Spain... Portugal... Morocco...

Transcription

1 IBERTOURS The Iberian Specialists 27 TH ANNIVERSARY Spain... Portugal... Morocco...

2 The Iberian Triangle IBERTOURS invites you into the region of the Iberian Triangle incorporating the countries of Spain, Portugal and Morocco. These ancient and enigmatic lands are a confluence of historical and cultural influences through successive occupation by Celts, Phoenicians and Greeks, the Romans, the Visigoths and the Moors. This special triangle of nations provides the traveller with a unique opportunity to savour the subtleties of its fascinating and complex origins, where history, custom, language and religion have interwoven over the millennia, leaving extraordinarily rich, diverse and vibrant cultures, each with its distinctive art, architecture, music and gastronomy and yet, each possessing identifiable influences of the other. This is the true secret of the IBERIAN TRIANGLE Allow us to introduce you to these extraordinary lands, their wonderfully rich cultures and their hospitable and pleasant peoples. The IBERTOURS Team At IBERTOURS we are specialists in the region of Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Our staff members comprehensive knowledge is derived from many years of living, travelling, and researching in these fascinating lands. More than 20 new packages to choose from BROCHURE PRICING POLICY Hotel range prices are based on per person in twin share. Special rates may apply during festivals, holidays, trade fairs & weekends. Potential high currency fluctuations may cause brochure prices to vary. Prices are subject to change in case of VAT increase. Prices in this brochure are to be used as a guide only. Throughout the year hotels offer dynamic and special offer rates. Please contact our experts for an exact quotation. ALHAMBRA PALACE, GRANANDA Many of our tours and packages include a visit to the Alhambra Palace in Granada. Entrance to the oldest parts of the palace is by ticket ballot and therefore entrance to all parts of the complex is not guaranteed. Artistic Credits: wherever possible artists, photographers and lenders of images have been credited and we apologise for any omissions. GENARO PEREZ DE VILLA AMIL, RIVER SCENE C

3 since1991 SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS & EXCURSIONS TAILOR MADE ITINERARIES TO SUIT YOU 3

4 Index PORTUGAL Introduction & Map 38 City Stays - Lisbon 39 City Stays Porto 40 A Piece of Portugal Independent tour 41 First Class Portugal Private Driver 42 Portugal s Historic North Private Driver 43 Heritage of Portugal Self Drive 44 SPAIN Cultural and Gastronomic Portugal Walking tour plus Private transport 45 Introduction & Map 2 Tailor Made We are the Tailor Made Specialists 3 Index 4 Spain Land of Contrasts 5 City Stays - Madrid 6 City Stays - Barcelona 7 City Stays - Sevilla 8 City Stays - Granada 9 City Stays San Sebastian 10 The Balearic Islands - Mallorca 11 Gourmet Highlights of Andalucia Self Drive 12 Andalucia & The White Villages Private Driver 13 Romantic Andalucia Self Drive 14 Old Castile Experience Self Drive 15 Moorish Crescent Independent tour 16 Spain by Train Independent tour 17 El Norte by Rail Independent tour 18 Innovative Spain Independent tour 19 Barcelona and Medieval Costa Brava Independent tour 20 A Taste of Spain Independent tour 21 A Gastronomic Adventure Self Drive 22 Savour Spain Self Drive 23 Caminho Portugues Walking tour 46 Heart of the Douro Walking tour 47 Solares de Portugal Manor Houses 48 Portugal s Grand Manors Self Drive 49 Pestana Pousadas of Portugal Southern Portugal Self Drive 52 North of Portugal Multilingual Coach Tour 53 MOROCCO Introduction & Map Imperial Cities of Morocco Private tour 56 Andalucian Heritage Private tour 57 Marrakesh Delights City Stay 58 Spicy Marrakesh City Stay 59 Colours of Morocco Private tour 60 High Atlas Escape Private tour 61 Essaouira & Marrakesh Private tour 62 Discover Morocco in Riads Private tour 63 Aromatic Morocco Private tour 64 Enchanting Morocco in Riads Private tour 65 Riads of Morocco 66 Terms & Conditions 67 The Alpujarras Moorish Splendour Walking tour 24 Camino de Santiago Walking tour 25 Northern Indulgence Private Driver 26 El Transcantabrico Classic & Grand Luxe Great Trains Al-Andalus Great Train Paradores of Spain Andalucia & Toledo Splendour of Three Cultures English only coach tour 34 Apartments in Spain & Portugal 35 Magnificent Spain and Portugal Small Group Cruise package MANISES CERAMIC PLATE 4

5 Land of Contrasts Referred to as the Bull s Hide by Greek geographer Strabo, in BCE, the landmass of Spain with its 505,000 sq kms provides the traveller with an opportunity to experience great diversity within its borders; bound by sea except for Portugal to the West and joined to France and the rest of Europe across the Pyrenees to the North-East. Spain forms the principal part of the Iberian Peninsula. Iberia has charmed travellers for centuries, yet it was not until the mid 19 th century when Europeans began to explore their region, that Spain came into world recognition, as a fascinatingly diverse and distinct destination for tourism. Théophile Gautier, Prosper Mérimée, John Frederick Lewis, David Roberts and Washington Irving were among the many 19th century Romantic writers and artists who travelled extensively throughout the land portraying Spain as a mysterious, exotic corner of Europe. One of their contemporaries, Richard Ford, described the country as This land of miracles, anomalies and contradictions. Following in the footsteps of this fine tradition, our own Lionel Lindsay became enthralled with Spain after the first of 4 visits in Such was his passion for the landscape and understanding of the nature of the people, an Andalusian artist referred to him as one who sees Spain with our own eyes. Some of his works are reproduced here by kind permission of the National Library of Australia. Spain today embodies all the contrasts of an ancient land of the Mediterranean with its rich and varied culture and language; its 17 autonomous regions offering many unexpected architectural, geographical, cultural, gastronomic and climatic differences, all contributing to the sheer pleasure of the visitor. Declared by UNESCO as one of the three most important World Heritage sites for humanity, Spain s heritage listings include entire cities and historical regions, such as Salamanca, Toledo, Caceres, Avila and Segovia. The listing also includes cultural and natural values, with National Parks and heritage concepts such as Roman Spain, Moorish Spain, and so on. Once the most powerful nation on earth with far flung dominions able to exert great influence on world political and commercial affairs, the Spain of today is an energetic member of the European Community, with 47 million population and a universally appreciated history, culture, individuality and language. La España eterna Eternal Spain (Spain) Melilla (Spain) RABAT Essaouira 5

6 City Stays Madrid CITY STAY 1 DAY 1 MADRID Arrival in Madrid where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 MADRID Today you are met at your hotel by your private guide for a tour of Old Madrid. Beginning at the Plaza Mayor, you will enjoy a walking tour that discovers the old quarters of the city, the Medieval history and the evidence of the changes that came with the arrival of the Bourbon dynasty. Enjoy a walk admiring monumental buildings and squares, churches and traditional shops. Free afternoon at leisure to perhaps explore the galleries. Overnight. DAY 3 MADRID Free day. Tonight enjoy a Wine and Tapas small group tour. There are two "Madrids": the one you can't help but see, and the one you need a local person to show you. We'd like to invite you to enjoy the experience of "ir de tapas", as madrileños do. You will discover hidden spots with atmosphere, dishes with a history, and diverse types of wine, strolling along Madrid's 17th century streets. You will visit three or four bars in the old part of Madrid. Overnight. DAY 4 MADRID Departure transfer. End of services. MADRID PACKAGE 1 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 905 ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Catalonia Puerta del Sol 4*, Madrid PRICE INCLUDES 3 nights accommodation at the above property Breakfast daily Half day Old Madrid walking tour with local private guide Evening Wine & Tapas small group tour Return transfers CITY STAY 2 DAY 1 MADRID Arrival in Madrid where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 MADRID Today you are met at your hotel by your private guide for a tour of Borbones and Las Letras. From the Plaza Mayor to the Paseo del Prado, we enjoy a walk through Madrid s most popular shopping district, admiring the beautiful and regal architecture. This area was shaped by enlightened monarchs and influenced by modernism that inspired the change of the financial district in the early twentieth century. We will discover the essence of the Barrio de las Letras, unique in Europe, where intellectual and popular culture appears in every street. Stroll through streets, avenues and squares, past fountains, gardens, historic taverns, cafes and terraces. This tour will finish with a walk through the Bourbon area of Madrid. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. DAY 3 MADRID Today you will enjoy a small group tour to either Segovia with its Roman aqueduct plus a visit to the medieval town of Pedraza or the imperial city tour of Toledo plus a winery visit. Overnight. DAY 4 MADRID Departure transfer. End of services. MADRID PACKAGE 2 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 925 ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Catalonia Puerta del Sol 4*, Madrid PRICE INCLUDES 3 nights accommodation at the above property Breakfast daily Half day Borbones and Las Letras walking tour with local private guide Either Small group Segovia and Pedraza or Small group Imperial Toledo and Winery visit (day of the week dependent) Return transfers IMPORTANT NOTE: Please use package prices as a guide. Exact dates will determine your final price. 6

7 City Stays Barcelona CITY STAY 1 DAY 1 BARCELONA Arrival in Barcelona where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 BARCELONA Free morning at leisure to explore the city at your leisure. This afternoon, join a Gaudi Barcelona group tour. Continue to Sagrada Familia cathedral to enjoy a walking tour exploring the interior of the building. We will also visit Sagrada Familia museum, where you will see drawings, plaster models and pictures about the history and development of this basilica. Then we will join with the rest of group and enjoy a 45 minute visit at Gaudi's bizarre Parc Guell which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then our tour follows to Paseo de Gracia to see Gaudi's famous apartment buildings like La Pedrera and Casa Batllo. The tour ends near the Casa Batlló at Paseo de Gracia 43. Overnight. DAY 3 BARCELONA Free day to explore Barcelona with your Hop On Hop Off bus ticket. Barcelona is Spain's second city and capital of the region of Catalunya. A walk along Barcelona's most famous boulevard 'Las Ramblas' is a bustling street of cafes, shops and street vendors. The old Gothic quarter, the most extensive medieval city centre in Europe, has a magnificent fourteenth century Cathedral and ancient royal palace. Overnight. DAY 4 BARCELONA Departure transfer. End of services. BARCELONA PACKAGE 1 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 795 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Balmes 4* PRICE INCLUDES 3 nights accommodation at the above property Breakfast daily Gaudi Barcelona group tour 1 day Hop On Hop Off ticket Return transfers CITY STAY 2 DAY 1 BARCELONA Arrival in Barcelona where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 BARCELONA Free morning at leisure to explore the city at your leisure. This afternoon, join a Gaudi Barcelona group tour. Continue to Sagrada Familia cathedral to enjoy a walking tour exploring the interior of the building. We will also visit Sagrada Familia museum, where you will see drawings, plaster models and pictures about the history and development of this basilica. Then we will join with the rest of group and enjoy a 45 minute visit at Gaudi's bizarre Parc Guell which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then our tour follows to Paseo de Gracia to see Gaudi's famous apartment buildings like La Pedrera and Casa Batllo. The tour ends near the Casa Batlló at Paseo de Gracia 43. Overnight. DAY 3 BARCELONA CARDONA MONTSERRAT BARCELONA Enjoy a full day group tour to Cardona and Montserrat including brunch. Journey to Cardona to first visit the old salt mine of Cardona, over 100 hectares in size which is now an important touristic site. The next stop is Cardona castle, built in 886 by Wilfred El Velloso ( the hairy). In the 15th C, the dukes of Cardona were the most important family of the Crown of Aragon. In 1714, after a siege, which largely destroyed the walls of the castle, Cardona was the last stronghold to surrender to the Bourbon troops of Philip V during the War of Succession. Enjoy a brunch of local foods and wine or cava before heading to Montserrat mountain. Ascend the mountain by cog-wheel train to the Monastery to visit the beautiful Royal Basilica, home to the famous Verge Moreneta (Black Madonna). Free time to visit the audio visual exhibition and taste typical liquors of Montserrat. Overnight. DAY 4 BARCELONA Departure transfer. End of services. BARCELONA PACKAGE 2 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 895 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Balmes 4* PRICE INCLUDES 3 nights accommodation at the above property Breakfast daily Gaudi Barcelona group tour Group excursion to Cardona and Monserrat including brunch Return transfers IMPORTANT NOTE: Please use package prices as a guide. Exact dates will determine your final price. 7

8 City Stays Sevilla CITY STAY 1 DAY 1 SEVILLA Arrival into Sevilla and make your way to your hotel in the heart of the city centre. Tonight enjoy a lively Tapas tasting tour with expert guide. Overnight. DAY 2 SEVILLA You will have the services of a local guide for your visit of Casa Pilatos, the impressive Cathedral and the Giralda, finishing up at the Moorish Alcazar. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. DAY 3 SEVILLA Free day. Sevilla, capital of 'Andalucia', is an energetic city with charming, tiny cobbled streets and beautiful, colourfully tiled patios. This evening you are met by a private guide who will take you on a walk through the wonderful Santa Cruz quarter and then take you to a very good flamenco tablao where you will farewell her and enjoy a night of traditional flamenco. Back to your hotel after a lively evening. Overnight. DAY 4 SEVILLA Farewell the city as you continue on to your next destination, either by air or by rail. End of services. SEVILLA PACKAGE 1 DEPARTS ANY DAY AT AT YOUR REQUEST TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,185 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Inglaterra 4*, Sevilla 3 nights accommodation at the above property Breakfast daily Tapas tasting tour in Sevilla (Small Group) Half day guided walk with private guide including entrance fees to Casa Pilatos, Cathedral and Alcazar Afternoon Santa Cruz walking tour with local guide including Flamenco Show tickets CITY STAY 2 DAY 1 SEVILLA Arrival into Sevilla and make your way to your hotel in the heart of the city centre. Overnight. DAY 2 SEVILLA Free day. Sevilla, capital of 'Andalucia', is an energetic city with charming, tiny cobbled streets and beautiful, colourfully tiled patios. This evening you are met by a private guide who will take you on a walk through the wonderful Santa Cruz quarter and then take you to a very good flamenco tablao where you will farewell her and enjoy a night of traditional flamenco. Back to your hotel after a lively evening. Overnight. DAY 3 SEVILLA RONDA SEVILLA The beautiful town of Ronda is just 1hr and 45 minutes from Sevilla. It is a small wine region which produces some lovely red wines that can compete with the more prestigious wines in Spain. Here you ll be greeted and welcomed by the owner or winemaker and you ll get to see the process of artisan winemaking and taste the wine. Visit two wineries and have a traditional lunch in a place where gastronomy is as important as wine. Enjoy a walk in this lovely town and back to Sevilla. Overnight. DAY 4 SEVILLA Farewell the city as you continue on to your next destination, either by air or by rail. End of services. SEVILLA PACKAGE 2 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,180 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Inglaterra 4*, Sevilla 3 nights accommodation at the above property Breakfast daily Afternoon Santa Cruz walking tour with local guide including Flamenco Show tickets Private excursion to Ronda with English speaking guide/driver including visit of two wineries and tastings and traditional lunch IMPORTANT NOTE: Please use package prices as a guide. Exact dates will determine your final price. 8

9 City Stays Granada CITY STAY 1 DAY 1 GRANADA Arrival into Granada and make your way to your hotel in the heart of the city centre. Overnight. DAY 2 GRANADA A memorable day as you have a group tour of the great Alhambra & Generalife Gardens. Visit the fabulous Palace of the Alhambra and the Gardens of the Generalife from where the last Caliph Boabdil defended the diminishing Moorish lands of 'Al-Andalus'. The Nasrid dynasty brought the Alhambra to its height and saw the completion of the palace in the 14th century. Granada, lying between mountains and plains is surely one of the most romanticised cities of all Spain. Free afternoon to head out and perhaps enjoy some tapas in the old Arab quarter. Overnight. DAY 3 GRANADA Free day. Enjoy a guided walk in the Albaicín, Granada s atmospheric former Moorish quarter and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a fascinating maze of cobbled streets, its carmenes and churches, and miradores overlooking the Alhambra, it is sure to captivate any visitor. A stop for refreshments at an Arab Teahouse is included. Overnight. DAY 4 GRANADA Farewell the city as you continue on to your next destination, either by air or by rail end of services. GRANADA PACKAGE 1 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 770 ACCOMMODATION Hotel La Casa de la Trinidad 4*, Granada 3 nights accommodation at the above property Breakfast daily Fully escorted group tour of the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens Private guided walk through the Albaicin Quarter CITY STAY 2 DAY 1 GRANADA Arrival into Granada and make your way to your hotel in the heart of the city centre. Overnight. DAY 2 GRANADA A memorable day as you have a group tour of the great Alhambra & Generalife Gardens. Visit the fabulous Palace of the Alhambra and the Gardens of the Generalife from where the last Caliph Boabdil defended the diminishing Moorish lands of 'Al-Andalus'. The Nasrid dynasty brought the Alhambra to its height and saw the completion of the palace in the 14th century. Granada, lying between mountains and plains is surely one of the most romanticised cities of all Spain. Free afternoon to head out and perhaps enjoy some tapas in the old Arab quarter. Overnight. DAY 3 GRANADA A most interesting day today as you enjoy a visit to an olive mill which is run by the 7th generation of the family followed by a short hike of the Natural Park of Sierra Subbética. Return to Granada. Overnight. DAY 4 GRANADA Farewell the city as you continue on to your next destination, either by air or by rail. End of services. GRANADA PACKAGE 2 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,255 ACCOMMODATION Hotel La Casa de la Trinidad 4*, Granada 3 nights accommodation at the above property Breakfast daily Fully escorted group tour of the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens Private excursion to Baena to visit olive mill including transport Please note entrance to the oldest parts of the Alhambra Palace is by ticket ballot/lottery. Entrance to all parts of the Palace complex is not guaranteed. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please use package prices as a guide. Exact dates will determine your final price. 9

10 City Stays San Sebastian CITY STAY 1 DAY 1 SAN SEBASTIAN Arrival and head to your hotel for check-in. In the evening enjoy a special small group dining experience, sampling the very finest pintxos (tapas) in San Sebastián. Using our expert, up to the minute knowledge, we guide you on an informal and inspiring culinary experience, hoppingfrom-bar-to-bar on an evening of eating and drinking your way around the old town of San Sebastián. Overnight. DAY 2 SAN SEBASTIAN Free day. Gloriously situated on a neat, shell-shaped bay, San Sebastian is the most elegant and fashionable Spanish seaside resort. Overnight. DAY 3 SAN SEBASTIAN BILBAO SAN SEBASTIAN A morning departure to Bilbao to discover Bilbao and its traditions as a professional guide takes you around two areas that capture the seasonal feel of the city: the Casco Viejo [Old Town] and Ensanche- Abandoibarra. We will then visit the famous Gugghenheim museum, a museum of modern and contemporary art, designed by Canadian- American architect Frank Gehry. Return to San Sebastian and rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. DAY 4 SAN SEBASTIAN Farewell the city as you continue on to your next destination. End of services. SAN SEBASTIAN PACKAGE 1 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,255 CITY STAY 2 DAY 1 SAN SEBASTIAN Arrival and head to your hotel for check-in. Gloriously situated on a neat, shell-shaped bay, San Sebastian is the most elegant and fashionable Spanish seaside resort. Overnight. DAY 2 SAN SEBASTIAN Enjoy a cooking class today. You will be guided through a cooking journey through the recipes of the most famous streets and bars of San Sebastian's Old Town and learn how to create the most talked about pintxos. The class ends with a lunch and wine pairing. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. DAY 3 SAN SEBASTIAN Free day. The old town, Parte Vieja, is wedged between the bay and the Rio Urumea. The alleys of the old town, packed with restaurants and tapas bars are intensely animated at night. The heart of the old town is the Plaza de la Constitucion where numbers on the balconies date from when the square was used as a bullring. Overnight. DAY 4 SAN SEBASTIAN Farewell the city as you continue on to your next destination. End of services. SAN SEBASTIAN PACKAGE 2 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 845 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Silken Amara Plaza 4*, San Sebastian ACCOMMODATION Hotel Silken Amara Plaza 4*, San Sebastian 3 nights accommodation at the above property in twin share Breakfast daily Small group Pintxo Dining Experience with local guide Private excursion to Bilbao including entrance to Guggenheim Museum and transport 3 nights accommodation at the above property in twin share Breakfast daily Small group Pintxos of the Old Town Cooking Class IMPORTANT NOTE: Please use package prices as a guide. Exact dates will determine your final price. 10

11 The Balearic Islands Mallorca A TASTE OF PALMA DAY 1 PALMA DE MALLORCA Arrival in Palma where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 PALMA DE MALLORCA A free day to explore the city at leisure. The hub of Palma city is the old-fashioned Passeig des Born, whose cafes invite you to try one of Mallorca s specialities, the ensaimada, a spiral of pastry dusted with icing sugar. You can visit the Gothic cathedral and the nearby Palau de l Almudaina, a once-royal Moorish palace which now houses a museum. This evening, enjoy a local food and wine tasting. This relaxed yet informative tasting will satisfy the wine fan s thirst for extensive knowledge of contemporary island winemaking as well as the novice visitor interested in sampling the best the island has to offer. Our sommelier will also pair the wines with bites of local, artisan products. Overnight. DAYS 3 & 4 PALMA DE MALLORCA Free days to explore the city at your leisure. A recommendation is to make an excursion to visit Soller. Soller is a delightful historic town and you can reach it by its famous delightfully old-fashioned narrow-gauge railway, complete with quaint wooden carriages. Enjoy strolling the streets of the old town of Palma and be sure not to miss Palma s Gothic castle - the Castell de Bellver. It was commissioned by Jaime II during the short-lived Kingdom of Mallorca ( ) as a summer residence, but soon after became a prison and remained as such until Overnight. DAY 5 DEPART PALMA DE MALLORCA Check out and end of services A TASTE OF PALMA TWIN SHARE FROM 1,855 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Sant Francesc / St Regis Hotel / Castillo Son Vida 5* Arrival transfer in Palma de Mallorca, airport to hotel 4 nights accommodation in a twin/double room with daily breakfast Local food and wine tasting at the St Regis (2hrs). Includes wine tasting, paired local artisan products, tasting notes, water. PEGUERA BEACH STAY DAY 1 PALMA DE MALLORCA PEGUERA Arrival in Palma where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Peguera, on the waterfront. Check-in and relax. Overnight. DAY 2 & 3 PEGUERA Two free days to relax and enjoy the sun in Peguera. The cove is surrounded by lush vegetation and looks out onto Peguera. Famous for it's hiking and cycle-touring in Biosphere Reserve areas, water sports in crystal clear waters, and golf courses with sea views are just a few of the options. Overnight. DAY 4 PEGUERA PALMA DE MALLORCA Transfer to the airport for your departure to your next destination... PEGUERA BEACH STAY TWIN SHARE FROM 955 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Petit Cala Fornells 5*, Peguera Arrival transfer airport to hotel 3 nights accommodation in a twin/double room with daily breakfast included Departure transfer from hotel to airport IMPORTANT NOTE: Please use package prices as a guide. Exact dates will determine your final price. 11

