ELA TRAVEL AND BUSINESS
g a s t r o n o m ı c a l   t o u r s

There are several reasons to choose a destination when planning a holiday but, no doubt, gastronomy is a high priority for many of us. As one of the key elements that shapes cultural identity it’s perhaps at the table where travellers can best relate interactively with the area and its locals.

Spain and Portugal stand out from the long list of gastronomic destinations around the world. A history full of diverse cultural influences combined with a wide variety of terrains and contrasting climatic conditions have determined a strong regional gastronomy in both countries, and they remain committed to their traditional flavours and cooking techniques.

Each region has its specialities and proudly offers its own flavours giving special emphasis to local seasonal produce. From delicious fresh fish and seafood along the coastline, top-quality vegetables and fruits from their fertile valleys, to the extraordinary meat-dishes of the mountainous areas, the Iberian Peninsula has much to offer.

Northern Spain

From Michelin stars to delicious local fare…

 

From the Basque Country to Galicia, Spain’s north-west coast is rightly gaining fame on the world gastronomic stage. Michelin stars abound but the culinary tradition goes much deeper and you will find remarkably good local fare at very good prices. Fresh fish and seafood stand out but don’t miss the excellent Galician beef, the bean stews of Asturias and Cantabria and of course the wonderful pintxos of the Basque country.

Andalusia

An identity shaped by countless influences


Here you’ll find the finest cured ham in the world, the revered Atlantic bluefin tuna and arguably the best olive oil to be found anywhere alongside simpler pleasures like a well made Gazpacho or a dish of fried fish with a glass of ‘fino’ sherry. Apart from the myriad varieties of sherry, Manzanilla and Montilla-Moriles, you’ll find some excellent reds and whites in the Sierra de Málaga and delicious dessert wines in Málaga and the Axarquia region just to the east.

In particular the region’s Moorish past and proximity to Africa have made their mark and differentiate the local cuisine from that of the rest of Spain

Madrid & Inland Spain

Hearty Food and Wonderful Wines

 

Burgos lamb, Guijuelo ham, El Bierzo peppers or the famous suckling pig from Segovia. The fine olive oil and cheeses of Extremadura or lamb cutlets of La Rioja…


The cuisine of the Spanish interior is hearty and wholesome with some real treats for the discerning foodie traveller. Couple that with a truly vast selection of Spain’s best wines and you’re in for a feast!

Wine Region Tours

Rioja - Ribera del Duero - Alentejo - Porto

 

In recent years the wines of Spain & Portugal have gone from being considered, perhaps unjustly, as ‘holiday plonk’ to being among the most highly esteemed wines on the planet. And it’s not just a question of perception, increased competition and the thorough and widespread implementation of the DOC system, has made the good wines even better, as well as allowing many hitherto unknown regions to blossom. Quality and variety have increased enormously yet prices are still very affordable, making the Iberian Peninsula the ideal destination for a wine-themed touring holiday.