Compare Best of Spain by Intrepid Travel vs Tales of Portugal and Spain: A Historic Journey Through Iberia by Road Scholar

Day 1 Madrid

Hola! Welcome to Madrid! This sassy Spanish capital is known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks, but it also pulsates with energy. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at either 6 or 7 pm, depending on common area availability. After the welcome meeting, and optional dinner, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileno with some tapas and Rioja, or head to the Gran Via hotspots to dance the night away with your new friends.

Day 2 Granada

Take a bus to Granada today (approximately 5 hours). Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and natural beauty. Take a walk around the old Arab quarter of the Albaicin, a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses, or the 'Alcaiceria' (old silk market area) and observe the craftworks on sale that include ceramics, marquetry and leather goods. If you're feeling energetic, climb the steep streets up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the famous Alhambra. If you have time, perhaps check out the historic Renaissance Cathedral and Capilla Real. Granada is the kind of city to leave your guidebook behind and trust your intuition (and your leader, of course).

Day 3 Granada

Today make a visit to Granada's impressive Alhambra Palace. An entrance ticket is included in the trip and grants you the visit of the Palace and the Gardens. Discover this 11th-century marvel and its dominating red fortress towers, palace decor, architectural styles, and magnificent gardens. It's all set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. With fountains, impeccably maintained hedges and pools, centuries-old defensive walls, turrets, and views overlooking Granada, this renowned palace will not disappoint. Make sure you allow enough time as the Alhambra is made up of three parts: the Alcazaba, the 11th-century Muslim wing which features spectacular views from its towers; the Palacio Nazaries, the centre of the complex; and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. After your visit ask your leader to take you deeper into Granada’s Moorish Albaicin quarter and to the area of traditional tea houses. The view from this area across to the Alhambra Palace is not to be missed. Tonight, perhaps meet up again with the group for dinner.

Day 4 Ronda

Leave Granada behind and travel by train and private transport to the Andalucian hills and the whitewashed town of Ronda. A landscape of green forests and white limestone mountains, Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting in Spain and was a favourite of Hemmingway and Orson Welles. The highlight of the town is the spectacular Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), one of the most photographed structures in the country. Built in 1751, it bridges the 100-metre deep gorge that splits the town in two. You can walk across it, stopping to peer over a vertiginous drop from one of its balconies. Check out the old Moorish town on one side, home to many historic buildings including the House of the Moorish King, and the newer El Mercadillo on the other side. East of the town are well-preserved Arab Baths and, of course, the famous Plaza de Toros. In the evening, find a spot from which you could enjoy a scenic sunset; this won’t be a problem in Ronda. 

Day 5 Ronda

Take a walk through Los Molinos, the beautiful valley surrounding Ronda. You can head down into El Tajo, the gorge that separates the old and new town, and get a view of the bridge and town from below. The rest of the day is free to explore town. The Plaza de Toros is one of the oldest bullfighting rings in the country, and adjoining the bullring is the Bullfighting Museum, which displays relics of Ronda's bullfighting history. The gardens behind offer panoramic views over the surrounding mountains, which have a long history of sheltering bandits and smugglers. Visit the Museum of Bandits for an entertaining insight into their history, or check out the prize-winning wineries and beautiful national parks that surround the town.

Day 6 Tarifa

Today you'll travel south-west to Tarifa, along the coastline. This western Andalusian coast faces the Mediterranean and North Africa and your base for the next two nights is Tarifa, a laid-back beach town endowed with spectacular rocky scenery, a sea fortress, a lighthouse and plenty of character. The afternoon is free to relax. Perhaps catch a bus to the 10 kilometre-long sands of Playa de Los Lances – a haven for kite surfers – or hole up at a beach bar on Playa de Valdevaqueros. One of the best ways to appreciate the area is simply to wander, along the promenade under the old castle, past restaurants brimming with fresh seafood, and appreciate this rare, underdeveloped stretch of Spanish coastline. The surfers lend the Old Town a laid-back, international vibe, along with hints North Africa, which lies just across the water. In the evening, why not grab some dinner in town and join in Tarifa's vibrant nightlife.

