Compare Voyages to Antiquity: Exploring History’s Grandeur in France and Spain by Road Scholar vs Premium Spain & Morocco by Intrepid Travel

Day 1: In Transit

In Flight

Day 2: Welcome to Nice, France!

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Best Western Plus Hotel Massena Nice

Afternoon: At 5:00 PM, meet in the hotel lobby for the program orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the program theme, the up-to-date Daily Schedule and any changes, discuss safety guidelines, emergency procedures, roles and responsibilities, and answer any questions you may have. Please be aware that program activities, schedules, and personnel may need to change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: Welcome dinner in the hotel dining room.

Evening: At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

Day 3: Nice, France; Embark Aegean Odyssey

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: In the hotel dining room. On this program, breakfasts will be buffet-style with breads, cheeses, cold-cuts, yogurt, fruit, cereals, juice, milk, coffee and tea. Water will be served at every meal on this program.

Morning: Enjoy a panoramic coach excursion of Nice to include the Promenade des Anglais, lined with Belle-Epoque buildings, the Quai des Etats-Unis, the harbor, the impressive Russian Orthodox cathedral and, finally the residential district of Cimiez. Next, enjoy a walk through the narrow streets of old Nice. Admire two Baroque churches: Sainte Reparte and Sainte Rita before strolling the Cours Saleya with its famous flower market.

Lunch: Explore local fare on your own. Or, if you prefer, the ship offers a welcome lunch buffet following embarkation.

Afternoon: After lunch, transfer to the port to embark the Aegean Odyssey. Take some time to settle in to your cabin, freshen up, and relax. Following embarkation there will be a safety briefing provided by the ship’s staff followed by a brief orientation to the ship by your Road Scholar Group Leader. This is preliminarily scheduled for 5:00 PM, but your Group Leader will confirm timings once on board the ship.

Dinner: Aboard the ship, you may choose from either the Marco Polo Restaurant or the Terrace Café. The former serves a variety of á là carte items while the café is buffet-style. Menus are inspired by fresh local ingredients. Wine is complimentary with dinner in both dining areas. Water is served at all meals on this program.

Evening: At leisure. Most evenings aboard ship are free to enjoy as you like whether it’s attending a shipboard guest lecture or listening to live music in the Charleston Lounge. The ship departs Nice in the evening and arrives into Cannes in the middle of the night.

Day 4: Cannes, France; Monte Carlo

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship, breakfast will be buffet-style with breads, cheeses, cold-cuts, yogurt, fruit, cereals, hot dishes, juice, milk, coffee and tea and served in the Terrace Café.

Morning: This morning the ship will provide transfers to either St. Paul de Vence, a charming medieval village nestled in the hills above Cannes or to Monaco & Monte Carlo where you can enjoy a short guided walking excursion throughout the old town. Enjoy free time in either locale or elect to remain in Cannes.

Lunch: Aboard the ship or explore local fare on your own.

Afternoon: Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities provided in your first Information Packet. Your Group Leader of the Shore Excursion team on board will be also happy to offer suggestions and give directions.

Dinner: Aboard the ship or explore local fare on your own.

Evening: At leisure. The ship will overnight in Cannes.

Day 5: Cruising the French Riviera Coast

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: At sea. In the morning, as the ship makes its way to Marseilles, you will pass close to the coast of Monte Carlo and then continue along the beautiful coastline of the Cote d'Azur passing Nice, St. Tropez and Antibes.

Lunch: Aboard the ship.

Afternoon: At sea. Take advantage of the ship's well stocked library that has a wide selection of volumes covering classical history, literature, art, architecture, and philosophy. The frequently updated collection also includes an extensive reference section as well as modern and classic novels.

Dinner: Aboard the ship.

Evening: The ship arrives to Marseilles in the evening.

Day 6: Marseilles, France

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Activity note: Heavy walking for one or more hours over uneven terrain.

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: Explore the Provençal countryside on this full-day field trip to Avignon with its papal legacies. Your adventure starts with a 90-minute drive to Avignon which rose to glory in the Middle Ages, when a series of French born Popes fled Rome and made the town a base from which they ruled Christendom until 1407. Enjoy views of the Rhone River and Avignon's much-sung-about bridge, Pont St. Benezet. The highlight of your visit is an expert-led visit of the Pope's Palace.

Lunch: At a local restaurant featuring three-course set menu.

Afternoon: After lunch, there will be a short time to explore Avignon independently before returning to the ship in Marseilles.

Dinner: Aboard the ship.

Evening: Evening departure for Sete, for tomorrow's visit to Carcassonne.

