Itinerary
Day 1 Malaga Airport Malaga
Pick up your rental car at Málaga's airport and self-drive to the hotel in Malaga.
Welcome to Malaga! Malaga is a city known for its rich historical sites such as the Alcazaba, one of the largest Moorish fortresses in Andalusia, and Gibralfaro Castle, which provides stunning views of the city. Adjacent to the castle, you will find a Roman theatre and a charming old town to explore. The streets of Malaga offer various attractions, including the Atarazanas Market, where you can enjoy a refreshing vermouth, and landmarks such as the Cathedral, affectionately referred to as 'La Manquita' (the one-armed) due to its unfinished right tower.
This evening, you have the opportunity to partake in a private guided tapas tour of Málaga. During this experience, you will learn about the art of ordering tapas, as well as have the chance to mingle with the locals and savour the finest produce the region has to offer.
A delicious tapas dinner and beverages is included.
Overnight stay in Malaga at Hotel Molina Lario or similar.
Day 2 Malaga
After breakfast, experience a half-day in Malaga including the Alcazaba & Museo Picasso.
Begin your journey at the Alcazaba, an Arab palace-fortress constructed in the 11th century under the reign of King Badis of Granada. This remarkable architectural marvel is designed to seamlessly follow the natural contours of the terrain, maximizing its elevated hillside location. The Alcazaba consists of two concentric spaces: the lower exterior area and the inner palace. Explore the beautifully preserved remnants of this historical fortress, which offers stunning views of the city and the sea.
Museo Picasso: Your next stop is the world-renowned Museo Picasso, home to a magnificent collection of masterpieces generously donated by the Picasso family to honor the artist's birthplace. This museum showcases the evolution of Picasso's art and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the creative genius of one of the 20th century's most influential artists.
This inclusive experience features a private guide and admission to all monuments, providing a profound exploration of Malaga's heritage and artistry.
Overnight stay in Malaga at Hotel Molina Lario or similar.
Day 3 Malaga Granada
After breakfast, drive with your rental car from Málaga to Granada.
Experience a half-day guided tour of Alhambra with an official guide —a captivating and unique UNESCO World Heritage Site in Spain. The renowned Red Castle, made famous by Washington Irving's Tales of the Alhambra, transports visitors to a distant and fascinating world with its stunning gardens, fountains, and mysterious rooms. Don't miss the breathtaking Nasrid palace, where witnessing a sunset from its walls alone justifies the journey.
Overnight stay in Granada at Hospes Palacio de los Patos or similar.
Day 4 Granada Ronda
After breakfast, drive with your rental car from Granada to Ronda.
Welcome to the introductory walk through Ronda with an official guide! Ronda is one of Spain's oldest cities, with a rich history from the Neolithic age to the Roman Empire, the Muslim Kingdom, and 18th-century art and architecture. It is considered one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in Andalusia, with treasures like the bullring, Real Maestranza of Cavalry, the breathtaking New Bridge, Santa María church, and Don Juan Bosco's house. Ronda's natural surroundings, classic heritage, and Baroque splendor create a unique and special beauty, making up its soul.
Overnight stay in Ronda at Hotel la Fuente de la Higuera or similar.
Day 5 Ronda
After breakfast, drive to the countryside and take a private tour of the winery and estate, which includes a wine tasting experience.
Located just a short distance from downtown Ronda, this site holds historical significance as it was once inhabited and worked on by trinitarian monks in the 16th and 17th centuries. Despite being relocated due to dampness and earthquake concerns, some of the oldest Trinitarians have remained on the site to maintain the estate, orchards, and fruit trees. Surrounded by three natural parks, the estate boasts a picturesque landscape, with vines nestled amongst old olive groves and oak trees. Sample the exceptional wines and immerse yourself in the captivating history that makes this winery one of the most enchanting in the country.
Overnight stay in Ronda at Hotel la Fuente de la Higuera or similar.
Day 6 Ronda White Villages Sevilla
After breakfast, take a half-day trip to the White Villages of Andalucia on the way to Sevilla showcases the breathtaking beauty of Zahara de la Sierra.
Zahara is unquestionably one of the most stunning towns among the White Villages (Pueblos Blancos). Tucked away in the heart of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, which holds the designation of being a Biosphere Reserve by Unesco, Zahara boasts an old Moorish fortress perched atop a hill that provides a panoramic view of the turquoise waters of Zahara el Gastor reservoir, which encompasses the surrounding landscape. After exploring Zahara, our journey continues to the picturesque village of Setenil de las Bodegas, where an original and awe-inspiring urban layout descends from the top of its fortress, with ancient traditional houses nestled among impressive and massive rocks and cliffs.
