Luxury Journey Through Spain: Madrid & Andalusia - 14 Days

Highlights

• Enjoy bespoke art and wine-tasting tours in Madrid
• Take a private tour of Granada's iconic Alhambra 
• See the historic city of Segovia from a hot-air balloon
• Visit Andalusia's White Villages and enjoy gourmet cuisine
• Laze on the beaches of the Costa del Sol and tour Seville

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Madrid, Wine & Vermouth Tasting

Welcome to Spain! Though comprised of 17 autonomous communities, this European nation has just one capital: Madrid. Filled with history and culture dating back to the Habsburg Dynasty of the 16th century, it's a great place to kick off any grand tour of the country—particularly a luxury one. Upon arrival at the airport, your driver will be waiting to transfer you into the city and your hotel.

If there were any lingering doubts as to the class of travel you'll experience while in Spain, they'll be erased once you check into the Rosewood Villa Magna. This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Madrid, in a former royal palace, and dazzles with equal parts opulence and modernity. If you like, head to the spa and relax after the flight with a "jet-lag recovery" massage with facial and aromatherapy. Also on site are Michelin-star restaurants for when you feel peckish.

Save your appetite because soon after arriving, you'll meet a guide to discover the glories of Spain's viticulture scene. Claiming 70 original wines and at least 23 grape varietals, this country can compete with the best producers in the world. This private tasting occurs in Madrid's center and is led by an expert sommelier. Throughout the experience, you'll learn key facts about prominent wines in Spain, like Rioja and Ribera del Duero, plus taste them paired with delicious tapas (small plates). As a bonus, you'll sample some quality vermouth, as Spain has a rich tradition of producing this famous aperitif. 

Day 2: VIP Art Tour & Artisan Experience

It's time for a heaping helping of culture on a private art walk. After breakfast, you'll head to Madrid's "Golden Triangle of Art" and the Museo Nacional del Prado. During this two-hour tour led by an art historian guide, you'll view the world's finest collections of European art, including works by Velázquez, El Greco, and Goya. 

Later, you'll immerse yourself in Spain's cultural heritage by visiting local artisans. During this three-hour experience, you'll stop at one or more traditional workshops to witness masters plying their trade. These include seeing how authentic flamenco guitars are made by hand, making traditional wine boots, fabricating elegant Spanish capes, and more. You might also visit potters, jewelers, and leather craftspeople. At the end of the experience, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 3: Day Trip to Segovia, Hot-Air Balloon Ride 

Wake up early for a special day trip. Before dawn, your driver will pick you up for the one-hour drive north from Madrid to Segovia. This is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in the country, with most of its historic landmarks centered in and around its Old Town. The star is the Roman Aqueduct. Dating to around 50 BCE, it runs 8 miles (14 km), stands an impressive 93 feet (28 m), and features two tiers comprised of 160 arches.

You'll get a bird's-eye view of the aqueduct plus Segovia's other historic highlights, like its 11th-century Alcázar and 16th-century Cathedral, during a thrilling ride in a hot-air balloon. Upon arrival at the launch site, you'll witness the inflating of the balloon, hop in the basket, and then cruise at 3,000 feet (1,000 m) as you watch the early morning sun light up the city and the surrounding countryside. When you land, you'll celebrate with a light breakfast and toast the experience with a glass of bubbly cava.

Afterward, you can spend some time strolling Segovia's cobbled streets and grand plazas. You'll definitely want to take selfies standing beneath the Aqueduct's arches. Later, you'll return to Madrid and can continue exploring the city on your own. 

Day 4: Train to Granada, Alhambra Tour & Hammam

In the morning, transfer to the train station in Madrid for the 3.5-hour ride into the southern Andalusia region and Granada. This city was the last bastion of Al-Andalus (Muslim Spain) during the 400-year reign of the Moors (711-1086 CE). Upon arrival, your driver will take you into the mountains just south of the city for your stay at La Esperanza Granada. This 5-star, hacienda-style hotel is both green (relying on solar energy) and furnished with fine art and antiques. You'll also find many Spanish experiences here, like flamenco classes, private chef meals/cooking workshops, and sommelier-led wine tastings.

Save that for later. Now, you'll return to Granada and visit its most iconic landmark: the Alhambra. Built atop a hill overlooking the city, this 26-acre (12 ha) Muslim fortress dates to the ninth century. It was rebuilt in the 14th century by the Nasrid Dynasty and served as a Moorish palace until 1492, when, after the Christian reconquest, it became the Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella. During a three-hour private tour, you'll walk its grand halls and stroll the Generalife Gardens, which are filled with colorful flowers and fountains and offer panoramic views of the city below.

