Gems of Spain: Madrid, Segovia, Valladolid & Andalusia
Trip Overview
This nine-day odyssey takes you on a journey of discovery through some of Spain’s most astounding
landscapes – both urban and natural. Travel from the cool, cosmopolitan Madrid to the medieval, Moorish Seville; from the natural wetlands of the Doñana National Park to the mountains and valleys of Segovia. You’ll meet real people and learn about centuries-old traditions in wine-making, sherry-production and farming as you piece together the patchwork of culture, nature and history which makes this one of the country’s most alluring regions.
Itinerary Highlights
- Climb the tower of the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world for views across Seville’s old city.
- Picnic amongst the vines at one of the elegant, centuries-old wine estates along the banks of the Duero River.
- Ride on horseback through the marshes, sand dunes and forests which make up the vast wetland reserve of Doñana National Park.
8 NIGHTS / 9 DAYS
SPAIN
Price From: $ 5,895
Pricing is per person based in double occupancy. Single supplement applies. Air is not included. Because this is a Private Xpedition, final pricing is subject to change based on final dates, availability, number of people traveling together, and choices.
What´s included:
- A customized Itinerary
- Local expert guidance
- Airport-Hotel-Airport private transfers
- Private transportation and activities per itinerary
- Lodging and meals as indicated in final itinerary
- Full breakfast daily
- Entrance fees and taxes
- Gratuities
Itinerary
Touch down in Madrid’s Barajas Airport, where your private driver will whisk you off to your hotel. Get to know Madrid on a speedy Segway, as you set off on an unforgettable evening guided tour of the city center. As the sun sets, watch as Madrid’s most majestic monuments – from the Royal Palace to the Prado National Museum – illuminate the city. Stop along the way to nibble on freshly prepared tapas as you begin your culinary journey.
Urso Hotel (5*) or Similar
Today your destination is the majestic landscape near Segovia, where an e-bike is the chosen mode of transport. Spend a leisurely three hours pedaling through the pine-scented forests of the Eresma River Valley, stopping to bathe in the natural pools, picnic in the fresh air (or opt for a delightful local restaurant), and gaze open-jawed at the craggy peaks and green pastures. Continue on to the regal mountain town of La Granja de San Idelfonso, where the crowning glory is a spectacular 18th century palace. After a day of fresh air and staggering views, it’s back to Madrid for a well-deserved rest.
Urso Hotel (5*) or Similar
Hop aboard a train and watch the countryside unfold as you travel into the picturesque wine region. Your destination is the fertile valleys along the Duero River, where exclusive wine estates produce some of Spain’s most acclaimed wines. Hop on an e-bike and set off to discover the architectural treasures and immaculate vines at the exclusive Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine Hotel, your home for the night. There will be time to taste some of their finest wines as you picnic between the rows of vines. That evening, a chef at the Michelin-starred restaurant will give you a private masterclass in the art of Spanish cooking.
Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine Hotel (5*)
It’s all aboard a train bound for the Andalusian capital of Seville. Iconic buildings come to life as you begin an immersive tour of the city. Where better to start than at the largest Gothic building in the world, Seville Cathedral? Climb to the top of the 12th century bell tower, the Giralda, for panoramic views across the rooftops. Throughout the day you’ll witness the beauty of the ornate Moorish Alcázar Palace, and wander through the once Jewish Quarter of Barrio de Santa Cruz – today one of the city’s most fashionable districts. Finish your day with dinner on board a boat cruising along the Guadalquivir River.
Mercer Hotel (5*) or Similar
Today will be a day of basking in nature. The extraordinary landscape of the Doñana National Park is one of Europe’s most important wetland reserves, a crucial site for native wildlife and migrating birds. This untamed national park is a mosaic of marshes, lakes, channels, and beaches which are best explored on horseback and by 4×4 car. We’ll pass shifting sand dunes and pine forests as we keep our eyes open for Imperial eagles and elusive Iberian lynx. Enjoy lunch in the tiny village of El Rocio, famed for its annual pilgrimage which ends at the grand white-washed hermitage.
Mercer Hotel (5*) or Similar
After breakfast, set off to discover Andalucía’s sherry-producing region. You’ll visit the town of Jerez de la Frontera, famed for its traditional sherry production, and get to sample the different varieties of the fortified wine – from sweet varieties to the prized fino (dry) sherry. From one tradition to another, as we head to a local bull farm. The owner will escort you through his land, bringing you into his world raising livestock on a rural finca (ranch). End your day watching the sun set over the spiritual city of Ronda.
Private Finca in Ronda
Delve deeper into the agriculture of the region today as you explore a private organic farm and its 250 hectares of pasture, gardens, vineyards, and old oak forest. After checking in to this discreetly luxurious eco-retreat, you’ll have plenty of time to connect with nature in a sustainable and authentic way. Get lost amid the olive trees, vines, and orchards, or learn about the art of beekeeping and the use of plants in the medicinal herb garden. Finish your day with a private dinner prepared with the farm’s home-grown produce, and a colorful flamenco show.
Private Finca
This morning you will make your way to Granada. But first, a heart-in-mouth hike along the suspended walkways and bridges of El Caminito del Rey. Deep in the gorges and valleys, you will walk high above the thundering river along wooden paths clinging to the steep cliff walls. Your bravery will be rewarded by staggering views and a great story to tell. Later in Granada, visit the majestic Alhambra Palace at night as it glows golden against the black mountains, before checking into the serene luxury of your hotel.
Hospes Palacio de los Patos (5*) or Similar
On the last morning, your private driver will escort you to the airport in time for your return flight home.
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Gems of Spain
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