Day 7 Costa de la Luz / Tarifa

Today there are plenty of optional activities to choose from. Perhaps head out on a whale and dolphin watching expedition on the Iberian Peninsula. At this unique place, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean and where Europe meets Africa, you'll have a chance to see seven different species of whales and dolphins. Alternatively, take a day trip to Northern Africa and the town of Tangier in Morocco, just 45 minutes away by ferry. Once a hotspot for artists, secret agents and millionaires, Tangier has been going through something of a renaissance of late. The city's medina and kasbah are well worth exploring, as are the cafes and patisseries around the Place de la France in the Ville Nouvelle. You can unwind and take in the charms of the city on the recently reconstructed beach promenad or one interesting option is a day tour across the border to the British territory of Gibraltar, home to the famous Rock of Gibraltar. Here you can take a cable car up to the rock’s peak, explore the caves, visit a Moorish castle and wander the main street, discovering the interesting blend of old British life and Spanish flavours.

Day 8 Seville

Travel to the vibrant city of Seville. Sevillians are well known for their wit and sparkle, and the city itself is striking for its vitality and flamboyance – the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Seville is also famous for its oranges, tapas and flamenco, all three of which are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. As the rest of the day is free for you to explore, why not go and experience it all in person. Barrio Santa Cruz, with its multicultural history, is a great place to start. This shaded warren was designed in medieval times to provide refuge from the great Andalusian heat. Or maybe spend your evening San Jacinto, the bustling main street of the Triana quarter, and discover the interesting and adventurous food on offer.

Day 9 Seville

Today is a free day to discover Seville, but checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is an absolute must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you may have to line up, it's worth it for the views over the city. Visit the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, and now gaining international fame as a shooting location for Game of Thrones. Wander through the fragrant gardens and examine the Moorish and Mudejar architecture. If you feel like an injection of culture, explore Seville's Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum. As Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, be sure to sample some of the tasty morsels on offer in one of the city's many tapas bars. In the evening, catch a local flamenco performance with the group (included). Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight.

Day 10 Cordoba

Continue to Cordoba by train. Discover the mesh of Muslim, Jewish and Christian cultures in the architecture and cuisine of this southern city. Visit the famous Mezquita, with its golden arches and intricate columns, once the third largest mosque in the world and one of the most beautiful. It was consecrated into a Roman Catholic cathedral in the 13th century when the Christians reconquered Cordoba. Time permitting, you might stroll through a labyrinth of cobbled laneways in the old quarter, discovering open squares and quirky cafes. The evening is free to sample more delicious Spanish cuisine. Salmorejo (a cold soup made of tomatoes, bread and olive oil served with chopped up boiled egg and cured ham) is a specialty of Cordoba, as is rabo de toro (oxtail soup). There are also plenty of good-value eateries in the Juderia (Jewish Quarter).

Day 11 Valencia

Take a train and head east to the coastal town of Valencia (approximately 6 hours). Known for being the Spanish gateway to the Mediterranean, Valencia has a large port, beautiful beaches, restaurants and a beach promenade along the waterfront. The Old Town is set back from the seafront through, and in the centre you will find the beautiful monuments and historical buildings. Busy markets, clean beaches, picturesque hills and a fascinating mix of old town and new town makes up the best of Valencia. Over the next couple of days, you have a lot of free time to wander around the city and see the sights. This evening perhaps head out to bar-hop and eat tapas in the Ciutat Vella (old town).

Day 12 Valencia

Hop on a bike today and pedal along Turia Park all the way to the iconic city of Art and Science. This activity is done at a leisurely pace and you certainly don’t need to be an expert to participate. After cycling, why not visit the 13th-century cathedral, which houses what's claimed to be the Holy Grail, and climb the 207 steps of the Miguelete tower for the best views of the city. For something a little quirkier, head to the Museum of the Fallas, which contains a history of the Valencia fire festival and giant papier mache figures that have been spared from the burning. The Museo de Bellas Artes has Spain's second-biggest art collection, housed in a beautiful 17th-century convent. There are also many fine parks and gardens, or you may want to head to the beach of Playa de la Malvarrosa to soak up some sun. To try the paella that Valencia is famous for (rabbit and chicken), do as the locals do and head to the restaurant area of Las Arenas for a hearty and reasonably priced lunch. Tonight, maybe head south to Ruzafa, one of the city’s coolest areas, where the locals only start to head out as the clock strikes midnight.

