Grand Tour of Southern Spain and Portugal's Coast

Take your flight to Malaga airport and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day will be spent at leisure, allowing you time to settle into the hotel and start exploring if you wish.

Later this evening you can enjoy a welcome drinks reception to get to know your fellow travelling companions and your Tour Manager.  

Malaga, recognised as one of Spain's oldest cities, is steeped in a vibrant history that stretches across millennia. Originating as a Phoenician trading port over 2,800 years ago, it played a significant role during both the Roman and Moorish eras, and as such showcases the footprints of ancient civilisations. Additionally, as the birthplace of the iconic artist Picasso, Malaga proudly honours its artistic heritage through exceptional museums.  

Today, we explore Malaga in a small group along with a local expert guide, seeing how history, culture, and Mediterranean beauty converge. This morning, we navigate the beloved streets of the city, taking in some of its most notable landmarks. From the historic Roman Theatre and dominating Moorish fortifications to the acclaimed Picasso Museum, there are many sites which showcase the enduring charm of Malaga, where history awaits at every corner.  

Our guided adventure wraps up at the Malaga Cathedral - officially known as the Santa Iglesia Cathedral Basílica de la Encarnación - where your admission is included, giving you the chance to wander through the stunning structure at your leisure.   

This evening, leave the conventional tourist path behind and immerse yourself in a genuine flamenco show within an intimate venue. Discover the significance, style, and rhythm of the dance as you enjoy the up-close experience, allowing you to appreciate every captivating detail while marvelling at the exceptional talent of the dancers and musicians. For them, flamenco transcends mere performance—it's a passion that embodies their way of life.   

This morning, we embark on a discovery of some of the finest family-owned restaurants, starting with Atarazanas Food Market, as part of a guided culinary experience. In smaller groups accompanied by a local guide for a more intimate experience, we wander through the city’s historical center, uncovering the fascinating stories behind Spanish cuisine while sampling delightful treats throughout the picturesque, historic streets of Malaga. This tour focuses on uncovering hidden culinary treasures and savouring traditional Spanish dishes along the way.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. You might opt to revisit some of the landmarks from our guided tour, such as the Alcazaba, which features stunning courtyards, gardens, and ponds, alongside sprawling views of the city and the sea.  

As well as beautiful buildings and views, Malaga is also a vibrant cultural centre, perfect for unleashing your creativity. There are over 30 museums, including the renowned Picasso Museum – as Malaga is the birthplace of Picasso - showcasing 285 pieces donated by Picasso's family. The culinary scene in Malaga also shines, with fresh, local ingredients, an abundance of seafood, and vibrant dishes blending Moorish, Roman, and Spanish culinary traditions. 

Following breakfast, we leave Malaga and embark on a scenic drive along the Mediterranean coastline, south towards Gibraltar. The imposing Penibaetic mountains rise majestically in the background, contrasting with the vibrant resorts and charming whitewashed villages along the shore.  

As we approach Gibraltar, the sight of the legendary Rock comes into view—a formidable 426-meter limestone cliff that emerges dramatically from the ocean, earning its reputation as one of the legendary Pillars of Hercules. Even more remarkable is the fact that this geological marvel is composed of Jurassic limestone that dates back a staggering 200 million years! We take a moment to explore this intriguing pocket of British territory at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula.

Upon arriving in Gibraltar, you’ll have the opportunity to wander around this delightful town at your leisure. Familiar sights include the iconic red telephone boxes and British retail stores, but the sun-kissed landscape, palm-lined avenues, and eclectic architecture narrate a unique story. The architectural scene reflects a fascinating blend of Spanish, Moorish, Genoese, and British influences, showcasing its rich historical tapestry.

For those seeking a bit of adventure, consider taking a quick cable car ride to the summit of the Rock, where you can access the surrounding nature reserve and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. At an elevation of 412 meters, several viewing platforms offer stunning panoramas across two continents and three nations. Keep an eye out for the playful Barbary macaques that roam the area; typically found across the Strait in North Africa, can often be seen around the nearby Apes’ Den.

Later in the afternoon, we will continue our journey to Cádiz, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, a true gem along the stunning ‘Costa de la Luz’ or ‘Coast of Light’. 

Nestled on a slender peninsula nearly encircled by the vibrant turquoise waters of the Atlantic, the historic city of Cádiz has managed to preserve its charm and allure, remaining largely untouched by modern tourism. This classic Spanish locale enchants visitors with new views round every corner, with well-maintained historical sites, lush botanical gardens and stunning sunsets that paint the harbour in golden hues.

Following breakfast, in small groups we will embark on a guided tour of the old quarter delving into Cádiz’s rich maritime legacy and its importance on a global scale. Originally called ‘Gadir’ by the Phoenicians over three millennia ago, it flourished as a Roman port and later became a key launching point for Spain’s exploration and conquest of the Americas. The wealth accrued during its Golden Age led to the development of five beautiful squares, interconnected by narrow lanes and home to numerous remarkable sites, including the iconic golden-domed cathedral. Often referred to as ‘the Cathedral of the Americas,’ this architectural gem is elegantly designed in the Baroque style, enriched with elements of Neoclassicism. Surrounding Plaza San Antonio, where the Spanish Constitution was established in 1812, are grand ochre-and-white residences, complete with ornate wrought-iron balconies and striking entranceways. 

To conclude our guided tour, we will enjoy afternoon tea at Café Royalty, a historic café that has graced the city since 1912. Centrally located, this beloved establishment is among the oldest and most prestigious in Cádiz, famed for its enchanting ambience and traditional interior. Over the decades, the café has undergone various transformations, reclaiming its historical splendour in 2008. It continues to exude elegance, making it an essential spot to experience the spirit of Cádiz. Take some time to relax at the café, savouring a steaming cup of tea paired with a delectable slice of cake.

