Southern Spain and Portugal Adventure

Welcome to your journey! Our adventure begins with a high-speed train departing from Madrid at approximately 11 a.m. (time to be confirmed). In under two hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h, well arrive in Crdoba, once the capital of the Caliphate during the Islamic period. Upon arrival, youll have some free time to explore the city and enjoy lunch at your leisure. We will later regroup for a guided tour of the magnificent MosqueCathedral, a captivating fusion of Islamic and Christian art, with tickets included. Our explorations will continue through the picturesque Jewish Quarter, famous for its narrow alleys and vibrant flower-filled patios, integral to the city's identity.In the late afternoon, should we be visiting between June 21 and September 20, we will delight in a magical nighttime tour of Medina Azahara, the grand palace-city of the Umayyad Caliphate, with tickets provided. For visits outside this period, or if the night tour is not feasible, we will extend our panoramic exploration with a visit to one of Crdobas celebrated courtyards, with entry included. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

After breakfast, we set off through the sprawling olive groves towards Baena, a town steeped in rich Roman history and famed for its exquisite olive oil. Here, we visit the historic Nez de Prado Olive Oil Mill, one of the oldest in the Mediterranean, located in a charming 18th-century building. Well delve into the fascinating process of olive oil production and enjoy a delightful tasting experience with pan con aceite (bread with olive oil).Our journey continues as we make our way to Granada, a city renowned for the breathtaking Alhambra a stunning example of Islamic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will provide an inclusive guided tour of this magnificent palatial complex. After a leisurely lunch, which is included, you will have some free time in the afternoon. You may wish to visit the grand cathedral or take a wander through the Albaicn area, where you can soak up spectacular views of the Alhambra.

On day three, well traverse the stunning landscapes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range before skirting the Mediterranean coast along the picturesque Costa Tropical. This region enjoys a unique microclimate, perfect for growing exotic fruits like guavas, mangoes, and avocados, with sugar cane having been cultivated here in the past. Our first stop is Nerja, a delightful coastal village famed for its striking cliffs. We then make our way to Frigiliana, often celebrated as one of Andalusia's most beautiful villages. With its steep, winding streets and whitewashed houses, the village promises charm at every turn. Our journey continues to Malaga, the heart of the Costa del Sol. Known for its vibrant museum scene, Malaga is also the birthplace of Picasso and home to La Manquita, the unfinished cathedral affectionately nicknamed "The One-Armed Lady." Youll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch, explore the city centre, or, if the sun is shining, head to the beach for a refreshing swim.

We embark early this morning on one of the most picturesque segments of our journey, exploring the enchanting White Towns of Andalusia. Our first stop is Puerto Bans in Marbella, renowned for its lavish marina, abounding with glistening yachts and upscale boutiques. After taking a leisurely walk, we continue towards Setenil de las Bodegas, an extraordinary village where the houses are integrally built into the surrounding rock formations. Next, our adventure leads us to Ronda, a charming town dramatically situated on the edge of the Tajo gorge. Here, you can savour a traditional lunch before our included visit to the towns impressive bullring, one of Spain's oldest and most iconic.We then proceed to Olvera, a quintessential Andalusian village noted for its striking Moorish castle, neoclassical church, and vibrant floral displays on its balconies. Admission to both the castle and the local museum is included, providing insight into the area's rich history. Our day concludes as we reach Jerez de la Frontera in the evening, where you might wish to meander through the historic centre and indulge in tapas at the traditional tabancos.

Today, we find ourselves in the heart of Andalusia, in Jerez de la Frontera, a city renowned for its winemaking heritage, equestrian culture, and the art of flamenco. After breakfast, we'll visit the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the Carriage Museum and witness the majestic Andalusian horses in training (tickets included). Before departing Jerez, we'll make a brief stop to capture photographs of the exterior of the historic Moorish Alczar, a testament to the city's rich heritage.Our journey continues to El Puerto de Santa Mara, a coastal town celebrated for its fine wines and delectable seafood. We'll visit the Osborne Wineries, immersing ourselves in the rich traditions of regional winemaking, with tickets and a tasting included. After some free time to savour the local atmosphere, we'll embark on a picturesque boat ride to Cdiz, a journey lasting approximately half an hour. This city, one of Europe's oldest, offers you free time to explore its impressive cathedral and the charming old town.In the late afternoon, we'll cross the magnificent bridge towards Seville, where we'll arrive by the end of the day.

Following breakfast, we set off for Italica, an ancient Roman city and the birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian. Here, you can explore its impressive amphitheatre, which once welcomed 25,000 spectators, as well as the baths and intricate mosaics. Our journey continues to Palos de la Frontera, the historic port from which Columbuss ships embarked on their voyage to the Americas in 1492. We will explore La Rbida Monastery, where Columbus garnered support for his expedition, and visit the Wharf of the Caravels, home to replicas of his iconic shipstickets are included for these visits. Well pause for lunch in Huelva before heading along the Atlantic coastline near the Doana National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity. Our next stop is the quaint village of El Roco, which is famous for its pilgrimage and captivating rural charm. Here, you can visit the sanctuary and enjoy views of the surrounding parkland. We return to Seville in the evening, concluding another day of inspiring discoveries.