Day 13 Barcelona

Today take the train up the coast to Barcelona (approximately 3.5 hours). Barcelona's quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a groundbreaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife. In the afternoon, there are plenty of options to keep you busy. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the old Gothic Quarter and navigate your way through the throngs of tourists along La Rambla, Barcelona's famous tree-lined boulevard. Maybe grab a fresh juice at the colourful La Boqueria market while you're there. Perhaps pay a visit to the Picasso Museum, the National Art Museum of Catalonia or the Museum of City History to brush up on your local knowledge. Take the funicular to the top of Montjuic or Tibidabo for panoramic views of Barcelona and the harbour. The heart of Catalonia prides itself as a gastronomic centre and so this evening perhaps head out to taste the reputation for yourself. You can take a tapas crawl through rustic Catalan dishes in the funky neighbourhood of El Born.

Day 14 Barcelona

Join your leader on an orientation walk around Barcelona today. See some of the city's main sights, including a visit to Antonio Gaudi's incredible La Sagrada Familia Cathedral. The architect worked on this hugely ambitious project for decades until his death, and it remains in constant construction. Along with the Camp Nou football stadium, it is possibly the city's most iconic landmark. Gaudi was the master of the unique Catalan Modernista architecture for which Barcelona is famous, and his work is dotted all over the city. Perhaps check out the Neo-Gothic mansion of Guell Palace, or the wave-inspired structure of Casa Batlo. For more insight into the artist himself, head to the Gaudi House Museum inside Parc Guell, which is home to more colourful sculptures, including a long mosaic-covered bench overlooking the city. For something a little different, perhaps have a poke around the Old Santa Creu Hospital. For your tonight, perhaps finish the day with a sip of red wine from a porro – a traditional glass pitcher.

Day 15 Barcelona

Today your Spanish adventure comes to an end in the morning. There are no more activities planned and you're free to leave the accommodation at any time after check-out. If you'd like to spend a few more days in Barcelona, then our reservations team can help book accommodation (subject to availability).

Day 1 In Transit to Program In Flight

Day 2 Arrive Lisbon, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner Oeiras

Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m.

Orientation. 6:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

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

At the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course plated welcome dinner with wine, coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 3 Portuguese History, Cascais Coast, Sintra, Palace of Queluz Oeiras

Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 38 miles total, with stops for field trips; about 2 hours total drive time. Walking between 2 and 3 miles total throughout the day; periods of standing at the palace; steep inclines and cobblestones in Sintra.

We will begin with a lecture given by a historian in the hotel meeting room, which will provide an introduction to the history of Portugal. Afterwards, we will head out via motorcoach along the coast of Lisbon to Sintra’s town center. Upon arrival, our Group Leader will show us around while providing commentary on the area before opening up the rest of the morning for you to enjoy exploring the old village and its narrow streets independently.

Next, we’ll go on an expert-led field trip that will reveal the architectural beauty and history of the Palace of Queluz. Situated just outside of Lisbon, the palace was official residence of the Portuguese royal family throughout the 18th century. The architectural design is an eclectic mix of Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical, whilst the gardens are inspired by the French styles of that period.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

At the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course plated meal with a glass of wine, coffee, tea water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 4 Portugal's Past, Lisbon, National Tile Museum, To Condeixa Condeixa

Driving approximately 133 miles total; about 3 hours total drive time, with stops for field trips. Walking between 2 and 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestones, some steps, and slopes all around Lisbon; periods of standing up to 1 hour at a time.

Once checked out of the hotel, we’ll drive to Lisbon's Belém neighborhood from where the Portuguese navigators set sail on their expedition and "discovery" of India. While here, a local expert will expand upon Portugal’s seafaring history with mention of great Portuguese navigators. Later, we will enjoy an expert-led exploration of the centuries-old decorative art of ceramic tiles at the Portuguese National Tile Museum, housed at the former "Madre de Deus" Convent. We will continue with our local expert on a walking field trip through Lisbon's historic old quarters and downtown area.