Day 7: Sete, France / Carcassonne

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: From the port of Sete, it is an hour's drive through the quintessentially French Languedoc countryside to Carcassonne. Founded by the Romans, the fortified city of Carcassonne became the largest walled stronghold of the Middle Ages and its remarkable towers and ramparts are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lunch: At a local restaurant featuring a three-course set menu.

Afternoon: En route back to Sete, visit Narbonne, a once prosperous sea-side city of the Roman Empire, now located almost 10 miles from the ocean. In the 5th century Narbonne was a Visigoth capital and in the Middle Ages an important Episcopal center, as can be seen in several superbly preserved monuments. Enjoy a walking excursion to see some of these including a portion of the Via Domitia, the Roman road which connected Italy to Spain.

Dinner: Aboard the ship.

Evening: Early evening departure for Barcelona. Attend a shipboard guest lecture.

Day 8: Barcelona, Spain

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: This morning we explore Barcelona on an expert-led coach overview of the city which takes in some of Antoni Gaudí's most important works. We will see the impressive, unfinished Sagrada Familia church and if we are unable to visit the inside, we will enjoy a visit to Casa Mila (commonly known as La Pedrera). Enjoy a stroll along Las Ramblas and take in the sights and sounds of La Boquería Market.

Lunch: Explore local fare on your own in Barcelona.

Afternoon: Continuation of the full-day excursion.

Dinner: Aboard the ship or explore local fare on your own.

Evening: Early evening departure for Valencia. Attend a shipboard guest lecture.

Day 9: Valencia, Spain

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: Enjoy the charm of Valencia's squares and hidden corners on a walk through this fascinating city. Admire its architecture from the charming Plaza de la Reina with its stunning cathedral to the modern City of Arts and Sciences, a feat of contemporary design. Admire La Lonja, constructed in the mid-15th century and considered a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture.

Lunch: Aboard the ship or explore the menú del día at a tapas restaurant or two.

Afternoon: Free time for independent exploration of Valencia.

Dinner: Aboard the ship.

Evening: Attend a shipboard guest lecture.

Day 10: At sea

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: At sea. Treat yourself to one of many spa services offered by the ship. Or, simply relax poolside enjoying the late spring sunshine.

Lunch: Aboard the ship.

Afternoon: At sea. Find your way to one of the ship's lounges for a conversation with fellow travelers.

Dinner: Aboard the ship.

Evening: At leisure. Attend a shipboard guest lecture.

Day 11: Málaga, Spain

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: Enjoy a coach ride through the Andalucían countryside from the port of Málaga to Granada. Here you will experience the majesty of the Alhambra, a Moorish citadel and palace. It is the most renowned building of the Andalusian Islamic historical legacy. Together with the adjoining gardens and orchards of El Generalife, this remarkable site is considered an architectural culmination of Nasrid art undertaken in the 13th and 14th centuries and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1984.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Continuation of the full-day excursion to Granada.

Dinner: Aboard the ship.

Evening: Midnight departure for Tangier. Attend a shipboard guest lecture.

Day 12: Tangier, Morocco

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: This morning discover Tangier, a city founded by Carthaginian colonists in the early 5th century BC. Visit its medina, or old town, filled with markets of all kinds and kasbah, the city's ancient fortifications. There will be time to visit the Kasbah Museum housed in the former sultan's palace, among other dignitaries. It has many interesting archaeological findings as well as a beautiful garden.

Lunch: Aboard the ship or explore local fare on your own.

Afternoon: Free time for independent exploration.

Dinner: Aboard the ship.

Evening: Attend a shipboard guest lecture.

Day 13: Seville, Spain

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Aegean Odyssey

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: At sea. This afternoon cruise the Guadalquivir River, the second longest river with its entire length in Spain.

Lunch: Aboard the ship.

Afternoon: Free time for independent exploration.

Dinner: Aboard the ship.

Evening: The ship overnights in Seville. Free evening to prepare belongings for disembarkation.

Day 14: Disembark Seville, Spain

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Meliá Sevilla

Activity note: The Barrio de Santa Cruz is largely cobbled.

Breakfast: Aboard the ship.

Morning: Disembark the ship and enjoy a guided visit of Seville, the capital and largest city of Andalucía. Explore its oldest neighborhood, the Barrio Santa Cruz. Meander its labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys that open onto beautiful plazas. During medieval times, this neighborhood was the Jewish quarter and it is home to many of Seville's oldest churches. Visit its cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral – and the third largest church – in the world. In 1898 it became the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Next, visit the spectacular moorish Alcázar Royal Palace and gardens -- the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. Originally a fort built by the Almohad Dynasty, it is one of the best remaining examples of Mudéjar architecture.

