Highlights of Andalucia

Hola! Welcome to Spain. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 7 pm tonight in Seville – the capital of Andalusia, situated on the lower reaches of the River Guadalquivir. If you arrive early, maybe see some of the city’s cultural landmarks like Real Alcazar and Plaza de Espana, take a boat trip on the Guadalquivir River or visit Barrio Santa Cruz.

After your welcome meeting, maybe head out for dinner with your group and sample some local tapas.

After breakfast, join your local leader on an orientation walk through town. Explore the maze of narrow cobblestoned streets and sun-speckled squares in Barrio Santa Cruz, also known as the Jewish Quarter and El Centro, then pass by the grand gothic-style Catedral de Sevilla – the burial site of Christopher Columbus and the Giralda – built as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville. After, you’ll take part in a flamenco dance class. Learn how this cultural centre preserves the artistic heritage of dance, the history of the dance school and hear the stories of the teachers while you practice a few fun moves. (B)

This morning, travel to Granada – located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is known for its medieval architecture and hilltop fortress complex. Along the way, stop in Ronda for a short walk around the city. This mountaintop city sits above the El Tajo Gorge, which separates the city’s New Town from its Old Town.

Later, continue your journey to Granada. When you arrive, walk through the historic Christian cathedral district and see the Moorish influence first-hand on an orientation walk with your local leader. The rest of the afternoon is then free for you to explore at your own pace – maybe wander through the Alcaiceria (old silk market area) or head to one of the small flamenco taverns around the city and see how the art form here differs from Seville's version. (B)

Today, visit Granada's Alhambra Palace on a guided tour. Wander the dominating red fortress towers of this 11th-century complex set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The palace is made up of the Alcazaba – the 11th century Muslim wing, which has great views from the towers – and the Palacio Nazaries and Generalife – the summer palace of the sultans. After, join a local tasting tour to treat your tastebuds to olla de san anton (white bean stew), tortilla del sacromonte (omelet) or piononos (syrupy sponge cake). (B/L)

Say goodbye to Granada as you travel to Guadix this morning. This province of Granada lies at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. When you arrive, jump aboard a 4WD and travel through the Granada Geopark, which follows the valleys shaped by river erosion over the last half million years. With deep ravines, jagged cliffs and crumbling earth pyramids that stretch toward the sky, you’ll see why the locals call this region ‘the end of the world!’.

After your day exploring the Granada Geopark, sit down for dinner at your accommodation. (B/L/D)

This morning, travel to Malaga – the second largest city in Andalusia, set on the shores of the Mediterranean. When you arrive, get your bearings around town on an orientation walk with your local leader. The rest of the afternoon is then free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit historical sites like the Gibralfaro Castle, wander through the Carmen Thyssen Museum or simply relax on La Malagueta Beach.

Tonight, maybe head out for dinner with your fellow travellers – a great way to spend the last night of your Andalusia adventure! (B/D)

As there are no activities planned for today, you’re free to leave your accommodation at any time. If you would like to stay in Malaga (and it’s highly recommended you do) just speak to your booking agent ahead of time. (B)