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Eastern
Spain features some of the country's most traditional
and most progressive elements: Basque villages
with vineyards and catacombs used continuously
since medieval times and overgrown paths tracked
over ancient Roman roads contrast with the modern
art and architecture of Barcelona and Bilbao,
and the cosmopolitan resort complexes of the
Balearic Islands. Your itinerary will take you
on and off the beaten track, and reward you
with a rich diversity of experiences.
 After
flying into the Balearic capital of Palma de
Mallorca via Madrid or Barcelona, one can drive
or be conveyed via private transfer to the sparkling
St. Regis Mardavall, situated on a dramatic
cliff over the Mediterranean. While this extremely
luxurious property (with its Egyptian accented
pools and spa) seems a world away from city
life, it is actually only a short drive from
the thriving nightlife and entertainment of
Palma and the many beaches of Mallorca. Back
at the resort, soothing massages, tropical juices
and drinks, and the finest dining on the islands
will create a perfect romantic afternoon or
evening.
 A
short flight will bring you to Barcelona, the
international city of Gaudi and Olympic fame,
with the soaring Sagrada Familia cathedral and
port district skyscrapers forming a dramatic
skyline over the traditional avenue of Las Ramblas,
with its shops, bars, and eateries. Barcelona
is a city of museums, ships, and seaside terraces,
and you can appreciate 16th and 21st century
architecture side by side as you walk from the
Olympic Village down to the waterfront before
some late-night tapas, grilled seafood, and
regional wine while looking out onto the Mediterranean.
 Barcelona
is well coupled with a drive north into La Rioja,
an ancient agricultural region rich with forests,
orchards, and some of the most notable Spanish
vineyards. Medieval towns dot the countryside
- Logrono is the most famous, but we enjoy the
smaller Basque town of Laguardia, with its ancient
catacombs and charming inns and taverns. A
short drive from Laguardia is one of the most
impressive new hotels in all of Spain, the
Marquis de Riscal. Designed by Frank Gehry, this
hotel is a unique blend of ancient and modern
with all the amenities you c ould
ask for, including a full-service spa and access
to the Riscal vineyards. A full
day will be dedicated to vineyard tours and
private wine tastings. To make this experience
even more enjoyable, you will be taken around by
private car and driver.
Your
journey through eastern Spain will end in Bilbao,
a sleepy Renaissance town thrust into the imagination
of the modern jetset by the erection of the
shining, shiplike shells of the Guggenheim museum,
completed in 1997. Featuring some of the most
striking architecture and enshrining some of
the most progressive works by eminent European
modernists, this museum almo st single handedly
makes Bilbao a destination to be reckoned with. Revitalized
hotels, shops, and restaurants are garnering
international acclaim.
While here, you will stay at the Gran Hotel
Domine, which successfully reflects the contemporary
feel of the Guggenheim just across the street.
Who
will enjoy this trip:
Those with of a love of food, wine and art.
Those desiring a bit of relaxation and pampering
along with sightseeing and activities.
Who
should avoid this trip:
Couples who would prefer a true beach destination.
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