12 Gourmet Highlights of Andalucia 9 DAY SELF DRIVE WITH FOODIE EXPERIENCES You are what you eat, as the saying goes and there is no better way to learn about a country and its culture than through its food and drink. Andalucia, still one of Spain s largest food-producing regions, is steeped in culinary and gastronomic traditions. This itinerary gives you privileged access to some of the key items in these traditions: fine sherry wines, cured Iberian ham, artisan cheeses, convent-made sweets, and the liquid gold of olive oil that is perhaps the hallmark of the region s landscape and cuisine. Accommodation is in 4* character hotels and Paradores. DAY 1 SEVILLA Arrival in Sevilla, capital of the region of Andalucia. First, a walking tour of the old Santa Cruz district in the city centre, a fascinating warren of narrow streets and flower-filled plazas, taking in the city s two main monuments, the extravagant Gothic cathedral and slender Giralda tower, and the sublime Muslim-Christian fusion of the Alcazar palaces and gardens. Then, in the evening, a lively stroll around the centre, taking you to three distinctive bars on a Tapas Tour. Overnight. DAY 2 SEVILLA This morning collect your hire car and begin your explorations with a trip to the capital of Iberian ham, the town of Jabugo, in the Sierra de Aracena. Here you will join a tour given by the experts themselves, a family-run firm who breed Iberian pigs to try various cuts of the wonderful ham, accompanied by regional wines. Afterwards, you will have our recommendations for a meal at a local restaurant and route notes for a walk in the environs of the attractive town of Aracena. Overnight. DAY 3 SEVILLA ARCOS DE LA FRONTERA (90 KM) Head south into the fertile plains of the Guadalquivir river rice and citrus fruits grow here among other things and to the enchanting hill-top town of Arcos de la Frontera. Drive the short journey to Jerez de la Frontera, the city that gives us the name sherry, and where you will be shown around one of the most prestigious bodegas, where Very Old & Rare sherries and brandies are aged in the unique multi-layered solera system. After sampling them there is an additional treat: a private art collection that includes works by several Spanish masters such as Goya, El Greco and Velazquez. Back to Arcos. Overnight. DAY 4 ARCOS DE LA FRONTERA RONDA (85 KM) Today you follow the Route of the White Towns, those quintessentially Mediterranean towns of whitewashed houses that cluster around hilltops once sought after as natural fortifications. Your destination is Ronda the Queen of these Pueblos Blancos and one of the most stunningly situated towns you will find, straddling a deep and narrow gorge by means of an imposing late 18th century bridge. En route you may like to stop in El Bosque where you ll have the chance to sample the local cheeses in its Museum of Cheese and visit an old water-driven flour mill the Molino de Abajo. Route notes for a circular walk in the adjacent Grazalema Natural Park are provided. Overnight. DAY 5 RONDA Explore Ronda this morning on your own. You ll undoubtedly want to visit its showpiece monument, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, the spiritual home of bullfighting and a place sought out by the rich and famous in times gone by, and step inside the former city jail. Late morning drive the short distance to Bodega Descalzos Viejos, a boutique winery set on an escarpment outside Ronda with superb views back to the town from its terraced gardens. The rest of the day is free to drive to other pueblos blancos, such as Setenil de las Bodegas (where houses are encrusted into the rock face). Overnight. DAY 6 RONDA GRANADA (195 KM) Perhaps the most spectacular of all white towns of this region is Zahara de la Sierra, well worth a walk through it. Ascend to a medieval castle for magnificent views over its reservoir and countryside, and then visit a still-working 18th century olive mill, where you can taste its superb extra virgin oil (visit costs 6 pp, please pay on-site). As you head towards Granada, a stop in the ancient city of Antequera is highly recommended and you have route notes for a self-guided walk. On to Granada, where you will enjoy a guided gourmet tasting of hams, cheeses, preserves and cold cuts, accompanied by regional wines. Overnight. DAY 7 GRANADA A group tour will take you around the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens and in the afternoon you might like to stroll in the Albaicin quarter, where the bulk of the city s population lived in the 13 th to 16 th centuries and a cat s cradle of winding streets that open out to views of the Alhambra framed by the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada. The Albaicin is indeed the venue this evening for a dinner in a private house, prepared by an engaging expat resident who will demonstrate recipes that demonstrate the fusion of Moorish and Spanish culinary traditions. Overnight. DAY 8 GRANADA CORDOBA (180 KM) Your last drive takes you through one of the most emblematic of Spanish landscapes groves of olive trees stretching to the horizon. In the attractive village of Zuheros, at the edge of the Natural Park of Sierra Subbetica, you will learn all about the cultivation of olives in a private visit to a smallholding which in 2 hectares contains no fewer than 11 varieties of olives. After a guided tasting of various olive oils you will be the guest of your host and his wife in their village house for a simple lunch of dishes made with olives and olive oils. Cordoba awaits you in the late afternoon and evening, with an expert local guide showing you its historic centre, including its unique Mosque- Cathedral. Overnight. DAY 9 CORDOBA Return your rental car and end of services. GOURMET HIGHLIGHTS OF ANDALUCIA TWIN SHARE ( MINIMUM 2 PERSON) 3,800 PEAK SEASON SUPPLEMENT

13 Andalucia with Private Driver ANDALUCIA & THE WHITE VILLAGES 7 DAY PRIVATE TOURING THROUGH ANDALUCIA DAY 1 SEVILLA Arrival at Sevilla airport where you will be met and transferred by Private vehicle to your hotel for check-in. Tonight enjoy a guided walk through the Santa Cruz followed by a Flamenco show. Overnight. DAY 2 SEVILLA A full day at leisure to explore the city. Sevilla, capital of 'Andalucia', is an energetic city with charming, tiny cobbled streets and beautiful, colourfully tiled patios. Visit the spectacular Cathedral, the Moorish Alcazar, the Maria Luisa park and the Plaza de España. This evening you have a special night as you have a Guided Tapas tour with local expert. Overnight. DAY 3 SEVILLA JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA ARCOS DE LA FRONTERA This morning you will be met by your Private Driver to commence your touring through Andalucia. You will journey south to the city of Jerez de la Frontera, renowned for its dry sherry production and dancing horses from the world famous School of Equestrian Art. Continue on to the whitewashed village of Arcos de la Frontera for a free afternoon. Overnight. DAY 4 ARCOS DE LA FRONTERA GRAZALEMA RONDA A picturesque drive today as you depart the pretty village of Arcos and travel on the Route of the Whitewashed villages to reach rugged Grazalema, with its spectacular Natural Reserve. Continue on to Ronda with free time on arrival to visit the city s great bullring, the spiritual home of bullfighting in Spain. Ronda s main feature is the immense Tajo or Chasm - a geological cleft in the rock that plunges about 100m deep. Free evening with driver at your disposition. Overnight. DAY 6 GRANADA This morning revel in the splendour of the Alhambra Palace and Gardens of the Generalife with private guide. The beauty of Granada is encapsulated in the legendary Alhambra, the last bastion of the Moors in Spain. It was built under Ismail I, Yusuf I and Muhammad V, caliphs when the Nasrid dynasty ruled Granada. The adjacent gardens of the Generalife - the name derives from Yannat al Arif meaning 'the garden of lofty paradise' - are also stunningly beautiful. Free afternoon. Overnight. DAY 7 GRANADA Perhaps time for some last minute sightseeing before continuing on your journey ANDALUCIA & THE WHITE VILLAGES Meals as per Itinerary DEPARTS ANY DAY AT YOUR REQUEST TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 3,575 TWIN SHARE 4 PEOPLE 2,600 Arrival Transfer in Sevilla by Private Car Afternoon Santa Cruz walk and Flamenco show tickets Tapas tour with local guide in Sevilla (Small Group tour). Private tour with guide of the Alhambra Palace and the Gardens of the Generalife Transport in Vehicle (for 2 people) or Minivan (for 4 people) with Private English Speaking Driver. Transport services commence in Sevilla on day 3 and complete in Granada DAY 5 RONDA ANTEQUERA GRANADA Continue on to Granada through Antequera. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Your driver will end services today. A walk through the Arab quarter the 'Albaizin' is well worthwhile. This corner of the city, clinging to the hillside opposite the Alhambra, is where one feels closest to Granada's Moorish ancestry. Overnight. IMPORTANT NOTE: This rate is an estimate as your travel dates will determine your final price. Weekend rates / Trade Fair rates may apply and will alter the final price. Special rates apply for Easter and Seville Fair and must be requested: BLOCK OUT DATES may apply for the Tapas tour inclusion. * This is a totally Private chauffeured tour and can be booked and modified to suit your time frame * 13

14 Romantic Andalucia 9 DAY SELF DRIVE FEATURING TRADITIONAL ANDALUCIAN CORTIJOS Departs any day on request from 16 March to 31 October Andalucía embodies great part of the cultural and traditional attraction of Spain. Besides the impressive monuments cities like Granada, Cordoba and Seville have to offer, numerous nature parks and wonderful landscapes with whitewashed villages overlooking plantations of olive trees, are there to be discovered. All accommodations selected for this romantic getaway involve privileged locations, calm and cosy ambience, elegance and charm. DAY 5 & 6 IZNAJAR BENAOJAN (144KM) A pleasant drive takes you via the historical city of Antequera and the Naturepark El Torcal to Ronda. Ronda is the Queen of the White Towns. Its main feature is the immense Tajo or Chasm - a geological cleft in the rock that plunges about 100m deep. The beautiful surrounding green hills of the Sierra de Ronda are dotted with white villages like Benaoján. Here you find Molino del Santo, a charming watermill converted into a romantic hotel. There are numerous day trips you can make from here to explore its surroundings like the naturepark of Grazalema, famous for its flora. Dinner & Overnight(s). DAY 7 BENAOJAN SEVILLA (122KM) Depart Benaojan and on to Sevilla. On arrival, you will drop off your hire car at the train station office and taxi to your hotel. You will spend the next two nights in Sevilla, capital of Andalucia - an energetic city with a fascinating old quarter of tiny cobbled streets and beautiful, colourfully tiled patios. Tonight, head out to explore the lovely Santa Cruz quarter, which was once a Jewish ghetto. Today it is filled with outdoor restaurants and lively tapas bars. Overnight. DAY 8 SEVILLA A full day to explore the city at your leisure, including the Cathedral which actually occupies the site of a great Mosque built by the Almohads in the late 12th century. The Reales Alcazares was built in the 14th century by Pedro I who ordered the construction of a royal residence within the Palaces built by the Almohads. Overnight. DAY 9 SEVILLA Farewell the city as you continue on to your next destination, either by air or by rail ROMANTIC ANDALUCIA JOHN FREDERICK LEWIS, PATIO DE LOS LEONES, ALAMBRA PALACE C DAY 1 GRANADA Arrive in Granada and make your way to your hotel in the heart of the city centre. This afternoon, you are met at your hotel for a special guided tour of the Albaycin (Arab quarter). Your local guide will show you how this medieval Islamic city has kept its identity, explaining its history and character. As you walk through its maze of twisting alleyways you will come across stunning views of the city, the majestic Alhambra palaces and, beyond, the often snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada. Your tour will include stops in local bars for some tapas or a visit to a traditional Arab tetería (teahouse). Overnight. DAY 2 GRANADA This morning you are picked up from your hotel for a fully escorted Alhambra and Gardens tour. The beauty of Granada is encapsulated in the legendary palace of Alhambra, the last bastion of the Moors in Spain. It was built under Ismail I, Yusuf I and Muhammad V, caliphs when the Nasrid dynasty ruled Granada. After the tour, a free afternoon at leisure. Overnight. DEPARTS ANY DAY FROM 16 MAR TO 31 OCT /03-25/03 26/03-30/04 26/06-25/07 01/10-31/10 Meals as per itinerary 01/05-25/06 26/07-30/09 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 2,065 2,160 2,180 8 nights at the above properties or similar in a double / twin room with private facilities Daily breakfast in all hotels & Dinners in Iznajar and Benaojan only 5 days Avis Car hire in category B Seat Ibiza 1.4 Style A/C manual or similar, with standard inclusions and insurances as per our brochure Afternoon guided tour of the Albayzin in Granada with local guide Fully escorted morning tour Alhambra & Gardens ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Melia Granada 4*, Granada Cortijo la Haza, Iznajar Molino del Santo, Benaojan Hotel Inglaterra 4*, Sevilla DAY 3 & 4 GRANADA IZNAJAR (90KM) Pick up your hire car from the train station office. After visiting the beautiful cultural heritage of Granada, a lovely drive takes you close to Lake Iznajar in the heart of rural Andalucia. Cortijo La Haza is surrounded by olive trees and set in a peaceful location amongst the rolling hills of the Subbética Natural Park. This 250 year old recently restored traditional Cortijo farmhouse, has a lovely terrace and garden with outdoor pool and great views. Cortijo La Haza is ideally placed for easy access to the motorway network; meaning that a day excursion can be made to Córdoba (90 minutes). Dinner & Overnight(s). IMPORTANT NOTE: These rates are an estimate as your travel dates will determine your final price. Weekend/Trade Fair/Easter rates may apply and will alter the final price. 14

15 Old Castile Experience 7 DAY SELF DRIVE Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 MADRID Arrival at the airport and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Settle in and relax. Spain's capital is situated close to the geographical centre of the country. Overnight. DAY 2 MADRID A free day to explore. Madrid's main attractions include three internationally famous art galleries, a royal palace, grand public squares and many museums filled with the treasures of Spain's history. In the evening, join a small group Wine & Tapas tour. There are two "Madrids": the one you can't help but see, and the one you need a local person to show you. We'd like to invite you to enjoy the experience of "ir de tapas", as madrileños do. You will discover hidden spots with atmosphere, dishes with a history, and diverse types of wine, strolling along Madrid's 17th century streets. You will visit three or four bars in the old part of Madrid. Overnight. DAY 3 MADRID EL ESCORIAL SEGOVIA Collect your hire car and travel north-west of Madrid to the impressive monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, which is not only a monastery, but a church and a palace as well. Continue to Segovia, one of the most spectacularly sited cities in Spain. Perhaps spend the afternoon exploring the city centre with its magnificent aqueduct and Alcazar. Overnight. DAY 4 SEGOVIA SALAMANCA Return to the road today and continue onto Salamanca, a wonderful University town with great traditions and a magnificent old quarter. Salamanca is called La Dorada in Spanish, or the Golden One, owing to the colour of its sandstone buildings. Overnight. DAY 5 OLD CASTILE EXPERIENCE TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,605 CITY HOTEL MADRID HOTEL CATALONIA PUERTA DEL SOL 4* SEGOVIA HOTEL PALACIO SAN FACUNDO 4* SALAMANCA HOTEL RECTOR 4* TOLEDO SALAMANCA This morning you have a half day tour of historical Salamanca with an official local guide. Salamanca is a wonderful University town, with great traditions and a magnificent old quarter. Overnight. DAY 6 SALAMANCA AVILA TOLEDO Travel Southeast today and stop for lunch at the Parador just inside the walled city of Avila, then a leisurely run in to Toledo. Picturesquely sited on a hill above the River Tagus is the historical centre of Toledo. Overnight. DAY 7 TOLEDO MADRID Collect your luggage and farewell the city at you drive to Madrid airport to drop off your car our services end here. PARADOR DE TOLEDO Arrival transfer in Madrid Accommodation in twin share room with private facilities and breakfast Small group Wine & Tapas tour in Madrid 5 days Avis car hire in category C Seat Leon 1.6 TDI style A/C or similar with all standard inclusions and insurances as per our brochure Half day tour of Historical Salamanca with a private guide SAN LORENZO DE EL ESCORIAL 15

16 Moorish Crescent 7 DAY RAIL ADVENTURE THROUGH ANDALUCIA Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 ALMERIA Arrival in Almería. Afternoon tour with a local guide to visit the impressive fortress of the Alcazaba (closed Mondays), which was the biggest of the citadels built by the Moors in Spain. Its construction began in 955 at the height of Moorish power and was completed in the 11 th C before falling to Christian hands in the epic war with Granada four centuries later. You will also see the simple church of San Juan, built on the site of the former mosque of the city. Lastly, visit the city s 17 th C unique cathedral fortress. Free evening. DAY 2 ALMERIA - GRANADA This morning your train journey through Andalucía begins, with the 09:00 departure from Almería to Granada. The route takes you across the desert terrain of Tabernas before entering the singular badlands terrain near the city of Guadix, a naturally eroded landscape that is starkly beautiful. Free time before this afternoon s tour of the spectacular Alhambra Palace and its beautiful adjoining Generalife gardens. Afterwards, you will have our recommendations for restaurants in the downtown and the Albaicín quarter where several places offer stunning views from their terraces of the floodlit Alhambra at night. DAY 3 GRANADA Free day to explore the city at your leisure or perhaps set off on a walk in the woods above the Alhambra and loop back through the cave house district of the Sacromonte. You can take in the world with a beer and some tapas in say the Realejo neighbourhood, which mixes locals with university students, before meeting with your resident guide who this afternoon and evening will host you on an insider s walking tour of the Albaicín, the historic Arab quarter of the city. This is then followed by an exclusive tasting dinner in a gourmet store stocking fine food products from Andalucía and all over Spain, all served with regional wines. DAY 4 GRANADA ANTEQUERA A mid-morning train to Antequera, your next destination on the Moorish Crescent. Conquered by the Christians in 1410, Medina Anticaria had in the almost seven centuries of Moorish control enjoyed great prosperity and its loss signaled the beginning of the end for Muslim Granada. Explore its well-restored castle from the 12th and 13th centuries, and then trace a self-guided walking route (notes provided) around some of its many convents, monasteries and churches. Some of the convents maintain the tradition of making traditional sweets and pastries, on sale to the public via a turntable (to preserve the cloistered nuns anonymity). Tonight you stay in the city s Parador hotel, a modern contrast to all this antiquity. DAY 5 ANTEQUERA - RONDA In your free time this morning you might like to visit the site of the Menga and Viera dolmens - megalithic structures which experts suggest date back as far as 3 rd millennium BCE some of the oldest man-made structures you will see in Europe. After lunch take the train to Ronda and enjoy an afternoon tour in the company of an expert local guide. You ll visit its showpiece monument, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, the spiritual home of bullfighting and even step inside the former city jail! Free evening with restaurant recommendations. DAY 6 RONDA - TARIFA Explore Ronda further on your own this morning. A midday departure takes you on perhaps the most scenic part of the whole train ride, the section from Ronda to Castellar de la Frontera, where the line passes through steep-sided valleys lined with almond and olive groves. You will be met by our driver on arrival at Algeciras and driven the short distance to the port town of Tarifa, which sits on the southernmost tip of Spain looking across the Straits of Gibraltar to Africa. In the evening you have the choice of dining at the hotel or taking a local taxi into the old town of Tarifa. DAY 7 DEPART TARIFA Farewell the town of Tarifa as your journey comes to an end. MOORISH CRESCENT TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 2,345 TWIN SHARE 4 PEOPLE 1,900 PEAK SEASON SUPPLEMENT 205 Accommodation: 4* central hotels in cities, Paradores in Antequera and Ronda, beachside 2-star hotel outside Tarifa Meals: hotel buffet breakfast every day; Gourmet Tasting (dinner, day 3) Transport: train travel in comfortable Tourist class carriages on the route Almeria-Granada-Algeciras, as detailed in the Itinerary; private chauffeur-driven transfer from Algeciras train station to hotel at Tarifa. Optional airport transfers at start/end of Itinerary available for a supplement (see below) Private Guided Tours with local specialist guides in Almeria and Ronda, including entrances to the principal monuments Alhambra Palace Group Tour Private Guided Walking Tour with local resident guide in the old quarter of Granada (Albaicin), followed by a leisurely tasting dinner, accompanied by your guide, in the premises of a leading gourmet food store in Granada Self-guided notes for walking tour of Antequera; restaurant recommendations in all overnight venues 16

17 Spain by Train 14 DAY RAIL ADVENTURE THROUGH SPAIN IN 4* HOTELS Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 BARCELONA Arrival at the airport today where you are met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Free afternoon to settle in. Overnight. DAY 2 BARCELONA Today you are met at your hotel for a Modernist Barcelona walking tour. You will walk north along the famous Passeig de Gracia, where so many of the city s emblematic Modernist buildings are located, including several of the works of Antoni Gaudi. The tour will end at a famous restaurant of Modernist design, where you can choose to stay for lunch or continue on your way at leisure. Free afternoon at leisure. Overnight. DAY 3 BARCELONA A free day to explore. The old Gothic quarter, the most extensive medieval city centre in Europe, has a magnificent fourteenth century Cathedral and ancient royal palace. Overnight. DAY 4 BARCELONA CORDOBA Taxi to Sants Station today to board the train south to Cordoba, a journey of just over 4.5hrs, the first train journey using your Spanish rail pass. Arrival and taxi to your hotel in the heart of the city centre. Free time at leisure to enjoy this wonderful city, with its incredible mix of religious history. Be sure not to miss the city s great Mosque, originally built by Abd al Rahman I between 785 and 787. Overnight. DAY 5 CORDOBA RONDA Taxi back to the station to board the high speed train to Ronda, just an hour or so away. Taxi to your hotel in the middle of this small whitewashed town. Its main feature is the immense Tajo or Chasm - a geological cleft in the rock that plunges about 100m deep. Due to its location, it was one of the last Moorish bastions, finally falling to the Christians in Overnight. DAY 6 RONDA Full day to explore the town on foot. The town itself exudes all of the essential qualities of a white town with its delightful whitewashed houses brimming with geraniums and its narrow, winding streets. Overnight. DAY 7 RONDA GRANADA Back to the train station to take the regional train to Granada, a leisurely trip of around 3hrs. Arrival in Spain s great Moorish city and head to your city centre hotel. Perhaps spend an afternoon exploring the city centre, with its interesting Cathedral and lively atmosphere. Overnight. DAY 8 GRANADA A memorable day as you have a group tour of the great Alhambra & Generalife Gardens. Visit the fabulous Palace of the Alhambra and the Gardens of the Generalife from where the last Caliph Boabdil defended the diminishing Moorish lands of Al-Andalus. The Nasrid dynasty brought the Alhambra to its height and saw the completion of the palace in the 14th century. Granada, lying between mountains and plains is surely one of the most romanticised cities of all Spain. Free afternoon. Overnight. DAY 9 GRANADA SEVILLA Taxi to the train station to catch the regional train to Sevilla, a trip of around 3hrs. Arrival and head to your hotel in the middle of the old quarter of the city. This evening you are met by a private guide who will take you on a walk through the wonderful Santa Cruz quarter and then take you to a very good flamenco tablao where you will farewell her and enjoy a night of traditional flamenco. Back to your hotel after a lively evening. Overnight. DAY 10 SEVILLA A full day to explore at leisure. Be sure to visit the old Barrio de Santa Cruz quarter, La Giralda (Moorish minaret), the Maria Luisa gardens, the Archive of the Indies, the largest Cathedral in the land plus the Alcazar, fortress and museum. Overnight. DAY 11 SEVILLA MADRID A leisurely morning before you return to Santa Justa station to board the high speed train to Madrid, a journey of just 2.5hrs. Arrival and head to your hotel for check-in. A free afternoon to relax. Overnight. DAY 12 MADRID Today you are met at your hotel by your private guide for a tour of old Madrid. Beginning at the Plaza Mayor, you will enjoy a walking tour that discovers the old quarters of the city, the Medieval history and the evidence of the changes that came with the arrival of the Bourbon dynasty. Enjoy a walk admiring monumental buildings and squares, churches and traditional shops. Free afternoon at leisure. Overnight. DAY 13 MADRID Free day at leisure, you may like to explore the surrounds of Madrid by taking a fast train to the walled city of Toledo or perhaps heading out to visit the beautiful town of Segovia, with its well preserved Roman aqueduct. Overnight. DAY 14 DEPART MADRID Farwell the city as you are transferred to the airport for your flight to your next destination. SPAIN BY TRAIN ALL YEAR TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 3,485 IMPORTANT NOTE: Weekend rates / Trade Fair rates may apply and will alter the final price. Special rates apply for Easter and must be requested. These rates are estimates as your travel dates will determine the final price Taxis are not included in the cost above and must be arranged and paid for locally 13 nights accommodation in 4* hotels in twin share with private facilities Daily breakfast Arrival transfer into Barcelona Departure transfer out of Madrid Half day walking tour of Barcelona with a local guide (Sagrada Familia entrance fees included) Half day Fully Escorted tour of the Alhambra Palace & Gardens of the Generalife Afternoon walking tour of Sevilla with a local guide including tickets to Flamenco Show Half day walking tour of 'Old Madrid' with a local guide (Entrance fees to Royal Palace included) 5 Day Eurail Pass in 1st class including seat reservations. 17