Lunch: Explore local fare on your own. Ask you Group Leader for suggestions.

Afternoon: Check-in to hotel and enjoy some time for relaxing before heading out with your Group Leader to explore nearby Maria Luisa Park and the impressive Plaza de España, built for the World Expo in 1929, and a fine example of typical Sevillan architecture and incorporating traditional Andalucían ceramic tile.

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 15: Seville, Spain / Córdoba

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Meliá Sevilla

Breakfast: In the hotel dining room.

Morning: Enjoy the rolling plains of the Andalucían countryside during this morning's transfer to Córdoba. Today's full-day field trip will include the Mezquita, a medieval Islamic mosque that was converted into a Catholic cathedral. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is most notable for its arcaded hypostyle hall, with 856 columns of jasper, onyx, marble and granite. Next, explore Córdoba's Jewish quarter where this population flourished between from the 10th century until their expulsion from Spain in 1492. Its historic synagogue built in Mudéjar style is a memorial to the nearly 500 years of peaceful coexistence of Christians, Jews and Muslims in this city. There will also be time to visit the Alcázar, formerly a Visigoth fortress before falling to Umayyads conquerors and much later – after its expansion – it served as one of the primary residences of Isabel I and Ferdinand II.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Following lunch, the coach departs Córdoba by mid-afternoon for the return trip back to Seville.

Dinner: Explore local fare on your own.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 16: Train to Madrid, Spain

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Meliá Galgos

Breakfast: In the hotel dining room.

Morning: Following check-out, we transfer to Seville's Santa Justa station to board a high-speed train to Madrid departing in the mid or late-morning. The roughly 300 mile journey takes approximately 2 1/2 hours.

Lunch: On your own, likely on the train or at the station.

Afternoon: Upon arrival to Madrid's Atocha station, coach transfer to hotel for check-in. There will be time for settling in and refreshing before the evening's flamenco performance.

Dinner: Enjoy an introduction to Flamenco with a brief lecture and demonstration followed by a tapas dinner and a Flamenco show.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 17: Madrid, Spain

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Meliá Galgos

Breakfast: In the hotel dining room.

Morning: Morning panoramic sightseeing visit of Madrid including Paseo de la Castallaña, Madrid's chic modern district, the Paseo del Prado, also known as the Triangle of Art, the Plaza de Cibeles and Town Hall, La Gran Vía, Madrid's theatre district, and Almudena Cathedral. Next, visit the Prado Museum which holds one of the world's finest collections of European art. The magnificent building, conceived and designed in 1785, first housed the collection of the Spanish crown. It opened to the public as Spain’s national art museum in 1819. With thousands upon thousands of paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings, other works and historic documents, only a small portion of these vast collections are on display at any given time. Highlights include masterpieces of the French, German, and Italian schools, early Flemish works, and the finest collection of works by Spanish grand masters such as El Greco, Velázquez, Goya, and many more. One of the most famous paintings in the museum is “Las Meninas” -- the family of King Felipe IV -- by Velázquez.

Lunch: Explore local fare on your own.

Afternoon: Free time for independent exploration of Madrid.

Dinner: Farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare belongings for tomorrow's departure.

Day 18: Departures

Meals: Breakfast

In Flight

Breakfast: In the hotel dining room.

Morning: Transfer to Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) for departures. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future.

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. 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, today is yours to explore the city your way. You might like to head to one of the city’s galleries or historic corners or perhaps lose yourself in the wonders of Gaudi's bizarre La Sagrada Familia Basilica. The heart of Catalonia prides itself as a gastronomic centre and this evening you’ll get to enjoy it during 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 Casablanca

Welcome to Morocco! On arrival at Casablanca Airport, you will be met by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins at 6 pm with an important welcome meeting. If you arrive with time to spare, a great option for your limited time in Casablanca is to visit the Villa des Arts. This gorgeous Art Deco gallery holds numerous exhibitions of contemporary Moroccan and international art. If you are looking for a different type of cultural experience, then you can discover a unique and fascinating part of Moroccan history at the Museum of Judaism. This evening, celebrate the beginning of a new adventure with a delicious dinner with your group, set amongst traditional decor. Nowhere is Morocco’s cultural heritage more evident than in its food, and tonight you’ll have the chance to try classic dishes like tagine and couscous.

