We take excellent care of our guests because being a spectacular host is an integral part of our culture. Our team understands the North of Spain because we live our lives here. We are both locals and expats and true regional experts with a deep love for our land. The lifestyle here is rich, and full of sensory pleasure and connection to our community, to our land and to the food we produce and craft. We give you unprecedented access and connection to a truly authentic culture.
Meet Vancouverite Steph, the leader of a fabulous team of professionals who have one foot firmly in this culture yet with an eye to international class quality. Her and her team design spontaneous, yet well-designed itineraries, where you get to see intimate portraits of real life here in the North of Spain. Experience our way of life, you will come away changed and inspired by it.
We take you deep into the region, off the beaten path to places only a local would know, while providing you with luxury comfort, unforgettable food and wine, and exquisite care.
Northern Spain Travel did a fantastic job for us. Stephanie put together a highly customized trip for my family of 2 Baby Boomers and 3 Millenials plus one boyfriend who proposed to our daughter on the trail! Stephanie was highly attentive to our quirks and requests and exhibited exceptional flexibility and responsiveness to our changing needs, speeds, and plans along the Camino Batantz and the Camino Norte.
She made reservations, changed reservations, answered questions and anticipated our challenges – all with a smile on her face, lots of positive energy and a spirit of adventure. She gave us lots of freedom and independence but was always ready and prepared to help without hovering.She took our special need for medication transport very seriously and responsibly. We felt cared for and respected every step of the way and it was over 100 miles worth of steps!
Stephanie worked very hard to make sure we had a wonderful trip. Her love for Northern Spain is contagious and he knowledge is deep. We are grateful!
Where to begin and to say I was sad when it ended. Stephanie , Bonnie and I worked beautifully at mapping out our 11 day adventure. But NEVER… it our wildest dreams could we have imagined and the extras (terrific unexpected arrangements and friends) that we were exposed and immersed in. There was never just a simple… “let’s stick to the plan”. We had options.. every day. We were on a gorgeous sailboat in a boat festival in Pasaia, a festival with the townsfolk in a village, a tour of a Marquis up and coming hotel, the best of the wine tastings. And a hands on dinner in Stephanie’s “ private social club”.
Stephanie is a “force” that can’t be beat!
It was my first time in Spain and I only knew the country through its magnificent wines from La Rioja. The tour Stephanie and Oliver provided was not only educational, it was extremely entertaining. The first bodega (winery) we visited was Lopez Heredia and was truly awe inspiring. It was a traditional winery in which there were no modern tools or equipment, and they practiced the traditional ways of wine making. And of course, their wine was magnificent.
Next, we travelled to a more modern winery called Bodegas Franco-Españolas; one that was frequently visited by none other than Ernest Hemingway. But, don’t let that convince you; their wines will. After a great tour of their facilities, we were treated to the most entertaining drinking game I’ve ever played. Accompanied by some bread and cold cuts, we had a blast playing this game in which there were quizzes, and drinking tests where we tried to identify different things about the wines.
Our visit was made unforgettable mainly because of Stephanie and Oliver. From the moment we made our reservation they treated us like family. They made our departure unbearable and left us making plans for our next visit.
Call them!! You will love it!!
I first discovered Northern Spain Travel as I researched doing my first Camino Frances online. With Covid happening, I really needed help with the logistics as I was traveling alone. From the minute I spoke to Steph, I knew that I was dealing with professionals and people who listened to what my needs were. She and José Mari were with me every step of the way if I needed them. They had the knack of giving me the true camino life mixed with having some wonderful experiences that would enhance my knowledge of Spain’s rich culture. Based in Pamplona, they provided an amazing Navarran experience as I walked through and my stay at a “Heart of Pamplona” apartment for 2 nights was exceptional. I look forward to returning in 2022 for another camino and I have no doubt they will have some incredible recommendations. Their knowledge, local connections and enthusiasm are what make this team spectacular.
100 stars for NST, Steph, José Mari and their team!!!!
I’ve travelled several times with Northern Spain Travel and have found their indepth knowledge of this area to be second to none. The enthusiasm of this organisation, coupled with the best local contacts and years of research in this region (and beyond), leave me in no doubt that I’d recommend Northern Spain Travel to anyone!
A perfect adventure in a true jewel of nature in Navarra. The experience in the Bardenas with the Northern Spain Travel team was excellent. Every detail was seamless, their knowledge of the terrain in a nature reserve desert was impeccable, permitting us to experience an incredible trip that can only be done with experts like them.
We went with my two daughters of 10 and 8 years old and they experienced a true adventure. They loved it and received 100% attention from Northern Spain Travel and viewed this trip as a great challenge that they loved. NST adapted to the group level, they are very positive people and they know how to create a very pleasant atmosphere for you.
