Iberian Inspiration & Discover Portugal

Did you know that Madrid's ancient name was Ursaria – meaning ‘land of the bears'? While you won't find any of these fearsome creatures roaming its streets today, you will be greeted with a glittering array of treasure-filled art galleries, elegant shopping arcades and grand royal palaces.

Meet your small group of fellow explorers in the city's vibrant heart where we'll settle down for our very first meal together. Local specialties you might spot on the menu? Crispy patatas bravas, simple but tasty tortilla and juicy campo real green olives tossed in fragrant herbs. Buen provecho!

After a filling Spanish breakfast and a steaming mug of café con leche, we'll swap the country's current capital for its ancient one as we venture an hour south to Toledo. Perched above the serene Rio Tajo, it's often called the ‘city of three cultures' – and we'll discover why during a guided walking tour with our history-loving Tour Leader.

Prepare to get lost in centuries of beguiling tales as we stroll beneath the horse-shoe arches of the Mosque of Cristo de Luz and gaze up at the gilded scallop detailing on the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca's vaulted ceiling. You'll also have a chance to roam the storied galleries of the 15th-century Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, which was founded by Spain's most iconic royal duo: King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile.

The afternoon is yours to delve even deeper into this diverse city. If you have a sweet tooth, don't forget to seek out some intricately shaped marzipan. It's a Toledo speciality that's been crafted by local artisans for centuries. And when you're ready for dinner, ask your Tour Leader for the best places to try traditional Castilian delicacies like herby roasted partridge, crispy cuchifrito (deep fried pork) and paprika-spiced sopa de ajo (garlic soup).

We'll be greeted by the waving arms of traditional windmills today as we weave our way through the golden-hued valleys of the lush La Mancha plateau. We'll pause in the sleepy town of Puerto Lápice that's best known as the setting of Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote adventures. They'll be time to uncover more about the suave fictional gentleman at the dedicated museum. Or you could seek out a local cafe to try a slice of tarta de flor: a moreish milk tart featuring layers of ruffled, flaky pastry.

Then, it's onwards to Valdepeñas where we'll savour the fruits of this fertile region at a local bodega. As well as sipping three sumptuous natural wines, we'll tuck into a tasty homecooked lunch. You'll also have a chance to purchase some wine in the bodega's shop; the perfect souvenir to remind you of the day's culinary adventures.

Afterwards, our path will lead us to Córdoba: a city of jaw-dropping Moorish architecture, exhilarating equestrian events and fantastical fiestas. Spend the last few hours before dusk getting lost in its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town or enjoying a little downtime by the pool in your hotel's sun-dappled courtyard. Eager to experience more of Córdoba's local culture? Venture to the city's 16th-century Royal Stables to watch its evening showcase that merges expert horsemanship with a touch of flamenco. ¡Olé!

Prepare to step back in time to the days of Islamic Iberia during this morning's locally guided tour around Córdoba Old Town. The highlight will be the spectacular UNESCO-protected Mezquita where we'll marvel at the former mosque-cathederal's mishmash of architectural styles – walking beneath orange and white striped Islamic arches and across glass floors which reveal the remains of ancient Roman mosaics.

We'll follow this up with a stroll around Córdoba's Jewish Quarter. Wander past the bronze Maimónides Monument – dedicated to a famed medieval philosopher – and revel in the vibrant atmosphere of the artisan souk (known locally as El Zoco). Nestled in a small courtyard around the corner from the city's 14th-century Synagogue, it's the perfect spot to pick up local keepsakes like intricate silver filigree jewellery and hand-carved wooden puppets.

Then, you'll have another afternoon free to slow down and soak up Córdoba's treasures. Tuck into some sugar-dusted churros at a cafe in Plaza del la Corredera: the site of the city's bullring in the 16th century. Or settle down at a bodega to sip on a fifty-fifty – a heady local cocktail made with equal parts white wine and sweet sherry. Delicioso!

As we wave goodbye to Córdoba and dive deeper into the Andalusian countryside, you'll notice one thing dotted across the landscapes: olive trees!

We'll be sampling some authentic Spanish olive oil in Úbeda: a World Heritage-listed town bursting with elegant Renaissance palaces. Take a moment to admire the blue and white tiled tower of the Hospital de Santiago before we step inside the town's Centro de Interpretación Olivar y Aceite. This museum is entirely dedicated to the cultivation of extra virgin olive oil. As well as enjoying a masterclass in olive harvesting with a local expert, we'll savour the subtle differences between several oils during a tasting session.