18 El Norte by Rail 12 DAY RAIL ADVENTURE THROUGH NORTHERN SPAIN IN 4* HOTELS Departs: Any day on request DAY 1 MADRID Arrival in Madrid where you are met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Settle in and relax. Madrid's main attractions include three internationally famous art galleries, a royal palace, grand public squares and many museums filled with the treasures of Spain's history. Overnight. DAY 2 MADRID This morning enjoy a tour of the city including a visit inside the famous Museo del Prado. From the Plaza Mayor to the Paseo del Prado, we enjoy a walk through Madrid s most popular shopping district, admiring the beautiful and regal architecture. This area was shaped by enlightened monarchs and influenced by modernism that inspired the change of the financial district in the early twentieth century. This tour will include a visit inside the great Prado Museum which contains the world's greatest assembly of Spanish painting ranging from the 12th to the 19th century. Free afternoon at leisure. Overnight. DAY 3 MADRID SAN SEBASTIAN Head to the station today to take the train north to San Sebastian, Spain s gastronomic capital and one of the country s prettiest cities. Spend an afternoon strolling along the beachfront promenade and enjoying the city s special atmosphere. San Sebastian became a smart resort in the late 19th century and has been popular with the Spanish aristocracy ever since. Overnight. DAY 4 SAN SEBASTIAN A free morning at leisure to explore. This afternoon, join a Pintxo walking tour. A special small group dining experience, sampling the very finest pintxos (tapas) in San Sebastián. Using expert, up to the minute knowledge, you will be guided on an informal and inspiring culinary experience, hopping-from-bar-to-bar on an evening of eating and drinking your way around the old town of San Sebastián. Overnight. DAY 8 BURGOS LEON Back to the station to travel to the elegant city of Leon, on the St James pilgrim s route. Afternoon free to explore. León's major attraction is the 13-14th century Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Another grand piece of architecture is the Romanesque Collegiate Church of San Isidoro, built over a pre-romanesque temple. Overnight. DAY 9 LEON Free day. The streets between the Plaza Mayor and the Market Place are the best for sightseeing. Modern León is where the House of Botines stands, built by Gaudí towards the end of the 19th century. Overnight. DAY 10 LEON OVIEDO Return to the station for your train north to the University city of Oviedo. Oviedo is a university city and the cultural and commercial capital of Asturias. The nucleus of the medieval city is the stately Plaza Alfonso II, bordered by a number of handsome old palaces. On this square is situated the Flamboyant Gothic cathedral with its high tower and asymmetrical west facade. Enjoy strolling the streets of the old quarter and perhaps enjoy dinner in one of the city s many wonderful cider houses. Overnight. DAY 11 OVIEDO MADRID Your last train journey today as you return to Madrid after your northern Spain adventure. Arrival in Madrid and make your way to your hotel for a final night in the capital. Overnight. DAY 12 MADRID Farewell the city as you are transferred to the airport. DAY 5 SAN SEBASTIAN BILBAO Pick up from your hotel for your transfer across to Bilbao by private vehicle. Arrival and settle in. The casco viejo (old quarter) by the river was built in the 14th century and is the most attractive district of the city. Highlights include the Teatro Arriaga, the Gothic Catedral de Santiago, the Plaza Nueva and the Mercado de la Rivera. Overnight. DAY 6 BILBAO A day to explore at leisure. You will also visit the Guggenheim museum (tickets pre-reserved). Frank O. Gehry was chosen to design the Bilbao museum since his concept reflected the potential of the project by successfully blending it to the architecture of Bilbao. Gehry's design is like a singular-line sculpture made up of amazing materials. The permanent collection found in the Museum Guggenheim Bilbao mainly includes works by the most prominent artists in the last forty years. Overnight. DAY 7 BILBAO BURGOS Head to the train station today for the short train ride south to Burgos. Arrival and make your way to the hotel. The main bridge into the city, is the Puente de San Pablo where a statue commemorates the city's hero, El Cid. Not far from the bridge stands the Casa de Cordon, a 15th century palace. A plaque declares that this is the spot where the Catholic Monarchs welcomed Columbus on his return, in Its most outstanding monument is the Cathedral, built in the flamboyant Gothic style and founded in 1221 by Bishop Mauricio under Fernando III. Overnight. EL NORTE BY RAIL TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 2, nights accommodation in 4* hotels in twin share with private facilities Daily breakfast Arrival transfer in Madrid Departure transfer in Madrid Half day Borbones and Las Letras walking tour in Madrid including the Prado Museum Pintxo Hunting small group tour in San Sebastian Guggenheim Museum tickets Visit Spain Rail Pass (5 days in 1 month) including passholder fares as per itinerary 18

19 Innovative Spain THE OLD AND NEW WORLDS OF SPAIN IN A 12 DAY RAIL ADVENTURE Departs: Any day on request DAY 1 BARCELONA Arrival at the airport today where you are met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Free afternoon to settle in. Overnight. DAY 2 BARCELONA Free morning at leisure to explore the city at your leisure. This afternoon, join a Gaudi Barcelona group tour. Continue to Sagrada Familia cathedral to enjoy a walking tour exploring the interior of the building. We will also visit Sagrada Familia museum, where you will see drawings, plaster models and pictures about the history and development of this basilica. Then we will join with the rest of group and enjoy a 45 minute visit at Gaudi s bizarre Parc Guell which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then our tour follows to Paseo de Gracia to see Gaudi s famous apartment buildings like La Pedrera and Casa Batllo. The tour ends near the Casa Batlló at Paseo de Gracia 43. Overnight. DAY 3 BARCELONA A free day to explore at leisure. A selection of impressive museums awaits the visitor starting with the Picasso Museum and includes the tremendously interesting Joan Miró Foundation in Montjuic, displaying a great selection of work of the contemporary artist. Overnight. DAY 4 BARCELONA VALENCIA Head to the station for your fast train south to Valencia. Here is a city that perfectly blends the old and the new. Today you can enjoy the old quarter and visit the Cathedral, built in Inside the Cathedral there is an agate cup, claimed to be the Holy Grail. The Cathedral s 68m high octagonal belltower is Valencia s landmark. Visit as well the nearby 17th century Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados and do not miss the central market. Overnight. DAY 5 VALENCIA In the new area of the city you can find the City of the Arts and Sciences. This remarkable masterpiece was designed by famed architect Santiago Calatrava and includes an Opera house, Planetarium, Imax, Laserium, Science museum, large Oceanographic park and designer gardens. Overnight. DAY 6 VALENCIA CUENCA Take the train west to historic Cuenca, in the heart of Castilla la Mancha. Cuenca s setting is hard to believe. The old town is cut off from the rest of the city by the Jucar and the Huecar Rivers. Cuenca is famous for its Casas Colgadas, precariously positioned on a cliff top, with their balconies literally hanging over the gorge. Overnight. DAY 8 CUENCA SEVILLA Take the train south to Sevilla, capital of Andalucia and probably the most quintessential of all Andalusian cities. Tonight enjoy a lively Tapas tasting tour Modern stars. Sevilla s tapas are a monument practically more famous than its gigantic cathedral. Once you have mastered the classics, sipped salmorejo and gorged on spinach and garbanzos, graduate to the avant-garde food scene on this tour. Our modern tapas tasting tour takes you out Seville s old town and into the new world of the hottest local bars. Overnight. DAY 9 SEVILLA Return to the classics today as you enjoy a walking tour with a local guide. You will visit the historic Santa Cruz district, which was once a Jewish ghetto, the impressive Cathedral and the Giralda finishing up at the Moorish Alcazar. Free afternoon at your leisure to perhaps stroll through the beautiful Maria Luisa gardens. DAY 10 SEVILLA MALAGA A short ride to reach Malaga today. An afternoon to explore it s history. Malaga is the second largest city in Andalucia and is today a thriving port. It was important in Phoenician times and again under the Romans and the Moors. It also flourished again during the 19th century when sweet Malaga wine was one of Europe s most popular drinks. Malaga s vast Alcazaba was built between the 8th - 11th centuries. There is a partially excavated Roman amphitheatre by its entrance, but the real attraction is the display of Phoenician, Roman and Moorish artefacts in the Museo Arqueologico. Overnight. DAY 11 MALAGA A day at leisure to see the new face of this revitalised city. Once considered the poor cousin of Andalusia s capital city Sevilla, Malaga now competes successfully for attention, thanks to its profusion of quirky museums, delightful pedestrianised centre, innovative restaurants and stylish hotels, many featuring trendy rooftop terraces with bar, pool and stunning views. Muelle Uno is the latest addition - a contemporary leisure complex in the port - while a new arty district called SOHO is bringing a bohemian edge to the city. Overnight. DAY 12 DEPART MALAGA Farewell the city as you depart to your next destination. Taxis are not included in the cost above and must be arranged and paid for locally DAY 7 CUENCA Free day to explore on foot. The old town is ringed by narrow, twisting lanes that wind between tunnels and covered passageways. The Plaza Mayor is a cafe-lined arcaded square in the heart of the old town. The Gothic 12-13th century Cathedral stands to the east of the Plaza Mayor. At the south end of town is the Torre de Mangana, a ruined lookout tower which is all that remains of an Arab fortress. Overnight. INNOVATIVE SPAIN TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 2,815 IMPORTANT NOTE: This rate is an estimate as your travel date will determine the final price. Weekend rates / Trade Fair rates may apply and will alter the final price. Special rates apply for Easter and must be requested 19

20 Departs: Any day at your request. Barcelona & Medieval Costa Brava DAY 1 BARCELONA Arrival in Barcelona Port/Airport where you are met and transferred to your hotel in the centre of town. Check-in and relax. Overnight. DAY 2 BARCELONA A gourmet half day tour today with a private guide, where you will visit Barcelona s two great food markets the famous Boqueria market and the traditional Santa Caterina market. Experience the energy of these bustling food markets offering a spectacular array of fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish, flowers and more. The tour continues as you head to the famous Els 4 Gats, the famous Modernist artists café frequented by a young Picasso and architect Antoni Gaudi, among many others. Here you can enjoy some tapas or a meal (payable locally), as you farewell your guide. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. DAY 3 BARCELONA TOSSA DE MAR Today you are collected from your hotel and transferred to the coastal town of Tossa de Mar. Located 90km north of Barcelona, this wonderful gleaming white town with its 12th century walls, fascinating old quarter and good beaches is sure to impress! Overnight. 6 DAY PRE OR POST CRUISE PACKAGE DAY 4 TOSSA DE MAR BESALU PERATALLADA PALS TOSSA DE MAR This morning you are met at your hotel and taken on a full day excursion visiting Medieval towns of Costa Brava. Your first stop takes you to Besalu, a monumental example of Catalan Middle Ages. Enjoy free time wandering through the cobbled streets and walking across the 12thcentury Romanesque bridge. Return to the road to pretty Peratallada for a brief visit before continuing onto Pals, where you will find medieval streets and a lovely old quarter declared a Historic Artistic Site. Enjoy free time for lunch and sightseeing before returning to Tossa de Mar. Overnight. DAY 5 TOSSA DE MAR Free day to relax by Tossa de Mar s beautiful beaches. The two beaches, Mar Grand and La Bauma, both offer wonderful surroundings and clear water. Overnight. DAY 6 TOSSA DE MAR BARCELONA Check out and transfer to Barcelona airport ACCOMMODATION Hotel Barcelona Catedral 4*, Barcelona Hotel Delfin 4*, Tossa de Mar BARCELONA & MEDIEVAL COSTA BRAVA 01/10-31/10 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 3,250 TWIN SHARE 4 PEOPLE 2,130 5 nights accommodation at the above properties on breakfast basis Arrival transfer in Barcelona, port to hotel Epicurian Half Day tour with private guide Private return transfers from Barcelona to Tossa de Mar Full day excursion to Besalu, Peratallada and Pals with driver and guide IMPORTANT NOTE: This rate is an estimate as your travel dates will determine your final price. Weekend rates / Trade Fair rates may apply and will alter the final price. Special rates apply for Easter and must be requested. 20

21 A Taste of Spain 10 DAY INDEPENDENT FOODIE JOURNEY BY RAIL Departs: Any day at your request. A 10 day independent journey, visiting the classical capital of Madrid, the food lover s city of San Sebastian including La Rioja wine region and the exciting and diverse city of Barcelona. Travel between the cities is on Spain s excellent rail network and local guides complement the city stays to make the most out of these wonderful destinations. DAY 1 MADRID Arrival at the airport and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Settle in and relax. Madrid's main attractions include three internationally famous art galleries, a royal palace, grand public squares and many museums filled with the treasures of Spain's history. Overnight. DAY 2 MADRID This morning you are met by a private guide for a walking tour of the city. From the Plaza Mayor to the Paseo del Prado, enjoy a walk through Madrid s most popular shopping district, admiring the beautiful and regal architecture. This area was shaped by enlightened monarchs and influenced by modernism that inspired the change of the financial district in the early twentieth century. You will discover the essence of the Barrio de las Letras, unique in Europe, where intellectual and popular culture appears in every street. Stroll through streets, avenues and squares, past fountains, gardens, historic taverns, cafes and terraces. Free afternoon at your leisure. Overnight. DAY 3 MADRID A free morning at your leisure to explore. This afternoon, join a group to skip the line and explore the great Prado Museum. With an official Multilingual guide, the visits starts with the exhibit hall and visits masterpieces by J. Bosch (El Bosco), El Greco, Velazquez and Goya. Overnight. DAY 4 MADRID SAN SEBASTIAN Make your way to the station to board the train north to San Sebastian. Arrival and head to your hotel for check-in. Gloriously situated on a neat, shell-shaped bay, San Sebastian is the most elegant and fashionable Spanish seaside resort. Overnight. DAY 5 SAN SEBASTIAN A free day to explore. The heart of the old town is the Plaza de la Constitucion where numbers on the balconies date from when the square was used as a bullring. This evening, a memorable experience as you head out on a Pintxo Tasting tour. A special small group dining experience, sampling the very finest pintxos (tapas) in San Sebastián. Using our expert, up to the minute knowledge, we guide you on an informal and inspiring culinary experience, hopping-from-bar-to-bar on an evening of eating and drinking your way around the old town of San Sebastián. Overnight. DAY 6 SAN SEBASTIAN GETARIA & TXACOLI SAN SEBASTIAN A special excursion today to Getaria & a Txacoli vineyard. Luxury transport and one of our local guides will drive you 30 km west of San Sebastian straight to Getaria, a beautiful fishing village on the Cantabrian Sea. We visit a family-run txakoli bodega, where you will enjoy a glass of this crisp exotic white wine and walk around the vineyards. Then head over to another country stop, a farm specialising in heritage pigs. Learn about the process of making local charcuterie and taste delicious txistorra, jabalí, and more with the owners. Return to San Sebastian. Overnight. DAY 7 SAN SEBASTIAN BARCELONA Make your way to the station to board the train to Barcelona. Arrival and head to your hotel for check-in. Settle in and relax. Perhaps enjoy a walk along Barcelona's most famous boulevard 'Las Ramblas', a bustling street of cafes, shops and street vendors. Overnight. DAY 8 BARCELONA Enjoy a morning Modernist Barcelona walking tour, including a visit to the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. A specially designed walking route to explore the Eixample district of the city, with its great Modernist buildings, including those of famed architect, Antoni Gaudi. The tour will end at a famous restaurant of Modernist design, where you can choose to stay for lunch or continue on your way at leisure. Free afternoon at your leisure. Overnight. DAY 9 BARCELONA A free day for sightseeing. The revitalised seafront has several kilometres of reclaimed beaches, stretching from the modern Olympic Village to the Old Port, where there are historical shipyards, a fashionable marina and a promenade. Overnight. DAY 10 DEPART BARCELONA Perhaps time for some last minute shopping before you are transferred to the airport (or port). A TASTE OF SPAIN TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 3,095 PRICE INCLUDES Accommodation in 4* hotels with daily breakfast included Transfers as per itinerary Half day tour of Madrid with a private guide (Borbones & Las Letras walk) Prado Museum 'Skip the Line' group tour including entrance fees Small Group Pintxo Tasting Experience in San Sebastian Full day Getaria and Txacoli excursion with transport and a private guide Half day tour of Barcelona with private guide (Modernist Barcelona) including entrance fees to Sagrada Familia Cathedral Train tickets in first class : Madrid San Sebastian & San Sebastian Barcelona DELICIOUS TAPAS IMPORTANT NOTE: These prices are estimates as your travel date will determine the final price. Weekend rates / Trade Fair rates may apply and will alter the final price. Special rates apply for Easter and must be requested. 21

22 A Gastronomic Adventure in Northern Spain 8 DAY SELF DRIVE ITINERARY Departs: Any day at your request from either San Sebastian or Oviedo. For the gourmet traveller, one of the great gastronomic regions of Europe is Northern Spain. On your journey you will discover an impressive variety of culinary traditions and be able to explore these marvellous regions at your own pace. The cuisine is strongly regional, with fresh local ingredients at the heart of tasty dishes. Excellent fish and seafood is a Spanish specialty, delicious with a glass of sparkling Cava! The variety of accommodation on this tour has been specially selected for its character, style, history and ambience, each with its individual character and unique location. This is a self-guided tour which includes all your accommodation and car hire as per the itinerary. You will be given a comprehensive Route Guide containing suggestions on a scenic driving itinerary, interesting regional attractions, recommended tapas bars and taverns, bodegas for wine tasting and a 10km circular walk from the Monastery Valdediós which includes part of the St James Way. DAY 1 SAN SEBASTIAN Arrival in San Sebastian. The Basque cuisine is generally regarded as Spain s finest and you will certainly be in food heaven! Overnight Hotel Niza 3*. DAY 2 SAN SEBASTIAN You may like to make a morning visit to the market to see the splendid assortment of fish and seafood. This afternoon, you can wander the beautiful old quarter and learn the art of Pintxos tasting, a culinary art that has made the city famous. Optional: Dinner reservations at 3 Michelin star restaurant, Arzak. Overnight Hotel Niza 3*. DAY 3 SAN SEBASTIAN SANTO DOMINGO DE LA CALZADA Today you travel to the famous wine growing area of La Rioja, where the vine has been cultivated since Roman times. Accommodation tonight is in a Parador. The hotel was originally built as a hospital which cared for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. DAY 4 SANTO DOMINGO DE LA CALZADA BILBAO PICOS DE EUROPA An early departure for Bilbao to visit the Guggenheim museum. Afterwards you will make your way through the beautiful majestic mountain range of Picos de Europa to Casa la Valleja, a rural B&B. Alejandro, our Spanish host will make you feel right at home. DAY 5 PICOS DE EUROPA LIBARDON Sightseeing in this stunning natural paradise. Optional: Lunch reservations at Casa Marcial, a 2 Michelin star restaurant in beautifully situated hamlet. A short drive takes you to your next accommodation in a small 16th century palacio. WALL CERAMIC MANISES, VALINCIA A GASTRONOMIC ADVENTURE IN NORTHERN SPAIN Breakfast Only Twin Share 01/01 22/03 1,210 23/03 30/06 1,375 01/07 31/08 1,585 01/09 30/09 1,550 01/10 31/10 1,340 01/11 31/12 1,210 Prices are for a minimum departure of 2 people. For lone travellers, prices are on a request basis. 7 Nights accommodation at the above properties in twin share room with private facilities and breakfast. 6 Days avis car hire in category c seat leon 1.6 Tdi style a/c or similar with all standard inclusions and insurances as per our brochure. Detailed Route Guide in English Extensive notes on the gastronomy of the region Cuisine and menu glossary DAY 6 LIBARDON VILLAVICIOSA A trail past numerous pre-romanesque churches leads into the delightful town of Villaviciosa. You are offered a circular walk along the Northern St James Way with a map as well as detailed walking notes to follow. Overnight Manor House La Corte de Lugas 4*. DAY 7 VILLAVICIOSA OVIEDO The last leg of the trip will take you to Oviedo, the beautiful capital of Asturias. Overnight at Hotel Campoamor 4*. DAY 8 OVIEDO End of tour. *The Itinerary is the same in reverse departing from Oviedo* NOTE: We can book Michelin star restaurants in selected towns and cities throughout the journey. Please refer to the itinerary for these options and please ask for details! 22

23 Savour Spain 8 DAY FOOD AND WINE FOCUSED SELF DRIVE Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 MADRID Arrival in Madrid where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight enjoy a Wine and Tapas small group tour. There are two Madrids : the one you can t help but see, and the one you need a local person to show you. We d like to invite you to enjoy the experience of ir de tapas, as madrileños do. You will discover hidden spots with atmosphere, dishes with a history, and diverse types of wine, strolling along Madrid s 17th century streets. You will visit three or four bars in the old part of Madrid. Overnight. DAY 2 MADRID Free morning at leisure to perhaps visit one of the city s world renowned galleries. Then, a highlight as you enjoy a Spanish cooking class at a cooking school inside a market. You will learn to prepare Spain s flagship dishes, such as paella, and tortilla, after a guided walk around the market. Afterwards enjoy a lunch of your prepaired dishes paired with different wines and or sangria. Free afternoon at leisure after the tour to enjoy the old quarter at leisure and perhaps visit the impressive Royal Palace. Overnight. DAY 3 MADRID SIGUENZA Today pick up your rental car and head north east to Siguenza. Siguenza offers important Romanesque Architecture, in particular the town Cathedral which boasts a stunning ceiling carved with cherubins and floral patterning. The mark of history can be seen in later additions of Gothic like cloisters. Dinner at the Parador tonight. The region is famous for its pastoral cuisine, featuring game meats, river trout and more. Overnight. DAY 4 SIGUENZA SORIA - LAGUARDIA Depart Siguenza and continue north to La Rioja, Spain s wine growing region, via Soria. When talking wine, the name La Rioja really refers to the banks of the Rio Ebro. Much is in fact produced on the Pais Vasco side of the river, known as La Rioja Alavesa. The historic walled town of Laguardia, strategically placed upon a small hill looking out over the plains of the Rioja Alavesa, is the perfect base from which to explore the region. Overnight. DAY 5 LAGUARDIA Full free day. The town itself is perfectly preserved and a joy to wander around; the visitor can visit among other things several bodegas, fortifications and the amazingly well preserved polychromic archway in the church of Santa Maria. There is a good selection of bars and restaurants and interesting shopping, especially for those with an interest in wine. Today Laguardia is a pedestrian town, as vehicles cannot enter the town walls due to the risk of its many underground cellars caving in! This afternoon a short drive will take you to visit Bodegas Marques de Riscal. Designed by renowned architect Frank O. Gehry, this spectacular hotel/ Winery is his second masterpiece in Spain, after Bilbao s Guggenheim Museum. Overnight. DAY 6 LAGUARDIA SAN SEBASTIAN Today travel north to San Sebastian, the gastronomic capital of Spain. On arrival drop off your rental car. Gloriously situated on a neat, shell-shaped bay, San Sebastian is the most elegant and fashionable Spanish seaside resort. At either end of the bay is a tower-topped hill - Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo. Between the two lies a small island, the Island of Santa Clara. Overnight. DAY 7 SAN SEBASTIAN Morning free. This evening is a special night as you will enjoy a memorable experience as you head out on a Pintxo Tasting tour. A special small group dining experience, sampling the very finest pintxos (tapas) in San Sebastián. Using our expert, up to the minute knowledge, we guide you on an informal and inspiring culinary experience, hopping-from-bar-tobar on an evening of eating and drinking your way around the old town of San Sebastián. Overnight. DAY 8 DEPART SAN SEBASTIAN Farewell the city as you head to your next destination. You can take direct trains to Barcelona or Madrid or across the border into southern France. ACCOMMODATION Hotel Catalonia Puerta del Sol 4*, Madrid Parador Nacional de Siguenza, Siguenza Posada Mayor de Migueloa, Laguardia Hotel Niza 3*, San Sebastian SAVOUR SPAIN TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 2,080 Arrival transfer in Madrid by private vehicle 7 nights accommodation at the above hotels with breakfast daily Wine and Tapas tour in Madr id (Small Group) Spanish Cooking class in Madrid (Small Group) 4 days Avis Car hire in category C Seat Leon Medium Compact A/C manual or similar with standard inclusions and insurances Dinner at the Parador in Siguenza Tasting and visit of Marques de Riscal winery in Elciego Pintxos Tasting tour in San Sebastian (Small Group) 23

