Salt & Wine

A salt mine? Yes you heard well, we’re visiting one today which, for many centuries, has been one of the most important salt mines in the Iberian Peninsula. Here the salt water emerges from natural springs, where it is extracted using evaporation in pans, which were mostly developed in the first century BCE. Archeological evidence suggests the site has been in use for about 7,000 years, making this the oldest active salt production site in the world. We find ourselves in a truly unique environment on the planet, incessantly transformed since ancient times. After having been almost abandoned during the XX century, it is coming back to life thanks to the tenacity of some locals who have been determined to preserve, despite the times, such a special legacy. The site was designated a Historic Monument. In 2018 and declared by the FAO as World Agricultural Patrimony and the first Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) in Europe. The local community is fully committed to the complete restoration of the mine, where a top quality gourmet edible salt is being produced nowadays.

From this valley, the tour will continue towards Rioja wine region where we will stop by one of their many great wineries, another unique adventure and taste some of their tasty wines and their extra virgin olive oil. Then, after a traditional riojan meal washed down with more great wine from the region, we will be ready to head back home.

· Prices for group up to 7 people. For larger groups contact me and ask for a quote.
· All prices are for departures/arrivals from/to San Sebastian or Hondarribia. For other destinations contact me and ask for a quote.

Please contact me to check the availability of this tour on the date you want.