If that whets your appetite, they'll be time to grab lunch before we continue our journey. Seek out ochíos con morcilla: a regional speciality featuring soft, paprika spiced bread rolls filled with savoury black pudding. Then, intriguing tales of revolution and the Reconquista await us in Granada – another of Spain's UNESCO World Heritage treasures. Here, we'll be snoozing like royalty in a former palace at its very heart. Dulces sueños...

Pomegranates are traditionally symbols of success and abundance – so it's no surprise that Granada was named after this sweet, ruby-red fruit. The city has stood proudly at the foot of the soaring Sierra Nevada mountains for over 2,000 years, with its tapestry of incredible monuments a testament to its immense history.

No visit would be complete without stepping foot in the ancient walled Alhambra fortress: one of the world's best examples of Islamic architecture. The corridors of this intricately decorated complex whisper of enthralling stories – from the expulsion of the Moors in the late 15th-century to the bombardment of its towers by the French during the Napoleonic Wars. We'll enjoy a guided tour around a few sections, remembering to pause and feast our eyes on the Alhambra's sweeping outlook across Granada's Moorish old town.

Then, you'll have the rest of the day to weave your own path through Granada's historical streets. Get lost in Albayzin's tangled web of lanes, admire the sunlight shining through the stained-glass windows of Granada Cathedral or clap your hands along to some flamenco at a cave bar in Sacromonte.

There's no better way to complete a day in Granada than settling down in a cosy local tapas bar. It's still common for drinks to be served with complimentary tapas, too. A glass of full-bodied Tempranillo paired with fried anchovies or potatoes dipped in garlicky aioli? Yes, please!

Ernest Hemingway once described Ronda as ‘a romantic set' – and we'll find out just why as we meander our way south to its dramatic location in the Sierra de las Nieves National Park. You will be able to walk through its cobbled streets and bodega-lined squares, seeing the Puente Nuevo: the largest of Ronda's three bridges which hangs over the narrow, cragged chasm of the El Tajo Gorge.

Then, the afternoon's activities are up to you. Seek out Plaza Duquesa de Parcent in the heart of the Old Town and guess how many architectural styles have influenced the exquisite yet eclectic Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor. Or amble beneath the gently swaying trees of Alameda del Tajo park, pausing at its clifftop gazebo to soak up jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding hills and vineyards.

As golden hour approaches, why not regroup with your fellow travellers for a glass of local wine at the Hotel Catalonia's rooftop bar? Clink your glasses as the sun sets over nearby Plaza de Toros de Ronda – casting fantastical shadows from the bullring's arches and pillars. Then, it'll be time for a delicious group dinner back at the hotel.

A city known for fiery flamenco and juicy oranges is on our agenda today. But before we glide into stunning Seville, we'll leisurely explore the scenic back roads of Andalusia – stopping off at several wonderful, white-washed towns in Cadiz province along the way.

Grazalema is up first – and its lofty location among the limestone peaks of the Sierra del Endrinal is truly breathtaking. Spend an hour or so wandering the village's cobbled streets that explode with colourful potted plants throughout the spring and summer.

As lunchtime approaches, we'll roll into Jerez – specifically the Bodegas Fernandez GAO where an indulgent sherry tasting and tapas feast awaits. Flutter your eyelids closed as you relish the aromatic notes of three sweet wines...

If you're feeling merry and content, why not settle down for a siesta in the minicoach? When you wake up, we'll be in Seville where our evening plans include a traditional flamenco show at the prestigious Museo del Baile Flamenco. Hope you've practised your claps and heel taps!

Two words to sum up Seville? Charismatic and colourful. This ancient city has stood proudly on the banks of the tumbling River Guadalquivir for over 2,000 years, and it shimmers with architectural gems. We'll delve into one of its most famous – the UNESCO World Heritage Alcázar of Seville – on a locally-guided tour.

Then, the rest of the day is free to get lost in local Sevillian life. Centuries of history make up the rich tapestry of this city and you could easily spend several hours roaming rugged Roman ruins, hunting down Moorish mosaics or ambling leisurely around the sweeping, classical-era Plaza de España. Alternatively, embrace the contemporary at the Setas de Sevilla: a series of space-age, mushroom-like structures housing the city's archaeological museum and a sprawling marketplace.