Day 12 Meknes / Fes

This morning you will visit one of the most impressive sites in Casablanca – the mighty Mosque of Hassan II. Second only in size to the great mosque at Mecca, the huge building sits partly on land and partly over sea and is one of the only religious sites here that’s open to non-Muslims. Later, leave Casablanca and drive to Meknes, where you’ll explore the charming streets of the medina – the old walled section of the city. There’s something particularly special about exploring this lesser-known medina as the locals go about their daily lives. Drive on to the mosaic-filled Roman ruins of Volubilis, where a local guide will show you around and help you imagine the bustling city that once was. Enjoy a picnic lunch of fresh bread, cheese and seasonal fruits and olives from the market. In the late afternoon, continue to Fes, your home for the next two nights.

Day 13 Fes

Today you’ll discover Fes’s huge, well-preserved medieval old city and the mother of all medinas. Walk through the twisting streets and alleyways, passing donkeys piled high with goods, and explore the speciality sections that divide the souk as your leader talks you through interesting customs and traditions of Moroccan people. Passing historic khans, dye-pits and stalls loaded with fragrant herbs and spices, with the squawk of chickens and sounds of copper craftsmen at work filling the air, it’s easy to imagine yourself back in the Middle Ages. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the medina at a tranquil family-owned tea house before exploring more of the old city with a visit to the ornate inner courtyards of centuries-old Islamic school El-Attarine Madrasa and Funduq al-Najjarin, a splendid 18th-century inn. Prepare for a treat this evening as you are warmly welcomed into the home-turned-restaurant of a local family for a pastilla dinner in a private after-hours experience. Learn how the iconic Moroccan pie is made as you chat with your friendly hosts about life in Fes.

Day 14 Bine el Ouidane

Travel from Fes to Bin el-Ouidane, with plenty of breaks along the way to appreciate the ever-changing Moroccan landscape. Visit an Amazigh family in the Khenifra region for a truly memorable experience and a priceless insight into their unique way of life. The family will demonstrate how to make the perfect brew of mint tea and will provide a home-cooked lunch using locally grown ingredients. Learn about their customs, traditions and what life looks like in the Atlas Mountains. Later you’ll arrive in Bin el-Ouidane, a small settlement perfectly placed on the bank of the lake, surrounded by sheer rocks. Your Feature Stay accommodation sits at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, perched on the edge of the huge, glittering lake. There’s a blissful afternoon to be had floating in the paradisiacal swimming pool or soaking in your surroundings on the fabulous terrace.

Day 15 Bine el Ouidane

Today you’ll head out onto the water, hopping in a small boat to see more of the turquoise lake and surrounding rocky gorges. Float over the soothing waters and take in the views. You’ll stop to enjoy a refreshing lunch at a shady spot overlooking the lake before heading back to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish – lounge by the infinity pool, hike the surrounding mountain trails or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage or jacuzzi session at the health spa.

Day 16 Marrakech

Today you will travel from Bin el-Ouidane to Marrakech. There’s no rush as the scenery on the way is always interesting, and you will enjoy a stop en route at the impressive Ouzoud Falls. On arrival in Marrakech, head to the great square of Djemaa el-Fna, one of the largest public spaces in the world and the city's most iconic landmark. Enjoy an orientation tour with your Trip Leader to get to know this vibrant city. As day turns into night, the square transforms into a hive of activity. The evening is yours to explore. Perhaps opt for dinner on one of the restaurant balconies overlooking the humming square with views of the Koutoubia Mosque.

Day 17 Marrakech

After breakfast today, meet your local guide and set off on a morning tour of the old medina, through the bustling souks that are the lifeblood of the city. Explore tranquil courtyards filled with the scent of orange blossom and the many salons and chambers that make up Bahia Palace. Stop by the Koutoubia Mosque; the inside is for Muslims only, but the famous minaret is a sight to behold. Then walk back through the streets of the old medina to Djemaa el-Fna. The food here is best experienced like a local, so be sure to bring your appetite as your local guide will take you for a special tasting session where you’ll try a range of seasonal delights such as freshly squeezed orange juice and fried Moroccan donuts. The rest of the day is free to explore further. Perhaps visit Le Jardin Secret, a traditional medina garden with a magnificent courtyard, or head back into the medina and practice your haggling skills. For your final evening, perhaps join your group for a farewell dinner – your leader will be able to recommend some fantastic local restaurants that are worth raising a toast to.

Day 18 Marrakech

Your trip ends today after breakfast. Additional accommodation can be pre-booked if you wish to spend more time exploring here. Speak to your leader about the wealth of extra activities to do around Marrakech.