Continuing our discovery of Lisbon with our local expert, we’ll set out for a walk around Chiado, the old neighborhood of the bourgeoisie of the 19th century. Afterwards, we will drive to Condeixa where we will stay for the next two nights.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

On your own to sample the local fare in downtown Lisbon.

At the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course plated meal with a glass of wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 5 Coimbra, Fado Performance, Conímbriga Roman Ruins Condeixa

Driving approximately 22 miles total; less than 1 hour roundtrip. Walking approximately 3 miles total throughout the day; periods of standing; hilly terrain with steep slopes, steps, cobblestones; uneven, rugged ground at Conímbriga ruins.

Our first stop of the day will be at the Roman Ruins of Conímbriga, the most important Roman Site of Portugal, where a local expert will lead us through the local museum, the archaeological site and its mosaics, and the important "Casa das Fontes" with its gravitational Roman fountain still in working order. Afterward, we will continue our exploration of Coimbra, the former capital of Portugal and one of the countries oldest cities.

In the afternoon, we will visit the oldest university in Portugal, the University of Coimbra, for an expert-led field trip. Afterward, we will continue our exploration of Coimbra with a performance of fado at a local fado house accompanied by an explanation of the history of this time-honored musical art form, recognized in 2011 by UNESCO on the Representative Lost of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. We’ll enjoy this expressive, often melancholic Portuguese folk music tradition, sometimes referred to as “Lisbon blues” because “fado” means “fate” and songs are often nostalgic or sad. Following the visit, we will return to the hotel.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.

On your own to explore the local cuisine.

At the hotel.

Day 6 Portugal’s Countryside, Monastery of Batalha, Ribatejo Evora

Driving approximately 200 miles total throughout the day; about 4 hours total, with stops for field trips. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; periods of standing up to 1 hour at a time; some uneven paving at the monastery; flat though slightly rugged terrain at the farmstead.

After checking out of the hotel, we will drive to the "Monastery of Batalha," recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. One of the pinnacles of Gothic architecture in Portugal, it was built in celebration of the Battle of Aljubarrota which secured Portugal's independence. The highlight, and perhaps the most astonishing parts of the monastery are the "Unfinished" Chapels: seven chapels that radiate from an octagonal rotunda, divided from each other by deeply carved, incomplete pillars that create an effect of oriental exuberance. We will see a very different part of life in Portugal on a field trip to Companhia das Lezírias, the country’s largest farmstead for agriculture, cattle, and forests. As a local expert leads us through wooded groves where olive and cork trees grow, we will learn what’s involved in maintaining the delicate ecosystems of the area. We will also have an opportunity to see the farm's beautiful Lusitano horses. Originally bred for war and bullfighting, they are now highly regarded for their skills in the equestrian sport and art of dressage.

We will then explore the onsite winery, vineyard, and facilities led by winery staff before enjoying a wine tasting. Afterwards, we will depart for the scenic Alentejo region and check in at the hotel in Évora.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

At Companhia das Lezírias – a traditional Portuguese farmstead – we’ll have a buffet meal with wine and water included.

At the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course plated meal with a glass of wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 7 Cromeleque dos Almendres, Historic Evora, Local Cuisine Evora

Driving approximately 28 miles roundtrip; about 1.5 hours total, with stops. Walking between 2 and 3 miles total throughout the day; periods of standing during field tips; cobblestones in Evora; uneven terrain in Cromeleque.

Setting out from the hotel, we will transfer to the prehistoric site of Cromeleque dos Almendres for an expert-led field trip of Portugal's most important megalithic site. Set on a spectacular hillside location among olive and cork trees, multiple circles of ancient stones dating as far back as 6000 B.C.E. stand steadfast in celestial alignment with the moon, sun and stars. Returning to Evora, we’ll visit the historic Old Town with our local expert. One of Europe’s oldest settlements, dating back more than 5,000 years, Evora was conquered over the centuries by Celts, Romans, and Moors before its reconquering by Portugal in the 12th Century.

