Jesuit Retreat Center Ignatian Pilgrimage 2024:
Friends of the Jesuit Retreat Center will travel together in the footsteps of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.
​
Itinerary
​
Friday – June 14, 2024 - The Adventure Begins!
Meet your flight group at Cleveland Hopkins Airport for your flight to Madrid. (D)
Saturday – June 15, 2024 - Madrid
Upon landing in Madrid, we'll transfer to our hotel. After we drop our bags and rendez-vous with independent travelers. This afternoon we'll acquaint ourselves with Spain's cosmopolitan capital through an informal walking tour. This immersive experience will lead us through historic plazas like Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. We'll celebrate the Sunday Vigil Mass and dine together before some much-needed sleep. (B, D)
Sunday – June 16, 2024 – Segovia & Avila Day Trip
Today, we depart from Madrid for a day of exploration in Segovia and Avila. Our journey begins in Segovia, where we'll marvel at the Roman Aqueduct and see the impressive Alcázar of Segovia. In the afternoon, we'll head to Avila to walk the Camino Teresiano, visit the Convento de Santa Teresa de Jesús, and admire the historic Avila walls before returning to Madrid in the evening. Dinner with wine pairings at an Argentinian Steakhouse awaits. (B, D)
Monday – June 17, 2024 - Madrid Exploration
We start with a panoramic visit of Madrid, taking in the Royal Palace and the Cathedral. Then, we stroll Plaza Mayor and savor cuisine at Mercado de San Miguel. This evening, you'll have an opportunity to explore the renowned Prado Museum. (B, ID)
Tuesday – June 18, 2024 - Journey to San Sebastian via Burgos
En route to San Sebastian, we will stop in Burgos. The group will visit the Cathedral of Saint Mary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This evening, you will arrive in San Sebastian, a Basque resort town renowned for its beaches and cuisine. (B, D)
Wednesday – June 19, 2024 - San Sebastian
Situated in Spain's Basque Country, this charming town captivates visitors with its beautiful beaches and world-famous culinary scene. After breakfast, we will have a brief orientation session, and then you will have the rest of the day to explore the scenic old town, unwind on the sandy shores, and indulge in the delightful Basque cuisine. (B, ID)
Thursday – June 20, 2024 - Santuario de Loyola.
Wake up and get ready because today we're off to explore the Santuario de Loyola! Just a short trip from San Sebastian lies Ignatius' birthplace. Along the way, marvel at the picturesque Basque countryside and the majestic mountains. At the Holy House of Saint Ignatius, we'll delve into his life, visiting Loyola Castle, attending Mass at the Conversion Chapel, and pausing for reflections at the site where Íñigo López de Loyola was profoundly influenced. Later in the day, we'll head back to San Sebastian. (B, ID)
Friday – June 21, 2024 - Pilgrims on the Trek: Pamplona, Wine Tasting, and Zaragoza
Embark on an captivating journey from San Sebastian to Pamplona, a city steeped in history and famously associated with Hemingway. Our adventure begins with a visit to the site where Saint Ignatius endured a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey, struck by a cannonball. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Pamplona, immortalized in the writings of Hemingway. Following a leisurely lunch, we'll venture to a local vineyard in the Navarre wine region for a delightful wine tasting experience.
​
As the day winds down, we'll continue our travels to Zaragoza, situated along the banks of the majestic river Ebro, often considered the spiritual heart of Spain. In Zaragoza, we'll explore the revered shrine of Our Lady of the Pillar, a site where Saint Ignatius paused to pray during his journey to Montserrat. (B, D)
​
Saturday – June 22, 2024 - Montserrat and Manresa
Our pilgrimage reaches its peak as we visit Montserrat and Manresa. At Montserrat, we'll see the Benedictine Monastery and pray at the Black Madonna, where Ignatius of Loyola surrendered his sword in an all-night vigil. In Manresa, you will visit the cave where St. Ignatius formulated the Spiritual Exercises, pray by the River Cardoner, and celebrate Mass. This evening, Barcelona awaits (B, ID)
Sunday – June 23, 2024 - Barcelona Gaudi Tour including Sagrada Familia
A guided tour of Barcelona includes famous Gaudi sites, such as Sagrada Familia. We conclude with a special farewell dinner. (B, D)
​
Monday – June 24, 2024
Depart for the airport for your return flights to North America. (B)
​
Meals as listed on Itinerary:
B = Breakfast
D = Dinner
ID = Independent Dinner
​
Hotel Information
​
Hotel Puerta America
06/15/2024-06/18/2024
Avenida de América, 41
28002 - MADRID
011-34 917 445 400
*The prefix 011 is added when calling from the United States.
Hotel NH Collection San Sebastián Aránzazu
06/18/2024-06/21/2024
Vitoria-Gasteiz Kalea, 1, 20018 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
San Sebsatian/Donastia
011- 34 943 21 90 77
​
NH Ciudad de Zaragoza
06/21/2024-06/22/2024
Av. de César Augusto, 125, Casco Antiguo, 50003 Zaragoza, Spain
Zaragoza
011- 34 976 44 21 00
​
Hotel Porta Fira
06/22/2024-06/24/2024
Pl. d'Europa, 45, 08908 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
011-34-932 97 35 00
Flight Information
​
Travelers in the group are divided into two smaller groups for the flights. Your specific flight details have been sent to your respective group. Your group leader will reach out with information about your specific flight, including meeting times and other relevant details.
