark on a captivating exploration of the city, complemented by a delightful lunch that introduces you to the local flavours. Subsequently, the bus transports you to Bilbao, where the splendid El Transcantábrico awaits your arrival. The welcoming crew extends a warm greeting, offering a refreshing welcome drink as you step aboard. The enchanting voyage to Carranza commences, accompanied by the indulgence of your first dinner on board, a culinary experience set against the picturesque backdrop.
Rest for the night in Carranza, surrounded by the comfort and allure of the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, anticipating the luxurious adventures that lie ahead.

Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Carranza Santander

Commencing each day with a delectable à la carte breakfast and buffet, you will embark on another morning aboard the Transcantábrico. The journey takes you back to Bilbao, where you will visit the renowned Guggenheim Museum, an iconic symbol of the city's rejuvenation. After exploring the cultural gems, guests will return to the train for a delightful lunch en-route to Santander. A guided tour awaits you in the elegant capital of Cantabria, providing moments of leisure to explore the city at your own pace. The day concludes with a sumptuous dinner and an overnight stay in Santander onboard the train.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Santander Cabezón de la Sal

Following breakfast, the journey will take you to Potes aboard comfortable coach, traversing the breathtaking Hermida Gorge. Once in Potes, a charming Cantabrian town, you'll explore its allure. For a rejuvenating experience, an optional thermal circuit awaits you at the Hermida Spa. A delightful meal will follow your exploration. In the afternoon, guests will venture to Comillas to visit El Capricho, a vibrant nineteenth-century palace designed by the ingenious architect Antonio Gaudí. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay on board as the train reaches Cabezón de la Sal.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Cabezón de la Sal Llanes

The day commences with a visit to the Neocave of Altamira, a museum showcasing a faithful reproduction of the Upper Palaeolithic cave art, a testament to this era's artistic brilliance. Following this, explore the marvels of Santillana del Mar, a town renowned for its impeccably preserved medieval historic center. After a satisfying lunch, rejoin the train, venturing into the Asturian landscape towards Llanes. The evening promises a delectable dinner on board, setting the stage for an overnight stay onboard the train in the charming town of Llanes.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Llanes Oviedo

After breakfast, the day unfolds with a journey into the scenic heart of the Picos de Europa National Park. Your first destination is Lake Enol, where the natural beauty of the surroundings captivates. Following this, guests will proceed to the Sanctuary of Covadonga, a place steeped in tradition and legend, adding a spiritual dimension to your exploration. Lunch on board El Transcantábrico accompanies your travel to Oviedo, the capital of the Principality of Asturias. In Oviedo, guests will engage in a guided visit, followed by a delightful dinner and an overnight stay in this vibrant city.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Oviedo Luarca

The day kicks off with a visit to Gijón, a city that seamlessly blends its openness to the Cantabrian Sea with a rich cultural scene. Following lunch in Gijón, you will return to El Transcantábrico to embark on a scenic journey along the Asturian coast toward Luarca. Known as the White Villa of the Costa Verde, Luarca beckons you with its seaside charm. A guided tour of this picturesque town awaits guests, offering insights into its coastal allure. The day concludes with a delightful dinner and an overnight stay on board the train in the enchanting town of Luarca.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Luarca Viveiro

Today's journey takes you to Ribadeo, a historic Galician town nestled on the border of the Principality of Asturias. A scenic bus ride along the Lugo coast takes guests to the awe-inspiring Las Catedrales Beach, renowned as one of the world's most spectacular beaches. Following this natural marvel, you'll embark on a panoramic tour of Ribadeo, where you'll indulge in a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, the train transports guests to Viveiro, where a guided tour awaits, providing insights into the town's cultural richness. Subsequently, free time beckons for personal exploration. As the day winds down, dinner and an overnight stay in Viveiro offer a tranquil end to your coastal exploration.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Viveiro Santiago de Compostela

Savouring your final breakfast on board, your journey onboard concludes in Ferrol, where the El Transcantábrico bus eagerly awaits to transport guests to Santiago de Compostela. A visit to the historic center of this city, a pilgrimage destination for a millennium, unveils countless artistic treasures, including its magnificent cathedral. The trip concludes after the visit at the Parador de los Reyes Católicos around 1:00 p.m., marking the end of this extraordinary adventure through enchanting landscapes and culturally rich destinations.

Breakfast

Accommodation

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo

GRAND LUXURY SUITE:
The Grand Luxury Suites, adorned with exclusive details, are spacious and designed for rest and privacy. There are only 14 suites in the train's 7 cars - and each suite can be set up to be used as a single, double or triple room.

Each suite is made up of a lounge, bedroom, and private bathroom. The sleeping area features a spacious double bed (1.5m x 2.0m) or two twin beds (0.8m x 2.0m), television and wardrobe while the lounge area has a comfortable sofa, which can be turned into a bed (0.8m x 1.80m), luggage closet, writing desk, safe, minibar, flatscreen TV, music player, adjustable air-conditioning, multimedia computer with free Internet access and internal telephone service. All suites feature their own spacious, comfortable bathroom, with a hydromassage shower and steam sauna, hairdryer, and a varied set of welcome items and toiletries.

Additional information

2025 Departure dates:

08 & 22 March
05 & 19 April
03, 17 & 31 May
14 & 28 June
12 & 26 July
09 & 23 August
06 & 20 September
04 & 18 October

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 Transcantábrico?

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 Transcantábrico Gran Lujo: San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela

Spain

From AUD 15,573

Enquire