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Day 1: Paris - Blois - Tours - Villandry - Amboise

Today’s Highlights: Loire Valley. Villandry gardens. Dinner included. We will start the day by going to the south of France, to the area of the Loire Valley with a stop at Blois, a picturesque city where we recommend visiting the castle. After this we continue to the Loire Valley, visiting Tours, the regional capital on the banks of the Loire River, where you will be able to take a stroll and have lunch. In the afternoon we will visit the Chateau De Villandry, famous for its gardens and flowers (entrance to the gardens are included). Then we will journey on to Amboise, a city with a fascinating medieval quarter. Dinner included. Note: Sometimes the accommodation may be offered in the city of Tours.

Day 2: Amboise - Chenonceaux - Chambord - Limoges

Today’s Highlights: Castles of Loire. A day to learn more about the Loire region. First a stroll through Amboise in the early hours to the Clos Lucé mansion where leonardo da Vinci spent the last 3 years of his life. Exploring the Loire region in a little more depth, we visit Chenonceau Castle (tickets included), built like a bridge over the River Cher. We continue to Chambord, the largest castle of Loire (entrance to the park included). We will then travel to the centre of France, making a stop for coffee in Argenton Sur Creuse, a small medieval town on the banks of the Creuse River. We continue to Limoges, a city known for its porcelain, where we recommend a stroll in the centre to see its cathedral.

Day 3: Limoges - Sarlat - Beynac - Rocamadour

Today’s Highlights: Dordogne Valley of unforgettable villages. Lascaux cave museum. Beynac medieval castle. Dinner included. We will leave Limoges for the Dordogne. Few regions contain so many villages full of charm and unforgettable countryside. We arrive at Lascaux, we will include admission to the museum and replica of the caves, we will learn about the site’s prehistory with the magnificent cave paintings. After that we see Sarlat, a world heritage town with an incredibly well-preserved Renaissance historic centre, where there will be time to stroll and have lunch. In Beynac we see a medieval castle overlooking the river (admission included). Rocamadour, a beautiful medieval village with an important sanctuary “hung” over a ravine; we suggest you walk down the via crucis and come back up in the lift. Dinner included.

Day 4: Rocamadour - Padirac - Collonge La Rouge - St Emilion - Bordeaux

Highlights: Padirac Caves, Midi Region and winemakers. We will go to the impressive Padirac caves, where we include a boat ride on the river 75 metres underground. A stop at Collonge La Rouge, a very picturesque village built with red stone on the Way of St James. Time for lunch. After lunch we travel to St. Emilion, at the heart of the Bordeaux wine producing region. Time for a stroll. Bordeaux, arrival at the end of the afternoon. NB: The caves may be closed in November or due to the weather conditions.

Day 5: Bordeaux - Lourdes

Today’s Highlights: Cite du Vin in Bordeaux. Lourdes. Dinner included. The entire centre of Bordeaux has been declared a world heritage site. You will be amazed by the “water mirror” and stroll through the old town with its pedestrian streets and 11th century cathedral. We will include admission (free visit with audio information in Spanish, French or English) to the Cite Du Vin, an impressive interactive museum that recounts the history of the wine and its production; wine tasting included at the viewpoint over Bordeaux. You will have free time later to stroll and have lunch on the banks of the Garonne River, an area full of small restaurants. We continue our way towards the Pyrenees, arriving to Lourdes in the mid-afternoon. We have time to see the sanctuary (we recommend attending the candle procession). Dinner included.

Day 6: Lourdes - Saint Bernard - Carcassonne – Andorra

Today’s Highlights: Medieval villages of St. Bertrand or Carcassonne. Skirting the Pyrenees, we will stop in Saint Bertrand, a medieval village perched on the mountainside, dominated by its great cathedral. Time for a stroll before travelling on to Carcassonne, a city surrounded by beautiful walls. We continue through the Pyrenees on a journey between the, often, snow-capped summits, and cross into the small country of Andorra. Dinner included.

Day 7: Andorra - Montserrat - Barcelona

Today’s Highlights: Catalonia region. Montserrat Monastery. Rack train climb. We will have free time in Andorra for shopping and exploring. After lunch, we will continue our trip and head to Catalonia. The mountain countryside leads us to the impressive site of the Montserrat Monastery, where you will go up the mountain on a rack train to see its fantastic scenery. Following this we will continue to Barcelona, arriving in the late afternoon.