24 The Alpujarras - Moorish Splendour 7 DAY SELF GUIDED WALKING TOUR Departs: Any day at your request. On the south-western slopes of the Sierra Nevada, a mountainous area known as the Alpujarras recalls times when groups of Moors inhabited these hills resisting the Christian Reconquest. Until the 17th century, the Moors lived here in Al-Busherat (the grasslands). Within this fascinating historical context, the Alpujarras high elevation makes for an ideal alpine experience with the snowy peaks of Sierra Nevada as a backdrop. You will enjoy dramatic views from the enchanting whitewashed villages as you walk among terraced fields, passing olive orchards, orange, lemon and almond groves and along the irrigation channels which survive from Moorish times. DAY 1 GRANADA - CAPILEIRA Arrival at Granada airport where you will be met and transferred to Capileira. Capileira situated at an elevation of 1436 metres is the main village of the Alpujarras. The town still displays its charming history as a former Moorish settlement: white-washed houses clinging to the hillside, tiny squares with fountains, and a mysterious network of steep, narrow lanes. Accommodation. DAY 2 THROUGH RÍO POQUEIRA VALLEY 5 hours circular walk. Villages Ascent 560m / Descent 560m along the way: Valle del Rio Poqueira, Bubion, Pampaneira. Circular walk through the Río Poqueira Valley from Capileira via Bubion to Pampaneira, passing ancient threshing circles as you walk among fields. Some steep ascents and descents. Accommodation. DAY 3 FROM CAPILEIRA TO PÓRTUGOS 5-hour village to village walk. Villages Ascent 510m / Descent 640m. Villages along the way: Bubión, Pitres, Mencina, Altabéitar, Pórtugos. Enjoy the scenery from Capileira through the villages of Bubion, Pitres, Mencina-Fondales and Atalbéitar to Pórtugos. Among woodlands, including an ancient Mediterranean Holm oak forest, as well as pine plantations. Passing fields, you reach the Tahade Pitres, ancient Moorish water council centre. Accommodation. DAY 4 TREVÉLEZ RIVER VALLEY 6 to 7 hour walking. Ascent 715m / Descent 645m. Villages along the way: Busquistar, Trevélez. Route through the Trevélez river valley with fantastic vista points. A long but not too difficult and quite entertaining walk along a long-distance path to the highest village in the Alpujarras, and as they claim, in all of Spain. Accommodation. DAY 5 CHOICE OF WALKS FROM TREVÉLEZ 3.5 hours to 6.5 hours walking. Ascent 300 to 650m / Descent 300 to 700m. Villages along the way: Tiny villages of the Sierra Nevada. 3 walks to choose from, including a spectacular longer walk high into the Sierra Nevada, a circular route in the beautiful area around Trevélez and a shorter walk along the Camino de Granada. Accommodation. DAY 6 ASCENT TO EL PORTICHUELO 5.5 hours walking. Ascent 600m / Descent 840m. Villages along the way: Bérchules. A pleasant route through a shady wood along narrow paths. The last section has sweeping views. In clear weather, the African continent is visible from the highest point, El Portichuelo. Accommodation. DAY 7 ACEQUIA WALK IN RÍO GRANDE VALLEY 3 hours walking. Ascent 150m / Descent 150m. Villages along the way: Bérchules.Through the Río Grande valley, north of Bérchules, following an acequia or irrigation channel, past the ruins of a 13th century Moorish silk-washing house. Your arrangements end after a transfer back to Granada. End of Services. THE ALPUJARRAS - MOORISH SPLENDOUR TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,180 Note: A non-refundable deposit is required for this tour IMPORTANT NOTE: On a scale of four, we have defined this trip as level 2. Although sometimes the ascents are several kilometres long, they are gradual and technically easy. The walks follow wide unsurfaced tracks, footpaths or animal trails, with the occasional section on surfaced tracks or tarmac roads. 24

25 Camino de Santiago SELF GUIDED WALK The history of the Camino de Santiago ("Way of Saint James") goes back over a thousand years to the year 813 CE. Teodomiro, the bishop of Iria Flavio (just outside Santiago de Compostela), informed King Alfonso II of Asturias that a tomb had been discovered containing the remains of the apostle Santiago (St James). St James had been decapitated in 44 CE in Jerusalem, but his followers had stolen the body and transferred it by boat to Spain, burying it at Iria Flavio. Once word was out that the remains of St. James had been found, a pilgrimage began to pay homage at this holy site. The Cathedral of Santiago, consecrated in 1128, stands over the tomb of the apostle and the faithful have been flocking here ever since, following a series of well-worn paths known collectively as the "Camino de Santiago" which stretch across northern Spain. DAY 1 LEÓN The holiday begins in León, a city endowed with many impressive monuments, from outstanding medieval to avant-garde modern buildings. The most notable are the gothic cathedral, with its superb stained glass windows, the Basilica of San Isidoro, and the old monastery of San Marcos. You will enjoy a guided tour of all these sights - as well as the elegant Calle Ancha which is itself a part of the Camino as you explore this beautiful city. You ll have time to rest in your hotel (Parador de San Marcos). DAY 2 LEON TO SARRIA After breakfast your driver will pick you up at your hotel in Leon and drive you to the beautiful town of Triacastela (185 km drive) where you will begin your walking. From Triacastela to Sarria the walk is 22 kms and it cris-crosses through some of the most beautiful Galician countryside along the Camino. A highlight on this walk is the ancient Benedictine monastery of Samos, founded in the 6th Century. A bit further down the road you will enter the town of Sarria and enjoy a night s rest at the (Hotel Alfonso IX), right on the Camino. DAY 3 SARRIA TO PORTOMARÍN As your hotel is on the Camino itself, today you will walk straight out of the front door and begin your 22 km walk to the town of Portomarín. You will really be getting a feel for the Camino at this point as you start to mix with the other peregrinos (pilgrims), swap stories, and marvel at the various reasons that people choose to undertake the Camino de Santiago. Today s walk goes through some gorgeous rural areas of Galicia, dotted with abandoned hamlets. You end your walk at our hotel (Santa Marina) in the delightful town of Portomarín where you ll enjoy Mario s hospitality, great food, and great local wine direct from the owner s bodega! DAY 6 CASTAÑEDA TO O PINO From your hotel you can walk right back to the Camino and begin another beautiful walk of 26 kms to the small town of O Pino. You are getting ever closer now to Santiago and you can feel the anticipation in the air among your fellow peregrinos. The beautiful church in Boente is worth a visit, as is a short stop in Arzúa for a glass of wine and a chat with the locals. Hotel O Pino is right on the Camino, just 19 kms away from Santiago. DAY 7 O PINO TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA Journey's end, Santiago de Compostela, is one of Spain's most attractive cities, rich in atmosphere and tradition. The very beautiful walk today passes through eucaliptus forests, over medieval bridges, and then through the outskirts of Santiago as we slowly weave our way through its ancient streets to the glorious Plaza de Obradoiro and the final destination for all pilgrims. After soaking in the atmosphere around you, you will have just a short walk to Parador Hostal dos Reis Catolicos. DAY 8 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA After a leisurely breakfast you will be met by a local guide who will take you on a stunning two hour visit of the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela. The Plaza de Obradoiro, the Cathedral, Puerta de la Platerias, and the Plaza de la Azabacheria are just a few of the gems that you will see as you discover the history of this ancient city. At 12 noon you will bid farewell to your guide as the tour ends. 7 nights accommodation, with en suite facilities, and 7 breakfasts 5 Dinners with drinks included Private taxi transfer from Leon to Triacastela (185 kms, 2 hours) 6 baggage transfers (1 suitcase per person, anything more is extra!) Private guided tour of Santiago de Compostela & Leon, entrances included Guide book of the Camino de Santiago (one book per booking/couple) All taxes NOT INCLUDED: Transport to León or from Santiago de Compostela at start/finish of Tour CAMINO DE SANTIAGO - SELF GUIDED WALK ON REQUEST FROM 01 APR - 31 OCT 2018 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 2,165 TWIN SHARE 4 PEOPLE 1,870 SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT 345 Note: a non refundable deposit is required for this tour DAY 4 PORTOMARIN TO PALAS DE REI Today you will walk from Portomarin to Palas de Rei, 24 kms. A few of the most important sights along the Camino can be found along this pleasant, meandering section of the walk. The Cruzeiro de Lameiros marking the way with its eerie skull and crossbones at the base of the cross, and the Vilar de Donas church, a few kilometres off the Camino, are two symbols of the Camino worth looking out for and making a stop. Eventually you will enter the pleasant village of Palas de Rei and into your comfortable hotel (Hotel Casa Benilde). DAY 5 PALAS DE REI TO CASTAÑEDA You will begin another beautiful walk today, a slightly longer one of 26 kms, to the town of Castañeda. In Melide you will have the chance to sample some of its famous pulpo a la gallega (octupus Galician style). You will then carry on the short distance to your beautiful hotel (Pazo de Sedor) where you will be welcomed by your host, Joaquin. Here you can relax by the pool, have a drink on the beautiful terrace, or rest your weary feet. 25

26 Northern Indulgence PRIVATE DRIVER ITINERARY ALONG THE NORTH COAST OF SPAIN DAY 6 SAN SEBASTIAN A morning free to explore. San Sebastian is Spain s gastronomic capital and one of the prettiest cities in the country. This afternoon, you will join a small group Pintxo tour. A special small group dining experience, sampling the very finest pintxos (tapas) in San Sebastián. Overnight. DAY 7 SAN SEBASTIAN Farewell the city as you depart for your next destination end of services. NORTHERN INDULGENCE TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 4,680 TWIN SHARE 4 PEOPLE 3,655 ACCOMMODATION Parador Hostal Dos Reis Catolicos, Santiago de Compostela Hotel de la Reconquista 5*, Oviedo Gran Hotel Domine 5*, Bilbao Hotel Maria Cristina 5*, San Sebastian Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA Arrival and make your way to your accommodation. Overnight. DAY 2 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA Full day at leisure. In the Middle Ages Santiago de Compostela was Christianity's third most important place of pilgrimage, after Jerusalem and Rome. Around the Praza do Obradoiro is an ensemble of historical buildings. Overnight. 6 nights accommodation at the above properties in twin share Breakfast daily Transport in Vehicle (for 2 people) or Minivan (for 4 people) with Private English Speaking Driver. Transport services commence in Santiago de Compostela on day 3 and complete in San Sebastian. Entrance fees to Altamira Caves Museum Entrance fees to Guggenheim Museum with audio guide Small group Pintxo tasting tour with bilingual guide DAY 3 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA CUDILLERO OVIEDO This morning you will be met by your Private Driver to commence your touring through North of Spain. You will journey east along the coast via Ribadeo for a brief visit before continuing to Cudillero. Cudillero is a delightful fishing village nestled majestically in a picturesque cove on a tiny inlet on the northern coast of Spain. Its winding streets lead up into the township and there are many interesting shops, outdoor cafes and some excellent seafood restaurants. Continue to Oviedo. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. DAY 4 OVIEDO RIBADESELLA SANTILLANA DEL MAR BILBAO Today travel along the coast via pretty Ribadesella and on to historic Santillana del Mar. Santillana is a medieval and Renaissance town with an ensemble of 15th - 17th century golden stone houses that survives largely intact. Afternoon visit of the Altamira Caves Museum. The nearby Caves of Altamira contain some of the world's finest examples of prehistoric art. They date back to around BCE. Continue to Bilbao. Overnight. DAY 5 BILBAO URKIOLA NATURAL PARK SAN SEBASTIAN This morning enjoy a visit to the world famous Guggenheim Museum. Free time at the museum for exploring on your own. Continue inland to the Urkiola Natural Park for a visit before continuing to San Sebastian where you must farewell your driver. End of driver services. Overnight. 26

27 El Transcantabrico Classic & Grand Luxe GREAT TRAIN JOURNEY THE TRAIN AND THE JOURNEY The El Transcantabrico winds its leisurely way through the majestic provinces of old northern Spain - a journey through high mountains, past lakes and impressive seascapes and across the undulating landmass that so typifies the Cantabrian coast and old Castile. A relaxing cruise by train to traditional fishing villages, ancient cities and mountain hamlets where history, monument and custom have managed to resist the march of time. THE SUITES El Transcantabrico Classic itinerary, Leon to Santiago de Compostela v.v has all Junior Suites. El Transcantabrico Grand Luxe itinerary, San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela v.v has all Deluxe Suites. LIFE ON BOARD The comfortable compartments and refined lounge cars offer guests an inviting and restful space to enjoy the passing scenery. The entire train, its lounges, compartments and day carriages is connected internally allowing the ease and free movement of the passengers. El Transcantábrico saloon cars are real treasures of the railway heritage, and four of them are original Pullman cars of the 1920 s. All of them have been specifically renovated and decorated for this luxury train, and they are the perfect backdrop to serve the daily breakfasts à la carte and selected three course dinners and lunches designed by our renowned chef from northern Spain, Ramón Celorio. At any time, guests can enjoy a tea, espresso or Dry Martini in one of the beautifully decorated saloon cars or in their suite. At dusk or after dinner, parties, music, cultural and gastronomic activities or live performances are offered. JUNIOR SUITE Comfortable and functional compartments decorated with ample wood features and equipped with private bathroom. music tuner, internal telephone and minibar. toiletries bag DELUXE SUITE A spacious compartment decorated with attractive wood and leather details incorporating lounge, bedroom and bathroom. into a bed in the lounge. music tuner, climate control, multimedia computer with free Internet connection, telephone and minibar. shower/steam sauna, hairdryer and a variety of welcome and bath items with unique fragrances and toiletries bag. EL TRANSCANTABRICO JUNIOR SUITE EL TRANSCANTABRICO DELUXE SUITE 27

28 El Transcantabrico - Classic GREAT TRAIN JOURNEY THE ITINERARY 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS LEON TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA (V.V) DAY 1 SATURDAY: LEÓN-CISTIERNA Rendezvous in León. Tour of the old town, home to some of the most important monuments in Spain: the Gothic Cathedral, the Romanesque frescoes in the Basilica of San Isidoro and the impressive Plateresque facade of the Hospital of San Marcos. After lunch, board our luxury coach for a short trip to San Feliz, where our train El Transcantábrico will be waiting for us. The crew will offer a welcome drink and we can settle into our suites onboard while the train heads to Cistierna for dinner and overnight. DAY 2 SUNDAY: CISTIERNA-GUARDO-VILLASANA DE MENA We begin the journey with a delicious buffet and a la carte breakfast. The El Transcantábrico will travel to Guardo station, from where we will board our coach to visit the Roman villa of La Olmeda in Saldaña and its superb collection of mosaics. Next we will see the best collections of Romanesque Art in Europe, located in the Palencia villages of Carrión de los Condes, Villalcázar de Sirga and Frómista. Return to the train and trip while enjoying the stunning scenery of the valley of Villasana de Mena. Dinner and overnight in Villasana. DAY 3 MONDAY: VILLASANA DE MENA-BILBAO-SANTANDER Train trip to the dynamic city of Bilbao, the largest in the Basque Country that has managed to reinvent itself after the decline of its heavy industry. City tour. If you travel in July and August, a ticket to Guggenheim Museum is included (it is closed on Mondays the rest of the year), epitome of a new Bilbao. Lunch onboard while travelling to Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria. City sightseeing tour and free time. After dinner, you may choose to visit El Gran Casino at your own pace (admission included). Overnight in Santander. DAY 4 TUESDAY: SANTANDER-CABEZÓN DE LA SAL- SANTILLANA DEL MAR-ARRIONDAS We will travel to Cabezón de la Sal, from where our coach will take us to visit the town of Santillana del Mar with its beautifully preserved medieval town. Next stop at the Neocave of Altamira, the finest realistic example of Upper Palaeolithic cave art. After lunch we will travel into Asturian territory, visiting the village of Ribadesella and its charming promenade. Dinner and overnight in Arriondas. DAY 5 WEDNESDAY: ARRIONDAS-OVIEDO-CANDÁS Today we will visit the heart of the Principality of Asturias, driving up to the Picos de Europa National Park. First stop will be at Lake Enol, followed by the Shrine of Covadonga, where our guide will tell us about this sacred place s stories and legends. Back onboard for lunch and trip to the region s capital, Oviedo, exponent of Asturian Romanesque art featuring gems such as the basilica of San Julian de los Prados. City tour and free time. Dinner onboard and overnight in Candás. DAY 8 SATURDAY: VIVEIRO-SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA While enjoying our last breakfast onboard, we will arrive in Ferrol. Coach trip to Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy a city tour in this historical town, goal of devotees for over a thousand years, and admire its countless artistic jewels. End of trip after the tour. DEPARTURE DATES 2018 Departures from Leon EL TRANSCANTABRICO CLASSIC PRICE PER PERSON ALL YEAR (in AUD) Departures from Santiago de Compostela Suite 5,625 Suite Single Supplement 2,815 7 Nights accommodation on board the El Transcantabrico 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners and 7 lunches including regional wines, coffee and liqueurs Professional Multilingual tour guide throughout the journey Live music in the Pub Car All excursions in the itinerary and entrance fees to all museums, monuments, cathedrals, etc Deluxe coach transport for all side trips and restaurants Daily newspapers and magazines Security Staff All local taxes and communication and service costs DAY 6 THURSDAY: CANDÁS-AVILÉS-GIJÓN-LUARCA We begin the day discovering Avilés, an ancient city with a well preserved old town, and Gijón, second city of Asturias. After visiting both towns, return to the El Transcantábrico to continue our journey to Luarca, known as the White Town of the Green Coast. Visit this charming town, where will also have dinner and overnight. DAY 7 FRIDAY: LUARCA-RIBADEO-VIVEIRO Train trip to the historic town of Ribadeo, in Galician lands, bordering Asturias. Our coach will take us to the Las Catedrales Beach, one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. City sightseeing in Ribadeo and free time. Back on the train for lunch and trip to Viveiro, with city tour and free time. Dinner and overnight in Viveiro. 28

29 El Transcantabrico - Grand Luxe GREAT TRAIN JOURNEY THE ITINERARY 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS SAN SEBASTIAN TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA (V.V) DAY 1 SATURDAY: SAN SEBASTIÁN VILLASANA DE MENA Rendezvous in San Sebastian. Passengers reception, welcome and lunch in San Sebastián, a city of elegant beauty and the gastronomic capital of Spain. Tour of the town after lunch and transfer by luxury coach to Bilbao, where El Transcantábrico is waiting for us. Welcome drink with the crew. Train trip to Villasana de Mena while enjoying our first dinner onboard. Overnight in Villasana de Mena. DAY 2 SUNDAY: VILLASANA DE MENA - BILBAO - SANTANDER WE begin the journey with a delicious buffet and a la carte breakfast. El Trancantábrico will take us back to the dynamic city of Bilbao, that has managed to reinvent itself after the decline of its heavy industry. City tour including admission for the famous Guggenheim Museum, epitome of a new Bilbao. Return to the train to continue our journey to Santander while having lunch onboard. City sightseeing tour of the elegant capital of Cantabria and free time. Those who wish may visit El Gran Casino after dinner (entrance included). Overnight in Santander. DAY 3 MONDAY: SANTANDER - POTES - CABEZÓN DE LA SAL Train trip to Unquera station from where we will travel by coach through the gorge of La Hermida and reach the town of Potes. After visiting this charming village, enjoy a spa circuit at La Hermida Spa. Return to the train after lunch and trip to Cabezón de la Sal. In the afternoon there will be free time and you may choose to visit the mansion of El Capricho in the town of Comillas, the impressive and colourful 19th century house designed by Antonio Gaudí. Dinner and overnight in Cabezón de la Sal. DAY 4 TUESDAY: CABEZÓN DE LA SAL - SANTILLANA DEL MAR - ARRIONDAS The day begins with a visit to the town of Santillana del Mar with its beautifully preserved medieval town. Next we will be taken on a tour of Altamira Neocave, the finest realistic example of Upper Palaeolithic cave art. After lunch we will return to the train and travel into Asturian territory, visiting the village of Ribadesella and its charming promenade and stunning historic mansions. Dinner and overnight in Arriondas. DAY 5 WEDNESDAY: ARRIONDAS - OVIEDO - CANDÁS Today our coach will drive us to the heart of the Principality of Asturias, to the Picos de Europa National Park. First enroute is Lake Enol, then visit the sacred place of Shrine of Covadonga to hear its legends. Back onboard for lunch and trip to the region s capital, Oviedo, the highlight of Asturian Romanesque art, featuring gems such as the basilica of San Julian de los Prados. City tour and free time. Dinner onboard while we travel to Candás, where we will spend the night. DAY 8 SATURDAY: VIVEIRO - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA While enjoying our last breakfast onboard, we will arrive in Ferrol, followed by a comfortable coach trip to Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy a city tour in this historical town, goal of devotees for over a thousand years, and admire its countless artistic jewels such as the Cathedral. End of trip after the tour. DEPARTURE DATES 2018 EL TRANSCANTABRICO GRAND LUXE Departures from Santiago de Compostela PRICE PER PERSON ALL YEAR (in AUD) Departures from San Sebastian Deluxe Suite 7,785 Deluxe Suite Single Supplement 3,895 Deluxe Suite Triple Supplement 3,175 7 Nights accommodation on board the El Transcantabrico 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners and 7 lunches including regional wines, coffee and liqueurs Professional Multilingual tour guide throughout the journey Live music in the Pub Car All excursions in the itinerary and entrance fees to all museums, monuments, cathedrals, etc Deluxe coach transport for all side trips and restaurants Daily newspapers and magazines Security Staff All local taxes and communication and service costs DAY 6 THURSDAY: CANDÁS - AVILÉS - GIJÓN - LUARCA We begin the day discovering Avilés, an ancient city with a precious old town, and Gijón, second city of Asturias. After visiting both towns, return to the El Transcantábrico to continue our coastal journey to Luarca, visiting this charming seaside town embedded in a stunning landscape. Dinner and overnight in Luarca. DAY 7 FRIDAY: LUARCA - RIBADEO - VIVEIRO Train trip to the historic town of Ribadeo, in Galician lands, bordering Asturias. Our coach will take us to the Las Catedrales Beach, one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. City sightseeing in Ribadeo and free time. Back on the train for lunch and trip to Viveiro, with city tour and free time. Dinner and overnight in Viveiro. 29

