This trip combines walking in the countryside along with exploring some of Spain's most beautiful cities. Walks are all optional.
Day 1. Join tour Seville
Arrive and check-in at the hotel.2 nights hotel H+.
Day 2. In Seville
The capital of Andalucía overflows with life and variety. It has a popular quarter in Triana and a high-born area in Santa Cruz. Ramparts dating back to the 13th century, the Alcázar and the Giralda, all remind us of earlier Moorish occupation. Yet while the Alhambra was being built in Granada, the Christians occupied Seville, so many buildings reflect the Mudejar, a mixture of Moorish and Christian styles. Today we will visit the Alcázar, a marvellous example of mudejar architecture (guide optional). Queen Isabella constructed an extra wing from where she controlled Spain’s expansion into the New World of the Americas. Later we visit the cathedral, the largest (in cubic capacity) in the world. Built in the Gothic style, it shows obvious Renaissance influences and its interior is striking in size and richness. There is a wealth of things to see and do in Seville from museums and the Expo (92) complex to the splendid view from the Giralda tower; there is also the possibility of taking an excursion to the former Roman settlement of Italíca, birthplace of the Emperor Hadrian and at one time, the third largest Roman city in the world. (Included meals: B).
Day 3. Train to Cordoba
This morning we take the train to Cordoba. Standing on the banks of the Guadalquivir river, Córdoba was one of the most brilliant Moorish cities and is for many, the most beautiful city in Spain. The Arabs established themselves in Córdoba as early as 719AD, and before that the Romans had left their own mark here. The Roman philosopher Séneca (who was compelled to commit suicide by Nero) was born here, This afternoon we visit the renowned Mosque (Mezquita), an extraordinary and unique building where history has superimposed two faiths and erected two oratories on the one site (local guide optional). The early massive structure dates back to the 8th century, its roof supported by a forest of 850 coloured columns. Its jewel is the gleaming and superbly decorated Mihrab, which has survived in its original state . 2 nights hotel H+ (included meals: B).
Day 4. In Cordoba
Like Granada, Córdoba has a wealth of treasures locked away in its back streets with secluded patios tucked behind delicate iron grills. The medieval synagogues in Córdoba and Toledo are the only two which remain in Spain today, Córdoba synagogue dates back to the 14th century. You have more time to explore the city at your own pace and you may choose to take an optional trip to the ruins of the,Medina Azhara by taxi. In the evening we suggest you take in some traditional flamenco music and dancing (optional) (Included meals: B).
Day 5. Drive to Cazorla
This morning we drive by bus to the ancient town of Ubeda, set amid myriad olive groves on the borders of Andalucía and La Mancha (memories of Don Quixote!). Its fine cathedral, seignorial mansions and other edifices in golden stone give an idea of the reconstruction after its recapture from the Moors. We continue to Cazorla, an attractive mountain town nestling in a spectacular natural amphitheatre, overlooked by two Moorish castles. The steep, winding streets, whitewashed houses and balconied windows of its old quarter are full of character. An afternoon orientation walk immediately puts us in touch with the ‘real’ Spain. 3 nights hotel H+ (included meals: B).
Day 6. El Chorro walk
Cazorla forms a excellent base for walking in the surrounding Natural Park of the Sierra de Cazorla y Segura, a wild and rugged region, designated a conservation area on account of its dramatic beauty and wildlife. Those interested in a full day walk (6-7 hours approx) can join our tour leader on El Chorro walk. This involves an initial 2-3 hours’ climb, following a path to an isolated Franciscan monastery. We continue to the spectacular gorge of El Chorro where we stop to picnic and marvel at the aerial gymnastics of the local avian population. Our return route provides excellent views over the surrounding countryside. The dark olive groves and (in season) the crimson splashes of poppies against the scorched earth appear as an impressionist painting. Finally we descend the valley back to Cazorla. (Included meals: B).