I would definitely repeat and continue to sign up for the trips and plans they offer because they are quality and experience!
Thank you!
We stopped in Pamplona during our walk along the Camino from Saint-Jean to Santiago. We booked in advance of the walk to ensure we had the opportunity on opening day to watch the bull run, a bull fight, and have accommodations in Pamplona. Stephanie Mutsaerts from Northern Spain travel made this possible and went out of her way to ensure that we had our bags transferred correctly from our previous stay into our apartment in Pamplona, because the travel services for luggage do not typically transfer luggage into Pamplona unless there is 24-hour reception. We also enjoyed a walking tour (tasting samples from various locations) following the bull run. The company was accommodating and answered all of our questions in advance. Stephanie was so patient to ensure that our dream bucket list items were fulfilled and that we enjoyed our experience. I would highly recommend this event and travel company.
Not being one who willingly dives into crowded unfamiliar settings, I put my faith into Steph to get that Pamplona insider experience that just can’t be found during a short visit to a strange new place. Steph knows the best and most creative tapas chefs and local food critics, and they all know and greet her as a welcome friend. This was a memorable experience both meeting people and sampling dishes and wines that I would never have thought to try on my own. This was a fun informative evening and time well spent.
We had such an amazing time with Deidre. Not only was she knowledgeable on all things Spain, far beyond food but she also had many personal accounts and stories that were fantastic. This intimate tour was full of mind blowing flavors. From modern takes on traditional foods to the beautiful basics you will not be disappointed!
We booked a balcony for the chupinazo and the first run as well as bull fight tickets. Stephanie and her team welcomed us with open arms and made us feel very comfortable. The San Fermin festival is a little overwhelming with how many people are there but they made it so simple. The balconies were better than advertised and gave us great views as well as great food and drink. The guides were all extremely informative and friendly. Aitor was extremely helpful texting us details ahead of time and even helped us with cabs. We highly recommend northern Spain travel and will definitely use them again if we ever decide to come back to the area.
Absolutely great trip to San Sebastian, San Juan and San Jose — sailing, walking, a drive through beautiful farm lands, and a magnificent seafood lunch at Casa Camara in San Jose, which has been serving guests since 1884. If you like lobster and beautiful harbor views, this is the place to be. Our guide, Steph, was a delight — fun, knowledgeable and tireless. She started with us at 9 in the morning, and stayed with us until 10 that evening. Beautiful country, beautiful people, beautiful day — Hemingway style.
My wife and I and our 10 year old daughter combined the final 3 days walk into Pamplona from the Camino with the San Fermin celebrations. This was possible with the help of the travel agency “Northern Spain travel” based in Pamplona. Their attention to detail and bespoke customer service ensured our hotel and access to the festivities were seamless, we only wished we had more time to experience all that was on offer from them. At all stages Steph and her English speaking staff guided us through the excitement of the running of the bulls and a non-violent bull fight (Taurine) – both of which I would highly recommend.
Pamplona was truly magical – our first but not last taste, thanks to Northern Spain Travel !!
I admit that my experience was Fantastic, but because of the VIP package handled by Steph… no doubt about it. She put an enthusiasm in every event and reservation that it’s contagious. Her team is very kind and professional and they make us feel special all the time !!
Definitely I will recommend to do San Fermin program ALL THE WAY.
What a wonderful 5 days in Pamplona beginning with the opening ceremony viewed from a premier location on a balcony overlooking city hall to front row seats at the bullfight. Stephanie is the perfect hostess with just the right amount of attention without overwhelming the guests. We were traveling with our 17-year old grandson and Stephanie went out of her way to be sure he had the best and most unique experiences even providing her own teenage son to keep him company and show him some of the local color. Our lovely apartment in old town was in a perfect location and within a short walking distance of all the festivities. We had been to Pamplona several times before but only passing through. We knew we loved it but didn’t know how much. Now, after Stephanie showed us all the wonderful things it has to offer, it is one of our most favorite spots in Spain. Thank you Stephanie for your hospitality, for all of the special arrangements allowing us a front row seat for San Fermin, for lending us your son, and, of course, for the wonderful tour you arranged for us. We hope to see you again and to stay in one of your properties as we pass through Pamplona again in late August, 2019.