Day 8: Barcelona

Today’s Highlights: Barcelona city tour. “Spanish Village” visit and evening transfer to Las Ramblas district. Today we will explore Barcelona, an impressive city right on the Medi­terranean Sea. Starting by an informative city tour with a local expert (note: If the group has fewer than fifteen people, explanations can be given by our guide.) We will also visit the city’s historic central area with its Gothic neigh­bourhood dating back to the Middle Ages. We will visit the area where the Olympic Games took place. We will also get the chance to see La Sagrada Fa­milia Basilica, the masterpiece designed by the architect Gaudí. Following this, we include the entry ticket to visit ‘Poble Espanyol’ (meaning ‘Spanish Village’). This open-air architectural museum is situated in one of the most emblematic areas of Barcelona. Enjoy the Spanish craftsmanship and discover the architectural styles, traditions and folklore of the different regions that make up Spain. You will then have some free time to explore the city at your own leisure. In the evening we provide a transfer to Las Ramblas and the Plaza Cata­lunya area for dinner, where you can choose from a wide variety of restaurants. We will return to the hotel in the late evening.

Day 9: Barcelona - Peniscola - Valencia - Madrid

Today’s Highlights: visit Peniscola, a beautiful walled town and its castle by the sea. Discover Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences. Evening transfer in Madrid. We will journey south along the Mediterranean, making a special stop in Peniscola, a small walled town on the shores of the sea and where we have time for a stroll. We will then travel to Valencia, the third largest city in Spain. After time for lunch in its historic city centre, at 16.30 hrs, we will continue our route to Madrid after passing through the avant-garde City of Arts and Sciences of Valencia where we can take a picture. Arrival to Madrid at the end of the day and transfer to the Plaza Mayor where we can relax at some typical taverns. Note: Depending on the number of passengers, the journey between Valencia and Madrid may be done by high-speed train.

Day 10: Madrid

Today’s Highlights: Madrid city tour. Stroll through the Retiro Park. Visit to the Las Ventas bullring. Evening transfer. The morning starts with a comprehensive tour through the centre of Madrid including the Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, the Gate of Alcalá, Plaza de Colón and Plaza Mayor. We then will visit Retiro Park, an oasis in the city centre, where we will see the lake and the Glass Palace. A visit to Las Ventas Bullring (admission included) is next. This is one of the most famous bullrings in the world where we will learn about the tradition of the “corridas” at the Bullfighting Museum. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your own leisure. At sunset we will provide a transfer to Plaza de Oriente, opposite the Royal Palace, an elegant and bustling area with many restaurants serving different cuisines, such as local Spanish food, international and Chinese. Enjoy a pleasant dinner of your choice. At the end of the evening we will return to the hotel together.

Day 11: Madrid

After breakfast, end of our services.

Day 1 Madrid

Beinvenido – welcome to Spain! Your adventure begins in Madrid, a city filled with elegant boulevards, manicured parks and superb cuisine. You will be collected from the airport on arrival and transferred to your hotel, where you will meet your leader and small group for a welcome meeting this evening. If you arrive early, you may like to visit the Museo del Prado, then discover modern Spanish masters, including Picasso and Dali, in the Museo Reina Sofia. Finish at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which displays eight centuries of European painting. Your Spanish adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:30pm. Once the formalities are out of the way get to know your leader and group over dinner at a wonderful restaurant that showcases Madrid’s famous tapas.

Day 2 Madrid

Travel to the city of Toledo this morning. The unique old town of this city sits on a high craggy rock and is encircled by the Tagus River. As a former capital of Spain, Toledo has immense historic significance and holds many architectural treasures. Examples of buildings from most architectural periods in Spain’s history can be seen here, from the Gothic to the Baroque. Today you’ll experience Toledo’s culture in the form of a marzipan tasting. While a few countries compete for the rights, the Spanish argue that marzipan was invented in Toledo. Either way, the sweet treat made from almond meal, honey and sugar has been produced in this city for generations, and is some of the world’s best. Find out how it’s made, its significance to Toledo, and taste some yourself. Return to Madrid for a free afternoon – you may like to check out the Royal Palace, or stroll around the Parque del Retiro.

Day 3 Seville

Travel from Madrid to Seville by train.The largest city in southern Spain,Seville is famous for its cultural vitality and dazzling architecture.On arrival, check in to your Feature Stay accommodation, a gorgeous family-run boutique hotel.Housed in 27 typical Sevillian cottages with patios and corridors connecting them,the hotel  celebrates its roots with its elegant décor and antique furnishings.Walking about the hotel's interior is like taking a stroll through centuries-old parts of the city: statues, floors, columns, amphorae, jugs, all create the impression that you are in a living museum.Personal touches are everywhere, from incredibly friendly service to hand painted details in the rooms and the owner’s great-grandmother’s shawl hanging in reception. Not to mention, the hotel boasts an unbeatable location on the Alameda de Hercules, lined with cafes, restaurants and music venues. This evening, join your group for a live flamenco show – a traditional Spanish style of dance with roots in Seville. This colourful, lively and rousing performance will certainly be one to remember.

