The South of Spain & the Treasures of Andalucía
6 day tour

Day 1

• Uncover the fusion of cultures that shaped Toledo, the former capital of Spain
• Travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the backdrop for Don Quixote’s adventures

You leave the heart of Spain and head south to the former capital of the country, Toledo.

Sitting atop a hill and overlooking the Tajo River, this city used to be known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’. To get the real feel of the place, wander through the cobbled streets and try to spot the Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues, and Christian cathedrals.

You travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the setting for the adventures of the literary hero Don Quixote. Next, we enter one of Spain’s most luscious regions: Andalucía. Mountains, deserts, plains, beaches – there's a reason we can’t get enough. We’ll keep this afternoon flexible, stopping along our way for photos and spectacular wow-moments before arriving at our overnight destination.

Córdoba, your home for the night, welcomes you with its bustling squares and delightful architecture.

Accommodation

NH Cordoba Califa or similar, Córdoba

Day 2

• Explore La Mezquita, an immense mosque-cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage site

In the morning, you visit La Mezquita, one of the most spectacular mosques constructed by the Moors in Spain. This world-famous construction boasts countless rows of decorated arches, a serene interior, and is large enough to have a cathedral built inside it.

Next, we travel through rolling hills blanketed with the silvery-grey-green leaves of olive trees. It’s a sign you’ve entered the oil-producing province of Jaén.

We continue our journey south to the ruined hilltop fortress of Fortaleza de la Mota and arrive in Granada early evening, our base for two nights.

Included Activities

• Entrance to La Mezquita with audio guide included
• Entrance to Fortaleza de la Mota

Accommodation

Hotel Porcel Alixares or similar, Granada

Day 3

• Become entranced by the ornamentation of the Alhambra Palace
• Uncover the unique neighbourhood of house caves in Gaudix

You wake up in a city adorned with the most sensual palace of Europe, the Alhambra.

Your morning is blessed with a visit to this famous monument. When you look at it, you’re transported to the tales of 1,001 Nights. Originally a fortress and then a palace, this UNESCO World Heritage site will seize your imagination.

In the afternoon you'll uncover the unique Barrio de las Cauevas of Gaudix (neighbourhood of house caves in Gaudix). Choose to learn more about the history and evolution of this intricate maze of homes at the Gaudix Cave Dwellings Interpretation Centre, located inside several original cave dwellings.  

There may be time for a photo stop of the Sierra Nevada mountains before you head back to Granada. Use your evening in Granada to discover tapas restaurants and more of the culinary delights.

*Sometimes this day will be reversed, and you will visit the Alhambra in the afternoon.

Included Activities

• Entrance to the Alhambra with audio guide included

Optional Activities

• Entrance to the Gaudix Cave Dwellings Interpretation Centre

Accommodation

Hotel Porcel Alixares or similar, Granada

Day 4

• Discover the charm of Ronda, the most stunning of the pueblos blancos

Today is all about exploring the other faces of Andalucía; the beautiful wilderness and iconic pueblos blancos.

Your adventure then takes you through the landscapes of Malaga’s ‘Lake District’ before you reach Ronda. Precariously clinging to a steep cliff of the El Tajo Gorge, this commune captures your imagination with its literary connections and history full of outlaws. Stroll along the city walls, explore picturesque plazas, and enjoy your lunch.

Before making your way to Seville, you'll have the chance to learn how Spain’s ‘liquid gold’ is made at an olive oil farm.

Cast a last glance over the Andalusian countryside and start your journey to Seville, your home for two nights.

Included Activities

• Entrance to an olive oil farm 

Accommodation

Hotel Exe Sevilla Macarena or similar, Sevilla

Day 5

• Soak up the grandeur as you stroll through the Plaza de España
• Try the finest sherry in Jerez de la Frontera

Seville signifies the essence of Spain. This city will seduce you with its rich Moorish heritage, the orange trees, tapas, and passionate flamenco.

Today it’s up to you to decide how to spend the day.

You can dedicate your time to discover the best gems of the city’s 80 chapels at the Seville Cathedral and marvel at La Giralda. Or go for a stroll along the bank of the Guadalquivir to admire the iconic Torre del Oro, a military tower dating back to the 13th century.

Alternatively, you can join our half day tour and travel to Jerez de la Frontera. This elegant town is the heartland of sherry and Spanish brandy.

Whichever option you choose, spend the evening strolling through the shaded arches of the grand Plaza de España. Warning: with the hypnotic Flamenco performances, delicious tapas, and buzzing bars, this city can keep you entertained till the early hours.

Optional Activities

• Sherry winery visit in Jerez with wine tasting and snack

Accommodation

Hotel Exe Sevilla Macarena or similar, Sevilla

Day 6

• Soak up the sun in Huelva on the Costa de la Luz
• Wander through Tavira, one of the most charming towns of the Algarve

Say farewell to Seville and enjoy the last glimpses of the Andalusian countryside as you travel west towards the Costa de la Luz, a land of bright sunlight and golden sandy beaches.

You stop in the seaside city of Huelva, where Christopher Columbus planned his trip to find a western sea route to China and India. Here you'll visit the waterside exhibition, Muelle de las Carabelas, where you can see life-size replicas of Columbus's three ships.

Next, you cross the Portuguese border and stop at Tavira in the Algarve. Set on the River Gilão, this town exudes an irresistible charm and makes you want to discover its hidden corners. Wander through the cobblestone streets, cross an old Roman bridge and try Portuguese cuisine for the first time.

Take in the last views of the Algarve and journey north where laid-back Lisbon awaits you in the evening.

Included Activities

• Entrance to Muelle de las Carabelas