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

Day 1 Madrid

Hola! Welcome to Madrid, the Spanish capital known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, booking a few extra days isn't a bad idea. After the welcome meeting, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileno with some tapas and Rioja with your fellow travellers.

Day 2 Granada

Take a bus to Granada today. 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, or watch the world go by as you indulge in some tapas at a bar. Granada is the kind of city to leave your guidebook behind and trust your intuition.

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 Seville

Travel by bus and train this morning to the vibrant city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World', and is today the capital of Andalucia and the largest city in southern Spain. Known for its important monuments and fascinating history, Seville is universally famous for being a joyous town. 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 5 Seville

Today is a free day to discover Seville. Checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is a must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you might have to line up, it's well 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. Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight!

Day 6 Algarve / Lagos

Today board a bus and cross the border into Portugal. Travel through fertile plain landscapes of orange orchards, olive groves and maize fields to the Algarve, Portugal's stunning southern coast, where your destination is the seaside town of Lagos. Set on the banks of the Rio Bensafrim, Lagos is gifted with a temperate Mediterranean climate, a bounty of beaches and a rich heritage. When you arrive, you might want to take a walk around town. Wandering around Lagos’s old town enclosed within 16th century walls, on pretty cobbled streets and picturesque plazas and churches, is definitely a good thing to do. In the evening, why not head to feast on freshly caught fish at a restaurant or cafe overlooking the water and behold a golden sky at sunset, before throwing yourself into Lagos' pumping nightlife.

Day 7 Algarve / Lagos

Most of today is free to enjoy Lagos and its surrounds. At some point during the day (depending on availability) you will enjoy an included boat tour around Algarve’s rocky cliffs. Explore the jagged, weathered rockface of Pinta da Piedade, full of arches, towers, grottoes and caves that have been eroded into this fabulous limestone coast. Your leader will inform you about the exact time in advance so you can plan other activities around that. For the rest of the day, perhaps pack a book and towel and head to the beach. The vast sands of Meia Praia stretch for over 4 km, and it is peppered with beach bars, cafes and sun lounges. Also, plenty of water sports are on offer in the summer. In addition, there are numerous boat trip options, focusing on birdwatching, fishing, or even spotting the Algarve dolphins. Praia do Porto de Mos and Camilo Beach are also good options, lovely water and sands surrounded by great rock formations. Take a stroll through the quaint alleys of central Lagos, or head down to the waterfront to watch the boats come in. Just ask your leader for any tips if you’re unsure.

Day 8 Lisbon

Today head north by public bus to Lisbon. As one of Europe's most pleasant and affordable capital cities, Lisbon combines the best elements of Portuguese life, offering fantastic architecture, a multicultural population, delicious seafood and non-stop nightlife. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk of Lisbon to find your feet. There are some great modern and ancient art museums to check out, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art or the National Coach Museum. Your afternoon and evening is then free, so maybe head to the grand Naval Museum for an insight into the history of Portuguese navigation. You can roam through the charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods and see local life play out. Maybe simply sit back in one of many outdoors restaurants and cafes – watching the life go by is definitely one of the best ways to relax in Lisbon. As the sun goes down, some of Lisbon's best nightlife centres on the neighbourhood of Bairro Alto, where you can enjoy an emotional fado performance (traditional Portuguese music).

Day 9 Lisbon

Today is a free day to further discover Lisbon, which is located on the banks of the Tagus (Tejo) River and is truly one of Europe’s great cities. Much of Lisbon’s character and charm lies in its beautiful renovated buildings, grand boulevards and impressive castles and churches. Maybe head out this morning on a tour to visit to the medieval citadel in the city centre of Lisbon. Discover the medieval citadel of Sao Jorge Castle, which dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops. From the citadel, this makes a contrasting panorama when viewed against the deep blue of the sky and ocean. With the rest of your free time today, perhaps catch a tram or hire a bike and cycle along the water to the historic neighbourhood of Belem. Make sure you try a sumptuous custard tart at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem. Relax at a cafe in hilly Alfama, or check out the fascinating street art spread throughout the city.