“I used Northern Spain Travel to organise a private tour guide for Pamplona. Our guide Odei was awesome. He personalised the tour for our interests. We walked around Pamplona and was shown all the amazing places. Odei is born and raised in Pamplona so had a wealth of knowledge. He also took us to the best bars for pintxos. Worth every euro. If you are in the area you definitely need to get in touch with Northern Spain Travel before you do anything”
“I can not even begin to express how grateful I am for Steph and her sincere generosity! I reached out to her for a question, and she was extremely kind, helpful, friendly, and helped solve the problem! Though I have not actually met her in person, just via email, she went above and beyond to help me out. Her positive vibes were felt across the ocean, and restored my belief in the basic human believe in kindness and empathy. I would 100%, hands-down recommend Steph as a host. I owe her, big time! 🙂 Much love from New Orleans, Louisiana. Cheers to a wonderful 2017, Steph!!”
“This company was able to set me up with the best balcony/viewing area of anyone else I had spoken soon. The price was very reasonable considering the limited options. Once I reached the designated area, our hosts could not have been friendlier or more welcoming. Heart of Pamplona ultimately provided one of the most memorable San Fermín experiences and photo opportunities that exist during fiesta”
“I went here last year during the Bull Run with my family and it was really good fun. The hosts were amazingly nice and hospitable and the food they served at the balcony was really good. We had a great view of the festival from the balcony. We got to fully participate in the festival and even dress the part, which provided us with a super unique experience. The festival was really wild but it was a very cool and very cultural experience that everyone MUST have when you visit Pamplona…
Thanks for the amazing day! Highly recommend to anyone travelling to Pamplona. “
“I came here with some friends from the US, Stephanie was such a delightful host and made sure we were always comfortable. She arranged a tour for us the second day we were there so we knew what was going on in the city during San Fermin, this city is such a gem and she is a rose amongst thorns so to speak I cannot recommend this place anymore, if you have the opportunity to stay here please know you are in great hands also we was greeted immediately by the downstairs neighbors for a drink and treated as if we had been friends for years.”
“Stephanie did a wonderful job coordinating ALL of the details of this experience! Everything was made easy for us and we very much enjoyed our opening ceremony experience and hope to have a repeat experience! Highly recommend!”
“I booked a balcony for the bull run through Northern Spain Travel. Stephanie was great to work with – communication was excellent throughout the process and everything ran smoothly on the day of the run. I would definitely recommend all of her services!”
We are active travel lovers – we are especially passionate about biking, hiking and gastronomy. The atmosphere that soft adventure and physical activity gives to our routes makes them complete. One of the empirical truths of travel is that the meals and drinks taste better after a day of sports and accomplishment.
The common thread in everything we design is based on our four essential cornerstones: history, culture, gastronomy and landscapes. We seek authentic, immersive experiences that will generate both curiosity and enthusiasm. Let this culturally rich region of Spain and its people surprise, engage and inspire you.
Our local experts give us that proud “my home, my land” feel. They enhance our cultural visits with their knowledge, add value to the wine tastings and inspire interest in their beloved land. Our local experts share their passion for the wine making, sculpture and painting, geography, or archeology featured in our tours, with all their heart.
Navarra, Rioja and the Basque Lands are unified by a richly interconnected network of excellent, secondary and tertiary roads as well as mountain paths in an ever-changing landscape. Climb the Pyrenees over breathtaking mountain passes and down brilliant five-star descents, ride the Cantabrian coastline and then cross the unique Bardenas desert, all within these three provinces.
THE CULTURE OF HOSPITALITY – Finish the day’s activity sipping on regional pride, and savour bite-size morsels of heavenly cuisine along cobblestoned streets. Hospitality in our culture is ingrained in our being, making our guides natural caretakers, gracious hosts, courteous trainers, and immediate friends. They will ensure that every step of the way or every pedal forward your most particular needs and desires are satisfied.
We carefully select luxurious hotels and boutique properties that match our NST personality. We do our best to ensure that apart from being of the utmost quality, accommodations are unique expressions of the region and when possible hold historic value. We love castles, medieval manors, monasteries and emblematic hotels that make the perfect backdrop for a spontaneous photoshoot. A good rest goes a long way!
This is a land best travelled with NST guides, passionate people from the North who have a deep-rooted understanding of their culture, traditions and region. Hospitality in our culture is ingrained in our being, making our guides natural caretakers, gracious hosts, courteous trainers, and immediate friends. They will ensure that every step of the way or every pedal forward your most particular needs and desires are satisfied.
Our passion for high quality gastronomy and wine allows you to experience the absolute finest and most authentic culinary adventures on offer. Our team of local experts is eager to show you our world and share with you their first-hand knowledge of this enchanting region and way of life.
Both mountaineer and extensive traveler of the world, Angel Maria Perez Aguilar can be defined as enthusiastic and entertaining, but is above his love for life is contagious. Owner of the gorgeous restaurant La Vieja Bodega in Casalarreina in La Rioja, Angel Maria is a connoisseur of this region and its wines and its gastronomy. He has a deep understanding of northern Spain’s history and culture, making Angel complete as the perfect host to get to know La Rioja and the north of Spain.
