Internationale groepsreis Authentic Andalucia

Our trip starts at Cortijo Rosario, located in the heart of the authentic Andalucian countryside, approximately 100km from Malaga. Our converted farmhouse is just a short walk from Algamitas, a peaceful and traditional village far from the hustle and bustle of the big towns or cities. Contrary to many other travel companies, we have decided to select a rural base for our trip as we believe this gives the chance to experience the real Spain, whilst still offering easy access to the top tourist attractions and best Andalucian towns such as Olvera, Setenil, Seville and Antequera, which we'll visit during the week.

Today we take a half-day guided walk on the trails and paths around the Cortijo. The countryside surrounding Algamitas is picture-perfect, covered with olive trees, beautiful farmland and rolling hills. During the walk, our leader will give us a good overview of the rural lifestyle and traditions of this part of the world, which are largely based around the production of olive oil. The route is very flexible and can be tailored to suit changes in the weather. The afternoon will be spent relaxing by the pool or enjoying a drink in the lovely outdoor terrace at the Cortijo. We then have dinner and overnight at the Cortijo.

In the morning, we transfer by private minibus to the magnificent city of Seville. The day is free to sightsee at our own pace. Now the capital of Andalucia, Seville was one of the first conquests of the Moors. After the fall of the Cordoba Caliphate in the 11th Century, under whose direction it previously lay, it became the most powerful city in Al Andalus. Near the city centre is the evocative Giralda, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 12th Century. Originally built as a minaret for the central Mosque in Seville, this mosque was later destroyed, and it is now the bell-tower for the enormous cathedral. Close by is the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces dating back from Roman times and later used by both Moorish and Christian rulers. It has fine examples of Moorish and Mudejar architecture, rivalling that of Granada's 'Alhambra', and has some lovely gardens. After the Christian re-conquest Seville became the gateway to the 'New World'; Christopher Columbus negotiated here with Queen Isabella to fund his epic voyage to the Americas.

Leaving Seville in the morning, we travel to Olvera, one of the most scenic of the 'pueblos blancos' or white villages. These villages were built during Moorish times as a border between what was then 'Al Andalus' and Christian Spain. In Olvera we have the opportunity to visit the Arab castle, which dates back to the end of the 12th Century. From here we head to Seteni de las Bodegas. Built under the overhanging ledge of a gorge, Setenil is not only famous for its peculiar architecture but also for its bars, restaurants and food shops which are ranked as the best in the region. The town is also a good place to buy ceramics and local crafts. We return to the Cortijo and the rest of the afternoon is free for a dip in the pool or walks in the surrounding countryside.

Today we enjoy a free day to explore the tranquil countryside around the farmhouse or take an optional self-guided walk to a nearby village for lunch. Alternatively, it is also possible to visit Ronda or beautiful Cordoba. Train connections to these towns are limited, but your leader can help you to arrange some private return transfers locally (they do not need to be pre-booked before departure).

We leave the Cortijo today and transfer to the beautiful Moorish city of Granada. Here we spend a full day exploring the wonderful heritage of the historic centre. After an optional orientation walk in the morning arranged by our leader, we visit the Alhambra, indisputably the best-known monument and one of the most visited in Spain.The entrance ticket is included in the cost of the trip and will be arranged by Exodus upon booking. However please be aware that for reservations made less than 90 days prior to departure, there may be a supplement to pay to guarantee entrance as ticket numbers are limited. We will be able to check this upon booking and confirm the amount of the supplement if it applies.The remainder of the day is free to sightsee at our own pace: visit the Palacio Nazaríe, the most brilliant Islamic building in Europe, take a panoramic view of the city at sunset from the famous Mirador San Nicolas or simply enjoy some tapas and wine in the cosy town's streets. After immersing ourselves in Granada’s history and culture by day, there is a lot to do and see at night including optional flamenco shows. 

Leaving Granada, we head to the historical town of Antequera, a little gem known as "the heart of Andalucia” because of its geographical location. The town's history dates back 5,000 years, beginning with the Bronze Age and successively inhabited by many cultures including the native Iberians, Romans and the Moors, all of which have left their mark for us. After exploring the town's highlights and great variety of monuments, we enjoy a delicious lunch in a typical local restaurant. In the afternoon we make our way to the nearby Natural Reserve of El Torcal where we enjoy a short easy walk which offers stunning panoramic views of the landscape below. The karst rock formations found here are unique and among the most important in Europe. Later we make our way back to the Cortijo, where we enjoy a delicious farewell dinner.

Our trip ends in the morning of day 8.