As an avid traveler and explorer, I’ve always been excited to try new and unique experiences. So, when I got the opportunity to embark on the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, a luxury train that travels along Spain’s northern coast, I couldn’t resist. This week-long journey from San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela promised to be an unforgettable adventure, and it certainly did not disappoint.

Day 1: San Sebastián

Our journey began in the picturesque city of San Sebastián, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and world-class cuisine. Before boarding the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, I spent the day exploring the Old Town and savoring pintxos at some of the city’s most famous bars. As the sun set, it was finally time to board the train and start our adventure.

Day 2: Bilbao and Santander

The first stop on our journey was Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country. We visited the iconic Guggenheim Museum, which left me in awe with its unique architecture and impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Later in the day, we arrived in Santander, where we enjoyed a delicious seafood dinner before returning to the train.

Day 3: Picos de Europa and Llanes

The third day took us to the breathtaking Picos de Europa National Park, where we took a cable car ride to the Fuente Dé viewpoint. The panoramic views of the rugged mountain landscape were simply unforgettable. Later, we explored the charming coastal town of Llanes, where we wandered through the narrow streets and enjoyed the picturesque harbor views.

Day 4: Oviedo and Gijón

On the fourth day, we visited the historic city of Oviedo, known for its well-preserved old town and beautiful pre-Romanesque churches. We then continued to Gijón, a lively coastal city with a rich history and lovely beaches. The evening was spent enjoying local Asturian cider and traditional cuisine, providing a perfect end to the day.

Day 5: Ribadeo and Viveiro

The train took us into the region of Galicia on the fifth day, with our first stop in the coastal town of Ribadeo. We visited the famous Playa de las Catedrales, a beach known for its dramatic rock formations that resemble Gothic cathedrals. Later, we arrived in the historic town of Viveiro, where we took a leisurely walk through its medieval streets.

Day 6: Lugo and A CoruñaL

Our sixth day began with a visit to Lugo, a city steeped in history and surrounded by ancient Roman walls. We spent the morning exploring the old town and admiring the impressive Lugo Cathedral. In the afternoon, we headed to A Coruña, a bustling port city with a rich maritime history. We marveled at the Tower of Hercules, the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world, before enjoying a sumptuous Galician dinner.

Day 7: Santiago de Compostela

On the final day of our journey, we arrived in the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela, the final destination for countless pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. We visited the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and soaked in the city’s unique atmosphere.

The Transcantábrico Gran Lujo provided an exceptional experience, allowing us to explore the rich history, culture, and landscapes of Spain’s northern coast in absolute luxury. With gourmet meals, elegant accommodations, and personalized service, this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey that I will cherish forever. The memories and friendships forged during this trip will remain close to my heart, and I highly recommend the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo to anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable travel experience.