Extraordinary Spain

Get under the skin of Spain's vibrant culture, taking in the hustle and bustle of Madrid before enjoying the delights of Andalucia. Admire incredible architecture, explore colourful cities and discover picturesque scenery with this charming itinerary around southern Spain.

1. Fly to Madrid

2. Days 1-4: Madrid

   Begin in Spain's capital, Madrid, a city rich in culture, art and architecture. Here you'll spend three nights at Urso Hotel & Spa, a stylish, boutique hotel in the city's lively Chueca neighbourhood, and the ideal base from which to discover Madrid. Art lovers will delight in Madrid's 'Golden Triangle of Art', which comprises three world-renowned galleries, including the famed Prado Museum. Admire some of Europe's finest art before wandering through the opulent chambers and salons of Madrid's magnificent Royal Palace. Built in the 18th century, this lavish royal residence is one of the largest palaces in Europe, and with 2,800 rooms, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring the elegant interior.

   Spend a day outside the hustle and bustle of Madrid in the enchanting city of Toledo. This ancient city is renowned for its cultural heritage - this was where Christian, Jewish and Muslim cultures peacefully coexisted in the Middle Ages. Situated on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus river, Toledo offers wonderfully dramatic views across the gorge below. Discover the history behind this multi-cultural city and admire the works of controversial artist El Greco, who once lived within the city walls.

   Accommodation: Urso Hotel & Spa (3 nights)

3. Days 4-7: Seville, Andalucia

   Continue south to Andalucia, starting in the region's cultural capital, Seville. A city where Spanish traditions are brought to life, Seville is the essence of Spain as we know it - this is the birthplace of tapas and flamenco. Spend three nights exploring Seville from your base at Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Mudejar-style icon of the city, and soak up the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere of the old town. A truly beautiful city, Seville boasts breathtaking architecture, from the majestic Moorish design of the Real Alcazar to the Gothic masterpiece that is Seville's cathedral. Wind your way through the captivating streets by day and spend evenings mingling with the locals, tasting your way around Seville's best tapas bars, sampling local delicacies such as jamon iberico and sherry from nearby Jerez.

   From Seville, take a day trip to Cordoba, once the largest city in western Europe and the capital of Islamic Spain. Thanks to its fascinating history, Cordoba is home to a rich and varied culture which is clearly shown in the city's glorious Mezquita. This breathtaking mosque was constructed in the 10th century and is still one of the world's finest displays of Islamic architecture, despite the addition of a cathedral at its centre in the 16th century.

   Accommodation: Hotel Alfonso XIII (3 nights)

4. Days 7-9: Granada, Andalucia

   Next, head east to Granada, a city spectacularly surrounded by the snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada, and Iberia's last Moorish outpost. Spend two nights at the Hospes Palacio de los Patos, a former palace dating back to the 19th century. A real highlight of any trip to Granada is exploring the vast complex of the Alhambra, one of Spain's most iconic monuments. Step back in time as you enter this impressive palace and find yourself transported back to Moorish Spain. Wander through the complex, admiring the intricate details of the design before continuing on to the Generalife palace to explore its tranquil and perfectly-manicured gardens.

   Accommodation: Hospes Palacio de los Patos (2 nights)

5. Days 9-12: Andalucia

   Your final stop will be deep in the heart of rural Andalucia at the eco-conscious Finca La Donaira. Surrounded by spectacular scenery, this luxurious farmhouse blends seamlessly with the landscape, offering home-grown farm-to-table cuisine and riding lessons with its 70 Lusitano horses. Unwind in this peaceful spot, relaxing in the spa or taking guided walks through the forests and vineyards that surround the property. For those looking to continue exploring, nearby Ronda is well worth a visit. This enchanting town is dramatically perched above El Tajo gorge & offers fantastic views of the Andalucian countryside. Get off the beaten track and discover some of the region's traditional villages, wandering through the charming streets of these whitewashed hilltop towns, found scattered through the striking mountain scenery.

   Accommodation: Finca La Donaira (3 nights)

6. Fly home from Seville

Madrid, Seville, Granada & Montecorto