After some time for independent exploration of the city, we’ll meet at a predetermined time and place before participating in an expert-led, hands-on cooking workshop featuring traditional Portuguese food.

We’ll then return to the hotel via motorcoach. The remainder of the evening will be at leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.

On your own to explore the local cuisine.

At the workshop, we’ll enjoy the food we helped to prepare with a glass of wine and water included.

Day 8 In the Footsteps of the Moors & Arrival in Spain Seville

Driving approximately 210 miles total; about 5.5 hours total drive time, with stops for field trips. Walking approximately 2 miles total throughout the day; some cobblestones and uneven terrain. Spain’s time zone is one hour ahead of Portugal.

Once checked out, we’ll begin our journey following in the footsteps of the Moors as we head to Spain through the east of Portugal, stopping in the quaint riverside town of Monsaraz, a tiny fairytale walled village that maintains a delightful medieval atmosphere. It was originally fortified by the Knights Templar, and today its 150 permanent residents live in ancient white houses with outdoor staircases and wrought-iron balconies. While here, we’ll take some time to climb the castle's battlements with a local expert to enjoy the magical landscape of the surrounding countryside. Then we will cross the border into Spain via the town of Olivença that, between 1297 and 1801, was under Portuguese sovereignty until it was invaded by the Spanish. Spain has since administered the territory and the historic center keeps several monuments as reminders of the Portuguese presence. With our Group Leader, we’ll go on a delightful walk around and feel the local atmosphere, before enjoying some time for independent exploration.

We will continue driving to Andalusia while enjoying commentary given by our Study Leader about similarities, rivalries, and the shared history of Portugal and Spain. We will arrive in the late afternoon in Seville and check in to the hotel. After some time to unpack, our Group Leader will lead us on a short orientation of the downtown area of the city as we walk to dinner.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

On your own to enjoy what you like in Olivença.

At a local restaurant, we’ll have a plated 3-course meal with a choice of entrée, a glass of wine, and water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 9 Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville Cathedral, Moorish Alcazar Seville

Walking approximately 3 miles around Seville throughout the day; cobblestones and uneven surfaces; periods of standing up to 1.5 hours at a time at the Alcazar and Cathedral.

To start out the morning, we’ll take a walk to a nearby cultural center where a local expert will give an introductory lecture on contemporary Spain. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy some time for independent exploration.

Upon rendezvousing with our local expert, we’ll stroll along the cobblestone streets of the oldest neighborhood of the city – the Barrio Santa Cruz (Jewish quarter) and visit the Cathedral. Built on the site of a mosque, it is the third largest church, and the largest Gothic building, in Europe. It also boasts the largest altarpiece in the world and the Tomb of Christopher Columbus. Our exploration will finish with a visit to the spectacular Moorish Alcazar Royal Palace and gardens.

At leisure.

At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.

On your own to explore local cuisine.

At a local restaurant, we’ll have a plated 3-course meal, a glass of wine, coffee, tea, and water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 10 Cordoba, La Mezquita, Free Time Seville

Driving approximately 85 miles one way from Seville to Cordoba; about 4 hours roundtrip. Walking approximately 3 miles throughout the day around Cordoba; on cobblestones and uneven terrain; periods of standing up to 2 hours at a time during field trips.

Setting out via motorcoach, we will discover Cordoba, the former capital of the Muslim Caliphate of Al Andalus. Our field trip will include a visit to the cathedral, renowned as the Mosque or the "Mezquita," which stands over a Christian church built in the Visigoth period (5th century). After the Moorish conquest of Spain, it was used as a mosque. In 1236, following Cordoba's fall to Ferdinand and after over 500 years of use as a mosque, the site was re-consecrated Christian and a cathedral was erected in 1523. It is one of the most emblematic Islamic monuments in Spain and a unique example of the interplay of Christian and Muslim cultures in the country. Later, we will continue our study of Cordoba during an expert-led walk through the traditional Patios of the Alcazar Palace.

Free time before rendezvousing at a predetermined time and place for transfer back to Seville. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

Hotel buffet.

