Andalusia
Located in the south of the Iberian Peninsula, Andalusia is the only place in Europe with a Mediterranean and Atlantic coastline. It’s divided into eight provinces and recognised as a historical nationality; the capital city is Seville.
In Andalusia, you can find diverse landscapes of mountains, deserts, wetlands, lakes and of course beautiful beaches, as well as fascinating and exotic architecture heavily influenced by Roman and Islamic cultures,
There are no less than seven world heritage sites in Andalusia, with most cultural sites in towns and cities.
Places to visit
- Granada, home to the Alhambra, the beauty of this Moorish palace will take your breath away; the gardens of the Generalife offer a serene alternative to the splendour of the Alhambra.
- The Sierra Nevada mountains, for their great bike rides and hiking in a splendid setting.
- Cordoba is a fascinating city, white-washed streets, fountains and flowers. The historic centre is another of Andalucia’s world heritage sites.
- Seville, arguably the most beautiful city in Spain, is home to three UNESCO sites: the Real Alcazar, Archivo De Indias and the Catedral de Santa Maria de la Sede.
- Ronda, a beautiful white-walled town in Malaga province, perched above a deep gorge, has lovely views of the Serrania de Ronda and the Sierra de la Nieves mountains.
Best time to visit
April, May, September and October are great times to visit if you want to miss the Summer crowds.
Aragon
Awe-inspiring off-the-beaten-path destination, famous for being home to some of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Aragon is a fabulous place to explore.
Located in Northern Spain, the Aragonese Pyrenees sit along its border with France, widely regarded as one of the most alluring parts of the Pyrenees mountain range. You’ll find lush valleys, stunning national parks, lovely lakes and historical and cultural gems.
Zaragoza makes a perfect base to explore the region. You’ll discover important museums, religious sites, stunning Moorish and Renaissance architecture and charming restaurants and bars offering great tapas and local food.
So many possibilities await you in this fascinating region.
Places to Visit
- The villages of Aragon are where you’ll find peace, quiet, nature and rural charm.
- Albarracín, for its medieval walls, Moorish castle and El Salvador cathedral.
- Zaragoza, capital of Aragon with its 12th century Cathedral, Basílica del Pilar and Mudéjar architecture.
- Ordesa y Monte Perdido National park, some superb hiking routes.
- Benasque for mountains and hiking, home to the highest peak in the Pyrenees.
- Jaca, a Spanish city and pilgrimage stop in the Pyrenees.
- Calatayud, for wine tasting, monasteries, castles and churches.
Best time to visit
Aragon is busiest in the Summer, whilst Spring and Summer are the quietest times to visit.
Hotel Alfonso XIII - Seville
This magnificent hotel is an iconic cultural landmark of Seville and one of Spain’s most prestigious hotels. Commissioned by the King of Spain to host international dignitaries attending the 1929 worlds fair, the hotel is a stone’s throw from the UNESCO world heritage sites of Reales Alcázares and Seville Cathedral.
The elegant decor showcases Andalucian and Sevillian styles, with their Moorish influences; this ambience continues into the swimming pool and garden areas.
Favourite rooms
The exclusive Grand Deluxe Rooms are decorated with bohemian crystal, Moorish plasterwork and antique furnishings. The terraces provide views beautiful over the lush gardens and the historical city centre.
Grand Hotel Central - Barcelona
The Grand Hotel Central is a five-star boutique hotel on the edge of Barcelona’s Gothic quarter. In this place, you can experience the real soul of the city without compromising on luxury, elegance and sophistication.
The hotel’s Skybar has become a focal point for Barcelona’s social life during the Summer and offers fabulous views over the city whilst indulging in gourmet tapas and cocktails.
Facilities include:
- 250sq metre spa.
- A well-being zone, including a fitness centre featuring the latest gym equipment.
- Treatment rooms offering a comprehensive program of Thermal aromatherapy, Natura Bisse massage and a comprehensive range of beauty treatments.
Favourite rooms
Each unique Deluxe Suite allows you to experience the buzzing cultural heart of Barcelona through picture windows that frame the Gothic quarter.
Marbella Club Hotel, Gold Resort & Spa - Costa Del Sol
Hidden away on Marbella’s Golden Mile, amidst lush botanic gardens, you’ll find the legendary Marbella Club, Golf Resort and Spa. With over one hundred rooms and suites and 17 Villas, the resort boasts one of the best kids clubs in Europe.