30 Al-Andalus GREAT TRAIN JOURNEY The Train and Life On Board The Al-Andalus is a luxury palace on wheels, a unique place from which to enjoy the southern Spanish landscale of Andalucia. Its four saloon cars, real railway treasures built between 1928 and 1930, are the perfect place to enjoy a la carte breakfast and selected dinners and three course meals designed by our renowned chef, Ramón Celorio. Bar service allows the traveller to enjoy an expresso, a sherry or a Tom Collins, relax in the elegant lounges while the superb landscape of the region drifts past the large windows, or enjoy their beverage in the privacy of their comfortable compartment. At the end of the day it is time to enjoy the parties, music, cultural and gastronomic activities or live performances that are offered every day on board. Junior Suite A cozy compartment with a private bathroom which preserves the size and the charm of the original compartments. Two single beds which can be turned into armchairs during the day. Minibar, safe, wardrobe, luggage rack and climate control. Functional private bathroom, with maximum use of its space, equipped with a shower, hairdryer and a variety of welcome and bath items with unique fragrance and toiletries bag. The Suites All suites are air-conditioned with independent adjustment. During the day the suite is a comfortable lounge with a sofa, while at night the beds are folded out to become an elegant bedroom. Deluxe Suite Spacious and elegant suite with a bedroom and private bathroom which combines the comforts of the 21st century with the original appearance of this historic train. Two metre long double bed which can be turned into a sofa during the day. Possibility of adding an extra small bed for a child. Safe, minibar, wardrobe, luggage rack and climate control. Comfortable and spacious private bathroom, with a shower, hairdryer and a variety of welcome and bath items with unique fragrance and toiletries bag. AL-ANDALUS JUNIOR SUITE AL-ANDALUS DELUXE SUITE AL-ANDALUS DINING CAR 30

31 Al-Andalus GREAT TRAIN JOURNEY THE ITINERARY 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS SEVILLA TO SEVILLA DAY 1 MONDAY: SEVILLE - JEREZ Rendezvous in Seville. While the crew transfers your luggage to the train, visit the capital of Andalusia, boasting the most extensive historic city centre in Spain, home to the Gothic Cathedral, its bell tower named Giralda, the Royal Alcazar and the General Archive of the Indies. After having lunch at the hotel, we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city and cross the famous Plaza de España before boarding the Tren Al Andalus. Welcome cocktail onboard, presentation of the crew and accommodation in the suites. Dinner on board as we head to Jerez where we will spend the night. DAY 7 SUNDAY: CÓRDOBA - SEVILLE After enjoying our last breakfast onboard we will visit Cordoba, which was once an important provincial capital, but gained its real reputation in culture, being the most important caliphate in the Occident.. Back at the train to enjoy our last lunch while Tren Al Andalus takes us to our final destination, Seville, where the journey ends. DAY 2 TUESDAY: JEREZ We begin today with a delicious buffet and a la carte breakfast. Then we will visit a wine cellar in Jerez. Before lunch we will enjoy the show How the Andalusian horses dance, famous equestrian ballet with Spanish music. Lunch in Sanlúcar de Barrameda overlooking the salt marshes of Doñana National Park and river Guadalquivir s mouth. We will then walk around Sanlúcar de Barrameda, from where our luxury coach will take us back to Jerez de la Frontera, one of the most iconic cities of Andalusia. Back on the train and dinner onboard. Overnight in Jerez. DAY 3 WEDNESDAY: JEREZ CÁDIZ - RONDA Our bus will take us to Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in Europe. Legend names Hercules as its founder. Tour and free time to explore at leisure. Lunch and journey on our Tren Al Andalus heading to the stunning city of Ronda, where we will have dinner and stay the night. DAY 4 THURSDAY: RONDA - GRANADA After breakfast, tour of whitewashed Ronda. Its main feature is the immense Tajo or Chasm - a geological cleft in the rock that plunges about 100m deep. Free time before lunch; return to the train which will head towards Granada, a city nestled on the foothills of Sierra Nevada. Dinner and overnight in Granada. DAY 5 FRIDAY: GRANADA We will spend the morning touring the Alhambra, the most visited monument in Spain, a rich palace complex that housed the Nasrid rulers from the Kingdom of Granada. After lunch we will have free time to visit this beautiful city at our own pace. As the night falls, the whole town is wrapped in a magic spell that you will enjoy over dinner. Night in Granada. DAY 6 SATURDAY: GRANADA-LINARES / BAEZA-CÓRDOBA Morning journey on the Al Andalus to station of Linares-Baeza, from where our coach will take us to visit the Renaissance towns of Úbeda and Baeza, both listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. After lunch, we will return to the train to begin our journey to Córdoba. Dinner and overnight in Córdoba. AL-ANDALUS LOUNGE DEPARTURE DATES 2018 Al-ANDALUS Departures from Sevilla 30 April 5 & 22 October PRICE PER PERSON ALL YEAR (in AUD) Junior Suite 5,625 Junior Suite Single Supplement 2,815 Deluxe Suite 7,035 Deluxe Suite Single Supplement 3,520 Deluxe Suite Triple Supplement 2,895 6 Nights accommodation on board the Al Andalus 6 breakfast, 6 lunches and 6 dinners including high quality wines and drinks, coffee and tea and liqueurs Accompanying hostess throughout the journey Guide during all excursions Coach for transfers and visits Permanent security Musical performances All visits, transfers and entrance fees Exceptional crew at your service All local taxes and communication and service costs 31

32 Paradores of Spain HISTORY & HERITAGE IN SPAIN The concept of utilising these unique establishments as selected accommodation for tourism, goes back to 1926, when the Royal Tourism Commissioner, the Marquis of Vega-Inclán, sought Royal approval for his extraordinarily far sighted idea of setting up State run Paradores as lodgings for nature lovers and hunters around the country. The basic philosophy of the Paradores was and continues to be one of offering good regional accommodation in areas where there was none previously, combined with the concept of utilising where possible, ancient buildings, old palaces, castles and monasteries, many of which were abandoned and in disrepair. The word Parador, meaning, inn or lodgings, is synonymous today with one of the most successful concepts in cultural and historical tourism in the world and this unique network of heritage buildings is available for the sheer pleasure of the traveller. There are around 95 Paradores throughout Spain, many dating from the upper Middle Ages and others built more recently along modern architectural lines. All establishments however, possess a charm and character of their own, reflecting the history and cultural traditions of the region in which they are located; special attention being given to enhance the atmosphere of the surroundings with period furniture, local handicrafts and the regional cuisine and wine. Ask us about new additions to the range!! Ibertours is the official representative for Paradores in Australia & NZ. LA GRANJA CANARY ISLANDS 32

33 Paradores of Spain PRICES RANGE FROM $200 AUD TO $560 AUD PER NIGHT FOR TWO PEOPLE Please ask us for a quotation and special offer rates that may apply Here are just a few of our favourite Paradores of Spain properties PARADOR DE CARDONA, CARDONA The Parador is located on a headland, in a fortified 9th c. enclosure in which there is also the 2nd c. Minyona tower and an 11th c. church, representative elements of the Catalan Romanesque of its surroundings. Its location offers an exceptional panoramic view of the town and of the fertile lands bathed by the river Cardoner. Some bedrooms have the charm of four poster beds. Moats, towers, walls and Gothic elements combine with a decoration in which comfort and Catalan-inspired medieval furniture predominate. PARADOR DE LA GRANJA, LA GRANJA The Parador of La Granja is a living example of the rich architectural legacy of a Royal site. There are two principal buildings for accommodation. The first is the Casa de los Infantes (Princes House), constructed in the 18th century by Carlos III for the princes Gabriel and Antonio. The second is the Cuartel General de la Guardia de Corps (formerly barracks of the Royal Bodyguard), housing a modern conference centre only 55 minutes from Madrid. The Parador is located in an area of outstanding monumental and natural interest, only 11 Km from Segovia, a world heritage site in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama. PARADOR HOSTAL SAN MARCOS, LEON Construction began around 1515 on this monumental building, which features a Spanish Plateresque façade. The building's historical past is found in the Cloister, Church, Choir and Chapterhouse, and the present in the careful renovation-work, combined with an interior filled with works of art and rooms which gave shelter to pilgrims in olden times. A night's stay here is truly a luxury, offering: suites with views of the cloister, stately rooms, and a lovely restaurant. Has parking. PARADOR DE BIELSA This welcoming mountain hut is located in one of the now classical enclaves for outdoor sports and activities, the western slopes of the Ordesa National Park and Monte Perdido, declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in The pure air of the Pyrenees and of the Monte Perdido, the clean waters of the river Cinca and the tradition of the Romanesque hermitage of Nuestra Señora de la Pineta, offer a warm feeling of well-being, peace and quiet. Floors, walls, beams and columns lined with wood contain modern and comfortable furniture. The bedrooms have beautiful views of this lovely natural enclave. GUIDE TO TYPE OF PARADOR 3, 4 & 5 Star Restored historical buildings 2, 3 & 4 Star Built in traditional style of region 3 & 4 Star Built along modern lines 33

34 Andalucia & Toledo - Splendour of Three Cultures 7 DAY ENGLISH ONLY SMALL GROUP TOUR OF SPAIN DAY 1 MADRID Arrive in Madrid and this evening enjoy a welcome drink and orientation at the hotel Accommodation. DAY 2 MADRID A Morning city tour of Old Madrid including the Hapsburgs courtesan district with its Baroque and Renaissance buildings. Explore the city s sights such as the Puerta Del Sol, the Plaza Mayor as well as visiting inside the Royal Palace. Enjoy touring through Modern Madrid with highlights such as Las Ventas bullring and Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium. Rest of the day at leisure. Accommodation. DAY 3 MADRID CORDOBA SEVILLA 08:30 Pick up from your hotel and departure drive southward through the land of Don Quixote, The man from La Mancha, along the way observing vast vineyards. We will cross through the natural border of Despeñaperros and arrive in Andalucía. Arrival in Cordoba and enjoy a tour of the Impressive Mosque and the Jewish Quarter. In the afternoon, after a short two hour drive reach Sevilla. Dinner and accommodation. DAY 4 SEVILLA A morning city tour visiting the inside of the cathedral, the second largest in the Catholic world after St. Peters in Rome, the Santa Cruz Quarter, the Maria Luisa Park and Plaza de España square. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Dinner and accommodation. Optional Flamenco tour. BARON TAYLOR, LA ALHAMBRA GRANADA C DAY 5 SEVILLA GRANADA After breakfast we will drive east through the Caliphate road to the heart of Andalucia observing an endless number of olive trees on the way to Granada, Spain s Moorish city. Enjoy a visit the world famous Alhambra (Red Palace) and Generalife Gardens. It was built under Ismail I, Yusuf I and Muhammad V, caliphs when the Nasrid dynasty ruled Granada. Dinner and accommodation. Optional Gypsy Flamenco show in the Sacromonte quarter. DAY 6 GRANADA TOLEDO MADRID Drive north towards Castilla and surrounded by the Tagus river, to the impressive Imperial city of Toledo, World Heritage City where the three cultures Christians, Moorish and Jewish, have lived together in harmony. Enjoy a City tour with its narrow streets and the famous Damasquinado (gold and silver inlaying in iron). Continue to Madrid. Accommodation. DAY 7 MADRID End of services. ANDALUCIA & TOLEDO - SPLENDOUR OF THREE CULTURES DEPARTURES FROM MAY TO OCT 2018 MAY-OCT TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 2,200 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 605 JOHN FREDERICK LEWIS THE GENERALIFE FROM THE CASA DE CHAPIZ, GRANADA C 1835 Guided visits in Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Toledo Tour Escort during the tour Air conditioned deluxe motor-coach 6 nights accommodation in standard rooms Daily breakfast & 3 dinners (mineral water and glass of wine included). GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: (MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TRAVELLERS: 18 PEOPLE) MAY 21 & 28 SEPTEMBER 10, 17 & 24 JUNE 11, 18, & 25 OCTOBER 1 & 15 **During the stay in Madrid, tour escort service is not available. 34

35 Apartment Options If you are planning a stay of 3 nights or more, why not consider an apartment? Live like the locals do in the centre of one of Spain s vibrant and emblematic cities such as Barcelona, Sevilla, Madrid, Granada and others. Here are just a few examples we can offer APARTMENT MIRADOR GRANADA APARTMENTS MURILLO SEVILLA In a privileged position in the historic Albayzín, the Mirador is just one of the Gumiel apartments that are arranged around the central patio of this beautifully restored 16th century Moorish house. This charming 1 bedroom apartment has a maximum capacity for four people, with small living room and sofa bed, bathroom, fully equipped kitchen and a terrace that has a view of the magnificent Alhambra Palace. LUXURY SUITES MADRID 4* MADRID Right in the heart of the Barrio Santa Cruz, the Murillo Apartments have been recently redecorated and offer 13 apartments with one bedroom, 3 apartments with two bedrooms and 5 studios. Every apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, warm and functional décor and marble bathrooms. The complex offers a reception with tourism services, daily cleaning service, free wi-fi, breakfast facilities and terrace-bar (open in high season). Public parking at 200m. APARTMENTS ARAGO 312 BARCELONA On the famous Alcala street, just 200m from the beautiful Retiro Park in an elegant quarter of the city. The apartments are stylish and elegant and are fully air conditioned. They have comfortable bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms, spacious lounge /seating area and separate kitchen with electric stove, microwave, fridge and oven. Junior suites and apartments for 2 people as well as 2 bedroom apartments for families or friends. These stylish, spacious apartments are located in the Eixample district, 400 m from Passeig de Gracia with its famous Gaudí monuments. They feature a terrace or balcony, free Wi-Fi and fantastic city views. The decor is modern and the apartments are fully air conditioned and include lounge with sofa bed, plasma TV and fully equipped kitchens including a dishwasher, microwave and hob. You can also see the Sagrada Familia and Tibidabo Mountain from some of the terraces. APARTMENT ALDAMAR SAN SEBASTIAN ALTIS SUITES 4* LISBOA The apartment Aldamar stands out above all for its location, in San Sebastian's Old Town, just a step away from Zurriola Beach, a five minute walk from the city centre and La Concha Beach. It is a modern and bright apartment situated on the 5th floor of a building with a lift. It faces a large block courtyard and it has been recently renovated from top to bottom. The apartment Aldamar has a spacious double bedroom with a king size bed and a large fitted wardrobe. The modern bathroom is equipped with a large shower cubicle. It also offers high speed Wi-Fi Internet system, heating system regulated by a thermostat. 42 Apartments for Rental for extended stays or vacations, located in the Altis Suites, Lisbon city centre next to the Altis Grand Hotel on Rua Castilho, benefiting from the Altis Grand Hotel outlets and services. Our Altis Suites Apartment Hotel consists of 40 apartments with bedroom, lounge and kitchenette and 2 penthouse apartments with 2 bedrooms, lounge and kitchenette. 35

36 Magnificent Spain & Portugal THE JOURNEY Experience a harmonious balance between conventional cruising and private yachting, along with an exciting voyage of discovery, unravelling the glories of Spain and Portugal. Each day you will discover a new port of call, a hidden cove with crystal blue waters, a glimpse of ancient history to amaze you and rich cultural diversity to intrigue you. Visit some of Spain and Portugal s most emblematic cities on board a deluxe super yacht. Included in the cruise are the ports of Malaga, Motril, Puerto Banus, Gibraltar, Cadiz and Portimao and first class excursions take you into historic Granada and beautiful Sevilla plus the delightful towns of the south of Portugal. Our itinerary combines this with a pre and post cruise stay, to allow you to delve deep into the vibrant city of Malaga and the romantic old world capital of Lisbon. DELUXE SMALL GROUP CRUISE PACKAGE MOTOR SAILER CRUISER Life on board centres around the Indoor / Outdoor lounge and its American bar, on Upper Deck. The classy dining room located on Main Deck is surrounded by large windows. The spacious Sun deck is the ideal place to bask under the sun, read a good book or just gaze at the scenery. The swimming platform enables you to swim when weather and anchorage conditions permit. Accommodating just 49 guests, this state of the art cruiser is ideal for warm water destinations and areas that require the nimble abilities of a small vessel. Main deck has indoor lounge, reception and restaurant. Upper deck has an outdoor bar/dining area, sundeck, bridge. Category A Main deck, better views (all with windows), 8 cabins Category B Main deck, (all with windows), 3 cabins Category C Lower deck (all with portholes), 6 cabins Category P Upper deck (all with windows), 4 cabins Arrival transfer in Malaga, airport to hotel 1 night accommodation in Malaga in a 4* hotel in a twin/double room with breakfast included 8 day / 7 night cruise on a full board basis: buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner Housewarming cocktails Optional visits to more than 3 UNESCO sites Captain s Honour Night English speaking Host/Cruise Director Shore Excursions (optional) Transfer in Lisbon, cruise port to hotel 3 nights accommodation in Lisbon in a 4*-4*SUP hotel in a twin/double room with breakfast included Fado dinner show in Lisbon with return transfers Half day tour of Lisbon with a private driver and local guide Full day excursion to Sintra with a private driver and local guide Departure transfer in Lisbon, hotel to airport DEPARTURE DATES 2018 MAGNIFICENT SPAIN & PORTUGAL CATEGORY A B C P DOUBLE/TWIN SHARE 7,105 6,850 6,175 8,030 36

37 DAY 1 MALAGA Arrival and transfer from the airport to your hotel for check-in. Once considered the poor cousin of Andalusia s capital city Sevilla, Malaga now competes successfully for attention, thanks to its profusion of quirky museums, delightful pedestrianised centre, innovative restaurants and stylish hotels and boutiques. Overnight Malaga (hotel). DAY 2 MALAGA A free morning at leisure to perhaps visit the city s important Picasso Museum. The artist spent his early years here. Then, your cruise adventure begins with embarkation 3 pm. Dinner on board. Overnight in port. DAY 3 MALAGA (GRANADA) Optional full day excursion to Granada, one of the most fascinating cities in Europe and the last Muslim city to fall to the Christians in We will visit one of the most brilliant jewels of universal architecture is the Alhambra, a series of palaces and gardens built under the Nazari Dynasty in the 14th C. In the afternoon we leave Granada to return to Malaga. Overnight in port. DAY 4 MALAGA PUERTO BANUS GIBRALTAR Early morning sailing and morning arrival in Porto Banus. Our morning optional excursion to Ronda. Its main feature is the immense Tajo or Chasm - a geological cleft in the rock that plunges about 100m deep. Due to its location, it was one of the last Moorish bastions, finally falling to the Christians in On the south side is a classic Moorish pueblo blanco of cobbled alleys, window grilles and whitewash. In 1761 an impressive bridge called the Puente Nuevo was built which joins the old and new Ronda. This town is a magnificent example of regional Andalusian architecture. Afternoon swim from the ship and time at leisure. Evening sailing to Gibraltar and late evening arrival. Overnight in port. DAY 5 GIBRALTAR SEVILLA Optional half day excursion in the Rock. We reach the Cable Car Base Station, which will take us to the Top Station perched on the summit of Gibraltar for a breathtaking view as you are suspended in mid-air. At the Top Station your guide will show you around the geography of this British colony. Then you will travel to the Middle Station and the sanctuary of Gibraltar s older inhabitants, the Barbary Apes, roaming free around this station. Midday sailing to Sevilla. Swim stop. Overnight at sea. DAY 6 SEVILLA This morning we sail up the Guadalquivir river. Midday arrival and afternoon optional excursion to Sevilla, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, where Moorish and Spanish art and culture have left their mark. Our optional excursion will bring you to the Cathedral, the Alcazar Palace and its Andalusian gardens, the Maria Luisa Park and the quaint and elegant district of Santa Cruz. Overnight in Sevilla port. DAY 7 SEVILLA JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA CADIZ PORTIMAO Morning optional excursion to Sevilla by bus. Lunch in a local restaurant. Afternoon optional excursion by bus to Jerez de la Frontera, famous for its wines, horse breeding and flamenco. Your tour will enable you to see the Alcazar, the cathedral and a ganadería, where bulls are raised for bullfighting. The ship departs from Sevilla with passengers not participating in the optional excursions and guests rejoin the ship in Cadiz in the evening. Overnight at sea to Portimao Portugal. DAY 8 PORTIMAO Midday arrival in Portimao. Our optional afternoon excursion will take us to Silves, largely destroyed by a 17th century earthquake. Marvel at the centuries-old Moorish castle complex with an underground water reservoir, a 13th Century Cathedral built by Alfonso X of Castile on the site of a former Mosque and a fine strong 15th century bridge over the Rio Arade. During your visit to Silves, you ll also have time to browse the historic exhibits at the Museu Arqueológico. We leave Silves visit and travel into the Serra de Monchique to reach the picturesque city of Monchique nested between two hills. The city retains its 16th century charm. Return to Portimao for late lunch and time at leisure in the afternoon for shopping and swimming. Overnight in port. DAY 9 PORTIMAO LISBOA Disembarkation 9 am. Escorted bus transfer from Portimao to Lisbon at 9:30 and end of cruise services. Perhaps head out on foot to get your bearings. The city s landscape is typified by a central valley called the Baixa, beginning at the river with Pombal s Praça do Comercio, leading north over an orderly grid of avenues for seven short blocks to the Praça Rossio, in the very heart of town. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Fado show and dinner, with return transfers. Overnight Lisboa (hotel). DAY 10 LISBOA A morning tour today to the suburb of Belem, where you will visit the Torre de Belem, the Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries. A gourmet highlight today is a stop at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem to sample a delicious pastel de nata or Portuguese custard tart. Your driver will then take you back to the city centre, to the Castelo San Jorge where your tour services come to an end. Afternoon free. Overnight Lisboa (hotel). DAY 11 LISBOA SINTRA LISBOA A half day excursion today to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sintra, drawing thousands of visitors every year. Sintra s stunning setting on the north slopes of the granite Serra, among wooded ravines and fresh water springs, made it a favourite summer retreat for the kings of Portugal. The tall conical chimneys of the Palacio Nacional de Sintra and the fabulous Palacio da Pena are unmistakable landmarks. On your tour, you will visit the colourful Palacio da Pena and enjoy strolling the pretty cobbled streets of the old town, Sintra Vila before returning to the capital. Free afternoon. Overnight Lisboa (hotel). DAY 12 DEPART LISBOA Farewell the city as you are transferred to the airport for your flight out of Portugal. 37