After all that walking, you can rest your tired legs with a one-hour session at a local hammam. These steam baths hold a significant place in Arab/Andalusian history and remain a cornerstone of the culture today. Every hammam comprises different rooms, each containing baths set at different temperatures. A hammam session is a great way to reduce stress and relax while receiving essential vitamins and minerals and increasing blood circulation.

Day 5: Granada Five Senses Tour & Cave Flamenco Show

Head out on an alternative tour of Granada this morning as you discover this bastion of Spanish history using all of your senses. Led by an expert private guide, you'll be transported to different eras in the city's historical timeline as you visit iconic locales like the 11th-century El Bañuelo hammam (Arab bath), the 16th-century Granada Cathedral, and the colorful Alcaicería, once a traditional Moorish bazaar now full of colorful Spanish treats, trinkets, and souvenirs.

Later, you'll head out and enjoy another cultural touchstone of this region: flamenco. The ultimate artistic expression of Andalusia, it's said that this combined dance/singing style dates back to the 16th century when performers would entertain passing travelers in the hills above Granada, using caves as stages. Today, you'll witness a recreation of this experience on a visit to one such cave for an authentic flamenco show—an event you won't find anywhere else.

Day 6: Hiking Andalusia & White Villages Tour

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Today, you'll venture south of Granada to the mountains north of Marbella. There, you'll lace up your hiking boots for a full-day hike around the region. Though technically classified as easy, this privately guided hike requires decent physical fitness as it involves ascending rocky mountains like Cruz de Juanar. Your reward for summiting this peak is you'll be treated to incredible views out over the coast.

When the hiking is done, you'll meet your driver and continue touring the region by vehicle, stopping to admire Spain's famous Pueblos Blancos (White Villages). A few dozen such villages exist in Spain, primarily in Andalusia and the Costa del Sol. They're defined by their charming whitewashed buildings and scenic locations, often near the coast. You'll get to stop at a couple of them, like Ojén and Monda, take a walk around, and sample some great tapas. Later in the day, you'll transfer back to Granada.

Day 7: Drive to Estepona, Gourmet Lunch in Ronda

It's time to hit the road on your own. In the morning, pick up your rental car and drive southwest to the coast to Estepona. This charming resort town is located on Spain's Costa del Sol. The country's most famous stretch of Mediterranean coast runs 98 miles (159 km) south from Málaga past Marbella toward Gibraltar and is renowned for its golden beaches. 

The journey takes about two hours, but you'll break up the drive with a stop in Ronda. This ancient town dates to the sixth century when the Celts settled it. It's a storybook locale carved out of a mountain and situated over a deep gorge, making it one of the most dramatic towns in the country. Like many places in Spain, Ronda is famous for its wine culture. You'll discover this firsthand on a tasting tour of two local, small-production wineries. At one, you'll even sit down to a gourmet lunch prepared by the winemakers.

You'll also stop at Setenil de las Bodegas. This unique Spanish town is nestled in the cliffs of the Sierra de Grazalema Nature Reserve. Settled by the Moors in the 12th century, it's known for its distinctive cliffside architecture, with houses built right into the rock formations. After a walk around, continue on to Estepona and check into Finca Cortesin. This 5-star hotel is located in the green hills overlooking the coast and offers expansive, whitewashed Andalusian suites around palatial courtyards. To unwind, enjoy treatments at the Oritenal-inspired spa, or play a round of golf at the championship 18-hole course.

Day 8: Enjoy the Beaches of Estepona

Today is yours to relax and enjoy the beaches in and around Estepona however you like. Perhaps rise early for a sunrise jog on the sand. Or sleep in and enjoy a late brunch at one of the beach bars on the promenade along Playa la Rada, the main urban beach. Or search the 13-mile (21 km) coastline to find a more relaxed beach farther afield. One excellent option is Playa del Cristo, a sheltered cove with calm waters, making it ideal for families and snorkelers.

You can also visit some iconic coastal landmarks in the area. A famous option is Faro de Punta Doncella, the lighthouse in the marina. It stands 68 feet (21 m) and dates back to the 19th century when the harbor was first built. This area gets particularly lively at night, and there's a craft market on Sundays.

Day 9: Mountain 4WD Safari, Michelin-Star Dinner

Hop in a 4WD vehicle this morning and leave the coast behind on an adventure safari in the stunning Sierra de las Nieves Nature Reserve. Led by a private guide/driver, this half-day off-road adventure takes you along rarely used back roads through the park's 173 square miles (448 sq km). Highlights include rugged mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and diverse flora and fauna, like red deer and the Iberian ibex. Also, you'll pass some of Spain's famous White Villages and stop at a river for a refreshing dip.