The remainder of the day is yours to further explore the enchanting beauty of this captivating city at your own pace. 

Today is yours to explore as you wish in Cadiz—a vibrant Spanish city full of charm.  

Wander through the historic cobblestone streets where you'll find a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and local tapas bars. Cádiz is renowned for its iconic watchtowers, including the impressive Torre Tavira, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. For a more tranquil experience, unwind in Parque Genovés, a lush garden filled with a variety of plants from the Americas. If you're looking for the perfect place to relax for the day, head to Playa de la Victoria beach, located opposite our hotel. Despite being on the outskirts of the city, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle and boasts dazzling seafront views. 

This charming city boasts a rich cultural legacy and picturesque scenery, and it is renowned as a prominent hub for producing sherry wine that has global acclaim. We have some free time to explore Jerez this morning. There's an abundance of attractions to discover, such as the Alcázar de Jerez de la Frontera - a Moorish fortress from the 11th century that provides breathtaking views of the city and its gardens. The Jerez Cathedral is also a must-see, showcasing exquisite Spanish Baroque architecture with parts dating back to the 12th century.

Following our time in the city, we will head to Bodegas Tradición - a rustic winemaker specialising in sherry - where an expert guide will walk us through the sherry production process, followed by a delightful tasting accompanied by some light snacks to share, and a tour of the winery. This establishment is known for its exceptional aged and rare sherries, some maturing for decades and utilising the traditional solera system—an ageing method involving stacked barrels that produces wines of remarkable consistency and depth. What truly sets Bodegas Tradición apart is its on-site art gallery, which features works from several renowned Spanish painters, offering insights into Spanish history from the 14th to the 19th centuries.  

After our tasting experience, we will make our way back to Cádiz in the late afternoon. 

Today, we leave Cádiz behind to begin the journey to Tavira, Portugal. As we’re passing by Seville enroute, it would be criminal not to stop in and explore this beautiful city.  

Seville is a city that embodies flair, allure, and intrigue. Renowned for its stunning beauty and vibrant personality, it features the tranquil River Guadalquivir running through its heart, a rich history over countless years, an abundance of historic sites, bright alleyways, and serene parks.  

The city traces its beginnings back to Roman times - this is the birthplace of Emperor Hadrian, famous for the wall in Britain that bears his name. The arrival of the Moors to Seville in the 8th century ushered in a 500-year period during which they left a remarkable heritage that can still be observed today.  

However, the city was truly transformed by the ‘discovery’ of the New World by Christopher Colombus in the late 15th century. The influx of wealth from Spain’s burgeoning empire turned Seville into one of Europe’s grandest and wealthiest cities. Much of its architecture dates back to this prosperous era, retaining a remarkable similarity to its appearance five centuries ago, filled with narrow, winding streets and concealed plazas where locals seek shade during the hot summer months. Today, it buzzes with a distinctive cultural energy that is truly captivating. It is also the resting place of Columbus remains, in Seville’s grand Cartuja de Sevilla cathedral.

The city of Figaro, Seville is the inspiration behind many notable operas and celebrates its rich flamenco heritage, whose roots are steeped in mystery. In essence, this city captures the spirit of Spain perfectly. During our guided tour, in a small group of your fellow travelling companions, we will explore the mesmerising Plaza de España, an exquisite blend of Renaissance Revival and Moorish architectural influences. You'll also see the Torre del Oro, known for its historical role in storing treasures from the Americas, alongside many other highlights. 

After the tour, you will have time to explore Seville at your leisure. You might choose to visit the stunning Alcázar Palace, one of the oldest royal residences still operational today, with its origins going back to the early 10th century, showcasing a diverse array of architectural styles and lavish decor. Alternatively, you could explore the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, which serves as the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Another option is to enjoy a river cruise to experience the city from a unique viewpoint.  

Later in the afternoon, we'll continue our journey towards the Algarve, crossing into Portugal and arriving at our final destination, Tavira. 

Situated in the enchanting region of the Algarve, Tavira is a delightful town that harmoniously combines rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and exquisite architecture, Tavira serves as a serene retreat, featuring cobblestone streets, ancient Roman bridges, and the charm of traditional Portuguese living.  

This morning, our expert tour guide will take us, in a small group, on a brief introductory walk through Tavira's historic old town. Following this, you'll have the freedom to explore at your leisure. You can choose to relax at your hotel, taking advantage of its various amenities, or stroll through the town’s historic district. Don't miss the chance to see the famous Roman bridge that gracefully crosses the Gilão River, showcasing both Roman and Moorish design elements. As you wander through the picturesque cobblestone lanes, you'll encounter traditional whitewashed homes, lovely squares, and stunning churches. Tavira’s architecture and ambience reflect distinct Moorish and Mediterranean influences. Keep an eye out for the beautifully tiled surfaces that characterise Portugal, with colourful ‘azulejos’ adorning façades and providing protection from coastal moisture. Thanks to its subtropical climate, Tavira enjoys warm sea temperatures year-round, making it an inviting place to dip your toes in the Atlantic. If you wish to enjoy one of the area's finest beaches, consider hopping on a ferry to Tavira Island. 

Today, we journey to the charming town of Olhão, where we’ll embark on an unforgettable boat excursion through the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, an incredible opportunity to experience one of the Algarve's most tranquil and untouched areas.  

As we begin our boat adventure, you'll be captivated by sweeping views of the Algarve coastline, featuring its sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sparkling azure waters. Ria Formosa is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, so remain vigilant for various migratory birds. We’ll also pause at the fishing island of Culatra, which offers a genuine glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the local inhabitants.

Alongside our scenic boat ride through Ria Formosa, we’ll indulge in a rustic lunch prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients at a quaint Algarvian eatery.