The Beautiful South

Arrive at Málaga Airport, where you will be welcomed to Spain and met by your private driver for the transfer to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, providing the perfect opportunity to relax or begin exploring this vibrant Mediterranean city.

Situated on Andalucía's beautiful Costa del Sol, Málaga combines a rich historical heritage with a lively contemporary atmosphere. From its elegant streets and historic landmarks to its bustling waterfront and inviting cafés, the city offers a wonderful introduction to southern Spain.

Overnight in Málaga.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, meet your local guide for a fascinating exploration of Málaga's historic and cultural treasures. Begin at the magnificent Alcazaba, an impressive Moorish fortress overlooking the city, where beautiful courtyards, gardens and ancient defensive walls offer an insight into Málaga's Islamic heritage.

Continue to Gibralfaro Castle, dramatically positioned above the city, where panoramic views stretch across Málaga and the Mediterranean coastline. Discover the castle's important defensive role before returning to the historic centre to explore its atmospheric streets.

Your sightseeing also takes in the lively Atarazanas Market and Málaga Cathedral, affectionately known as 'La Manquita' or 'The One-Armed Lady', in reference to its unfinished south tower. Together, these landmarks reveal the fascinating layers of history that have shaped one of Andalucía's most captivating cities.

Overnight in Málaga.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Today, travel inland with your private guide and driver to the historic town of Antequera, often referred to as the 'Florence of Andalucía' for its remarkable architectural heritage. Discover a town shaped by successive civilisations, from its prehistoric origins and Roman past to its Moorish fortifications and magnificent Baroque buildings.

Visit the extraordinary megalithic dolmens, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before discovering Antequera's impressive Moorish Alcazaba and the celebrated Ephebe sculpture. Wander through historic streets lined with elegant churches and traditional architecture, gaining an appreciation of this fascinating inland destination.

After time for lunch, continue to the spectacular El Torcal Nature Reserve, renowned for its extraordinary limestone formations. Explore a dramatic landscape of weathered rocks, unusual shapes and breathtaking viewpoints, where centuries of natural erosion have created scenery unlike anywhere else in Andalucía.

Return to Málaga following your excursion.

Overnight in Málaga.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and meet your private driver for the journey to Granada, one of Andalucía's most historically significant cities. On arrival, check in to your hotel before preparing for an afternoon of exploration.

Meet your local guide for a fascinating walking tour of the Albaicín, Granada's atmospheric old Moorish quarter and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic neighbourhood retains much of its medieval Islamic character, with narrow winding streets, traditional houses, hidden squares and beautiful viewpoints overlooking the city.

As you explore, discover the area's rich cultural heritage, passing churches built on former mosque sites and the garden walls of traditional *cármenes*. Admire spectacular views towards the magnificent Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains while learning about the history and everyday life of this distinctive neighbourhood.

Enjoy a traditional drink during your guided experience before returning to your hotel.

Overnight in Granada.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Today is dedicated to one of Spain's most extraordinary architectural treasures, the magnificent Alhambra. Meet your guide and driver for a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, an outstanding complex of palaces, fortifications and gardens that reflects the artistic achievements of the Nasrid dynasty.

Explore the historic Alcazaba fortress, the beautifully decorated Nasrid Palaces and the enchanting Generalife Gardens. Admire intricate architectural details, elegant courtyards and peaceful gardens while discovering the fascinating history of Granada's former rulers.

Return to your hotel for some time at leisure before setting out again in the late afternoon for a memorable sunset experience in the Albaicín. Stroll through the neighbourhood's atmospheric streets and stop at a scenic viewpoint to admire the Alhambra as the changing evening light illuminates its historic walls against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada.

Continue to a traditional carmen restaurant, beautifully positioned with views towards the Alhambra. Enjoy a carefully prepared dinner featuring seasonal Andalusian and Granadian cuisine, accompanied by a selection of local wines and drinks.

Return to your hotel following this special evening.

Overnight in Granada.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, embark on a fascinating excursion to the remarkable Guadix region, where the landscapes of the Sierra Nevada give way to dramatic, almost desert-like scenery. This distinctive area is particularly famous for its traditional cave dwellings, which have been part of local life for generations.

Travel to Purullena to visit a unique cave house that serves as both a family residence and a museum. Discover the surprising comforts and practical advantages of underground living while learning about the traditions associated with these extraordinary homes.

Continue to nearby Guadix, where thousands of residents have historically lived in cave houses carved into the surrounding hillsides. Explore the distinctive Barriada de las Cuevas district and enjoy panoramic views across the town, including its impressive cathedral and historic Moorish castle.

The return journey to Granada passes through beautiful rural landscapes, with opportunities to stop for photographs along the way.

Overnight in Granada.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

This morning, meet your local guide for a walking tour through Granada's historic centre, discovering the fascinating heritage of a city that once served as the capital of the Nasrid Kingdom and the final Muslim stronghold on the Iberian Peninsula.

Visit the magnificent Royal Chapel, the final resting place of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand, before continuing to Granada Cathedral, an impressive Renaissance landmark built on the site of the former Great Mosque. Throughout your tour, discover how the city's Islamic, Christian and Jewish influences have contributed to its distinctive character.

In the afternoon, experience one of Andalucía's most celebrated cultural traditions with a visit to Sacromonte, Granada's historic hillside neighbourhood famous for its cave dwellings and flamenco heritage.

Enjoy an intimate one-hour flamenco performance in an authentic cave venue, where passionate singing, expressive dance and traditional guitar music combine to create a memorable cultural experience. The performance celebrates the traditions of the *zambra*, a distinctive style of flamenco closely associated with Sacromonte's Roma community.