38 Land of Tradition A land of great tradition and famous for its warm hospitality, Portugal shared a common history with Spain for centuries, however, its regional individuality in culture and language, combined with a dogged determination for self-rule, brought its nationhood to the fore as early as the 12th century, when Afonso Henriques proclaimed himself King of Portugal. Recapturing regions from the Moors was the first priority and the fledgling nation would endure another four centuries of wars and dynastic succession with the Kingdom of Castile. Portugal like Spain, would develop and consolidate its vast empire, dividing the known world between them into two spheres of dominance and influence under the Treaty of Tordesillas, signed in Always a great seafaring nation, Portugal provided a long and distinguished line of explorers and navigators, with its ships first to discover Brazil and the lucrative trade routes to Asia, Africa and India. Names such as Vasco da Gama, Henry the Navigator, Ferdinand Magellan and Pedro Alvares Cabral are now legendary, having made great discoveries in the name of Portugal in the New World. The Republic of Portugal today is a small but vibrant nation of around 11 million population, with a deep sense of its history and tradition, MANUELINE STYLE WINDOW OF THE CONVENT OF CHRIST, TOMAR. and an important member of the EU as a consequence of a concerted policy of economic development over the last 20 years. Together with its islands of Madeira and the Azores, the country offers an enormous variety of scenery, historical sites and monuments, heritage accommodation and fine food and wines for the visitor to enjoy. The pleasant and courteous nature of the Portuguese people is a welcome bonus! JOSE BECQUER, LOS LADRONES EN UNA VENTA,

39 City Stays Lisbon CITY STAY 1 DAY 1 LISBOA Arrival in Lisboa where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 LISBOA A morning tour today to the suburb of Belem, where you will visit the Torre de Belem, the Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries. A gourmet highlight today is a stop at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem to sample a delicious pastel de nata or Portuguese custard tart. Your driver will then take you back to the city centre, to the Castelo San Jorge where your tour services come to an end. Afternoon free. Overnight. DAY 3 LISBOA SINTRA LISBOA Full day group tour to Sintra. We depart Lisbon for the majestic and romantic Pena Palace** (except on Mondays, substituted for Queluz Palace) situated in one of the highest peaks of the Sintra mountain range. It possesses a mixture of styles that gives a incomparable aspect to it. We will stop for lunch in Sintra. Free time to take a walk in the streets of the village to appreciate the several antiques and handicraft shops, restaurants and tea-rooms and to taste the delicious tarts known as "queijadas". We depart for Colares, region demarcated and recognized for its table wines, continuing to Cabo da Roca, the most western point in continental Europe. We pass the beach of Guincho, and Boca do Inferno until we reach Cascais where we take a glimpse of the fishing port. Return to Lisbon by Estoril Coast. Overnight. DAY 4 LISBOA Farewell the city as you head to the airport for your flight out of Lisboa. End of services. LISBOA PACKAGE 1 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 795 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Mundial 4* 3 nights accommodation at the above hotel with breakfast daily Arrival airport transfer Morning tour of Lisboa with English speaking driver, including entry fees to Jeronimos Monastery & Belem Tower & one Portuguese pastry per person Group full day tour to Sintra with lunch CITY STAY 2 DAY 1 LISBOA Arrival in Lisboa where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 LISBOA A full day to explore the sights of the city at leisure, including a walk through the historical Alfama district, the Rossio and a visit to the famous tower of Belem. Tonight enjoy a Fado dinner and show. Overnight. DAY 3 LISBOA OBIDOS NAZARE ALCOBACA BATALHA FATIMA LISBOA Enjoy a full day group tour to some of the most beautiful towns and villages north of Lisboa. Leaving Lisbon, we drive northwards and arrive at our first point of visit: the beautiful whitewashed walled town of Óbidos, before heading to Alcobaça where we can visit the 12th century Church of the Monastery with the tombs of Pedro and Inês de Castro. We drive to Nazaré - The most colourful Portuguese fishing village, where we are going to have lunch. In the afternoon, we head to the Gothic Batalha Monastery. Finally we arrive at the Sanctuary of Fatima, a centre of Christian pilgrimage, to visit the Basilica where the tombstones of Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco are, as well as the Chapel of Apparitions. Time permitting, we will be able to attend mass. At the end of the day we will return to Lisbon through the colourful farming region. Overnight. DAY 4 LISBOA Farewell the city as you head to the airport for your flight out of Lisboa. End of services. LISBOA PACKAGE 2 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 800 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Mundial 4* 3 nights accommodation at the above hotel with breakfast daily Arrival airport transfer Fado dinner & Show with transfer to the show Group full day tour to Óbidos, Alcobaça, Nazaré Batalha, and -Fatima 39

40 City Stays Porto CITY STAY 1 DAY 1 PORTO Arrival in Porto where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 PORTO A full day to explore the sights of the city at leisure. The heart of the city is the wide, grass-lined, Av dos Aliados, which runs five blocks inland from the river. All of the sights lie south of this landmark. Overnight. DAY 3 PORTO DOURO VALLEY PORTO An excursion today to the beautiful Douro Valley. Home to the first demarcated wine region in the world, the steep hills of the valley are lined with vines and famous port estates. You first stop in Amarante where you will visit the S. Gonçalo Church and historical centre. Departure towards Mesao Frio, with a stop to appreciate the view of the Douro River before continuing to Peso da Regua for a visit and wine tasting at the lovely Quinta da Pacheca. Free time for lunch. After lunch we will visit Pinhão, a small town 25km east of Peso da Regua, famous for its quality port-wine production followed by a short visit to Vila Real's historical centre. Arrival back in Oporto. Overnight. DAY 4 PORTO Farewell the city as you head to the airport for your flight out of Porto. End of services. PORTO PACKAGE 1 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 935 ACCOMMODATION Hotel House Porto Ribiera 4*, Porto 3 nights accommodation at the above hotel with breakfast daily Arrival airport transfer Full day excursion to Douro Valley including visit to Quinta da Pacheca winery & wine tasting (2 Douro wines + 2 Port wines + Home made jam and island Cheese) CITY STAY 2 DAY 1 PORTO Arrival in Porto where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 PORTO A free day to explore the sights of the city at leisure. The heart of the city is the wide, grass-lined, Av dos Aliados, which runs five blocks inland from the river. All of the sights lie south of this landmark. Overnight. DAY 3 PORTO MINHO PORTO An excursion today to the Minho region with private driver. This unique journey begins at Guimaraes, the 'Birth place of the Nation', where you will visit this pretty town including the Castelo de Sao Miguel, reputedly the birthplace of Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques. Continue to the capital of Minho, Braga to visit the town centre, the Bom Jesus Sanctuary and gardens by funicular, and the Sameiro Sanctuary. Continue to Barcelos and Viana do Castelo for a visit. Return to Porto. Overnight. DAY 4 PORTO Farewell the city as you head to the airport for your flight out of Porto. ACCOMMODATION PORTO PACKAGE 2 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 950 Hotel House Porto Ribiera 4*, Porto 3 nights accommodation at the above hotel with breakfast daily Arrival airport transfer Full day excursion to Minho region including visit to Guimaraes Castle, Bom Jesus Sanctuary and gardens by funicular, and the Sameiro Sanctuary 40

41 A Piece of Portugal 7 DAY / 6 NIGHT INDEPENDENT PACKAGE Departs: Any day at your request. A PIECE OF PORTUGAL Independent stays in Lisboa & Porto with private excursions. You will purchase your Lisbon to Porto train locally at the train station as this cannot be confirmed from Australia. DAY 1 LISBOA Arrival in Lisbon where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 LISBOA A morning excursion today to the suburb of Belem, where you will visit the Torre de Belem, the Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries. A gourmet highlight today is a stop at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem to sample a delicious pastel de nata or Portuguese custard tart. Your driver will then take you back to the city centre, to the Castelo San Jorge where your tour services come to an end. Afternoon free. Overnight. DAY 3 LISBOA SINTRA CASCAIS LISBON Today enjoy an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Sintra, a favourite summer retreat for the kings of Portugal. The tall conical chimneys of the Palacio Nacional de Sintra and the fabulous Palacio da Pena are unmistakable landmarks. On your tour, you might like to visit one or two of these beautiful palaces and enjoy strolling the pretty cobbled streets of the old town, Sintra Vila and perhaps sample queijadas, the local sweet pastry (entrance fees payable locally). Continue to Cascais where you will have free time for lunch and a visit. Return to Lisbon. Overnight. MINIMUM 2 PERSON 2,505 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 2,085 RESTAURANT PACKAGE 185 PACKAGE INCLUDES: 6 nights accommodation at the above properties in twin share with private facilities Breakfast daily Arrival transfer in Lisbon by private vehicle Morning excursion of Lisbon with English speaking driver, including entry fees to Jeronimos Monastery & Belem Tower & one Portuguese pastry per person Full day tour to Sintra including entry fees to Pena Palace, tram & National Palace Departure transfer in Porto by private vehicle Fado Dinner & Show with wine in Porto with return transfers Full day tour to Douro Valley including visit to Quinta da Pacheca winery & wine tasting (1 red & 1 white) First class rail between Lisboa and Porto RESTAURANT PACKAGE INCLUDES: (OPTIONAL) Gourmet lunch in the oldest hotel in the Iberian Peninsula, Lawrence s Hotel Restaurant Gourmet lunch at restaurant in the Douro Valley overlooking the Douro River DAY 4 LISBOA PORTO Make your way to train station for your train north to Porto. (Purchase your ticket locally at the station). Arrival and head to your hotel for check-in. The present city of Porto occupies the site of the Roman town of Portus, sprawling down the long, steep north bank of the Douro, 6km from the sea. Tonight enjoy a Fado dinner and show. Overnight. DAY 5 PORTO A full day to explore the sights of the city at leisure. The heart of the city is the wide, Av dos Aliados, which runs five blocks inland from the river. All of the sights lie south of this landmark. Overnight. DAY 6 PORTO DOURO VALLEY PORTO An excursion today to the beautiful Douro Valley. Home to the first demarcated wine region in the world, the steep hills of the valley are lined with vines and famous port estates. You will first stop in Amarante where you will visit the S. Gonçalo Church and historical centre. Departure towards Mesao Frio, with a stop to appreciate the view of the Douro River before continuing to Peso da Regua for a visit and wine tasting at the lovely Quinta da Pacheca. Free time for lunch. After lunch we will visit Pinhão, a small town 25km east of Peso da Regua, famous for its quality port-wine production followed by a short visit to Vila Real s historical centre. Arrival back in Oporto. Overnight. DAY 7 PORTO Farewell the city as you are transferred to the airport for your flight out of Porto. CITY ACCOMMODATION LISBOA HOTEL MUNDIAL 4* PORTO THE HOUSE RIBEIRA PORTO HOTEL 4* LIONEL LINDSAY, THE ZOCODOVER GATE, TOLEDO, C

42 First Class Portugal Departs: Any day at your request. WITH PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING DRIVER DAY 1 LISBOA Arrival in Lisboa where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 LISBOA A full day to explore the sights of the city at leisure, including a walk through the historical Alfama district, the Rossio and a visit to the famous tower of Belem. Tonight enjoy a Fado dinner and show. Overnight. DAY 3 LISBOA SINTRA OBIDOS This morning you will be met at your hotel by your Private Driver to commence your private tour of Portugal. Your first day of travel takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Sintra for a sightseeing stop. The tall conical chimneys of the Palacio Nacional de Sintra and the fabulous Palacio da Pena are unmistakable landmarks. Continue on your journey north through Mafra to reach Obidos, Portugal s whitewashed town surrounding a castle. Overnight. DAY 4 OBIDOS ALCOBAÇA BATALHA FATIMA COIMBRA Today you head north to Alcobaça and Batalha for panoramic tour of Batalha and on to the pilgrim s city of Fatima. The Neo-Baroque basilica, flanked by statues of saints, has a 65m tower and an esplanade twice the size of St Peter s square in Rome. Free time to visit the sanctuary before returning to the road and heading north to Coimbra. Portugal s original university was established in Coimbra in Overnight. DAY 5 COIMBRA PIÓDÃO FOZ DE ÉGUA BUSSACO COIMBRA Morning visit of Coimbra, Portugal's third largest city, which tumbles down a steep riverbank by the Mondego River. The city offers a regal university quarter, plus mansions, monasteries and churches, including the most imposing Romanesque church in the country. Your journey continues to Piodão a Historical Village of Portugal. The typical houses of schist and slate, with modern windows painted blue, gracefully descend the slope of the mountain. As you continue your travel, you will have time to take pictures in Foz D Égua, a site with a splendid natural beauty, including a dam that creates a water mirror, a magnificent place for summer bathing. Continuation for visit of vast Bussaco Forest with optional lunch stop at the famous Palace Hotel do Bussaco. Return to Coimbra for overnight. DAY 6 COIMBRA VISEU LAMEGO REGUA PINHAO Head north through Viseu and into Lamego for a brief visit of the town & Port wine tasting. An attractive town within the demarcated port area, Lamego also produces wines, including Raposeira, Portugal s premier sparkling wine. Surrounded by vineyards, the town of Pinhao has many lodges and even the train station has azulejos depicting the wine harvest. Arrival and free time. Overnight. DAY 7 PINHAO MESAO FRIO PORTO Today you will travel along the Douro river to arrive in Porto where you must farewell your driver as you are dropped off at your hotel. The present city of Porto occupies the site of the Roman town of Portus, sprawling down the long, steep north bank of the Douro, 6km from the sea. Afternoon at leisure. We recommend you cross over Dom Luis Bridge, over the river for a local port tasting. Overnight. DAY 8 PORTO Farewell the city as you are transferred to the airport for your flight out of Porto FIRST CLASS PORTUGAL Breakfast Only MINIMUM 2 PERSON 4,520 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 3,405 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 2,810 * Weekend rates / Trade Fair dates may apply which will alter the total price. CITY HOTEL LISBOA HOTEL LISBOA PLAZA 4* OBIDOS POUSADA DO CASTELO COIMBRA HOTEL QUINTA DAS LAGRIMAS 4* PINHAO HOTEL VINTAGE HOUSE 5* PORTO HOTEL PESTANA VINTAGE PORTO 4* Arrival Transfer in Lisboa in Private Vehicle 2 nights accommodation in Lisboa in twin share with Private Facilities Fado Dinner and Show in Lisboa with return transfers 1 night accommodation in Obidos in twin share with Private Facilities 2 nights accommodation in Coimbra in twin share with Private Facilities 1 night accommodation in Pinhao in twin share with Private Facilities 1 night accommodation in Porto in twin share with Private Facilities Breakfast on all mornings Entrance fees to Pena Palace & Tram in Sintra Entrance fees to Coimbra University Port wine tasting at 'Quinta da Pacheca' in Lamego (2 douro wines and 2 port wines) Transport in Luxury Mercedes Sedan (for 2 people) or Mercedes Van/Minibus (for 4 or 6 people) with Private English Speaking Driver. Transport Services commence on day 3 in Lisboa and end in Porto. Departure transfer in Porto in Private Vehicle IMPORTANT NOTE: These rates are estimates as your travel dates will determine the final price. Entrance fees are only included where indicated. Any other entrances not mentioned are payable locally 42

43 Portugal s Historic North WITH PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING DRIVER, FEATURING SOLARES DE PORTUGAL Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 ARRIVE OPORTO Arrival in Oporto where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 OPORTO VIANA DO CASTELO PONTE DE LIMA This morning you will be met at your hotel by your Private Driver to commence your private tour of Northern Portugal. Your first day of travel takes you to the elegant resort town Viana do Castelo. Continue on your journey to Ponte de Lima where you will spend the night in the beautiful 17th century family home of the Count of Calheiros. Overnight. DAY 3 PONTE DE LIMA GUIMARAES Today you head to Guimaraes, the birthplace of Portugal. The cobbled Rua de Santa Maria, lined with old town houses embellished with ornate statuary leads up from the main square, the Largo da Oliveira, past the Paço dos Duques to the castle. Overnight. DAY 4 GUIMARAES BRAGA BARCELOS GUIMARAES Today journey further into the Minho Region with a visit to Braga, the most devout city in Portugal as well as the nearby Sanctuary of Bom Jesus with its impressive staircase and gardens. Your journey continues to Barcelos known for its pottery especially the colourful cockerels. Return to Guimaraes for Overnight. DAY 5 GUIMARAES AMARANTE MESAO FRIO Head into the renowned Douro Region into Mesao Frio today via Amarante. Boasting the beauty of 18th Century cloisters which house the local Town Hall and tourist office, the town of Mesao Frio on the banks of the Douro River is a peaceful introduction to the flourishing port wine-growing region. Overnight. DAY 6 MESAO FRIO LAMEGO PINHAO MESAO FRIO Today travel south to Lamego for a visit of the town including the impressive Church of Nossa Senhora dos Remedios, which has been challenging pilgrims with its 600 step staircase since the 12th century. Continue to the Alto Douro and Pinhao for a visit of Quinta do Panascal which dates back to the 18th century and is the most important wine estate of the prestigious Port Wine Company "Fonseca". Enjoy a guided audio tour followed by a tasting of Siroco, an extra dry white port. Continue onto Quinta do Seixo. Tour of the winery, the wine cellar and robotic lagars (automatic wine presses). Finish with a tasting of selected vintage wines in a room with a spectacular panoramic view of Douro! Return to Mesao Frio for Overnight. DAY 7 MESAO FRIO CINFÃES Today you will travel along the Douro River to arrive in Cinfães where you will spend the night in the beautiful Quinta da Ventozela. The property built in the 17th century is made up of three buildings and includes a chapel from 1635 as well as gardens, conservatory and swimming pool. Overnight. DAY 8 CINFÃES PORTO Farewell Cinfães as you are transferred to Oporto airport for your flight to your next destination PORTUGAL S HISTORIC NORTH TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 3,405 TWIN SHARE 4 PEOPLE 2,425 CITY HOTEL PORTO HOTEL PESTANA VINTAGE PORTO 4* PONTE DE LIMA GUIMARAES MESAO FRIO CINFAES PAÇO DE CALHEIROS MH CASA DE SEZIM MH CASA DAS TORRES DE OLIVEIRA MH QUINTA DA VENTUZELA Transport in Luxury Mercedes Sedan (for 2 people) or Mercedes Van/ Minibus (for 3 or 7 people) with English speaking private driver. Includes transport cost (tolls, fuel, Parking, insurance and all driver s expenses). Accommodation as above in twin share with daily breakfast and private facilities Entrance fees at Museum, Braga Cathedral and Chapel. Visit of the winery 'Quinta do Panascal' at Douro Valley (audio-tour which allows guests to wander independently through vineyards dramatically situated a top rolling hills overlooking Távora river. At the end you will enjoy a tutored tasting of Fonseca s Port Visit of the winery 'Quinta do Seixo' including a tasting of Sandeman Port wines served with traditional cheeses. IMPORTANT NOTE: These rates are estimates as your travel dates will determine the final price. Weekend rates / Trade Fair dates may apply. Entrance fees are only included where indicated. Any other entrances not mentioned are payable locally 43

44 Heritage Of Portugal Departs any day on request 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHT SELF DRIVE FROM LISBOA PORTO DAY 1 LISBOA Arrival in Lisboa where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight enjoy a Fado dinner and Show. Overnight. DAY 2 LISBOA A morning excursion today to the suburb of Belem, where you will visit the Torre de Belem, the Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries. A gourmet highlight today is a stop at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem to sample a delicious pastel de nata or Portuguese custard tart. Your driver will then take you back to the city centre, to the Ca stelo San Jorge where your tour services come to an end. Afternoon free. Overnight. DAY 3 LISBOA SINTRA OBIDOS Collect your hire car and travel along the scenic coast to Cascais and Estoril as you wind your way north toward beautiful Sintra for a visit. Sintra is a regional town of great beauty set in an oasis of pine woods and exotic gardens in a barren and rocky landscape with an altitude of some 500m above sea level. Sintra has a splendid palace (formerly a Royal residence), a castle of moorish origin from the 8th century and the Pena Palace with its surprising variety of architectural styles. Continue to Obidos, Portugal s whitewashed town surrounding a castle. Overnight. DAY 4 OBIDOS Full day at leisure. Obidos, an enchanting medieval fortified town dating right back to Celtic times, with successive occupations of Romans, Visigoths, Moors until the 12C. In 1282 King Dinis and Queen Isabel spent their honeymoon in the village, which had been given to them as a wedding gift; a tradition thereafter maintained by all Portuguese queens until Entrance is gained via one of four gates in the wall, bringing the visitor into a world of centuries past - tiny winding streets, whitewashed houses with their typical ochre trimmings and flower boxes brimming with colour. Overnight. DAY 5 OBIDOS COIMBRA LUSO Today you head north to Bussaco/Luso. You travel via some marvellous, historic towns, such as Alcobaça, Leiria, Batalha and Pombal. Continue to Coimbra for an optional lunch stop. The city of Coimbra was Portugal's first true capital, the birthplace of six kings and is where the nation's first University was founded in Located on the banks of the Mondego river, the historic heart is found high above the river, where there are cathedrals, the university and a fine museum. Back on the road to Luso (Bussaco), to your magnificent historical hotel a clearing of the great Bussaco Forest. Overnight. DAY 6 LUSO VISEU PINHAO Head north through Viseu and into the beautiful Douro Valley. Home to the first demarcated wine region in the world, the steep hills of the valley are lined with vines and famous port wine estates. Stop at Lamego for a brief visit of the town. An attractive town within the demarcated port area, Lamego also produces wines, including Raposeira, Portugal s premier sparkling wine. Head to nearby Pinhao for overnight. DAY 7 PINHAO Full day at leisure. Pinhão is a small town 25km east of Peso da Regua, famous for its quality port-wine production. Surrounded by vineyards, the town has many lodges and even the train station has azulejos depicting the wine harvest. Be sure to take a short day trip northeast on the N322-3 to Favaios to taste a little known moscatel, one of only two produced in Portugal. Overnight. DAY 8 PINHAO VILA REAL GUIMARAES Your journey takes you north again to Vila Real for a visit of the beautiful Casa de Mateus. Built in the first half of the 18C and betraying the finishing touches of Nicolau Nasoni, this palace set in beautiful gardens on a vast farm is considered to be one of the finest examples of baroque civil architecture in Portugal. Continue through Amarante to Guimaraes. Overnight. DAY 9 GUIMARAES Spend a full day discovering this delightful regional town. Framed by gently rising hills, the town of Guimaraes is celebrated as the birthplace of the nation. In the well-preserved city centre, the narrow streets of the medieval quarter are ideal for exploration on foot. The cobbled Rua de Santa Maria, lined with old town houses embellished with ornate statuary, leads up from the main square, the Largo da Oliveira, past the Paço dos Duques to the castle. Overnight. DAY 10 GUIMARAES PORTO An easy drive takes you back to Oporto, the capital and heart of the north of the country. Situated on the bank of the river Douro, Oporto is one of the oldest cities in the entire Peninsula. Known as the "unconquered city", owing to its renowned courage in fighting back all invaders, it is also the centre of an internationally important wine industry. The port wine grown in the upper Douro Valley is synonymous with this charming city. Overnight. DAY 11 PORTO Morning visit of the city. The heart of the city is the wide, grass-lined, Av dos Aliados, which runs five blocks inland from the river. All of the sights lie south of this landmark. The cathedral, with a fine altar, stands two blocks directly south. The church of San Francisco southeast a block from the river beside the Palacio da Bolsa. Free afternoon at leisure. Overnight. DAY 12 PORTO Collect your luggage and farewell the city as you drive to the airport to drop off your car. End of services. HERITAGE OF PORTUGAL TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 2, nights accommodation in 4* hotels in twin share with breakfast and private facilities Arrival transfer into Lisboa by private vehicle Fado Dinner & Show in Lisboa with one way transfer Morning excursion of Lisboa with English speaking driver, including a Portuguese pastry (entry fees not included) Morning visit of Porto with English speaking driver (entry fees not included) 9 days AVIS Car Hire in Category C Volkswagen Polo or similar with all standard inclusions and insurances as per our brochure 44

