Basque Flavours: Txakoli Wine and Cider House Tour from San Sebastian

Explore two of the Basque Country’s most beloved drinks on this atmospheric full-day tour from San Sebastián.

First, you’ll follow the dramatic coastline to a seaside Txakoli bodega, where a friendly host will show you the terraced vineyards, explain the local grapes (especially Hondarrabi Zuri), and pour a guided tasting of the region’s bright, slightly effervescent white wine – fresh and saline at the same time.

After enjoying the coastal views and the winery’s tasting room, the route climbs inland into the green hills to a traditional sidrería (sagardotegia). Here you’ll take part in the authentic txotx ritual: the cider maker opens the barrel and pours the new cider directly into your glass from the tap while you stand in the cellar and taste it fresh from the kupela. The whole experience is convivial and very local — exactly the kind of Basque ritual visitors remember.

The sidrería lunch is a rustic, satisfying feast designed to pair with the cider: typically a starter of cod omelette, followed by fried or stewed cod with peppers, a generous grilled ribeye (chuletón) to share, and a platter of cheese, nuts, and quince paste to finish — all accompanied by unlimited pours during the txotx session. It’s just Basque food culture.