​
Spending Money-The Euro
Spain is one of the countries within the eurozone, using the common European currency. Euro coins are available in denominations of €2, €1, and smaller units divided into cents. Each coin displays a common European face, while member states showcase their national motifs on the obverse. Despite the differences in motifs, euro coins can be used interchangeably within member states. Similarly, Euro notes, in various denominations, maintain uniformity across the euro area and portray symbolic designs representing Europe's architectural heritage. Travelers need not carry euros in advance, as US debit cards or credit cards are widely accepted, particularly Visa and MasterCard. However, American Express or Discover cards may encounter acceptance issues in Spain. Memorizing PIN codes in numeric form is recommended for compatibility with European bank machines. It's important to inform your bank or credit card company of your travel dates. If ordering euros in advance, we suggest an amount ranging from €200 to €300.
​
Optional Trip Medical Insurance:
Traveling to Europe offers an exciting adventure filled with diverse cultures and stunning landscapes, but it's essential not to overlook travel medical insurance. Health issues can arise unexpectedly, and having insurance ensures you receive necessary treatment without exorbitant costs. European healthcare is excellent but can be expensive for travelers, and insurance helps cover these costs. In severe cases, medical evacuation back to your home country can be extremely costly, but insurance covers these expenses. Additionally, travel medical insurance can help recoup non-refundable expenses if your trip is interrupted or canceled. It also provides assistance with lost or needed prescription medications and 24/7 help for navigating local healthcare systems. Investing in travel medical insurance ensures your trip remains enjoyable and stress-free, even when the unexpected happens.
​
Here are some options for finding travel insurance plans:
​
1. Squaremouth:
- Works similarly to Expedia or Orbitz but for travel insurance.
- Visit Squaremouth
​
2. InsureMyTrip:
- Another platform similar to Expedia or Orbitz for travel insurance.
- Visit InsureMyTrip
​
3. GeoBlue:
- This is the international version of Blue Cross & Blue Shield.
- Visit GeoBlue
​
Suggested Packing List:
This list is meant to guide you as you pack. If you don’t use certain items at home, you likely won’t need them on this trip. Adjust according to your personal needs.
Clothing:
Tops: 8-9 (roll tightly)
Bottoms: 2-3 pants, 2-3 shorts, bathing suit
Underwear and Socks: 10 pairs
Jacket: 1 light/medium
Shoes: 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes, 1 pair of dress shoes (stuff with small items)
It is important to keep in mind that clothing be modest at religious sites.
Toiletries & Medical:
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Razor: Travel-sized
- Shampoo, Conditioner: Solid bars or small bottles
- Deodorant, Sunscreen: Travel-sized
- Feminine Hygiene Supplies
- Alcohol based hand sanitizer
- Washcloths (not common in Europe)
- In a labeled container (bring prescriptions)
- Benadryl in case of allergic reaction
Other Items:
- Electronics: Phone, iPad/tablet, charger, adapter (packed in corners/gaps)
- Accessories: Sunglasses, hat, belt (use gaps around rolled clothes)
- Documents: Passport and travel medical insurance information (in an easily accessible pocket)
By following these tips, you can maximize your packing efficiency, ensuring you have all you need while traveling light and organized.
​
Packing Efficiency
Here are some tips to ensure you have everything you need without overloading your luggage::
1. Rolling Clothes
Rolling clothes is a popular packing method because it saves space and minimizes wrinkles. Here's how you can do it effectively:
- Roll tightly:Ensure you roll each piece of clothing tightly to maximize space.
- Arrange strategically: Place rolled items in layers, starting with heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
2. Maximize every inch of your luggage:
- Shoes: Fill shoes with socks, underwear, or small items.
- Corners and gaps: Stuff small items like chargers, toiletries, and accessories into the gaps between larger items.
3. Minimalist Toiletries
Reduce the space taken up by toiletries:
- Travel-size containers: Use small containers for shampoo, lotion, etc.
4. Create a checklist to avoid overpacking:
- Essential items only: Stick to essentials and avoid "just in case" items.
- Review and revise: Go through your list multiple times to remove unnecessary items.
​
What is included?
-
Group transfers and ground transportation related to the itinerary
-
The assistance of a bilingual (Spanish/English) Jesuit who will guide at Ignatian Sites
-
Local guides at select locations
-
All accommodations in centrally located 4 or 5-star hotels
-
Winery visit and tasting
-
Entrance Fees to sites visited on the itinerary
-
Daily breakfast and 6 dinners. The dinners in Spain include wine pairings.
What's not included?
-
Airfare
-
Lunch and 4 independent dinners
-
Tips for bus driver and guides
-
Travel Medical Insurance
-
Cancel for Any Reason Insurance
​