The resort offers a whole range of facilities and experiences, including:
- Spa
- Gym
- Wellbeing
- Wellness retreats
- Beauty Salon
- Yoga
- Horse Riding
- Tennis
- Golf
Favourite rooms
Deluxe rooms are spacious and flooded with natural light. Each has a comfortable seating area and a private terrace overlooking the gardens.
Urso Hotel and Spa - Madrid
A historic five-star renovated palace, this beautiful property is situated in the heart of Madrid between the central districts of Chamberí, Tribunal, and Chueca and integrates bourgeois character with the modern comfort of a luxury hotel.
The hotel spa offers a water area, wellness treatments and a fitness centre. It is perfect for relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Favourite rooms
The Terrace Suites are so luxurious and comfortable. Each suite has a separate living room and a large terrace with individual seating and dining areas. Perfect for relaxing whilst enjoying the Madrid skyline.
Ronda
Located in the Sierra de las Nieves national park, approximately one hour from Marbella, you’ll find the beautiful town of Ronda. It’s one of the most extraordinary locations in Spain. Ronda was a favourite of Ernest Hemmingway and Orson Welles, who spent many Summers there for a good reason.
Famous for its Puente Nuevo bridge and dramatic gorge, Ronda enjoys magnificent views over the Serrania de Ronda and the Sierra de la Nieves mountains.
Around the city, you’ll find the remains of ancient settlements dating back to the neolithic age. In addition, traces of previous settlers, from the Celts and the Phoenicians to the Romans and Berbers, still exist today.
An overnight stay in Ronda is highly recommended. Once the daytime tourists have left, an air of tranquillity descends, and you’ll be treated to stunning sunsets. Enjoy the traditional southern Spanish cuisine in one of its many superb restaurants.
A difficult place to reach by road for the less adventurous driver, Ronda is accessible by train from Algeciras, Córdoba and Madrid. Day trips or private tours are also available from many locations throughout Andalusia.
Things to do:
- Walk the Puente Nuevo bridge and El Tajo De Ronda with their spectacular views.
- Take a Ronda gorge luxury buggy trip.
- Visit the historic Arab baths dating from the 13th/14th centuries.
- Head to the Alameda del Tajo, a lovely park with some beautiful cliff-edge views.
- Discover the wines of Ronda in the hands of a local wine expert.
- Explore the famous white villages of the Sierra de Grazalema National Park.
Highlights of Andalusia
- Starting your journey in Granada, take a private tour of the magnificent Alhambra palace and visit the stunning gardens of the Generalife.
- Experience a 4WD Safari tour of the Sierra Nevada mountains and surrounding area.
- Head to the fascinating city of Cordoba and the Mezquita (Cathedral of Cordoba), another of Andalusia’s world heritage sites.
- Spend a few days exploring and relaxing in the beautiful city of Seville, where you’ll experience an intoxicating mix of Arabic palaces, baroque churches and winding medieval lanes.
- Enjoy a private walking tour of Seville, taking in the main places of interest. Including the UNESCO site of the Real Alcázar de Sevilla, the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, Plaza de Espana and the Torre del Oro.
- On your return journey, pass through the famous White villages of Andalusia, one of Spain’s most scenic driving routes.
- Spend the night in Ronda and take in the spectacular view across to the Serrania de Ronda and the Sierra de la Nieves mountains.
Following your tour of Andalusia, you may consider adding a relaxing beach break to your holiday; we can offer a selection of lovely properties on the coast.
Highlights of the Spanish Basque Country and La Rioja
- Visit the Guggenheim museum in Bilbao; the building provides a unique showcase for contemporary art and has something for both young and old.
- Take a trip to the coast and head for San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where you’ll experience a stunning scenery of cliffs, beaches, mountains and the turbulent seas of the Bay of Biscay.
- Head to the La Rioja region, famed for its world-class wines, often described as Spain’s “Tuscany without the crowds”.
- Pay a visit to the Vivanco museum of wine and enjoy a tour and tasting at one of the regions best wineries.
- Enjoy some of the very best Tapas in Spain at Lograna’s Calle del Laurel.
- Take the spectacular drive to the Parque Natural de Cebollera, where you’ll find lovely villages, mountainous forests and beautiful waterfalls.
- Enjoy a fine dining experience in San Sebastian’s many Michelin starred restaurants, three of which have achieved a three-star status.
- Visit the beautiful La Concha beach with its emerald-hued waters.
- Experience the Parte Vieja and its vibrant shops, bars and restaurants.
- Head to Monte Urgull for some stunning views of the bay and city.
Following your tour, you may consider adding a relaxing beach break to your holiday in the lovely French town of Biarritz. We also have access to several fine properties in France.