After breakfast, we'll embark on a tour of Seville, offering insight into this vibrant city. You'll explore the majestic Cathedral of Seville, home to the renowned Giralda tower, which provides breathtaking views of the city. As our tour continues, we'll admire the scenic banks of the Guadalquivir River and stroll through Seville's famous neighbourhoods, Santa Cruz and Triana, each rich in history and local culture. To further enhance your experience, we will enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Guadalquivir River, presenting you with panoramic views of the cityscape. In the evening, you have the choice to immerse yourself in Spanish culture by attending a traditional flamenco performance at a popular tablao, witnessing the passionate dance and music that are integral to Andalusian heritage.

As we depart from Seville, we will journey through the scenic landscapes characterised by rolling hills and expansive pastoral lands of Extremadura. Our first stop is Mrida, where youll have the chance to explore the Archaeological Ensemble of Mrida. Admission is included, and youll find yourself amidst well-preserved Roman ruins, including a theatre and amphitheatre, a testament to the citys rich historical heritage and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take your time to enjoy lunch and explore the lively pedestrian streets in the historic centre, dotted with delightful restaurants brimming with local character.We then cross into Portugal, making our way to vora, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its whitewashed alleyways, Renaissance palaces, and impressive cathedral, vora promises an enriching cultural experience. The citys charming streets and historical ambience provide an engaging backdrop for exploration. We will conclude our days journey by arriving in Lisbon in the evening, ready to settle into the vibrant atmosphere of Portugals capital.

We begin our day in Lisbon with a captivating tour of this enchanting city, celebrated for its picturesque hills, quaint alleyways, and iconic tilework. As we navigate the winding streets, you'll experience the unique ambiance of "saudade," a nostalgic longing that permeates the air, all illuminated by the city's distinctive Atlantic light. We will guide you through the Belem neighbourhood, historically significant as the departure point for Portuguese explorers setting out on their global voyages in the 15th century.In the afternoon, you'll have the freedom to explore further. Consider visiting the lively Bairro Alto district, known for its stunning viewpoints and vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, you might choose to venture out of the city on an optional excursion to the charming towns of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril, each offering its own unique attractions and coastal vistas.We'll regroup in the evening at the vibrant Restauradores Square, a bustling hub filled with stylish cafes and lively bars, before returning to our hotel to conclude the day's adventures.

On day ten, we journey northwards in Portugal towards Ftima, a significant pilgrimage destination known globally as a site of religious importance. Following a morning dedicated to exploration there, we continue our travels to Porto, Portugal's vibrant and culturally rich second-largest city. After a leisurely lunch, we embark on a 50-minute cruise along the Douro River aboard a traditional Rabelo boat. This excursion offers a delightful and unique perspective of Portos picturesque riverside vistas. Later, youll have time at your disposal to wander through the lively medieval Ribeira district, famed for its narrow, winding streets, historic merchant houses, and inviting cafs, before heading to the hotel for the evening.

On day eleven, we embark on a day filled with breathtaking landscapes and cultural exploration. We begin in Braga, where we'll board the world's oldest water-operated cable car, ascending to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus. This historic site offers captivating views, and we encourage you to descend via its scenic staircase to fully enjoy the experience. Our journey then takes us to Galicia, where we arrive in the historic town of Cambados, situated in the Ras Baixas region. Here, we'll enjoy a glass-bottom boat trip along the Ra de Arousa, gaining insight into local mussel and oyster production. As we cruise, indulge in a tasting of wine and mussels, savouring the local flavours.At midday, we arrive in Santiago de Compostela, a city steeped in history and known for its significance as a pilgrimage destination. We'll embark on a guided tour, wandering through its medieval streets and exploring the ancient sites that have drawn pilgrims since the Middle Ages. This day promises a rich blend of picturesque views and cultural immersion.

Today, we continue along the storied Way of St. James, halting at Lugo to wander its historic centre and admire the Roman Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our route then takes us to O Cebreiro, a charming Galician village known for its traditional stone structures. We'll arrive in Len by lunchtime, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the stunning Gothic cathedral, famed for its magnificent stained-glass windows, before enjoying a leisurely stroll through the town's historic streets. Our departure is anticipated around 5:00 p.m., with an expected arrival in Madrid by approximately 9:00 p.m. Depending on the size of the group, the final leg of our journey from Len to Madrid may be completed by train or coach. As our memorable journey concludes, we hope you've gathered experiences and memories to cherish. Please ensure you confirm your flight details in case an extra night's stay is necessary.