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Curator’s statement
As I approach the milestone age of 50, I start to think about the bucket list I created in my thirties. I crafted this list before turning 40, inspired by the famous 30 for 30 sports documentary series on ESPN. I was fortunate enough to accomplish quite a few items, such as dining at some of the world’s best restaurants (The French Laundry, Le Bernardin and Eleven Madison Park), witnessing the Washington Nationals at the World Series, attending a Champions League game in England, observing Manchester United during their heyday with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo and visiting landmarks across the country (Redwood National and State Parks, Golden Gate Bridge, Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam and the Biltmore in Asheville). I ponder... what else could top the bucket list and continue checking off items? How about participating in the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain?
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Pamplona Spain
Hotel Alma Pamplona
A modern design hotel near Parque Arga with a Michelin-Starred restaurant and a welcoming vibe.
Fora Perks
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Minibar & coffee kit by Nespresso.
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VIP welcome amenity.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Robert to book your trip.
Things to do in Pamplona Spain
When is the Running of the Bulls?
The Running of the Bulls happens every July in Pamplona, Spain.
How Long is the Running of the Bulls?
The event occurs over eight days.
How long should you plan for the Running of the Bulls?
I recommend attending the Running of the Bulls over three nights; two nights are possible, but three is optimal.
Do I have to run with the bulls?
No, when properly planned with a Fora Advisor, you can watch the Running of the Bulls from a private balcony.
How do I experience the Running of the Bulls with a VIP experience?
The best way to watch is from a private balcony with a prime view, catering, and great company. If you want to run with the bulls, you can descend from the private balcony and join them as they pass by along the course. A VIP experience includes a four-star hotel stay, daily breakfast, VIP Balcony Viewings, Course Walking Tour, a night at a bull fight and access to knowledgeable guides that can guide you toward the best food and wine in Spain. The tour guide will also assist in providing tips to assist you in staying safe for the running of the bulls.
What happens when you run with the bulls?
It’s an adrenaline rush. Your experience with the Running of the Bulls will likely last about three or four minutes. There will be anticipation and unpredictability. Expect nervousness. There will be 12 massive toros and steers. The bulls probably won't hurt you; instead, you're more likely to be pushed or tripped by someone in the crowd. The course is 826 meters, approximately half a mile. You will need to plot a plan that may not go as expected. It’s unpredictable, and the crowd and bulls will shift, altering your course. A tour guide can help you walk the course to familiarize yourself with the layout.
When we say, "running with the bulls," it may be more like trotting with the bulls. There isn’t quite enough room to actually pick up the pace and do a full-on run. You’ll stroll for a bit; about 30 yards.
Put your cell phone away. You’ll need to concentrate on the crowds and where the bulls are. It may be wise to split up; have a group of friends on the balcony capturing Instagram-worthy footage. Then, switch positions, rather than trying to run with a camera.
Stay fresh; you want to be alert and not hungover (hint hint) when running with the bulls.
Last but not least, the goal is to run with the bulls and make it to the arena. This will be your chance to feel like Patrick Mahomes throwing that game-winning touchdown or Lionel Messi scoring that goal. When you make it to the arena, there will be 20,000 people cheering for you. That will complete the bucket list and provide you with the biggest chills.
To plan your trip to Pamplona Spain and experience the Running of the Bulls, contact me.
Day Trips:
Pamplona is about an hour by private car to San Sebastin. I recommend taking a day trip there, or making San Sebastin a stop after you have completed the running with the bulls.
Places to eat & drink in Pamplona Spain
Spain and Pamplona are known for their wine, pintxos and tapas. Here are some of the places where you can have the best Spain Pintxos experience.
Pamplona is home to five Michelin restaurants, four that are one starred, and one that is two starred. The one-star Michelin restaurants include:
The two-star Michelin restaurant:
El Molino de Urdaniz
Need to know
What better way to cross of a bucket list item than to do it with an adrenaline rush?
Travel Advisor
Robert Huie
Get in touch with Robert
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, The best time to visit Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Spain.