Compare Authentic Andalusia by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines vs Self-Guided Cycling in Andalucia: Seville to Cadiz by Exodus Travels
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4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 13 days | 7 days |
| Price From | $ 1,615 | $ 2,570 |
| Price Per Day | $ 124 | $ 367 |
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| Trip Style | Small ship cruise | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
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| Meals Included | N/A | All breakfasts included.Food is a hugely important part of southern Spain and a key part of Andalucian life is eating out. Dishes will comprise of some of the best locally grown produce. Olives, almonds, lemons and oranges are used in cooking, or in refreshing salads. Along the coastline you can be sure of fresh seafood and fish and the Serrano ham is a speciality from the mountain villages. Tapas originated in Andalucia, and in many places you will often receive small snacks served free with your drinks in a bar.Typical Andalucian dishes include; Gambas al Ajillo (prawns in garlic and chilli oil), Paella/arroz, Coquinas (clams) served with garlic, parsley and white wine, Calamares (squid), Tortilla Espanola, and churros (strips of deep fried dough) which are often eaten with hot chocolate, perfect in the early hours after a night out! For this trip there is the possibility to upgrade to half board. Please see the 'extra expenses' section for more information. |
| Description |
Cruising with Fred. Olsen is without doubt the best way to uncover the cultures and traditions of Andalusia; so get set for fine art, sultry dancing, spectacular scenery and marvellous architectural wonders galore on this extensive exploration of one of Spain’s most beautiful and seductive regions aboard Braemar. |
It could be argued that Andalucia is the most quintessentially Spanish part of the Iberian Peninsula. Defined by its Moorish architecture this land of contrasts boasts fertile land, historic hilltop towns, stunning beaches and excellent local food. This moderate self-guided cycle takes you from the magical city of Seville, along small country roads and through Mediterranean woodland to the town of Arcos, one of Andalucia's most dramatically positioned pueblos blancos (white villages). From here you take a journey into the heart of the Flamenco traditions of Jerez - famous for its sherry wines, before ending in Cádiz; thought to be the oldest city in western Europe.The accommodation is in spectacular traditional and modern hotels of the region, and the food is plentiful, fresh and delicious.Discover one of Spain's most iconic areas by bike |
Day 1: Southampton
We offer a range of fantastic cruises from Southampton. Sail to the warmth of the Canaries, the majestic Norwegian Fjords, the wonderful American Deep South or the vibrant cities of the Far East. Wherever you want to visit, we have a cruise for you.
Day 2: Cadiz, Spain
Cadiz - one of Western Europe's most ancient cities - hugs Andalusia’s sunlit Atlantic coast and is characterised by palm trees, lookout towers and weathered old buildings. Historic and pretty, the city centre is a joy to explore with a fascinating Old Town district containing huge stone walls from the 1500s and a beautifully carved cathedral
Day 3: Malaga
In the fabulous city of Malaga – the birthplace of Picasso – visit the Moorish Alcazaba Fortress, try authentic Spanish tapas or take a tour to Granada and the Alhambra Palace. This 14th century structure, is Spain’s finest expression of Moorish art.
Day 4: Almeria
Experience Almeria, a city with a great deal of charm and one steeped in history.
Day 5: Gibraltar
Dominated by 'the Rock', a towering 1,396 ft sentinel that guards the Straits, Gibraltar is a pretty, British-controlled territory with a distinctly familiar atmosphere. With helmeted policemen and British institutions such as Marks & Spencer, Gibraltar feels like a home from home, a little slice of Great Britain with a glorious Mediterranean climate.
Gibraltar must do - The Rock Tour (Tour A)
Discover the highlights of Gibraltar
A great opportunity to capture some spectacular photographs
Admire the impressive St Michael’s Cave
Observe Gibraltar’s most famous inhabitants at the Apes Den
Day 6: Cruising Guadalquivir River
The enchanting Guadalquivir is one of Spain’s longest rivers and a cruise along its winding course, through some of Europe’s richest, most fertile plains offers some fantastic natural scenery to cast your eye on.
Seville, Spain
Seville is a delightful port to visit on your cruise holiday.
Day 7: Seville, Spain
Seville is a delightful port to visit on your cruise holiday.
