Luxury Spain Getaway: Madrid to the Mediterranean - 14 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Madrid, Wine Tasting Tour

Welcome to Spain! Touch down in the vibrant capital, Madrid, a cultural hub known for its plazas, palaces, parks, and museums. Your driver will take you to the 5-star Rosewood Villa Magna on the stately boulevard of Paseo de la Castellana. Surrounded by gardens, the hotel is a classy oasis in the city, offering stylish rooms and suites decorated with 380 unique art pieces.

Later, enjoy a wine tour of the city with a private sommelier. As you roam the city streets and ancient plazas of Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, learn how Spain is one of the most prolific wine countries, offering 23 native grape varieties that grow across 70 designations of origin. Taste some of the country's top wines and learn how Madrid's popular vermouth drink is made, accompanied by tapas.

Day 2: Prado Museum Guided Tour, Dinner at a Michelin Restaurant

Soak up some culture this morning with a private tour of the Museo Nacional del Prado (Prado Museum) with an art historian. The museum showcases one of the finest collections of European art spanning the 12th through to the 20th centuries, featuring the works of masters like Goya, Bosch, El Greco, Titian, and Diego Velázquez, among others. Browse the collection with your guide, who'll provide insight into this world-famous museum. 

Spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure. Head to serene Parque de El Retiro or amble through La Latina, one of Madrid's oldest neighborhoods, filled with narrow medieval streets, leafy plazas, and cathedrals. Indulge in a treatment at your hotel's renowned Sense Spa, then relax in the Finnish sauna, steam room, hot tub, and Turkish hammam.

Freshen up at your hotel before dinner at the Michelin 2-star-rated Paco Roncero. Set in an avant-garde space on the top floor of a 19th-century building, this restaurant is run by innovative chef Paco Roncero. Dine on Spanish cuisine with seasonal dishes that range from lemon cod brandade pie to cauliflower and hazelnut blancmange, paired with fine wines.

Day 3: Train to Toledo, Guided Tour & Marzipan Making Workshop

Take the train an hour south of Madrid today to explore the imperial city of Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to Roman times and was the capital of Spain in the 16th century. Toledo's cluster of clay-rooftop buildings, cobbled lanes, and church spires are crowded onto a hilltop overlooking the Tajo River and encircled by protective walls you can enter through massive iron gates. 

Take a private guided tour of Toledo, known in the Middle Ages as the "City of the Three Cultures," where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities all peacefully coexisted. As such, the city is crammed with religious buildings, including the 12th-century church, Iglesia de Santo Tomé, the Moorish Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca, considered the oldest synagogue in Europe, and the 13th-century Toledo Cathedral.

Finish with a private marzipan workshop, a delicacy that the people of Toledo have been crafting since the 12th and 13th centuries. Discover the roots of this beloved delicacy, enjoyed particularly during the holiday season. In this one-on-one workshop, you'll learn the traditions and techniques used to make Toledo marzipan, then taste it fresh from the oven. 

At the end of the day, relax at the 5-star Eugenia de Montijo, a former palace that once belonged to Empress Eugenia de Montijo, Napoleon III's wife. Set in a quiet square in central Toledo, the hotel has been elegantly refurbished while retaining its original features, including a stained-glass dome in the bar and Roman remnants in the basement spa—where you can enjoy massages and a sauna, steam room, and hydrotherapy pool. 

Day 4: Transfer to Granada via Úbeda & Sacromonte, Cave Flamenco Show

This morning, your driver will be waiting to take you four hours south to Granada in the Andalusian region. En route, stop in Úbeda, whose Old Town is UNESCO-listed for its preserved Renaissance architecture. Tour its architectural wonders with a private guide and visit a family-run olive oil estate outside the city to learn how this so-called "liquid gold" is made and enjoy a tasting session. 

Stop at 16th-century Palacio las Manillas for an Andalusian lunch before continuing to Granada. Set in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, the city is renowned for its Moorish architecture and history, as well as its bars and flamenco venues. Highlights range from the city's oldest square, Plaza Nueva, and the 16th-century Catedral de Granada to the medieval center Albaicín.

Check into your 5-star hotel, the Hospes Palacio de Los Patos, which sits just outside Granada's Old Town. Stay in a renovated 19th-century palace with vaulted ceilings, marble staircases, wrought-iron balconies, and chandeliers. You can relax at the decadent Spa Bodyna with its whirlpool, Turkish bath, sauna, and treatment rooms, then dine on typical Granada cuisine at the acclaimed Restaurante Los Patos. 

End the day with a private flamenco show in a Sacromonte cave. Flamenco is the ultimate artistic expression of Andalusia, and Granada's Sacromonte neighborhood is one of the best places to explore this art form. The area is the birthplace of the zambra, a flamenco dance party that dates back to the 16th century, and the marital rituals of the Moors. Between the 18th and 19th centuries, locals waited at cave entrances, ready to perform their flamenco show for travelers.

