SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1: Malaga to Ronda

Begin your touring holiday by flying into Malaga airport, collecting a hire-car and driving approximately one and a half hours west to your first destination, Ronda, where you will spend two nights.

Situated on the edge of the dramatic El Tajo gorge, which separates the old town from the new, the Parador de Ronda is the former Town Hall of this mountaintop town. Bedrooms and terraces have magnificent views out across the gorge, the Andalusian countryside and the Puente Nuevo, a bridge of incredible stature.

Day 2: In Ronda

On your second day, explore the captivating town of Ronda, appreciating the glorious scenery that comes with its situation.

Perhaps visit the bullfighting museum on the Plaza del Toros, the art museum in the 16th century cloistered convent, the water gardens of the Palacio Mondragón, the famous atmospheric Arab Baths, or the tree-lined Plaza Duquesa de Parcent.

Outside the town, you may wish to follow the rocky trail of the Guadalevin River, hike over the Sierra de la Nieves Mountains, or bask in the beauty of the Zahara-El Gastor Reservoir. Its turquoise water is lined with surreal green rolling hills.

This first stop on the tour, in one of Spain’s famous ‘pueblos blancos’, is a pocket of natural and historic beauty that cannot be missed when in Andalusia.

Day 3: Ronda to Vejer de la Frontera

Your second stop on this tour of Andalusia is situated on the other side of two National Parks, which makes for a beautiful scenic drive on day three. Vejer de la Frontera is another of Andalusia’s ‘pueblos blancos’, comprised of white-washed houses, cobbled streets and spectacular views of both countryside and sea.

Spend two nights at your boutique hotel, set within a 17th century residence that occupies an elevated position with unrivalled views of the town.

Day 4: In Vejer

Begin your day with the understated charms of Vejer de la Frontera, following the old-world castle wall, and seeking out such gems as the Arco de Segur and the Iglesia del Divino Salvador.

If time permits, you may wish to venture further out into the Cadiz region. Within easy reach of your hotel are the golden beaches of the Costa de la Luz and the peninsula of Gibraltar with its famous monkeys.

Day 5: Vejer to Rota

Leave Vejer de la Frontera on your fifth day and perhaps drive south to the sea at Cape Trafalgar with its famous lighthouse and then take a coastal road to the city of Cadiz. The white-fronted Cadiz Cathedral blends Neoclassical, Rococo and Baroque architectural elements, with a grand and radiant effect. Cadiz also offers beautiful golden beaches, castles and a Roman theatre.

Your destination for the next two nights is the seaside town of Rota. Rota is a beautiful, traditional town that has as yet evaded commercial tourism. Spend the next two nights at your hotel in the old town, not far from the sea.

Day 6: In Rota

Spend your sixth day exploring this traditionally Spanish seaside town and its historic, almost medieval centre. Wander down the streets, past the harbour, churches and palaces, before relaxing on one of the many excellent golden beaches that border the town.

Less than a minute from the hotel is a stretch of golden sand, lined with a quintessentially Spanish tiled promenade that curves around the Puerto Astaroth. For a taste of local life, pay a visit to the town’s fish market at Pesquero Astaroth, the most famous in the region, or visit one of the quaint shops. Not far from Rota is Jerez de la Frontera, the home of sherry, where there are numerous sherry ‘bodegas’ open for tasting sessions. It is also the home of the Royal School of Equestrian Art.

One of the greatest pleasures of Rota may come sitting in a small café or bar, watching the laid-back Spanish world go by, whilst sampling some tapas and sipping either a coffee or a local gin or wine. In the evenings, dine on the blend of Arabic and Spanish cuisine left behind after Moorish rule.

Day 7: Rota to Seville

Your final stay on this touring holiday is near the great city of Seville. The Hacienda de San Rafael sits just over an hour’s drive north of Rota and has the leafy appearance of an idyllic rural retreat. This is an ideal point from which to explore the nearby cultural city of Seville, but also to experience life on an Andalusian hacienda. You stay here for two nights.

Days 8 & 9: In Seville

This colourful country estate is the perfect base from which to explore the bustling town of Seville, home to the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, with an iconic bell tower and several Moorish towers, including La Giralda.

The historic Triana quarter is also worth taking the time to visit, as you observe the change in Roman, Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture.

The best Seville sights may well be the Alcazar de Seville, which blends Moorish design with Renaissance in a series of serene courtyards lined with elaborate keyhole archways, and the grand Plaza de Espana. This landmark square is popular because of the vast oval of water that surrounds the centrepiece, and the traditional ceramic tiles. Perhaps visit the horse-drawn carriages of the romantic Maria Luisa Park, which is dotted with ponds and small pavilions.

Day 10: To Malaga for your flight home

Drive back to Malaga today for your flight home.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis. Local car hire and flights from London are included, with regional departures on request.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including recommended routes and suggestions on places to visit, to help you get the most from your holiday.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance, vehicle breakdown cover and an appropriate driving licence. The AA and the FCO should also be consulted.