At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a tapas lunch featuring a glass of wine, and water; other beverages available for purchase.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Day 11 White Villages of Andalusia, Local Cheese, Ronda Ronda

Driving approximately 105 miles total throughout the day; about 8 hours, with stops for field trips. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; periods of standing up to 1 hour at a time; steep slopes in villages, cobblestones, steps without railings.

From Seville, we will journey via motorcoach through the Andalusian countryside of the UNESCO-listed Sierra de Grazalema and its splendid white villages. With a local expert for the day, we’ll learn about the traditional villages and their rural way of life, and make a stop at a local artisan cheesemaker where we’ll have the opportunity to view the premises with the owners and taste the renowned Payoyo cheese.

We will continue through the Sierra Mountains and white villages to Ronda. With whitewashed buildings, red rooftops, hilltop castles and local artisans, it seems that time has stood still here since the medieval ages. After completing our journey to Ronda, we will check in to our hotel and enjoy some time to relax before joining our Group Leader on an orientation walk of the town.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

At a traditional restaurant en route, we’ll enjoy a delicious plated, mountain-style lunch, with a glass of wine and water included; other beverages available for purchase.

On your own to sample the local fare.

Day 12 Ronda, Puente Nuevo, Bullring, Flamenco Guitar Ronda

Walking approximately 3 miles throughout the day; very uneven terrain, cobblestones in Ronda.

Renowned for its spectacular setting, Ronda has a rich cultural, historic and literary tradition. Famous for being the home of modern bullfighting, the town was also witness to the horrors inflicted on civilians during the Spanish Civil War, and is believed to be the setting for several of Ernest Hemingway's literary works. Today's field trip will take us on foot through the charming old town to the spectacular Puente Nuevo (the "New" Bridge dating from 1793 and spanning a 300 foot deep gorge) and to the bullring, now a museum to the controversial sport.

Free time to experience Ronda at your own pace.

After a short walk to the guitar player’s school, we’ll enjoy a flamenco guitar performance given by a local musician. Performance is subject to availability and may be substituted or rescheduled. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.

On your own to explore local cuisine.

At the hotel, we’ll have 3-course plated meals with a glass of wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 13 Olive Oil, Lunch with a Family, Granada Granada

Driving approximately 135 miles total one way from Ronda to Alfarnatejo and Granada; about 7 hours with stops for field trips. Walking approximately 2 miles, some uneven ground in the mountain towns.

Hotel buffet.

Continuing our transfer, we will arrive in Granada in the late afternoon and check in at the hotel. After settling in, we’ll then head out with our Group Leader for an introductory walk around the area.

At leisure.

Hosted by local families in their homes within town, we’ll enjoy a typical homemade plated lunch with a glass of wine and water.

In Granada, our Group Leader will provide us with vouchers for a meal from a choice of local tapas bars. One beverage will be included with others available for purchase.

Day 14 Granada, The Alhambra Granada

Driving approximately 2 miles one way through the city; less than 1 hour roundtrip. Walking up to 3 miles, approximately 3 hours with breaks; many cobblestones, steep slopes, uneven terrain, several flights of stairs without handrails at the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. Alhambra tickets are subject to strict regional government quotas and visits may be rescheduled or substituted if necessary.

Arriving via motorcoach, we will visit the Alhambra – a UNESCO Heritage site – led by a local expert. It is more than a just a palace; it is an entire walled city within the city of Granada. There are royal apartments, forts, gardens, pavilions, barracks and sumptuous gardens that offered protection from the summer heat. Our field trip to the Alhambra will end with an expert-led exploration of the Nasrid Palace – the most renowned Islamic building in Europe, which dates back to the 14th Century and is filled with Arabic inscriptions and geometric patterns, perfectly proportioned chambers, and peaceful courtyards.

Free time. You may wish to continue to explore Granada on your own, relax at the hotel, or begin to prepare for departures in the morning. We’ll then rendezvous back at the hotel for a program wrap-up. Share some of your favorite experiences from the program with new Road Scholar friends.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.

At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.

At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a delicious plated meal for our farewell lunch, with all beverages included.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Day 15 Program Concludes Granada

Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. Airport transfers beginning at approximately 4:00 a.m. See your program’s “Transportation Information” regarding transfers.

If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Hotel buffet, flight times permitting. This concludes our program.