Day 5: Guided Alhambra Visit, Spanish Guitar Workshop & Gourmet Dinner

Visit Granada's most famous landmark, the Alhambra, on today's guided tour. Set on a hill above the city, this imposing Muslim fortress dates to the ninth century. It was rebuilt in the 14th century by the Nasrid Dynasty. It was a Moorish palace until the Christian reconquest in 1492 when it became the Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella. 

Tour this UNESCO World Heritage Site's grand buildings, which include striking examples of Moorish history. Observe features such as the hand of Fatima on the gateway of the Puerta de la Justicia (Gate of Justice), fingers outstretched to ward off the evil eye, or the extravagant design in the Patio de Comares (Court of the Myrtles). You'll also stroll through the Generalife Gardens with panoramic views of Granada.

Finish the afternoon on a musical note with a private Spanish guitar workshop and recital in one of Granada's oldest neighborhoods, known for its hidden corners, buildings, and flowery plazas. Meet a local composer and guitarist who'll teach you about the relationship between flamenco and Spanish classical guitar, performing numbers that have shaped Spanish culture. 

This evening, you'll enjoy an atmospheric dinner at Carmen de Aben Humeya, a gourmet restaurant set in two Moorish houses from the 14th-15th centuries. The UNESCO-protected building lies next to Granada's first city wall from the eleventh century. Dine on fine Granada cuisine with views of the Alhambra from the terrace.

Day 6: Las Alpujarras Andalusian Tour

Today's adventure takes you an hour from Granada into the idyllic Alpujarras Mountains for a private guided hike. You'll pass through tiny mountain villages that were the last stronghold of the Spanish Muslims, or Moors, who, soon after the Castilians took Granada in 1492, were forced to convert to Christianity or flee. Those who refused to convert opted to take to the hills, settling in this inaccessible area. 

These communities have also spent centuries maintaining the medieval structure of the buildings and streets. Many villages have a reputation for excellent cuisine based on locally grown, high-quality produce. Have lunch in one of the villages and learn about the area's history and geography from your guide. 

While you travel through the countryside, watch out for the area's abundant birdlife. Bird-watching is a popular pursuit in Las Alpujarras. One of the avian highlights is the distinctive hoopoe, with a haunting cry that often echoes through these mountain valleys. After the tour, you'll return to Granada to spend the evening as you please.

Day 7: Fly to Menorca, Afternoon Sailing Experience

Today starts with a two-hour flight to Menorca, the most peaceful of Spain's Balearic Islands, which is now listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The island's rolling rural interior is dotted with prehistoric monuments, while its 134 miles (216 km) of coveted coastline features pristine white beaches and golden coves. 

Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and head straight to your heritage hotel, Santa Ponsa. This 17th-century former palace lies on 247 acres (100 ha) of land, including Moorish terraced gardens filled with flowers, palms, and citrus trees. Check into your luxurious room with wood-beamed ceilings and botanical artwork, complete with a modern egg bathtub and terrace, then take a dip in the infinity pool. 

Hit the high seas this afternoon with a private sailing experience. Board your chic catamaran to sail around Menorca, discovering its best beaches and secret coves. Sail across the North Minorcan Marine Reserve, a protected 12,847-acre (5,199 ha) stretch of sea where fishing is strictly controlled. The area is a biodiverse wonderland home to species such as lobster, hammerhead sharks, over 600 seaweed varieties, rays, squid, and starfish.

Drop anchor in secluded coves to plunge into the deep turquoise waters, swimming and snorkeling among colorful sea creatures. Take a paddleboard for a spin and enjoy drinks and snacks on board. Afterward, sail back to shore, returning to your hotel for a restful evening.

Day 8: Explore Menorca's Beaches

Relish a dose of sun, sea, and sand today on one of Menorca's top beaches. Remote Cala Pregonda lies in the north of the island, offering powdery sands perfect for basking. A series of craggy islets sit just offshore, and you can snorkel among mirror-clear waters that form part of the island's marine reserve. If you're feeling active, hike 30 minutes to lesser-visited Cala Pilar, also in the north, following a rugged track to a stretch of wild honey-hued sand.

On the east coast, you'll find Cala Presili, a sun-drenched strip of sugary sand. Wander to the candy-striped Favàritx Lighthouse and cool off in the topaz waters. Venture to the south coast for Cala en Turqueta, which is popular for its pine tree-backed sands and tranquil waters ideal for swimming. To avoid the crowds, make a detour to the bay of Cala Escorxada, which you can reach by water taxi or coastal hike.

Day 9: Menorcan Cooking Workshop

Get a taste of the Balearics today with a one-on-one cooking class. Head half an hour west to the historic coastal city of Ciutadella de Menorca, where you'll meet your chef in their home. Don an apron and learn how to cook authentic local dishes step-by-step. While you cook, you'll sip Menorcan wines and snack on cheeses and artisanal cold-cured meats. At the end of the class, sit down and feast on your creations. 

Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or in your hotel. For the ultimate pamper session, sample Santa Ponsa's decadent spa, housed in a former cistern, for a massage, sauna, and Nordic baths, then dine on fine Catalan cuisine at the on-site restaurant, Nura.

Day 10: Cheese & Wine Tasting, Visit Cova d'en Xoroi

Start the day with a private culinary experience at a local farm. Take a tour of the property and taste three Menorcan wines: Torralbenc White, Torralbenc Rosé, and Sa Forana Red. These fine wines will be expertly paired with the farm's signature cheeses: Subaida Mahón-Menorca semi-cured, cured, and añejo. Your guide will share insights into each wine and cheese's distinctive flavors and characteristics throughout the tasting.

Complete your day by choosing between various fine dining options in Maó (also known as Mahón), Menorca's charming capital. For elevated Mediterranean fare, go to Ses Forquilles, which offers artfully presented tapas and mouthwatering dishes, such as cuts of beef or fish accompanied by crispy patatas bravas (spicy potatoes). Alternatively, reserve a table at S'Espigó overlooking the port for fresh seafood, including lobster stew, clams, and tuna steak.

This evening, drive to the enchanting Cova d'en Xoroi, a bar set on a cliffside cove in Cala en Porter on Menorca's south coast. Relax on the terrace and soak up never-ending views of the Mediterranean Sea from the 100-foot-high (30 m) cliff, sipping a cocktail as the sun sets. Feel the sea breeze on your skin and listen to the gentle waves crashing against the rocks, then dance the night away to live music under starry skies.

Day 11: Fly to Barcelona, Gaudí Architecture Walking Tour

Say goodbye to island life this morning and fly an hour northwest to Barcelona, the thriving capital of Catalonia. This seaside metropolis is famed for its astounding blend of Gothic and modern architecture, epitomized by the Catalan modernist work of Antoni Gaudí. Barcelona is also beloved for its world-class food and nightlife scene, buzzing markets, and lively beaches. 

A driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel, Alma Barcelona, just off the swanky boulevard, Passeig de Gràcia. Check into your 5-star room, which offers a sanctuary from hectic city life with classic-yet-contemporary design. Be sure to indulge in the sauna, steam room, and indoor pool, then head to the rooftop sun deck, where views of Barcelona's skyline await. 

Delve into Barcelona's architectural heritage today with a private walking tour of Antoni Gaudí's work, led by an architect guide. Highlights include Passeig de Gràcia, where you'll admire the stone-quarry-style apartment building Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, a modernist masterpiece that locals have christened "House of Bones" for its skeletal design. 

End with a visit to Gaudí's iconic La Sagrada Família, Barcelona's most visually impressive church. Construction of this Gothic/Art Nouveau basilica began in 1882 but technically remains unfinished to this day. Hear about its history and elaborate design from your guide, who'll point out ornamental spires, sculptures, and stained-glass windows.

Day 12: Penedès Winery Tour & Tasting

Head an hour west into the Catalonian countryside today to Penedès, one of Spain's most famous wine regions. Set between the sea and mountains, the soil here is rich and fertile, producing 90% of the country's cava. Explore this vineyard-grooved region, one of Europe's most ancient viticulture areas, with an expert winemaker.

You'll start by privately touring one of Penedès' lavish vineyards, learning about the entire production process, from vine to wine. Stroll through vineyards, stopping to visit the pretty Romanesque church of San Juan Salem, then taste four varieties of wine with gourmet snacks.

Next, continue to another historic winery, where you'll learn specifically about cava. You'll have an exclusive opportunity to enter the capella (underground caves) where bottles are stored, then tour the barrel rooms and production plant. Finish by sampling four types of Gran Reserva cava with tapas before returning to Barcelona for one last night in your luxury hotel.

Day 13: La Garrotxa & Besalú Volcano & History Tour

Visit the jaw-dropping Girona Pyrenees region with a private guide today. Start in La Garrotxa, known for its Zona Volcanica de la Garrotxa, one of Europe's most extensive volcanic landscapes home to 40 extinct volcanoes, 10 craters, and basaltic lava flows. Marvel at this otherworldly landscape, with an optional trek to Olot's volcanic cone.

You'll also uncover the region's medieval heritage with stops in Santa Pau and Besalú, where you can wander porticoed squares and Jewish quarters, popping into Gothic churches and castles. Visiting Castellfollit de la Roca is a tour highlight, a village perched on the edge of a basalt cliff with prime views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 14: Barcelona Gothic Quarter Tour, Depart Barcelona

Visit the oldest corners of Barcelona this morning with a private tour of the 2,000-year-old Gothic Quarter. Ramble through its snaking lanes and grand plazas, stopping to enter the soul-stirring Barcelona Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece built between the 13th and 15th centuries. Savor the peace of the cathedral's gardens with its 15th-century fountain before continuing to the Temple of Augustus.

Afterward, you'll take a private car to the airport in time to catch your homebound flight. Safe travels!