Overnight in Granada.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and meet your private driver for the scenic journey to Ronda, one of Andalucía's most spectacular historic towns. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Dramatically positioned above the deep El Tajo gorge, Ronda is renowned for its breathtaking natural setting and remarkable architecture. Its famous Puente Nuevo bridge spans the ravine, connecting the town's historic quarters and offering magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.

Spend the afternoon discovering Ronda at your own pace, perhaps wandering through its atmospheric cobbled streets, admiring its traditional whitewashed buildings or relaxing at a café overlooking the beautiful Andalusian landscape.

Overnight in Ronda.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Today, meet your local guide for a fascinating tour of Ronda, a town celebrated for its dramatic location, rich heritage and extraordinary views across the Andalusian countryside.

Begin by exploring the charming historic quarter, where narrow streets and traditional whitewashed buildings reflect the town's long and colourful past. Admire the magnificent Puente Nuevo bridge, which spans the spectacular El Tajo gorge and remains one of southern Spain's most recognisable landmarks.

Continue to Ronda's historic bullring, one of the oldest stone bullrings in Spain, where you will learn about the traditions associated with this important aspect of the town's cultural heritage.

Your guided tour also includes Casa Don Bosco, an elegant mansion overlooking the gorge. Explore its attractive gardens and admire breathtaking views across El Tajo and the surrounding valley, providing a memorable conclusion to your discovery of Ronda.

Overnight in Ronda.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, leave Ronda and journey through the spectacular mountain landscapes of the Sierra de Grazalema, an area renowned for its picturesque whitewashed villages, rugged scenery and traditional Andalusian character.

Travel through beautiful countryside to one of the region's charming White Villages, where you will have time to explore its atmospheric streets and enjoy lunch at leisure. Discover the timeless appeal of these traditional settlements, with their whitewashed houses, narrow lanes and beautiful mountain surroundings.

Your journey also includes a delicious introduction to the region's gastronomic traditions with a visit to a local producer of the celebrated Payoyo cheese. Enjoy a tasting of different varieties, discovering the distinctive flavours and artisanal methods that have made this regional speciality so highly regarded.

Following your culinary experience, continue north towards Seville, Andalucía's vibrant capital. On arrival, check in to your hotel.

Overnight in Seville.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

This morning, meet your local guide for a fascinating exploration of Seville's extraordinary architectural and cultural heritage. Begin with a visit to the magnificent Real Alcázar, an outstanding palace complex celebrated for its beautiful Mudéjar architecture, intricate decoration and elegant courtyards.

Continue to Seville Cathedral, one of the city's most impressive landmarks, built on the site of a former great mosque. Admire its remarkable architecture and discover the history of the famous Giralda, originally constructed as a minaret and now one of Seville's most recognisable symbols.

Your guided tour concludes with a stroll through the charming Barrio de Santa Cruz, where narrow streets, picturesque squares and traditional Andalusian buildings create an enchanting atmosphere.

In the evening, experience Seville's celebrated culinary culture on a guided tapas tour. Accompanied by a local expert, discover atmospheric streets and hidden plazas while visiting three authentic tapas bars. Sample a variety of traditional dishes and regional drinks as you learn about the customs, flavours and social traditions that make tapas such an important part of Andalusian life.

Overnight in Seville.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Today offers a wonderful opportunity to discover Andalucía through its food, traditions and lesser-known neighbourhoods. Begin the morning with a market visit and cooking experience hosted by local chef Amelia, who shares her passion for the region's rich culinary heritage.

Explore the market to select fresh, seasonal ingredients before taking part in a hands-on cooking class inspired by traditional Andalusian cuisine. Discover the influences that have shaped the region's distinctive flavours before enjoying the dishes you have prepared for lunch.

In the afternoon, meet your local guide for an exploration of some of Seville's more authentic and less-visited neighbourhoods. Venture beyond the city's famous landmarks to discover the character of Alameda, Macarena and San Lorenzo, where traditional local life continues alongside fascinating historic architecture.

Your guided walk reveals hidden corners, decorative Mudéjar churches and the contrast between ancient Roman remains and contemporary landmarks such as the striking Metropol Parasol, commonly known as 'Las Setas' or 'The Mushrooms'.

Enjoy a refreshment in a local bar or café during your exploration.

Overnight in Seville.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, depart Seville with your private driver for a full-day excursion to Córdoba, one of Andalucía's most historically fascinating cities. Renowned for its remarkable architectural heritage and centuries of cultural exchange, Córdoba offers an unforgettable journey through Spain's rich past.

On arrival, meet your local guide and begin exploring the city's extraordinary landmarks. Visit the magnificent Mosque-Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece where Islamic and Christian influences exist side by side. Admire its remarkable forest of columns and distinctive arches while learning about the building's transformation through the centuries.

Continue to the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a historic fortress-palace associated with the Catholic Monarchs, whose impressive architecture reflects Córdoba's important place in Spanish history.

Enjoy time to discover the city's atmospheric narrow streets and picturesque courtyards, many adorned with colourful flowers, before returning to Seville in the late afternoon.

Overnight in Seville.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and meet your private driver for the transfer to Seville Airport, bringing your memorable journey through southern Spain to a close.

Depart with wonderful memories of Andalucía's magnificent palaces, historic cities, spectacular landscapes and charming whitewashed villages, together with the authentic flavours, fascinating traditions and warm hospitality that make this region so special.

Your journey concludes in Seville, with the option to extend your holiday and discover more of Spain.

 

Meals included:

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner