Ep 4. Landmarks, Legends and Luxury in Basque Country
- October 16, 2008
Spain...On the Road Again is a travel and food show that takes viewers on a culinary adventure across various regions of Spain. Season 1 episode 4, titled "Landmarks, Legends, and Luxury in Basque Country," explores the Basque Country, a region known for its distinct cuisine and culture.
The episode begins with the hosts, American celebrity chef Mario Batali, actress Gwyneth Paltrow, Spanish actress Claudia Bassols, and food writer Mark Bittman, arriving in San Sebastian, one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The group starts their culinary journey by visiting the legendary La Perla chocolate shop, which has been in operation since 1928. They indulge in some decadent chocolate truffles and learn about the shop's history.
Next, they head to one of the most iconic landmarks in the Basque Country, the Monte Igueldo amusement park. The park, which opened in 1912, offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea. The hosts enjoy the park's thrilling rides, including a roller coaster that dates back to the early 20th century.
The group then visits the old town of San Sebastian, known for its pintxos, a type of Basque tapas. They take a culinary tour through the streets, sampling a variety of pintxos and learning about the local ingredients. The hosts also visit the famous Santa Maria Church, which is considered one of the most significant landmarks in the Basque Country.
The episode then takes viewers on a journey to the countryside, where the group visits a farm that produces some of the best cheese in the region. The hosts learn about the traditional process of cheesemaking and try some of the cheese, paired with local cider.
The final segment of the episode focuses on luxury, as the hosts visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, one of the most important contemporary art museums in the world. They admire the museum's impressive architecture and explore the art collection, which includes works by renowned artists like Jeff Koons and Yoko Ono.
Throughout the episode, the hosts meet locals and learn about the Basque Country's rich history and culture. They also indulge in some of the best food and drink the region has to offer, highlighting the importance of culinary traditions in the Basque Country. "Landmarks, Legends, and Luxury in Basque Country" is a must-watch for anyone interested in Spanish culture and cuisine.