Cruising Guadalquivir River
The enchanting Guadalquivir is one of Spain’s longest rivers and a cruise along its winding course, through some of Europe’s richest, most fertile plains offers some fantastic natural scenery to cast your eye on.
Day 8: Vigo, Spain
This Galician gem offers something for everyone. 'Culture vultures' will love exploring the pretty old quarter and admiring the beautiful Neoclassical architecture; while sun-seekers will cherish the gorgeous golden-sand beaches which stretch along the city's stunning Atlantic coastline.
Day 9: La Coruna, Spain
La Coruna is the capital of the province and a busy seaport situated in the Bay of Coruna.
Day 10: Southampton
We offer a range of fantastic cruises from Southampton. Sail to the warmth of the Canaries, the majestic Norwegian Fjords, the wonderful American Deep South or the vibrant cities of the Far East. Wherever you want to visit, we have a cruise for you.
Day 1 Arrive Seville
Make your own way to Seville. We recommend arriving early or arranging extra nights to ensure you spend as much time as possible in this magical city of international fame. Its culture, history and folklore make this an exceptional tourist destination. Legend tells us that the city was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. Now it is the capital of the Andalucian region and most widely known for its ornate Alcázar castle complex, built during the Moorish Almohad dynasty, and its 18th Century Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza bullring. The Gothic cathedral is home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus and a famous belltower; the Giralda. The birthplace of Flamenco is generally accepted to be this area of Andalucia, and Seville is the perfect place to enjoy an evening show alongside your traditional cuisine.
Day 2 Using the network of cycle track head north-east to reach the historic walled town of Carmona
Leave the city using its extensive network of cycle tracks. Head north-east to reach a dedicated cycle route on a good dirt road beside the river Guadaíra. Cycle amongst flat landscapes of cereals and sunflower plantations, you will pass several small towns before you reach the historic walled town of Carmona, which boasts several churches, palaces, and an imposing Arab fortress. There are some sections of rough dirt track on this day.
Day 3 Enjoy a flat day of cycling through small traditional towns towards Montellano
Leaving picturesque Carmona you ride south, a delightful route along quaint country lanes overlooked by sunflowers and olive groves. Today's ride takes you through several small, traditional towns where you can enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the many bars along your route. Finish in the small town of Montellano with its pink marble buildings and natural monuments; perfect for an evening of relaxation.
Day 4 Pedal along quiet country roads and the 'Via Verde' cycle lane with the mountains of Grazalema as your backdrop
From Montellano you can see the mountains of Grazalema far in the distance. Today you will experience some hills, but not mountains, as the cycle takes you into pristine Mediterranean forest. Most of the cycling is along very quiet country roads, except for a section (about 8km) along a 'Via Verde' (a disused railway line now used as a cycle lane). You will cycle past the typically Andalucian town of Puerto Serrano; a good place to stop for lunch. You end in Arcos de la Frontera; one of Andalucia's most dramatically positioned pueblos blancos (white villages).
Day 5 Follow the river Guadalete through Mediterranean woodland and agricultural land, on undulating terrain
From Arcos you pedal across undulating terrain, following the river Guadalete downstream along quiet country roads. Mediterranean woodland and agricultural land characterise the landscape. There are many small villages to stop along the way for a welcome break! The town of Jerez holds worldwide acclaim for its sherry and brandy production, but is equally famous for its fine horses and Flamenco music and dance.
Day 6 Reach the sea today and the ancient city of Cadiz, thought to be the oldest city in Western Europe
Heading south today, you reach the sea and the ancient city of Cádiz. The ride will take you into the stunning small town of El Puerto de Santa Maria, where there are many restaurants tempting you with the fish catch of the day. Cádiz is the oldest city in western Europe, with monuments such as the grandiose structure of the Cathedral Nueva, and the red brick building of the Gran Teatro, along with the stunning beaches are enough to encourage any visitor to fall in love with it. Your ride will end along the beach cycle paths, and lead you to your last Parador for one final night of luxury.
Day 7 End Cadiz
You trip ends after breakfast in Cádiz. If you have time it is possible to arrange additional nights here, or there are regular trains back to Seville taking around 1h 35mins, where you can also arrange additional nights.
