The Spirit of Andalucia

Day 1 - UK - Málaga - Granada

Our nationwide shared chauffeur service collects you from home for your flight to Málaga. On arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel in Granada.

Day 2 - Granada

Granada is a sprawling jumble of old Spanish flair and Islamic-influenced architecture. It has inspired travellers for centuries. We’ll take a tour of the spectacular Alhambra Palace, known as the ‘Red Castle’ for its russet-coloured stone. The only medieval Arab palace still in existence, it is recognised as one of the Wonders of the World. We also visit the verdant Generalife Gardens. Full of secret corners, trickling fountains and blooming walkways, it’s the beautiful home of the summer palace. Please note there’s a considerable amount of walking involved today.

Day 3 - Cordoba

We’ll head to Cordoba for a two-night stay. On the way, we’ll stop in the outskirts of the city at the ruins of Medina Azahara, where remnants of tiled borders and paintings of the 10th-century palace still remain. We enjoy a guided tour.

Day 4 - Cordoba

We’ll explore Cordoba today, one of Europe’s most important cities in the 11th century, where Muslims, Christians and Jews lived in harmony. Its distinctive landmark, the Mezquita, is one of the largest mosque-cathedrals in the world and remains one of the great wonders and curiosities of Spain. We love venturing into the oldest part of the city, where cobbled streets open up onto lively squares and beautiful churches tower overhead. Here, you’ll notice the Gothic and Mudejar styles come together. We’ll have a guided tour including a visit to the Mezquita.

Day 5 - Carmona - Seville

Heading for the capital of Andalucia, Seville, we’ll stop along the way in the captivating hilltop town of Carmona. Enjoy some time at leisure to wander amongst picturesque squares and magnificent churches, and pose for a photo in front of the colourful tiles of the Town Hall. On arrival in Seville, our guided tour includes the Alcazar, a former Arabic palace and fortress, and the cathedral, the third largest in the world and burial place of Columbus. The cathedral shares the same site as the Great Mosque and we’ll also see the old Jewish quarter, Maria Luisa Park, and Plaza de España.

Day 6 - Seville

Today is free for you to make the most of Seville. Perhaps spend some time wandering along the river banks, taste tapas in the old tapas bars and explore the old neighbourhoods of Triana. In the evening, there’s also an option to watch a flamenco show.

Day 7 - Jerez

We head to Jerez, whose wealth has been derived from its locally produced sherry. We’ll visit a bodega for a tasting accompanied by some tapas. The town is equally famous for its equestrian activities and breeds Arabian and Andalucian horses. Our afternoon is free to explore, maybe wander through the charming small squares such as the Plaza de la Asuncion or spend time expanding your sherry knowledge at the bodega.

Day 8 - Ronda

After a drive through picturesque, winding mountain roads, we’ll arrive in Ronda. Close your eyes and dream up the most idyllic whitewashed Spanish village you can think of - it will not be prettier than Ronda. This beautiful ancient city was even known to the Romans and today it’s famous for its spectacular setting and impressive medieval bridge that spans the 120km-deep El Tajo gorge. It’s also the home of modern bullfighting and at the centre of the town you’ll find Spain’s oldest bullrings. The city was loved so much by Orson Welles that his ashes are buried here.

Day 9 - Jerez - Malaga - UK

Today we depart for the airport and your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.