Stephanie, the dynamo of our organization, is a Canadian who has fallen in love with this region of Spain. She is enterprising, innovative and has an endless amount of energy to design unique outstanding travel plans, making her passion her profession. She has the firm conviction that until the product standards are exceptional, they should not be offered.
“Our goals are two: one is to dazzle our visitors and another is to share with them what we find so extremely enchanting about this region of Spain”.
Oliver is our greatest ambassador of Pamplona. Oliver has it all: charm, conversation and deep knowledge of his Basque culture. You will feel like you’ve made a new friend during one of his energetic tours. Oliver is always on the beat searching for the perfect pintxo and exciting, outside-the-box experiences. He is dedicated to designing the most exclusive events for our guests, such as the Hemingway to the Basque Coast tour, or a walking tour of the Running of the Bulls course with an international bull runner. He knows the all the best destinations and activities on the off-the-beaten cultural track.
“This is our essential hallmark that sets us apart from any other events agency”.
Our sports adventure guide Iñaki is a certified guide and instructor who enjoys biking, hiking and rock climbing, but he believes that the best way to see the world is on a bicycle. He has the uncanny ability of understanding his tour guests, and thus ensuring that the experience is tailored to every guests potential and wishes. A man of many talents, our multifaceted guide and sportsman takes guests cycling or walking across golden plains of rolling hills, vineyards and up breathtaking mountain passes and brilliant descents, or along the crisp Cantabrian coastline to bask in the sunshine. We love the element of fun and adventure he adds to our tours.
“This is an amazing region with an immense diversity of landscapes, where the possibilities are endless”.
Our Camino de Santiago division leader, Danny VIllar has a roster of languages under his belt and a degree in economics, Danny is a lover of learning. He loves languages and he loves history even more. Most guests are astounded at his brilliant storytelling abilities, as he paints the history and culture of our region. He is an acclaimed wonderful lunch and dinner conversationalist. Danny is an avid sportsman, who is particularly passionate about cycling and walking the Camino de Santiago and knows the hidden secrets of this enchanting pathway.
As said Einstein, “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving”.
Odei is an experienced guide, a huge foodie, and an architect by trade. He is incredibly keen on the history of architecture and art, not to mention his Basque origins and culture.He has an enormous talent for connecting with people and is able to relay the intricacies of local life into context. This Basque – Spanish – English speaking Pamplonica is our city slicker, gastro-foodie and our authority on the long and intricate history of Spain, and in particular the region history and architecture. Be sure to order your drink by his side, he has a refined taste in selecting wines and cocktails. He is a pleasure to be around, great company and is a fabulous ambassador of the region, and its people.
Fabio is a certified IFMGA guide has been a guide since 1987. He has travelled all over the world, dedicating his life to exploring the earth and climbing in special places like Norway and Yosemite National Park. He combines activities in the Pyrenees with guiding in the Saharan and sub-Saharan countries, Vietnam, Cambodia, Tanzania, Iran and Nepal as well as the Alps. In the early 1990’s he was based in North America (Yosemite, Devil’s Tower, Indian Creek). He worked for the Barcelona Olympics in 1992. From 2003-7 he guided in Since 2009 he has concentrated on Alpine Guiding in Canada, Peru and Nepal. Since 2010 he has been teaching and coordinating mountain guide courses at IES and is one of our NST five star guides.
Luxurious Hotels
Gastronomic, cultural, and historical experiences woven into a network of luxury hotels.
Our Mission
We reflect the true essence of the region. We are passionate about Northern Spain, crazy about our traditions and eager to give you an extraordinary outside-the-box experience.
Tailored to Fit
Whether you are looking for an offered package, a single event, or are inspired by our Private Travel collection, or Customized journeys, we cater to your needs.
We are about Food
Explore with us culinary experiences that vibrate with cultural pit stops from local Pamplona into the heart and soul of the North of Spain.
We are about Discovery
We take you on a journey to dig deep into the culture and discover the essence of this fascinating region.
As Steph Mutsaerts says, “Our goals are two; one is to bedazzle our visitors and another is to share with them what we find so extremely enchanting about this region of Spain. I’ve teamed up with locals who have as much enthusiasm for their home as I do! Join us, and be bedazzled.”
This enchanting and fascinating territory and our immersive adventure tours are well worth the discovery, but if you really want to find out how to make your vacations unique, special and memorable, you will have to join us on one.
Browse our Collections section to find a journey that’s right for you, and feel free to send us an email at info@northernspaintravel.com or give us a call at +34 628601560 if you have any questions.