Continue to Seville, a highly regarded and cherished city, that captivates with its impressive monuments, charming locations like Triana, fragrant jasmine squares, and melodious Spanish guitar music. Some see the city's festivals as its special allure, while others believe its tapas steal the show. The Giralda, an iconic landmark with breathtaking views, offers a close-up of Seville's courtyards adorned with orange trees and the largest Gothic temple in Europe, the Cathedral. The Real Alcázar, an extraordinary palace adorned with intricate details, is a must-visit, especially during summer nights and its festival in the gardens.
Seville keeps tradition alive with Flamenco shows, Spanish guitar music, and exquisite ceramics and crafts. Triana is a hub for shops and workshops showcasing these crafts, and captivating flamenco performances can be enjoyed at 'tablaos' or local neighborhood groups known as 'peñas'.
Overnight in Sevilla at Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza or similar.
Day 7 Sevilla
After breakfast, enjoy a half-day guided Sevilla Tour: Alcanzar & Barrio de Santa Cruz.
Seville, the capital of Andalucía, is a stunning city with a rich architectural heritage. The Royal Alcazar, built in the 10th century, captures the essence of Seville's diverse cultural history. Behind its walls are beautiful gardens and remnants of the communities that once thrived here. This masterpiece of Mudéjar art has gained popularity as a filming location for "Game of Thrones." The expert will guide us through the historic Barrio Santa Cruz, where we will witness the charm of whitewashed façades, stone-cobbled patios, and remnants of the old Jewish quarter.
The local tablao's Flamenco show provides a genuine glimpse into Spanish culture, acknowledged by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. This art form seamlessly weaves dance, music, and a spectrum of emotions. Expressive melodies, mesmerizing dance, rhythmic handclaps, and the enigmatic "duende" make it an unforgettable live experience at a Tablao. You're invited to witness an exceptional performance featuring extraordinary artists.
Overnight in Sevilla at Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza or similar.
Day 8 Seville Cordoba Seville
After breakfast, drive with to Córdoba and enjoy a half-day private guided visit .
Córdoba, founded by Romans in 2nd century BC, flourished in the Early Middle Ages post-Moorish conquest. In 929 AD, Caliph Abd-al-Rahman III declared the city's independence, leading Al-Andalus to dominance. The Mosque-Cathedral, converted from a 6th-century basilica, showcases Byzantine mosaics. UNESCO-listed, it's a unique blend of Muslim and Christian architectural styles, explored through private guided tours.
Return to Seville and the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Overnight in Sevilla at Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza or similar.
Day 9 Seville Seville Airport
After breakfast, drive with to the Sevilla Airport where you will drop of the car. End of the services.
Accommodation
Hotel Molina Lario
Malaga
Hotel Molina Lario is a 4 star hotel exceptionally positioned in the centre of Malaga right opposite the Cathedral and just a short distance from the port, the Picasso Museum and the city’s pedestrian district. The recently built hotel is formed by two refurbished 19th century buildings retaining their original facade and a third completely new building, combining to create a unique hotel in the hub of the city. Its 103 rooms exude comfort and tranquillity, and every last detail is taken care.
Hospes Palacio de los Patos
Granada
Suggestive combination of two buildings with shared complicity: Los Patos Palace, an elegant reconversion of a 19th-century palace with classic and industrial architecture declared an Asset of Cultural Interest; and the newly constructed Alabastro Building, which combines depth and transparencies behind a majestic and subtle latticework.
They are unique spaces where luxury and exclusivity merge with comfort and wellbeing to make you feel in a privileged place.
Hotel La Fuente de la Higuera
Ronda
This tastefully-furnished hotel in Ronda, Andalusia, is based in a centuries-old millhouse surrounded by olive groves. The centrepiece of the lovingly-tended gardens is the pool with sweeping views over the hills and valleys featuring cypresses, walnuts trees, chestnuts, olives and palm-trees.In the heart of the Andalucían countryside, La Fuente de la Higuera offers tranquility in the most romantic and beautiful of settings. Enjoy the starlit dinner on the terrace amidst orange and lemon trees, magnolia and jasmine.
Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza
Seville
Located in the heart of Seville’s old town, this traditional Sevillian-architecture building used to be a local neighbours’courtyard in the 18th century. Today, it is an ideal setting for guests to relax, imagine and dream. Inside, the contrasts are everywhere and emotions run wild. The colours and the aromas of the central courtyard evoke activity and energy. The stone, clay and chalk used in the building’s construction give it a touch of authenticity and a high architectural and historical value.