45 Cultural & Gastronomic Portugal PRIVATE TOUR INCLUDING WALKS AND GASTRONOMIC HIGHLIGHTS Explore the highlights of northern Portugal s gastronomy and culture on this fascinating tour. Walk through green valleys and oak forests, along ancient mountain trails in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, visit historical cities and villages and discover the stunning vineyards and architecture in the Douro Valley. A combination of easy country hikes, cultural walking tours and guided visits. Departs: Any day at your request from April to October DAY 1 PORTO PENEDA-GERES NATIONAL PARK Arrival into Porto airport where you are met by your private driver who will take you to the eastern part of Peneda-Gerês National Park. You ll be warmly welcomed at a renovated rural cottage in a small complex of former farm buildings in the Montalegre district, where you will stay for the first 3 nights. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 2 PENEDA-GERES NATIONAL PARK Enjoy a one-day guided driving tour through wolf territory where you will discover old villages and castles, wolf traps, local traditions, waterfalls, oak forests, wild horses as well as other the National Park's other treasures. Lunch. Return to your accommodation and enjoy a typical Tras-os-Montes region dinner. Overnight. DAY 3 PENEDA-GERES NATIONAL PARK Today, head off on a fantastic self-guided walking tour of the local area. A 19 km circular trail passes through many interesting places such as old pastoral paths and villages. Lunch, Dinner and Overnight. DAY 4 PENEDA-GERES NATIONAL PARK VILA REAL PESO DA REGUA An interesting day as your private driver takes you to visit the Pedras Salgadas water-bottling factory followed by lunch at a local restuarant in Vila Real. After lunch, explore the famous 18th century Baroque style Mateus Palace on a guided tour of the winery, gardens and grand family home. After the tour, your driver will take you to the Douro Valley where you will be spending the next two nights in a delightful wine hotel near Peso da Régua. Overnight. DAY 5 PESO DA REGUA VALENCA DO DOURO PESO DA REGUA Today your driver will take you to Valença do Douro to start a 6km guided walking trail through the vineyards and stunning landscapes. As you walk, you ll learn about the terroir and techniques used to cultivate the vines that contribute to fine port wines and table wines. These terraced vineyards have created a cultural landscape of extraordinary beauty, now classified as World Heritage. Enjoy a well-earned traditional lunch at Quinta do Seixo wine estate with views across the vineyards; some of its vines are over 100 years old. The estate uses advanced technology to produce top quality wines which you will discover on your tour of the cellars and wine tasting. After admiring the hand painted azulejos of Pinhão s train station, visit Quinta do Bomfim, one of the Douro Valley s finest vineyards where you ll have the opportunity to tour the cellars and taste their port wine. Return to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 6 PESO DA REGUA ERVADOSA DO DOURO PINHAO PORTO This morning s drive takes you along the N222, voted the World s Best Driving Road in 2015 due to the glorious undulating scenery around the River Douro. Arrival at the wine-producing village of Ervadosa do Douro, where it is time to start your Vineyards Route walking tour. Walk through an amphitheatre of vine terraces with the River Douro as your backdrop. Enjoy a gourmet picnic at Quinta das Tecedeiras, a port wine producer. After lunch cruise to the riverside village of Pinhão on a traditional Rabelo boat, formerly used to transport barrels of port wine to the cellars in Vila Nova da Gaia. After the boat trip head back to Porto. Overnight. DAY 7 PORTO Another World Heritage site, Porto is a place of extraordinary visual and architectural beauty. Enjoy a guided morning tour of the discovering the cities highlights. Lunch today is in a typical fish restaurant in the fishing village of Afurada where you can watch the catch of the day being grilled in the street. Afternoon free. We recommend ending the afternoon at Cálem wine cellars where you can combine two of Portugal s greatest cultural icons, port wine and fado music. Overnight. DAY 8 PORTO Farewell the city as you are transferred to the airport. CULTURAL & GASTRONOMIC PORTUGAL TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 3,335 TWIN SHARE 4 PEOPLE 2,630 7 nights accommodation including breakfast Private transfers to and from Porto airport and within the Peneda-Gerês National Park and Douro region in a comfortable, air-conditioned luxury vehicle Private English-speaking guides for walking tours 3 winery tours and wine tastings 6 lunches (days 2-7) 3 dinners (days 1, 2 and 3) 3 private walking tours 2 guided, one self-guided Guided visits to PNPG, Pedras Salgadas water-bottling factory, Mateus Palace and the historic centre of Porto 1 boat trip 45

46 Departs: Any day at your request. From the old town of Oporto to the medieval city of Santiago de Compostela, crossing the beautiful regions of northern Portugal and Galicia, the Portuguese Way of Santiago is an unforgettable journey. DAY 1 OPORTO Arrival in Porto. Free time at your leisure. Porto today presents the face of a 19th century commercial port - full of granite-trimmed buildings, few more than three stories high. Accommodation in a Hotel 3*. DAY 2 PORTO VILAR DO PINHEIRO ARCOS (VILA DO CONDE) (20KM) Transfer from the centre of Oporto to Vilar do Pinhiero where you begin your walk. From here, the way becomes more distinct and you can appreciate the progressive transition from urban into rural areas. You will go through Vilarinho and cross the medieval bridge over the Ave before reaching the village of Arcos where the first stage ends. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 3 ARCOS (VILA DO CONDE) BARCELOS (20KM) This stage begins in Arcos and leads towards to the old village of Rates, where we can appreciate the beautiful church of a former convent. There are no major changes of scenery on route, but with increasing woodlands, you will pass the villages of Courel and Pedra Furada, then change to rural roads until you will reach the town of Barcelos where you will have time explore. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 4 BARCELOS QUINTIÃES (15KM) Today you depart from Barcelos, and pass by the Church of Senhor Bom Jesus da Cruz, cross the Campo da Feira (Market Square) taking the N103 towards Viana, crossing over the Ring Road. Before arriving to Abade de Neiva, turn right to Ponte de Lima and leave the main road for rural paths. You will enter the Neiva Valley and reach the town/village of Quintiaes. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 5 QUINTIÃES PONTE DE LIMA (19KM) Continue north and cross over the river Neiva, with its medieval bridge, just before the village of Balugães. This is a day of rural roads, and a magnificent journey through the hamlets of Facha, Seara and Correlhã, finally reaching Ponte de Lima along the Avenue of Plátanos, beside the river. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 6 PONTE DE LIMA COSSOURADO (PAREDES DE COURA) (22KM) We leave the medieval town of Ponte de Lima crossing the impressive Romanesque-Gothic bridge over the river Lima, with its 22 arches. After arriving at the far side of the bridge, we turn to the right plunging into the rural world represented by the farming parish of Arcozelo, but then, after Labruja, agriculture is scarce and the landscape until Portela Pequena is tree covered. These 2 uphill kilometres from Labruja are the most demanding of the whole way. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 7 COSSOURADO TUI (16KM) We will start this day leaving the valley of the river Coura and from there we have a gentle climb until S. Bento da Porta Aberta, the site of a famous religious festival. We continue to Fontoura through fields and brushwoods till we reach the fortified town of Valença just south of the River Mino. We cross Rio Minho by way of the metal bridge inspired by the work of the famous Gustave Eiffel and to the medieval village of Tui. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. CAMINHO PORTUGUES Meals As Per Itinerary DEPARTS ANY DAY AT YOUR REQUEST FROM 15 MARCH 1 NOVEMBER 2018 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,830 SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT 795 Caminho Portugues 13 DAY SELF GUIDED ST JAMES WAY WALK DAY 8 TUI REDONDELA (32KM) Leaving Tui we pass the tunnel of the Convent of Clarissas and the Churches of Santo Domingo and San Bartolomé. After crossing the Veiga bridge (old bridge) we will reach one of the most beautiful stretches of the whole route the Valley of the River Louro. Continuing on we reach an Industrial Park before entering Porriño. From Porriño, we head north. Along the way we will pass close to the Pazo de Mós, Santiaguiño de Antas and Chan das Pipas. Here starts a steep descent that leads us towards the end of this stage. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 9 REDONDELA PONTEVEDRA (20KM) Today we leave Redondela along by-ways until we reach Outeiro de Penas, a place with an excellent view over the Ria de Vigo. Then finally we reach Arcade, a place renowned for having the best oysters in Galicia. From Arcade, continue to Pontesampayo where we will cross a long medieval bridge over the Verdugo River, to another of the most beautiful stretches of the Caminho. After crossing the mountains, the track widens until Pontevedra. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 10 PONTEVEDRA CALDAS DE REIS (21KM) We start this stage at the historical centre of Pontevedra walking from the old city to the millennial bridge, O Burgo, over the Lérez River. We continue along the beautiful Valley of the Gandra River until San Mauro. From here we start seeing the first crosses, some of them magnificently carved. We enter Caldas de Reis alongside the church of Santa Maria. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 11 CALDAS DE REIS PADRON (20KM) We leave Caldas de Reis along some enchanting stretches of the Way, across the medieval bridge of the Bermaña River and follow a path that leads us to Cruceiro, on an unforgettable stretch through forests and meadows. We pass near the church of Santa Maria de Carracedo and along the side of the Valga River, where we head to Pontecesures. After crossing the Ulla River we arrive at Padron, the place where, according to legend, the stone ship with the body of the Apostle James (Santiago) was moored. Accommodation and dinner in a Manor house / Farmhouse. DAY 12 PADRON SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA (DISTANCE: 22 KM) We start this last stage by leaving Padron and heading north until reaching the church of Santa Maria de Iria Flávia. We continue through Galician villages until the magnificent sanctuary of Nossa Señora da Escravitute. After crossing the Sar River, we continue to the Faxeira gate, the entrance of the Portuguese Way in this old city. Through a labyrinth of streets we continue to Obradoiro square and to the Cathedral itself were the Apostle waits for us. Accommodation in a Hotel 3*. DAY 13 DEPART SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA IMPORTANT NOTE: Weekend rates / Trade Fair rates may apply and will alter the final price. Special rates apply for Easter and must be requested. These rates are estimates as your travel dates will determine the final price 46

47 Departs: Any day at your request from 15 March to 1 November. Make your way from Porto into the very heart of the Douro Valley before exploring the picturesque slopes and valleys of this World Heritage landscape on foot. Follow unpaved roads and footpaths as you walk from village to village, pausing for picnic lunches and visits to local wine estates where you can sample award-winning table, port and moscatel wines. Museums such as the Bread and Wine Museum in Favaios will give you a greater appreciation of local traditions and wineproduction. You ll also witness some of the year-round activity involved in tending the vines and terraces. Relax after each day s walk at carefully selected country houses and hotels. End your self-guided Douro walking holiday back in the fascinating historical city of Porto where you can visit the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia as well as the exploring Porto s many sights. Heart of the Douro 9 DAY SELF GUIDED WALKING TOUR DAY 6 CIRCULAR WALK VIA SAO MAMEDE DA RIBATUA (14.9 KM, +485M) (Or shorter option (8.2 km) with return by taxi.) Today s walk is a circular route from Alijó that undulates through an everchanging patchwork of vineyards and fields towards the ancient village of São Mamede da Ribatua with spectacular views of the surrounding rock-strewn mountains. Return to Alijó in the shade of pine forests or take a taxi back for a more relaxing afternoon. Overnight. DAY 7 LINEAR WALK ALIJO CASAL DE LOIVOS (14 KM, + 268M) Spend the day walking through vineyards, perhaps calling in at a wine estate or two for a tour and tasting session before reaching the ridge at the top of the eastern slopes of the Pinhão Valley. You ll have magnificent views of the Douro River before reaching the last village of the day. Spend the night in Casa de Casal de Loivos, a 17th century country house. Visit the nearby olive oil museum or unwind on the charming terrace. Overnight. DAY 1 PORTO Arrival in Porto and head to your hotel for check-in. Rest of the day at leisure. The formidable Se Cathedral, dominating central Porto is worth a visit and a must to visit is the Cais de Ribeira, the oldest and most picturesque quarter. Overnight. DAY 2 PORTO PINHAO (BY TRAIN) Transfer to the train station in Porto for a full briefing about your self-guided walking holiday in the Douro. Take the train from Porto to the small riverside village of Pinhão (2.5 hours) where the train station is decorated with painted tile panels depicting Douro wine production. Walk or take a taxi to Quinta de la Rosa, a working winery with attractive guest rooms, stunning views of the Douro River and an outdoor pool. Stroll around the vineyards, sample their wines or take a boat trip along the river (paid locally). Enjoy tasty local dishes this evening in the onsite restaurant or head into the village for other options. Overnight. DAY 3 LINEAR WALK PINHAO VILARINHO DE SAO ROMAO (10.9 KM, +689M) Explore the western slopes of the Pinhão Valley today as you climb to the hillside villages of São Cristovão do Douro and Provosende. The views of surrounding vineyards more than compensate your efforts. End this journey with a warm welcome and home-cooked meal at Casa de Vilarinho de São Romão. If weather permits, take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or simply relax in the guest lounge. Overnight. DAY 4 CIRCULAR WALK VIA PINHAO RIVER (14.2 KM, +664M) With Vilarinho de São Romão as your base, today s circular route winds down to the Pinhão River via a couple of small villages and wine estates and along the opposite hillsides, through the vineyards, with varied landscapes and splendid views throughout. Relax at a riverside picnic spot before making your way uphill to the village of Celeirós where you can stop to taste the wines at Quinta do Portal before returning to your delightful accommodation. Take a taxi up the hill if you d prefer an easier day. Overnight. DAY 8 CASAL DE LOIVOS PINHAO (6 KM, +137M) - PORTO (BY TRAIN) Today s short but glorious walk down to Pinhão leaves you with time for a final winery tour and tasting session (optional, paid locally). You could have lunch in the village or a picnic in the vineyards before taking the train back to Porto. Take some time to explore the city s historical monuments, revitalised areas such as Rua das Flores and the riverside Ribeira district. If you have time, cross the river and visit at least one of the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Overnight. DAY 9 DEPART PORTO Departure transfer to the airport. 8 nights accommodation with breakfast 3 dinners, 5 packed lunches GPS device with pre-programmed trails Road book with detailed route descriptions and elevation profiles 24/7 emergency contact number Luggage transfers between accommodations days 3 to 7 and to Pinhão station on day 8 Private transfer from Porto airport to Campanhã train station or city centre plus briefing on Day 1 Private transfer from Porto hotel to the airport on Day 9 HEART OF THE DOURO DEPARTS ANY DAY FROM 15 MAR TO 1 NOV /03-30/05 01/06-15/10 16/10-31/10 TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,720 1,885 1,720 DAY 5 LINEAR WALK VILARINHO DE SAO ROMAO ALIJO (16.6 KM, +690M) Enjoy views across the valley on your way towards the pretty village of Sabrosa. Follow an ancient road between here and Favaios as you head down through the vineyard terraces to the river. Wend your way uphill again between grape vines and olive groves towards a distinctly different landscape. Taste traditional wood oven-baked bread and moscatel wine in Favaios then continue to the small, historical town of Alijó. Settle into Pousada do Barrão Forrester, your comfortable accommodation for the next two nights. Overnight. 47

48 Solares de Portugal HERITAGE HOUSES OF PORTUGAL Solares de Portugal is a unique concept that was introduced to promote quality tourist accommodation in houses of character Turismo de Habitação and, at the same time, preserve the rich legacy of Portugal s architectural and cultural heritage. Solares de Portugal are not hotels, but privately-owned stately manor houses, elegant country homes and rustic farmhouses. The owners will greet you with a warm welcome and during your stay share their knowledge about local places of interest, regional gastronomy, festivals and traditions. The Solares are arranged in three distinct groups, inspected and certified according to strict criteria to ensure a high standard of comfort and hospitality. Casa Antigas are elegant manor houses and country estates most often originating from the 17th and 18th Centuries. Their architecture is of great heritage significance, the various styles reflecting the distinct chapters in the history of Portugal. Quintas e Herdades are agricultural farms and estates, within a rural setting and atmosphere, whose main houses emcompass architectural styles from the classic to the rustic. Casas Rústicas are distinguished by their type of construction, being of simple architectural style and utilising regional materials. Generally of smaller dimensions, they contain simple and practical, but comfortable furnishing. Here are some examples of some of these beautiful properties CASA DAS TORRES DE OLIVEIRA, MESAO FRIO This is an example of a magnificent manor of the early 18th C and was built in a carefully selected area, which not only allowed it to head a vast farming estate producing port wine, but also enjoys a beautiful landscape, overlooking the Douro river as it winds slowly down towards the sea. The property has its own small chapel and offers a swimming pool, great local walks and wonderful gardens to enjoy. CASA DOS ASSENTOS, BARCELOS The name 'Assentos' (house of records) was given to this house as it was once the place where agreements concerning local rents were kept. Today this splendid manor house remains as an ancestral monument of the 17th C. Its large, grandiose apartments are set in traditional stone cottages, with wooden floors and ceilings. The property boasts two swimming pools and a tennis court. CASA DO MOGOFORES, ANADIA Casa de Mogofores is a 19th C manor house, ideally located to discover the central region, visit the Curia Spa and the University city of Coimbra. The owners produce the famous Campolargo Wines and they have carefully restored and decorated the house, to welcome guests. The property facilities include indoor swimming pool, gardens and library. 48

49 Portugal s Grand Manors 10 DAY NORTHERN PORTUGAL SELF DRIVE IN HISTORIC MANOR HOUSES DAY 1 PORTO Arrival into Porto where you are met and transferred to your hotel for check in. Rest of the day at leisure. Porto today presents the face of a 19th century commercial port - full of granite-trimmed buildings, few more than three stories high. Overnight. DAY 2 PORTO BARCELOS VIANA DO CASTELO Collect your hire car and travel north to Barcelos, an attractive small town situated on the north bank of the Cavado in a green and fertile region. Barcelos is renowned for its busy agricultural market and for its pottery, especially decorated cocks. Continue onto Viana do Castelo where you will spend the next two nights. Overnight. DAY 3 VIANA DO CASTELO Free day. Viana do Castelo is an elegant resort town on the north bank of the River Lima estuary at the foot of green hills. The central Praça da Republica, with surrounding mansions and central fountain, is one of the loveliest squares in Portugal. Three blocks west, along Rua Manuel Espregueira, stands a fine 18th Century palace converted into the Municipal Museum which may be toured. Overnight. DAY 4 VIANA DO CASTELO PONTE DE LIMA A short drive today takes you to the pretty town of Ponte de Lima. The riverside town of Ponte de Lima takes its name from the ancient bridge over the River Lima. Overnight. DAY 5 PONTE DE LIMA Free day. The Roman bridge has only five of its original stone arches; the rest were rebuilt or restored in the 14th and 15th centuries. The 15th century church of Santo Antonio now houses the Museu dos Terceiros, a museum of sacred art. An interesting day trip may be to nearby Arcos de Valdevez. Overnight. DAY 6 PONTE DE LIMA GUIMARAES CELORICO DE BASTO Today's drive takes you to the 'birthplace' of the nation, Guimaraes. The cobbled Rua de Santa Maria, lined with old town houses embellished with ornate statuary, leads up from the main square, the Largo da Oliveira, past the Paço dos Duques to the castle. Free time to explore before returning to the road to your next manor house accommodation. Overnight. DAYS 7 & 8 CELORICO DE BASTO Free days. Perhaps a day trip to nearby Mesao Frio, the town on the banks of the Douro River is a peaceful introduction to the flourishing port wine-growing region or perhaps Vila Real to visit the impressive Casa Mateus. Overnight. DAY 9 CELORICO DE BASTO PORTO A journey of an hour will take you to Porto for your last night. Drop off hire car on arrival. Overnight. DAY 10 PORTO Transfer to the airport our services end here. PORTUGAL'S GRAND MANORS TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,330 ACCOMMODATION Hotel Pestana, Vintage Porto 4*, Porto Casa do Ameal, Viana do Castelo Casa das Torres, Ponte de Lima Casa de Canedo, Celorico de Basto 9 nights accommodation at the above properties on breakfast basis 8 days AVIS Car Hire in Category C Volkswagen Polo or similar with all standard inclusions and insurances as per our brochure Return Porto Airport, transfers by private vehicle QUINTA DE BOA VIAGEM, VIANA DO CASTELO 49

50 Pestana Pousadas of Portugal If you are looking for attractive and historical accommodation for your next holiday, away from the bustle of the city, then consider the Pestana Pousadas of Portugal. The Pousadas are located in pleasant rural settings, inside the walls of medieval towns, near the seaside or in the mountainous regions of this old world country. There are around 25 Pousadas forming an impressive network of heritage hotels, many of them historical buildings, castles, palaces and monasteries all lovingly restored and maintained. Special care has been taken to reflect the history and cultural traditions of the region in which they are located, with attention to folk crafts, period furniture, local cuisine and wines. THE HISTORY & HERITAGE OF PORTUGAL Ibertours is an official representative for Pestana Pousadas of Portugal in Australia & NZ ARTIST UNKNOWN, ENTRANCE TO POBLET, CATALUNYA C Porto Coimbra THE PESTANA POUSADAS OF PORTUGAL ARE CLASSIFIED INTO 3 CATEGORIES; MONUMENT - Distinctive properties with the best standards of service and personalised service: Amares Monastery, Crato Monastery, Estoi Palace, Guimarães Monastery and Pousada de Lisboa (Praça do Comércio). Lisbon HISTORIC - Unique properties set in wonderful and emblematic venues: Alcácer Castle, Alvito Castle, Arraiolos Convent, Beja Convent, Évora Convent, Estremoz Convent, Horta Fortress, Óbidos Castle, Palmela Castle, Queluz Palace, Serra da Estrela, Tavira Convent, Viana do Castelo, Vila Pouca da Beira Convent, Vila Viçosa Convent and Viseu. CHARMING - Properties located in unique places appealing to the senses, surrounded by Nature: Caniçada, Marao, Marvão, Sagres, Ourém, Ria (Murtosa) and Valença. Faro CREATIVE SELF-DRIVE ITINERARIES Ask us to design a special SELF DRIVE itinerary to suit your personal budget and travel requirements. This is our speciality! 50

51 Pestana Pousadas of Portugal THE HISTORY & HERITAGE OF PORTUGAL PRICES RANGE FROM $150 AUD TO $450 AUD PER NIGHT FOR TWO PEOPLE Please ask us for a quotation and special offer rates that may apply Here are just a few of our favourite Pestana Pousadas of Portugal properties POUSADA VIANA DO CASTELO H Set on the hill of Sta Luzia, overlooking the town of Viana do Castelo and the beautiful estuary of the river Lima, this Pousada is the result of an excellent restoration of a 1918 hotel. From this Pousada guests can enjoy the view of one of the vast and beautiful landscapes of our country, the city of Viana do Castelo and the sea. Its surrounding gardens and woods, the magnificent swimming pool and the peaceful place where the Pousada is set, allow guests an invigorating tranquillity. Has Parking Facilities. POUSADA MOSTEIRO DE GUIMARAES M This wonderful Pousada was inaugurated in 1985, having been restored and converted from the original Santa Marinha da Costa Monastery which dates back to the 12th C when the Order of Santo Agostinho was created. Situated in the Penha National Park approximately 1km from the city of Guimaraes, this impressive building shows many architectural influences from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, with a beautifully preserved collection of decorative mural tiles which adorn the walls and corridors of the building. Attractive gardens, outdoor swimming pool and children's playground complete the picture. POUSADA PALACIO DE ESTOI SLH The Pousada de Estoi is set in the old 19th century Estoi Palace, which used to belong to the Viscount of Estoi, José Francisco da Silva. The palace took 20 years to build and in May 1909 a huge party was thrown in the gardens to celebrate the inauguration. The best of the old world and the new combine in this property, with the historic building joined by an impressive new wing designed by Portuguese architect Gonçalo Byrne. The elegant dimensions of the building are now matched against impressive clean lines, a dazzling pool area with teak deck which leads to the formal gardens. Additional facilities include indoor pool, sauna and spa facilities and inhouse restaurant serving contemporary and regional cuisine. POUSADA DE LISBOA TERREIRO DO PAÇO H Located in Terreiro do Paço - Praça do Comércio, a historic part of the city of Lisbon, where for centuries ships with goods disembarked. The Pousada is built in a stately building that once housed the Ministry of Internal Affairs and also a police station. The property offers 90 rooms, divided into Classic rooms, Superior, Deluxe, Duplex and Suites, many with River view. There is also a spa, swimming pool, sauna, treatment room and fitness centre, two bars and inhouse restaurant offering traditional Portuguese specialities. The Pousada also offers conference rooms for business. 51