And, finally, don't forget to end your explorations with a refreshing glass of quintessential orange wine at one of the abundant bars in the atmospheric Santa Cruz neighbourhood.

Today, we'll swap the bustling streets of Seville for the tranquillity of the Sierra de Aracena – an unspoilt mountain range peppered with castles, quaint villages and sheep-filled pastures. It's part of a vast national park crisscrossed with scenic, snaking roads which we'll effortlessly traverse in our minicoach.

As well as soaking up all the spectacular scenery out of your window, we'll stop off at a local pig farm to indulge in an iconic Iberian treat: jamón ibérico. Watch the resident hogs' curly tails twirl as they run around happily in the surrounding dehesa (pastures) before paying a visit to the farm's cellars where the cured meat is dried. Then, it'll be time for the main event: a delectable tasting of several authentic jamón varieties paired with a duo of scrumptious local cheeses.

With our camera rolls and bellies full, we'll move onto our next hotel in the Sierra de Aracena countryside for an evening of leisure.

Ready to explore the Portuguese side of Iberia? After a lazy morning at our hotel, we'll get comfy in our luxury minicoach and continue our journey west – pausing for a quick café con leche just before the border in Rosal de le Frontera.

Then, say adiós! to Spain as we enter Portugal's Alentejo region – gaining an hour of time back in the process. That's a whole extra hour to enjoy the delights of Monsaraz; an impeccably preserved medieval village. You'll wander its winding streets during an orientation tour with your Tour Leader. Keep your eyes peeled for its four historic portas (gates) and feel the sun kiss your face as you gaze out over the Alqueva Dam that sprawls for miles across the wild countryside.

After getting your first taste of Portuguese food for lunch (ask your Tour Leader for their favourite recommendations), we'll continue to Estremoz. Known as the ‘White City' for its magnificent white marble architecture, you'll have the remainder of the afternoon to explore its 13th-century Old Town before we reconvene for our farewell dinner. Tuck into some seasonal Alentejo delicacies and raise a toast to our Iberian adventure. Saúde!

After one last tasty breakfast together, we'll venture further into the Alentejo region – stopping off in the elegant city of Évora. The Roman goddess of nature will be the star of our orientation walk as we amble past the town's main attraction: the Templo de Diana.

You'll also have the chance to pick up a map of the area at the tourist information office; the perfect keepsake from our mini jaunt around Portugal! Then, tuck into a bowl of local sopas de pão – an aromatic soup topped with chunks of bread – before we hit the road for Lisbon.

We'll reach the undulating hills and tram-lined streets of the capital mid-afternoon, where your first journey concludes. After saying goodbye to your travelling companions, your Connected Trip continues with another adventure through Portugal.

After meeting your new small group of fellow explorers, we'll kick off our journey with a group dinner in the historic Alfama district – Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood. It's a nest of cobblestone alleys, pastel-coloured homes, and hidden bars and eateries just waiting to be discovered with every turn. As we weave through, spot clotheslines criss-crossed on narrow streets, potted plants perched on wrought-iron balconies and hear friendly chatter drift out from windows – it's easy to imagine what local life must be like here.

At dinner, we're in for a real treat as our meal will be accompanied by a traditional Fado performance. Prepare to be moved by this passionate artform that dates back to the early 1800s: typically a combination of atmospheric guitar and haunting, soaring vocals whose lyrics tell melancholic tales of love, loss and nostalgia. The evening's soulful folk songs are sure to leave a lasting impression. What a start to our journey! And here's to an incredible ten days ahead.

Have you noticed the intricately-patterned tiles on the facades of Lisbon's buildings? These ornate azulejos are a defining characteristic of Portuguese architecture, dating back to the 13th century. Their striking blue-and-white designs immortalise Portugal's history and culture, from biblical tales to maritime journeys. This morning, it's your turn to add to the tradition and get those creative juices flowing! We'll visit a local atelier where you can paint your own one-of-a-kind tile. What story will you capture in your design, making it uniquely yours?