Upon returning to Estepona, you'll have some time to relax. Then, in the evening, get dressed up for dinner at Lobito del Mar. Located in Marbella, this chic seafood restaurant is the brainchild of renowned chef Dani García, an Andalusia native and winner of two Michelin stars. The sumptuous menu highlights fresh fish, seafood, and savory rice dishes, with a particular focus on red tuna. After the meal, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 10: Drive to Seville, Visit an Andalusian Olive Oil Estate

It's time to say goodbye to the coast. After breakfast, get back in the car for the drive north to Seville, the famed capital of Andalusia. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, but you can make optional stops along the way. One can't-miss destination is Jerez de Frontera, a historic city and capital of the Cádíz region. You can take a walk around and visit highlight landmarks like the 11th-century Alcázar and Baroque Cathedral. Since this area is world-famous for sherry wine production, you might also want to stop in at a local bodega or cellar and sample a glass or two.

Later, you'll visit an authentic olive oil estate in the Andalusian countryside. Here, you'll witness the production process of one of Spain's most popular high-quality food exports. The estate has quite the history: it was here that Christopher Columbus' son Hernando began exporting olive oil to the New World. You'll tour the old manufacturing center and view the 16th-century olive oil presses, learn about modern production methods in use today, and see gorgeous rolling hills carpeted in olive trees.

Afterward, continue to Seville. Known for its Moorish history and mind-blowing tapas scene, Seville epitomizes Andalusia's rich culture and beauty. Upon arrival, you'll drop off your rental car and transfer to Hotel Alfonso XIII. The etymology of this 5-star hotel derives from Spain's King Alfonso XIII, who commissioned it in 1928 in an attempt to create the most opulent hotel in Europe. Besides elegant Moorish/Andalusian design, it features a grand foyer, sprawling courtyard garden, and spacious suites. Grab a drink at the hotel bar and enjoy it while lazing by the shimmering pool.

Day 11: Guided Tour of Seville

Head off with a private guide this morning to walk amid Seville's over 2,000 years of history. First up is the Seville Cathedral, a 15th-century Roman-Catholic church home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the largest Gothic church in the world, and an impressive testament to pious grandiosity. Also here is La Giralda, the cathedral's looming bell tower. 

Then, continue to the fashionable Santa Cruz neighborhood, once the Jewish Quarter in the city. It's a colorful and well-preserved part of the historic center, with many cafés and tapas bars—the perfect excuse to take a break and enjoy some small plates and local wine. You can also visit markets and local shops where artisans produce intricate silverwork and elegant garment embroidery.

After completing the half-day tour, you can return to your hotel and relax or continue to explore the town. If you haven't seen it already, visit the Alcázar. Seville's Royal Palace began life as a Moorish fort in the 10th century and is famous for its fountain-filled gardens. You can also walk above the city on the Metropol Parasol, an impressive wooden structure that looks like a mushroom and offers panoramic views across Seville. 

Day 12: Iberian Ham Tour

Today, you'll embark on a special day trip to discover the origins and production process of Iberian (or Ibérico) ham, regarded as the best ham in the world. This private journey into Spain's culinary heritage begins with a morning transfer north of Seville to a family-run farm in the mountainous Sierra de Aracenal. On a walking tour, you'll see how the famous black pigs are reared and roam free as they feast on wild acorns. Then, visit a production facility to see thousands of top-tier hams slowly curing. To cap the tour, you'll taste various cured hams paired with a glass of dry fino or manzanilla sherry wine.

Afterward, head to the town of Aracena for a seasonal gourmet lunch at a local restaurant. With your guide, all you need to do is sit down, and the friendly hosts will bring an array of plates piled with asparagus, artichokes, wild mushrooms, cheese, acorn-fed Iberian pork, and more, depending on the season. Once you've eaten, you can burn off some calories with a short hike up to the 13th-century hilltop castle overlooking the town. Later, you'll transfer back to Seville.

Day 13: Train to Madrid, Botanical Garden Visit

It's time to bid farewell to Andalusia. In the morning, you'll transfer to the train station for the three-hour ride north back to Madrid. A driver will be waiting for the transfer to the upscale Chamberí neighborhood and the URSO Hotel & Spa. This 5-star boutique hotel in a historic neoclassical building is luxurious and within walking distance of many of the city's top attractions, like Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol, and Parque de El Retiro. URSO's highlights include well-appointed suites and a wellness center with personalized spa services, like citrus cleansing and anti-aging remodeling.

Later, you'll head to the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, near the Prado and El Retiro, this is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe. It was founded in 1755 by King Ferdinand VI and contains a collection of historic greenhouses, including the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace), which houses tropical and subtropical plants, and the Invernadero de Hierro (Iron Greenhouse), home to succulents and cacti. During a three-hour private tour, you'll explore landscaped grounds, tranquil ponds, and themed gardens showcasing diverse flora from around the world.

Day 14: Depart Madrid

And just like that, your north-to-south luxury tour of Spain has concluded. At the designated time, your driver will pick you up at the hotel and transfer you to the airport and your flight home. Safe travels!

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