Day 7. Free in Cazorla; optional 4WD and walking excursion
Today you can make an optional excursion by four wheel drive vehicle and on foot (4/5 hours) into the famed Cazorla Natural Park and Game Reserve which extends through the Sierra de Cazorla (with peaks towering to over 2,000m above the surrounding plain). The area is extensively forested and we may be fortunate to glimpse some of its famous wildlife – wild boar, mouflon and Spanish mountain goat among others. Setting off to the Laguna de Valdeazores, we walk downhill, following a water-course, then through short, narrow tunnels, eventually to follow the remarkable Senda de Elías, which twists and turns tortuously through the delightful Rio Barosa gorge. There may be the chance for a refreshing dip. Alternatively you can walk to and visit the dramatically located Moorish castles of La Yedra and La Iruela. (Included meals: Bx2).
Day 8. Bus to Granada
In the morning we travel by charter bus to the famous Andalucian city of Granada. The Arabic name ‘Al Andalus’ was given to the part of Spain under Islamic control for some 800 years. We include an afternoon orientation walk around the city which indicates the main points of interest including the Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter where many Islamic traditions are retained, giving the city its characteristic look of white walls and narrow streets. From the highest point are spectacular views across to the Alhambra and Generalife with the Sierra Nevada as a backdrop. When dusk falls, we suggest a stroll around the old Moorish Quarter to see its illuminated patios. 2 nights hostal H (included meals: B).
Day 9. In Granada
A major highlight of our trip is our guided visit of the magnificent palace of the Alhambra. In 1239 Muhammad al-Ahmar, founder of the Nasrid dynasty and Sultan of Granada, began work on this, the finest example of Moorish architecture outside the Arab world. The fabulous decoration in stucco, both inside and outside the buildings, reveals the purest expression of a sophisticated civilisation just before its decline. We also visit the Generalife, one of the most beautiful landscaped gardens in the world, which surrounds the summer residence of the Caliphs. It is possible to spend all day enjoying the Alhambra and Generalife, and those who wish to, may stay on after our visit. There are many interesting parts of the city which also warrant a closer look, so the rest of the day is free for personal exploration. (Included meals: B).
Day 10. Train to Ronda
We travel to Ronda by train this morning. On arrival in Ronda we transfer to our hotel and enjoy an afternoon in one of southern Spain’s most attractive towns. Ronda is one of the original pueblos blancos (white towns).There will be time to wander the streets and marvel at the El Tajo gorge and visit the oldest bullring in Spain. 2 nights H+ (included meals: B).
Day 11. Free time in and around Ronda
Today is left free, you may choose to spend more time exploring Ronda itself or going off or walks in the nearby countryside . A walk down into the gorge and strolling along the bottom of the rocks where the old town is built on gives you a very different vantage point of the town. (Included meals: B).
Day 12. Drive to Grazalema
This morning we will transfer to Grazalema, a delightful white village nestled beneath the limestone peak of San Cristobal, Grazalema is famous for hand-woven blankets first introduced during Moorish times and they are still made here on big old wooden looms. The village is a perfect base for walking. The Grazalema Parque Natural is one of the most stunning and ecologically important parks in Spain. The park is a micro-climate with the highest average rain fall in Spain and contains an ancient forest of Holm Oak and Montpellier Maple. You may get the opportunity to see buzzards and eagles soar high above, while mountain goats graze the mountain slopes. Those wishing to relax can ramble around the cobblestone backstreets whilst others might choose to go off for a walk into the hills. 2 nights H+ (included meals: B).
Day 13. In Grazalema
Grazalema by many is viewed as the archetypal Sierra town, and its peaceful beauty is in perfect accord with its surroundings. Spending time in this village gives us the opportunity to try different walks though the rolling countryside and to nearby villages such as Benaocaz (4-5 hours). Spending time soaking up the atmosphere in the village square will give you a real taste of rural Spain and makes a fitting end to the walking part of our tour. (Included meals: B).
Day 14. Drive to Seville
After some free time this morning to explore more of the great landscape around Grazalema, we head back to Seville where you have time for a last wander through the Santa Cruz area or perhaps one of the great parks in town. Overnight hotel H+ (Included meals: B).
Day 15. Tour ends in Seville
The tour ends after breakfast. (Included meals: B).