Just outside the city, we'll visit the National Palace of Queluz, a rococo style summer palace with over 50,000 hand-painted tiles lining the walls, and manicured gardens made for wandering. Next, we'll head to the coast with a leisurely stop in the town of Cascais. Perhaps spend this free time enjoying lunch in a seafront cafe or stroll along the marina. We'll then take the scenic route back to Lisbon where the afternoon is yours to uncover more of the city's secrets.

Why not take a ride on the iconic, yellow Tram 28 to really get to the heart of it all? (Be sure to grab a window seat!). Or, hunt down the city's best pastel de nata. This egg custard pastry is a real classic (best enjoyed warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon), and you've sure earnt one (or two) after today's adventures. Our top tip? Seek out one of the many viewpoints, or miradouros, for sunset. Known as the ‘City of Seven Hills', Lisbon's lookouts offer stunning panoramas over the city's terracotta roofs and Tagus River as day gives way to night.

Onwards to Óbidos! Where medieval castle walls embrace the historic centre like a warm hug, whitewashed houses pop with accents of brightly-coloured stripes and the scent of freshly-baked pão com chouriço (a moreish bread filled with rich chorizo sausage) drifts from the local bakery. We'll take it all in on an orientation tour. And, while you're here, don't miss the Ginja de Óbidos – a local cherry liquor whose sweet and sour flavour zings on the tastebuds.

Then, we're off to the charming fishing town of Nazaré, where you'll have free time to explore this world-renowned surfing mecca. You could simply stroll along the town's golden beach and feel the sand's warm glow beneath your feet. Or, why not take a walk to the hilltop, Sanctuary of Our Lady Nazareth? This hilltop church is home to the famous wooden carving of the Black Madonna.

To close today's chapter, we journey to Alvados, where you'll settle into our stunning, nature-inspired hotel, that's nestled in the Serra de Aire and Candeeiros Natural Park. Admire the lush olive groves from your room's window and get ready for a peaceful sleep... But not before we roll up our sleeves for a cookery class and dinner. Be sure to make note of your favourite recipes for a taste of Portugal back home!

Tomar's Convento de Cristo beckons! As we explore this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site this morning, imagine the echo of footsteps from knights and monks of centuries past, gaze up at intricately-gilded frescoes and seek out the azulejos that adorn its hushed cloisters. Your in-the-know local guide will have plenty of tales to share about this 12th-century jewel, founded by the Knights Templar.

Before returning to Alvados, there's a treat in store for the foodies among us. We'll pay a visit to a charming, family-run olive oil producer to learn all about what makes each golden drop of their local produce so delicious. We'll start off with a guided tour of the estate, featuring a visit to the historic mill, to gain an insight into both traditional and modern production processes – from harvest through to pressing.

Then, it's time to awaken your senses with a guided tasting – you'll learn how to smell, sip and analyse the oil's aroma, flavour profile and texture. You'll also get to sample more regional delights like artisanal jams, cheese and local wine. This premium, extra virgin oil is too good to leave behind – we won't blame you for buying a bottle (or three) to take home! This evening is yours to relax and soak up the serenity of our surroundings back at the hotel. You could set out on one of the nearby walking trails or take a dip in the outdoor pool and listen to the breeze gently tickle olive tree branches. The perfect way to end the day.

Our journey north continues with a visit to Coimbra, home to its famed hilltop university. Founded in 1290 (yes, really!), it's one of the oldest universities in the world; imagine yourself as a student as we wander through its historic grounds. The showpiece has got to be the legendary Joanina Library. Spot the trompe l'oeil fresco, gilded mouldings and intricately-carved wood whose lavish details solidify the library as a Baroque masterpiece.

Before we descend back to the medieval centre for some free time, don't miss a glimpse of the Mondego River from one of the university's viewpoints, and seek out a Pastéis de Santa Clara (almond and egg-yolk pastry) for a local sweet treat.

We're heading into mountain territory this afternoon as we journey on to Viseu. But not before a visit to a traditional working farm. The farm's cheesemakers will spill the secrets behind the unique flavour of their artisanal produce, and you'll soon see why the local Queijo Serra da Estrela cheese is so celebrated. Following a fascinating overview of the cheese-making process, from milk curdling to mould maturation, we'll even get to enjoy a private tasting session. You'll try three distinctive types of Serra da Estrela cheese, Pão de Ló (traditional sponge cake), Broa Doce (sweetcorn bread) and more. Bom apetite!