Day 4 Seville

This morning, meet with a local guide who’s an expert on all things Seville and get to know the city during a walking tour. Explore narrow streets, hidden squares filled with orange trees and flower-adorned patios as your guide provides local insight into the history of the city and how it’s enjoyed today. Visit the Alcazar of Seville, a grand royal palace, and uncover its secrets with your guide. Known as one of the most beautiful in Europe, the Spanish royal family still to this day use the Alcazar as their residence in Seville. The rest of the afternoon is yours for further discoveries - you may wish to take an optional visit to the Giralda Tower and the famous Seville Cathedral, one of Europe’s largest cathedrals and home to Christopher Columbus’ elevated tomb.

Day 5 Cordoba

Today you will journey to the city of Cordoba, where Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences are present in the architecture, culture and cuisine, via a private transfer. Cordoba is also home to the Mezquita – a rare site which has served as both a mosque and a cathedral throughout the centuries. Today a cathedral stands within the centre of this amazing mosque – an interesting example of the interplay of Christian and Muslim cultures in Spain. Discover this supreme example of Islamic architecture on a comprehensive guided tour with your leader which continues outside of the Mezquita and explores the charming quarters and hidden corners of Cordoba.

Day 6 Granada

Depart Cordoba and travel to Granada. Along the way, you will learn more about the importance of olive oil production in the Andalucia region by visiting an oil mill. Let the passionate owner of the family-run business walk you through the process of olive oil production, and taste some different variations of the final result yourself, along with olives, olive marmalade, olive pate and wine. On arrival, check in to your hotel. This evening, perhaps head out to explore Granada’s drinking and dining scene with your group.

Day 7 Granada

This morning you will get acquainted with Granada during an orientation walk with your leader. Learn the fascinating history of the city and discover Islamic architecture and Arab influences at every turn. Enjoy some time for your own explorations of the city – perhaps head to a local teahouse to sample some Moorish pastries. In the afternoon, join an expert local guide for a tour of Alhambra and its perfectly manicured gardens. Dating back to the 11th century, Alhambra represents Muslim art in its final European stages. With ancient defensive walls, turrets and fountains set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, touring this magnificent site is an experience that will stick with you. After seeing the monumental Alhambra during the day, join your group for an included dinner at a nearby restaurant. After this break you’ll return to the Alhambra after dark and explore the famed Nasrid Palaces with your local guide. By now the crowds have dispersed and you are free to explore the site in all its glory. Your guide will bring history to life and provide expert insight as you explore the dominating red fortress towers, opulent palace decor and a multitude of architectural styles through the intricate Nasrid Palaces.

Day 8 Valencia

Depart Granada and travel to Valencia. Along the way you will travel through the distinctive countryside of the region and pass through Elche, capital of the region of Bajo Vinalopó. The historic quarter of Elche preserves part of its Muslim past and Baroque splendour. Walk around palm tree grove, one of the largest and the only one in Europe. Your leader will explain how the grove was established by the Phoenicians and expanded by the Arabs in the 8th and 9th centuries. The palmeral consists of several parts spreading across downtown. Then it's on to Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, to soak up its unique cultural identity and explore the old town centre that dates back 2000 years. On arrival, you’re free to explore the city and discover the harmonious mix of Roman, Muslim and Christian influences in its buildings, monuments and magnificent gardens.

Day 9 Valencia

Start the day with a short drive south of Valencia to discover Albufera Lake, an important ecological site of the region. The lake is surrounded by beach, dunes, lagoons, wetlands and Mediterranean forest, and is home to six small islands. You will visit the island of El Palmar and discover its typical ‘barraca’ houses. Travel by boat to the middle of the lake and learn about the important agricultural crop of the area, namely the local rice. Finish off with an included lunch of the most famous Valencian dish – paella. The rest of the day is yours to explore Valencia. You may like to visit the city's major landmark – the City of Arts and Science, a large and futuristic museum complex designed by Calatrava. Or perhaps head out to a local cafe to enjoy the treats that Valencia has to offer – from horchata to artisan chocolates, the city is a gastronomical heaven.

Day 10 Barcelona

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Valencia and travel to Barcelona. We arrive into Barcelona early afternoon. Barcelona's quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a ground-breaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife, making it a city you won't soon forget.  After a walking tour with your leader,  you’ll get to enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant with your group. Celebrate the final night of your trip as you dine on some of the region’s most delicious foods like olives, pickled garlic, lomo Iberico de Belotta, Catalan cheeses, olive oil, and sweet desserts.

Day 11 Barcelona

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast. If you would like to extend your stay in Barcelona and delve deeper into this exciting city, please speak to your booking agent about arranging additional accommodation in advance (subject to availability).