This tour through northern Spain’s cultural gems promises an enriching 10-hour journey. Starting in Oviedo, guests will explore iconic Gaudí architecture, the stunning Astorga Cathedral, and charming religious sites. With personalized experiences and local gastronomy, like the traditional Cocido Maragato, this small-group tour offers an intimate look at the region’s captivating history and architecture. Available in Spanish and English, the tour caters to discerning travelers seeking to uncover Spain’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a newcomer to the country, this journey is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
• The tour covers highlights in Oviedo, Castrillo de Polvazares, Astorga, and Leon Cathedral, providing a comprehensive cultural experience in northern Spain.
• Key attractions include Gaudi Palace, Santa Cristina de Lena Church, Barrio Húmedo, and the cathedrals in Astorga and Leon.
• The tour lasts 10 hours with pickup included, and offers flexibility with optional activities like visiting Astorga Cathedral or taking a coffee break.
• Participants can savor the traditional Cocido Maragato stew at the Coscolo House Restaurant, immersing in the local culinary heritage.
• The tour is available in Spanish and English, with a small group size for personalized attention and tailored experiences based on individual interests.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This tour from Oviedo to Astorga and Leon Cathedral costs €450.00 per group of up to 3 participants and lasts 10 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Pickup is included at a specified address.
Highlights include visiting the Gaudí Palace in Astorga, a brief stop at the Santa Cristina de Lena Church, and exploring the Barrio Húmedo and Leon Cathedral.
While the tour covers these sites, entrance fees to the Gaudí Palace, Astorga Cathedral, and Leon Cathedral aren’t included in the price.
Lunch at the Coscolo House Restaurant in Castrillo de Polvazares is also an optional extra.
Itinerary Highlights
At 9:00 AM, the tour departs Oviedo for Astorga. Visitors first explore the Gaudí Palace, with admission costing €6 per person.
Afterward, the group makes a brief stop at the Santa Cristina de Lena Church before arriving in Astorga around 12:15 PM. Here, they can choose to visit the Astorga Cathedral or take a coffee break, with cathedral entrance costing €7.
The tour then continues to Castrillo de Polvazares, where guests enjoy a traditional Cocido Maragato lunch at the Coscolo House Restaurant for €28 per person.
After lunch, the group departs for Leon, where they explore the Barrio Húmedo neighborhood and the impressive Leon Cathedral, which also costs €7 to enter.
The tour concludes around 7:15 PM back in Oviedo.
Included and Not Included
The tour includes pickup in a sedan for up to 3 people or a van for 4 to 6 passengers, as well as visits to Santa Cristina de Lena, Gaudí Palace, Astorga Cathedral, Castrillo de Polvazares, and Leon’s Wet Neighborhood.
However, the tickets for Gaudí Palace, Astorga Cathedral, and Leon Cathedral aren’t included in the tour price. Guests will need to purchase these separately, with the cost for each cathedral being €7.
Lunch in Castrillo de Polvazares at the Coscolo House Restaurant, featuring the local Cocido Maragato dish, is also not included and will cost €28 per person.
The tour give you a comprehensive experience while allowing flexibility for guests to manage their own expenses.
Language and Group Size
The tour is available in both Spanish and English, catering to a diverse audience.
It’s a small group experience, limited to just 1 participant, ensuring personalized attention throughout the tour. This intimate setting allows the guide to tailor the experience to the individual’s interests and pace.
Whether you’re fluent in Spanish or more comfortable with English, you’ll be able to fully learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
The small group size also means you won’t have to compete for the guide’s time or get lost in a crowd. It’s the perfect way to explore Oviedo, Castrillo Polvazares, Astorga, and Leon Cathedral at your own pace.
Customer Feedback
Travelers who’ve experienced this tour have overwhelmingly praised its quality, with an impressive 5-out-of-5 rating based on a single review.
The review highlights the tour’s knowledgeable guide, who expertly brought the history and gastronomy of the region to life. Participants were thrilled with the enjoyable and immersive experience, which allowed them to discover the charming towns, grand cathedrals, and local cuisine at a leisurely pace.
The tour is highly recommended for its ability to provide a personalized and enriching exploration of Oviedo, Castrillo de Polvazares, Astorga, and Leon.
Travelers seeking an in-depth cultural journey through northern Spain will undoubtedly appreciate the care and attention put into crafting this memorable experience.
Picturesque Astorga Cathedral
One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the picturesque Astorga Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure that commands attention with its ornate facade and towering spires.
This impressive cathedral, dating back to the 15th century, is renowned for its intricate stonework and stunning architectural details.
Visitors can admire the cathedral’s ornate altarpiece, stained glass windows, and elaborate choir stalls, all of which showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate breathtaking religious architecture, the Astorga Cathedral is sure to leave a lasting impression.
With its serene ambiance and awe-inspiring beauty, it’s no wonder this cathedral is a must-see destination on the tour.
Iconic Gaudi Architecture
After admiring the grandeur of the Astorga Cathedral, the tour moves on to explore the iconic Gaudí architecture at the Gaudí Palace in Astorga.
Designed by the renowned Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, this early 20th-century building showcases his unique modernist style, which blends striking geometric forms with organic, flowing lines.
Visitors can marvel at the palace’s elaborate façade, featuring intricate stone carvings and whimsical details that exemplify Gaudí’s innovative approach to design.
The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the influential architect’s visionary work and his lasting impact on Spanish architecture.
Exploring the Gaudí Palace promises to be a highlight of the day’s journey through the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Mouthwatering Cocido Maragato
Cocido Maragato, a renowned regional dish, awaits visitors during the lunch stop in Castrillo de Polvazares. This hearty stew, considered a culinary tradition in the Maragatería area, features a mouthwatering blend of pork, beef, and chickpeas that simmers to perfection, promising a delightful gastronomic experience for tour participants.
The dish is served at Coscolo House Restaurant, where guests can savor the rich flavors and textures of this iconic local fare. With a price of €28 per person, the Cocido Maragato offers a chance to take in the unique culinary heritage of the region, complementing the historical and architectural highlights of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Combine This Tour With Other Nearby Attractions?
Yes, the tour can likely be combined with other nearby attractions. The tour provider may be able to customize the itinerary or recommend additional sights to visit, though this may incur extra costs. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator about potential add-ons.
Are Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
Unfortunately, the tour provider does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The standard price of €450 per group (up to 3 participants) applies regardless of age or student status.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour aims to be accessible for individuals with disabilities, with options for pickup in a sedan or van. Mobility assistance can be arranged, though some historic sites may have limited accessibility. Guests are encouraged to discuss any needs when booking.
Can the Lunch Menu Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?
The tour provider is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions for the lunch at Coscolo House Restaurant. Guests can request alternative menu options when booking the tour to ensure their dietary needs are met.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Activities?
The tour operator offers the option to extend the tour duration or activities, though additional costs may apply. Travelers can inquire about customizing the itinerary to accommodate their interests or dietary needs.
Recap
This comprehensive tour through northern Spain’s cultural gems offers a captivating journey for discerning travelers.
Exploring iconic Gaudí architecture, the stunning Astorga Cathedral, and savoring traditional Cocido Maragato, the experience showcases the region’s rich history and local gastronomy.
With personalized attention and intimate group sizes, this tour provides an enriching opportunity to take in the captivating sights and flavors of northern Spain.