Day 10 Porto

Continue north on a local bus to Porto, the capital of the north that sits between a river and the Atlantic Ocean. Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities. Known for majestic bridges, medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes, Porto is also well known for one more thing – as the birthplace of the fortified wine, port. Indulge in an included group tasting of some famous tawny and ruby ports at one of the many wine houses across the river. Most of the grapes are grown and harvested in the nearby Douro Valley. If sampling the best from the region piques curiosity, why not learn more about the history of wine and port making at the Museu do Vinho later on in the afternoon. Alternatively, spend the evening soaking up the atmosphere of this coastal city in numerous cafes and restaurants that Porto has to offer.

Day 11 Porto

Today is a free day to explore Porto. The city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district is packed with twisting alleys, staircases, and baroque churches, and is great to explore on foot. Sao Francisco church is known for its lavish interior with ornate gilded carvings. The palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, was built to impress potential European investors. For a sensational view of the whole town head to the Torre dos Clerigos (Clerigos Tower). Head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings, then make a turn for Bolhão Market. This is the city’s most famed market, bursting with fresh produce and other goodies. Up in the cathedral area you’ll find the oldest neighbourhood in Porto and a place where you’ll see its true soul. Boat cruises along the Rio Douro operate several times a day, offering insight into the history of Porto's six famous bridges. A cruise is also a great chance to snap some great photos of the colourful tiled houses lined up along the riverbank. For dinner, make sure you try the country’s most famous sandwich – the francesinha – then head to Galerias Paris Street for nightlife.

Day 12 Santiago de Compostela

Today board a bus bound for Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. The capital of Galicia became a symbol of the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam and is famous as the culmination point for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. Soak up the religious energy in the cathedral where St James, one of the 12 Apostles, is purportedly buried. The cathedral was consecrated in 1211 and is the central point within the medieval walls of the old town, standing majestically on the Plaza del Obradoiro with its towers soaring above the town. Elaborately carved stone facades open onto grand plazas, full of pilgrims and locals spending their day in this atmospheric place. Maybe join them in one of the cafes, sitting back and listening to many of the street artists performing on the streets of the old town. Visit the cathedral and do as pilgrims do – circle the main altar admiring the greatness of the place. Tonight, maybe and explore the streets close to the cathedral for Galician specialties. Perhaps try peppers of Padron and empanadas (Galician pies, filled with meat or seafood).

Day 13 Santiago de Compostela

Today you'll have the opportunity to join pilgrims on the last stretch of the Santiago de Compostela route. Take an early bus to Amenal village where the 18 km walk begins. The trek will take you through the villages, fields and rivers of Galicia. In Lavacolla village you'll cross the river where medieval pilgrims traditionally bathed in the river to purify themselves before arriving in the holy city. From here, ascend again to the Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), so called for the feeling when pilgrims would catch their first sight of the towers of Compostela Cathedral. Embrace the atmosphere up here on the mount, alongside some walkers who may have trekked over 800 km to be here. The entire walk takes approximately 4 to 6 hours to complete. It is important that you wear comfortable footwear and bring a rain coat, as weather in this region of Spain can be unpredictable, even during the summer months. Once back in Santiago the rest of the day is free for you to explore. Santiago de Compostela is a World Heritage site, an open-air museum that holds many delights within its walls – the lively squares, the market and the University buildings are must sees. For you final night in town, maybe wander down the streets of Rua do Franco and Rua da Raina to try some tapas.

Day 14 Madrid

Today, you'll take a train back to Madrid. When you arrive, check into your hotel and then head out on an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings. Then, the rest of the day is free for your to explore how you wish. Maybe hang out in El Retiro Park or explore Prado Museum’s works by Goya, Velazquez and other Spanish masters. Tonight, why not ask your leader the best spot for dinner and head out with your fellow travellers to cheers to a trip well-travelled.

Day 15 Madrid

Today your Spain and Portugal adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned so you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you'd like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent.

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.