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History and Culture

From prehistoric times, recorded in the cave paintings at Altamira, right through to Franco and the terrorism of the Basque Separatists-a brief introduction to the rich history and culture of Northwest Spain

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The Basque Country

The first seven itineraries focus on Bilbao and the Basque Country. The section includes two excursions south of the region-through La Rioja and to Burgos

Bilbao explores the old town (Casco Viejo) in the morning, and the Guggenheim Museum in the afternoon, beginning in the Plaza Nueva

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La Rioja is an overnight excursion from Bilbao. It takes in several old towns, stops to sample the wines of the region and explores several medieval monasteries

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The Back Road to Burgos heads through the mountains southwest of Bilbao on a two-day excursion to the city of Burgos, the one-time capital of the kingdom of Castile and Leon

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The Coast of Bizkaia explores the coves and villages east of the city. It takes in fine beaches, the Urdaibai Nature Reserve, the pretty town of Mundaka and Gernika-Lumo, the inspiration for Picasso's famous painting

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San Sebastian focuses on the old town of this beautiful resort east of Bilbao. As well as dipping into several interesting churches and museums and walking along the Paseo de La Concha, it takes in the English Cemetery and the fortress of the Castillo de la Mota

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The Hills of Gipuzkoa starts with a drive along the coast west of San Sebastian and then heads inland through the hills to visit two famous sanctuaries

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Navarra is a two-day trip. Setting off from San Sebastian, it stops off in the resort of Hondarribia and at Senora de Bertiz a garden and nature reserve, before stopping for the night in Pamplona. On the second day it continues on to the old town of Olite and to Estella

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Asturias & Cantabria

The following three itineraries are based on the region west of Bilbao, known for its natural beauty

The Coast of Cantabria and Asturias explores the attractive beaches of the coast west of Bilbao. Highlights include the town of Santillana del Mar and Altamira, with its prehistoric cave paintings

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Picos de Europa is a round-trip driving tour of this national park, setting out from Cangas de Onis. It recommends an overnight stop in Pote and suggests several hiking routes

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Oviedo and Leon visits two great cities known for their fine architecture. The journey south from Oviedo to Leon crosses the mountain range of the Cordillera

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Galicia

These two itineraries focus on the ancient pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela and the best parts of Galicia's rugged coast

Santiago de Compostela explores this great pilgrimage city. It heads for the ancient cathedral, but takes in many other old buildings along the way

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Rias Baixas sets out from Santiago de Compostela to explore the coast of the region, including its best beaches, good seafood restaurants and local white wines

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Leisure Activities

What to buy, where to eat, and where to find the best nightlife in Northwest Spain

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Calendar of Events

A guide to festivals in Northwest Spain

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Practical Information

All the background information you are likely to need for your stay in Bilbao and Northwest Spain, including a list of hand-picked hotels

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Credits and Index