Once in Viseu, the evening is all yours. With plenty of dining options within walking distance of our centrally located hotel, you'll have no shortage of places to choose from.

Where terraced vineyards are etched into undulating hillsides like the raked sand of a Zen garden and a golden river meanders through the landscape like an unfurling ribbon – this is the Douro Valley. Drink it all in from the windows of the luxury minicoach as we thread our way through this soul-stirring region towards Lamego: a historic town nestled deep within the valley.

Lamego is home to an astonishing, tree-lined Baroque staircase that features a formidable 686 steps, blue-and-white azulejos, and ornate sculptures that lead up to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Good Remedy. We'll enjoy an included visit to this 18th-century wonder before taking time to explore the city at our own pace.

Later, we'll turn our attention to Pinhão, where a private cruise on a traditional wooden rabelo boat awaits. These flat-bottomed boats were historically used to transport cargo along the river (including wine barrels, of course!). But, today, it's our turn to hop in and get a front row seat of the valley's cinematic scenery. How many wine estates can you spot along the way?

Back on dry land, we'll journey to our hotel, nestled within a stunning vineyard, for another sumptuous dinner. Trade fun facts you've learnt today about the region's wine and port and raise a glass to another day of discovering Portugal!

The patchwork quilt of the valley's rolling hills makes a serene backdrop to your free day. So, what takes your fancy? Will it be a guided tour and wine tasting followed by a stroll through the hotel's vineyards? Or, perhaps a day spent relaxing by the glistening pool with a picnic has your name on it. Decisions, decisions... Whatever story you choose to write today, this evening, we'll reconvene with the group for a delicious dinner once again and share what we've been up to. Be sure to catch the sunset later – where a cotton candy sky gives way to the sapphire blue of night.

Tear yourself away from the Douro Valley – our sights are set on Amarante this morning, a tranquil riverside town characterised by its striking arched bridge and 16th-century São Gonçalo Church. Hear the echoes of prayer and the hum of the organ reverberate through the walls as you admire the gilded Baroque altar, before you set off to explore the town's narrow, medieval streets at your leisure.

After lunch, we'll set a course for Penafiel where we'll indulge in a glass (or three) of the region's famous vinho verde (green wine) at a family-run winery. A specialty of the region, this unique wine is known for its crisp flavour and slight fizz. Its fresh taste captures the essence of the grapes harvested in Portugal's verdant northwest. Be sure to stock up on a bottle or two, that is, if you still have space left in your bags!

An evening of exploration awaits as we arrive in charming Braga, and your Tour Leader is sure to have a host of recommendations for regional dishes to try for dinner. To kick things off, we hear the bacalhau (dried and salted cod baked with potatoes) and the pudim à abade de priscos (a sweet crème caramel pudding) are favourites, even with the locals. Our accommodation this evening? A 16th-century hospital-turned-hotel that's brimming with history and even features restored original features, including vaulted ceilings. If these walls could talk...

Did you know, the medieval city of Guimarães was the birthplace of Afonso Henriques, Portugal's first king? Often called the ‘cradle of Portugal', we'll get to know it a little better on a guided tour of the city's two highlights – the castle and Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. Then, for lunch, step back in time to the Middle Ages and roam the city's historic centre, where half-timbered houses and winding streets are steeped in centuries of stories.

With full bellies, we'll head back to Braga for an afternoon of exploring. While you're here, be sure to pay a visit to the Bom Jesus Sanctuary – it's one of Portugal's most famous attractions for good reason. Here, you can follow in the footsteps of pilgrims who climb over 570 steps to reach the church at the top. Or, simply hop on the funicular for a more leisurely experience! Along the way, look out for the fountains that represent the five senses and sculptures that portray Old Testament characters.

This evening, we'll tuck into one last dinner together. A traditional folk performance is tonight's grand finale, bookending our trip with another captivating experience.

With its postcard-perfect waterfront, world-renowned port wine and friendly locals, our journey through northern Portugal ends in Porto. We'll stroll across the iconic Luís I Bridge and take a moment to reflect on the memories made over the past ten days. Soak in the spectacular panoramic views, spotting Porto's historic Ribeira district, port wine lodges on the Gaia side, and traditional rabelo boats floating along the Douro River. Before we say farewell, why not indulge in one last pastel de nata for good measure? The Francesinha (a decadent sandwich covered in a lavish, beer-based sauce) is also a must-try!