52 Southern Portugal SELF DRIVE FROM LISBON TO THE ALGARVE COAST Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 LISBOA Arrival in Lisboa where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 LISBOA A morning tour today to the suburb of Belem, where you will visit the Torre de Belem, the Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries. A gourmet highlight today is a stop at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem to sample a delicious pastel de nata or Portuguese custard tart. Your driver will then take you back to the city centre, to the Castelo San Jorge where your tour services come to an end. Afternoon free. Overnight. DAY 3 LISBOA EVORA Pick up your hire car and head east today to reach Evora. Arrival in Evora where you will spend the day at leisure. In 1986 UNESCO declared Evora a World Heritage Site. Evora s aqueduct also called of the silver water, was built between 1531 and 1537 by the town s own eminent architect, Francisco de Arruda. Damaged in the 17th century during the Restoration War with Spain, only a surviving stretch, some 9km long, can still be seen approaching from the northwest. Be sure not to miss the eerie Chapel of Bones this afternoon! Overnight. DAY 4 EVORA MONSARAZ EVORA Take advantage of your hire car to visit Monsaraz today. The old fortified town of Monsaraz occupied a strategic position on a height near the Guadiana Valley on the border between Portugal and Spain. Rue Direita retains all its original charm as it is still lined by 16th and 17th Century whitewashed houses, many emblazoned with coats of arms and all flanked by outside staircases and balconies with wrought iron grilles. Return to Evora. Overnight. DAY 5 EVORA BEJA PORTIMAO Head south through the Alentejo region through Beja, where you might like to stop for coffee and to admire its 13 th C castle. Back on the road as you head to the Algarve coast, to spend the next two nights in the atmospheric town of Portimao. Overnight. DAY 6 PORTIMAO Free day. Perhaps make an excursion this morning to nearby Lagos, the most historically interesting coastal town in the Algarve. Its fame derives from its association with Portugal s 14th and 15th Century Age of Discovery. Free afternoon to enjoy Portimao. Once occupied by Romans, the original fishing port of Portimao is a bustling present day city. It has a wide selection of excellent beaches in close proximity and its once busy fishing dock is now a scenic promenade that leads to pedestrian streets and a charming town centre. Overnight. DAY 7 PORTIMAO FARO Farwell the city as you drive to Faro city /airport to drop off your rental car. ACCOMMODATION Hotel PortoBay Marques 4*, Lisboa Pousada Convento de Evora, Evora Hotel Tivoli Marina de Portimao 5*, Portimao SOUTHERN PORTUGAL TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,295 PRICE INCLUDES Arrival airport transfer in Lisboa by private vehicle 6 nights accommodation with daily breakfast included Morning tour of Lisboa with English speaking driver, including entry fees to Jeronimos Monastery & Belem Tower & one Portuguese pastry per person 5 days Avis car hire in category C Volkswagen Polo A/C Manual or similar with all standard inclusions and insurances 52

53 North of Portugal Departures: Selected Saturday Departures from April DAY COACH TOUR DAY 1 LISBOA OBIDOS ALCOBAÇA NAZARE BATALHA FATIMA Depart Lisbon and travel north to Obidos, which has changed little since the Middle Ages. Here we can admire the lovely handicrafts and taste the famous ginginha (bitter cherry liqueur). We continue our journey to Alcobaça, home to the first and largest Gothic church in Portugal which holds the tombs of Dom Pedro and his lover Inês de Castro. Continue to Nazaré, a typical fishing village and seaside resort and on to Batalha where you will visit the Monastery of Santa Maria de Victoria, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture where we find the tomb of Henry the Navigator. Departure to the sanctuary at Fátima. Overnight. DAY 2 FATIMA COIMBRA AVEIRO OPORTO Departure towards Coimbra to visit the University, one of the oldest in the world, with its magnificent baroque library. Stop at St Clara Church, where the tomb of Queen St. Isabel lies. In the afternoon drive to Aveiro, city of canals, known as the Portuguese Venice, where you will have time to see the graceful moliceiros boats and taste local sweets called ovos moles. Finally continue to Oporto. Overnight. DAY 3 OPORTO The present city of Porto occupies the site of the Roman town of Portus, sprawling down the long, steep north bank of the Douro, 6km from the sea. Today you have a morning visit to discover the riverside area with its old houses, palaces, churches and Port wine, known worldwide. Afternoon free. Overnight. GENARO PEREZ DE VILLA AMIL, PORTICO DEL COLEGIO DE SAN GREGORIO, VALLADOLID, C1842. DAY 4 OPORTO GUIMARÃES BRAGA BARCELOS OPORTO Full day tour of the lush northwest region of Minho, which produces Portugal s sparkling vinho verde (green wine). Starting at Guimarães, birthplace of the first king of Portugal. Here walking through the historic centre is like stepping back in time. Visit the Sacred Hill crowned by a Castle, as well the 15thC Palace of the Dukes of Bragança. Continue to Braga known as the Portuguese Rome. In the 18th century, two bishops undertook the project of redesigning the city and their influence is plain to see, with churches on every corner. Continue to Barcelos, a city famous for its handicraft, where the Galo (rooster) de Barcelos portuguese icon was born. Return to Porto Overnight. DAY 5 OPORTO AMARANTE VILA REAL DOURO VALLEY LAMEGO VISEU URGEIRIÇA Departure to Amarante, a pretty town most proud of it s great son, São Gonçalo, the patron saint of love & marriage. Continue to Vila Real, visiting the gardens of the manor of Mateus, still depicted on the wellknown rosé bottles. Then we enter in the Port wine region, travelling through the vineyards and the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley. You will have the opportunity to try some of the local delicacies such as the local ham or the famous Bola de Lamego (a loaf baked in the oven with smoked ham). Continue to Viseu, centre of the Dão Vineyards and a city connected with Portugal s oldest hero, Viriato, the Lusitanian chieftan. Arrival in Urgeiriça. Overnight. DAY 6 URGUEIRIÇA BUSSACO - TOMAR - LISBOA Head south into central Portugal to Bussaco, home to the historic 250 acre forest. In a clearing in the centre of the park stands a former royal hunting lodge now a fine hotel. Continue to Tomar. In 1159 the Knights Templar were given land to erect a castle in Portugal by Dona Teresa, the mother of the first king of Portugal. In 1147 the order traded their original land for acreage at Tomar and there bulit a castle on a hill, completed in A church and fortress walls were later added. It is the centrepiece of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. On to Lisboa and end of tour services. ACCOMMODATION OR SIMILAR Hotel Santa Maria 4*, Fatima Hotel Ipanema Porto,4*, Oporto Hotel da Urgeiriça 4*, Urgeiriça (Canas de Senhorim) GUARANTEED DEPARTURES (WILL RUN WITH MINIMUM OF 4) Jan 13 May 05 & 19 Sep 01 & 15 Feb 10 Jun 02 & 16 Oct 06 & 20 Mar 10 Jul 07 & 21 Nov 10 Apr 07 & 21 Aug 04 & 18 Dec 08 NORTH OF PORTUGAL CL05 BREAKFAST ONLY 4* ACCOMMODATION APR - OCT NOV - MAR TWIN SHARE 2 PEOPLE 1,505 1,480 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

54 This ancient land of great history and complexity, has significant links with the Iberian peninsula. Morocco has been not only a vital source of cultural, architectural, artistic and linguistic influence on Spain and Portugal owing to almost eight centuries of Moorish occupation, (between the 8th and 15th centuries), but it is believed that Iberians can actually find their origins in North Africa. Morocco itself was the scene of much tumultuous history, having been occupied by colonies of Phoenician traders, followed by Roman, Byzantine and Vandal invasions and finally, the most important of all, the Arabs in 683, bringing with them the word of Islam. Morocco today is a vibrant country with all the outward signs of a modern Arab nation, yet it maintains the classic contrasts of such nations in its fabulously rich culture, which emerges spontaneously at every corner and which is rooted deep in the daily life and psyche of the people. Moroccans are very friendly, polite and are hospitable to a fault. This open and genuine friendliness of the people can make our stay so much more satisfying by inviting us further into their wonderful culture. The easy going approach to life and business is sometimes the source of criticism, but one needs to keep in mind the country s very different background, social and religious customs. The Islamic faith is strong amongst the people but it is one of the more moderate and tolerant examples in the Islamic world, somewhat indicative of the nature of the people. Morocco today is a constitutional monarchy with a population of nearly 35 million people. The country is a true feast for the senses... the marvellous Kasbahs, Medinas and Souks with their bustling activity and colour are an absolute treat for the visitor, plus the many inviting local food stalls and restaurants, where the customary hospitality of the people combines with the rich variety of tastes and flavours of the cuisine. Your stay is made complete by the inevitable attraction of the beautiful Moorish architecture, the rich and varied handicrafts and the chance to witness the charm of a rural Berber dance, accompanied by the captivating rhythm of instrument and song. Land of Enchantment GLOSSARY OF TERMS BERBER - Indigenous inhabitants of North Africa. FANTASIA - Display of horsemanship combined with regional dancing and local cuisine. HAMMAM - Traditional steam bath. KASBAH - Citadel or rural fortress. KORAN - Book of the word of God, dictated to the Prophet Mohammed by the archangel Gabriel. The sacred book of Islam. MECHOUAR - Place of assembly to pay homage to the ruler. MEDERSA - Residential school for study of the Koran & religious law. MEDINA - Generally the old quarter of an Arab town or city. MOSQUE - Place of Muslim prayer & reunion. (Not open to non-muslims) PALMERAIE - Fertile area around a town similar to an Oasis. RAMADAN - Muslim month of fasting based around the 9th lunar month of the year. It lasts for 30 days and at the end of the fast, the joyous celebration of Eid-al-Fitr begins and lasts for another 3 days. Ramadan 2018: 15 May 14 June, Eid-Al-Fitr 2018: June SOUK - Market. SULTAN - Ruler, of single authority and power. CHARLES ROBERTSON, VENTE DE TAPIS AU CAIRE. C 1890 (DETAIL) Tipping is part of everyday life and an expected custom. We provide you with a tipping guide with your final travel documentation. When in a souk, bargaining is standard practice. Local guides in Morocco will try to encourage the tour members / travellers to buy at nominated bazaars and shops in order to supplement their meagre wages. It is important to note that basically all Moroccan local guides will do this to a point, whether booked locally or those leading a private prearranged tour through a particular city. 54

55 CASABLANCA A business and financial capital of increasing importance and an important metropolis whose development is linked to its harbour trade. One of the largest port cities in Africa, Casablanca is today an important centre in world affairs. A visit to the attractive Corniche on the seafront, away from the city, provides a relaxing interlude, where after sunset, one can linger over the many fish delicacies offered by the numerous restaurants. Still retaining its strong religious traditions embodied today in the impressive Hassan II mosque, Casablanca is the country s bustling commercial gateway. Land of Enchantment FES The holy city of Fes is a jewel of Hispano-Arabic civilization and is the religious, artistic and intellectual centre of Morocco. Little by little the treasures of this ancient Imperial city unfold and only in this way one may completely appreciate the splendours of the Medersa architecture and the intricate history behind the myriad of alleys and stalls of the 9th C Medina. Bustling with artisans and merchants, with wafting fragrances, with captivating sounds and all immersed in intense colour, the Medina mesmerises the visitor with a constant swirl of activity. Fes, Morocco s oldest city awaits. MARRAKESH Framed by the snowy heights of the Atlas mountains, by the crimson coloured walls and ramparts of the old city and a thousand year old palm grove, Marrakesh casts a magic spell on all who visit her. The capital of the south, Marrakesh is sumptuous and exuberant, radiating splendour and mysticism. The explosion of colours of the wools at the dye merchants in the old Medina, the rhythm of the dancers in the Djemaa El Fna square, the idle talk of the merchants in front of their stalls and shops, the skill of the jugglers and artisans at their daily work, are all part of the rich tapestry that makes up Marrakesh. TANGIER & CHEFCHAOUEN Where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic Ocean, Tangier stands at the crossroads of civilisation and is the northern gateway to Morocco, via its important ferry port. You can stroll down the alleyways of the Medina to the terrace overlooking the Straits of Gibraltar. The city was once a haven for foreign artists and writers. The delightful white and blue painted town of Chefchaouen was founded by Moulay Ali ben Rachid in 1471 as a base from which to attack the Portuguese in Ceuta. The town prospered with the arrival of Muslim refugees from Spain. It was these refugees who built the whitewashed houses with blue painted doors and window frames, tiny balconies, tiled roofs and patios with a citrus tree planted right in the centre which give the town a truly Hispanic feel. THE KASBAH TRAIL By departing either from Ouarzazate or Er Rachidia one can discover the Moroccan deep south: burning sands and snowy peaks, plunging canyons and refreshing oases along the Qued Draa, Dades and Ziz wadis, the imposing kasbahs, remote & enigmatic earthern towns. IMPORTANT NOTES FOR MOROCCO, PAGES 56-65: Tour transport is by minibus unless otherwise specified. Drivers are locals and will provide social commentary along the way. Their primary role is that of driver so for sightseeing / guiding, we can book official local guides. The drivers are English speaking, but bear in mind it is not their native language! Most of our tour packages already have local guides included for major cities such as Fes and Marrakesh. For bookings involving the Riads, a Credit Card Guarantee is required. THE ATLAS MOUNTAINS There are mountains everywhere in Morocco, where sumptuous landscapes, incredible waterfalls, impressive gorges and summits over 4000 metres high, invite you to learn their secrets. RABAT Rabat, the capital of the Kingdom, is located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean on the left of the Bou estuary. Its name is derived from ribat or fortress. Rabat today is the residence of the King and the seat of government and embassies. A visit to the Oudayas kasbah is essential, the Hassan tower and its mausoleum where King Mohammed V lies along side his son King Hassan II. ESSAOUIRA Essaouira is one of the most popular coastal towns due largely to its magnificent beaches. It was founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese but the Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah used it as a fortress town and base to suppress a revolt at Agadir in The fortifications are an interesting mix of Portuguese and Berber military architecture. You ll find narrow, freshly whitewashed streets, painted blinds, tranquil squares, artisans in tiny workshops working away at fragrant thuja wood and friendly cafes. MEKNES & VOLUBILIS The city of Meknes is characterised by the indelible mark of one man, Sultan Moulay Ismail, who was able to maintain order and foster prosperity. In the 10th C the original nomadic Meknassas tribe decided to settle on the banks of the Boufekrane Wadi as the land was suitable for the most varied crops. A visit to the city today should include the Bab El Berdaine gate, the Sidi Said Mosque, the Agdal lagoon and the Dar El Ma granaries forming part of an enormous building constructed to house and feed some 12,000 horses. Not far from Meknes one can visit the impressive Roman ruins of Volubilis built as a strategic outpost for advancing legions, with its forum, temple, capitol, basilica and decorative arch. THE IMPERIAL CITIES There are 4 cities which today form the so called Imperial cities, having successively been the Moroccan capital during the nations history: Fes, Marrakesh, Rabat and Meknes. IMPORTANT NOTE FOR HOTELS IN MOROCCO: We should not compare Moroccan standards or ratings with those of other countries. Hotel classification is the sole responsibility of the Moroccan authorities and they can change a hotel category without prior notice. Wide variances within and between the standards of hotels are common and our selections are based more around the style, character and service of a hotel, than its accredited category. We also need to be aware that Morocco has an energy conservation program and this can sometimes affect the air-conditioning at your hotel, where the facility may only function at certain times of day and night. The reception staff will be able to provide more information regarding operating times. 55

56 Departs: Any day at your request Imperial Cities Tour of Morocco DAY 1 CASABLANCA Arrive Casablanca where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Assistance with check-in. Casablanca is the financial capital of the country, with a bustling commercial activity and is an important African seaport. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 2 CASABLANCA RABAT (95KM) Breakfast. You are collected at your hotel in the morning and taken to see the central market, Mohamed V square, the Habous district, the residential area of Anfa, the outside of the Hassan II Mosque, and the exterior of the Royal Palace. Optional fish lunch in a seafront restaurant. Begin your journey to Rabat, capital of the kingdom and modern administrative centre. Sightseeing with driver including the Kasbah des Oudayas, the Hassan Tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the Royal Palace & Mechouar (exterior). Overnight. DAY 3 RABAT MEKNES VOLUBILIS FES (240KM) Breakfast. Today you journey on to historic Fes via Meknes, another of the Imperial Cities, transformed by its imposing architecture from the period of Moulay Ismail, ( CE). You will be able to view the Mellah (Jewish quarter), the Royal Stables, the Bab El Mansour Gate and the famous city walls. After an optional lunch, travel on just north of Meknes to the important religious town of Moulay Idriss and the impressive Roman ruins of Volubilis. Continue to Fes, the oldest of the imperial cities having been founded shortly after the Arab invaders swept across northern Africa in the late 7th century. Overnight. WITH PRIVATE DRIVER CASABLANCA CASABLANCA 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS DAY 4 FES Breakfast. A full day tour to visit some of the city s most important monuments such as the Karaouiyne Mosque, the Attarine and Bou Inania Medersas, the Nejarrine Fountain and the Mausoleum of the Sultan, Moulay Idriss, whose Dynasty founded the city ( CE). Optional lunch in a traditional restaurant in the medina. Afternoon visit of Fes el Jdid and the Royal Palace (exterior). Overnight. DAY 5 FES BENI-MELLAL MARRAKESH (490KMS) Breakfast. Departure via Ifrane, resort town of wealthy Moroccans, Azrou, a relaxed Berber town, and the village of Immouzer du Kandar, and Beni-Mellal, a small town situated 625m above sea-level in the heart of the Middle Atlas mountain range enjoying superb scenery and interesting road stops all the way. Optional lunch in Beni Mellal. Continue your journey to magnificent Marrakesh, the capital of the south. Optional: Dinner in a typical Moroccan restaurant with oriental show. Overnight. DAY 6 MARRAKESH Breakfast. A full day to discover the charms of this impressive Imperial city and its monuments. You will visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the Bahia palace, the gardens and orchard basin of the Menara, the Saadian Tombs and the Museum Dar Si Said. (The museum is closed on Tuesdays) An enchanting afternoon will be spent in the souks of the Medina and the intriguing Djemaa El Fna Square. Optional Ksar El Hamra Dinner Show. Overnight. DAY 7 MARRAKESH CASABLANCA (250KMS) Breakfast. check-in. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 8 CASABLANCA After breakfast and check-out from your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for departure to your next destination. End of services. CHARLES ROBERTSON, VENTE DE TAPIS AU CAIRE. C 1890 (DETAIL) IMPERIAL CITIES TOUR OF MOROCCO IN RIADS LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 2,490 2,555 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,760 1,805 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,515 1,560 MINIMUM 8 PERSON 1,380 1,425 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT SOLO TRAVEL SUPPLEMENT 1,280 1,280 LOW SEASON 09/01/18 14/02/18 16/06/18 31/07/18 HIGH SEASON 20/12/17 08/01/18 15/02/18 15/06/18 01/08/18 31/10/18 HOTELS / RIADS CASABLANCA HOTEL NOVOTEL CASABLANCA CITY CENTER 4* RABAT FES RIAD DAR EL KEBIRA RIAD EL YACOUT MARRAKESH RIAD CHERGUI (ROOM 7 OR 8) Note: Driver provides simple social commentary but is supported by local guides in some cities for official monument visits. Accommodation in the above hotels/riads with meals as per itinerary Transport by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver Local English speaking guides in Fes, Marrakesh and Meknes Entry fees to monuments visited as per the above itinerary Return transfers to/from Casablanca Airport Porterage at hotels and airports Local Taxes & full assistance of local operator 56

57 Andalucian Heritage WITH PRIVATE DRIVER COSTA DEL SOL (SPAIN) MARRAKESH 6 DAYS/ 5 NIGHTS Departs: Any day at your request DAY 1 ALGECIRAS TANGIER Transfer service from the Costa del Sol to Algeciras port. Arrive at Algeciras port to board the ferry or hydrofoil from Algeciras. On arrival in Tangier, you will go through customs to then be met by your driver who takes you to your accommodation. Optional Lunch in a local restaurant. Sightseeing of Tangier including the Medina, Grand and Petit Socco, the Kasbah square overlooking the ocean and the Spanish coast, and the Hercules grottoes at Cape Spartel. Overnight. DAY 2 TANGIER TETOUAN CHEFCHAOUEN FES (303KM) After breakfast departure to Tetouan, which has an unmistakable Spanish-Moroccan flavour with its interesting Medina, dramatic setting and nearby beaches. Visit of the medina, exterior of the Royal Palace and the Mellah Jewish quarter, Bab Remouz. You continue on to Chefchaouen, a delightful town in The Rif Mountains. Visit of one of the focal points of the old city, the Plaza Uta el-hammam. You will be able to view the Medina and the Kasbah. Optional Lunch in Chefchaouen. Continue your journey to Fes, one of the oldest of the imperial cities of Morocco. Overnight. DAY 3 FES Breakfast. A full day to explore the wonders of this superb city, considered to be the religious centre of the land. Visit some of the city s most important monuments such as the Karaouiyne Mosque, the Attarine and Bou Inania Medersas, the Nejarrine Fountain and the Mausoleum of the Sultan, Moulay Idriss, whose Dynasty founded the city ( CE). Optional lunch in a traditional restaurant in the medina. Afternoon visit of Fez el Jdid. Overnight. DAY 4 FES BENI MELLAL MARRAKESH (485KM) Breakfast. Departure via Ifrane, resort town of wealthy Moroccans, Azrou, a relaxed Berber town, and the village of Immouzer du Kandar, and Beni-Mellal, a small town situated 625m above sea-level in the heart of the Middle Atlas mountain range enjoying superb scenery and interesting road stops all the way. Optional Lunch at Beni Mellal. Continue your journey to magnificent Marrakesh, the capital of the south. Overnight. DAY 5 MARRAKESH Breakfast. A morning tour to discover the charms of this impressive Imperial city and its monuments. You will visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the Bahia palace, the gardens and orchard basin of the Menara and the Saadian Tombs. Afternoon at your own leisure, which is best spent in the souks of the Medina and the intriguing Djemaa El Fna Square, with its snakecharmers, story-tellers and acrobats. Optional Fantazia Dinner Show. Overnight. DAY 6 MARRAKESH After breakfast and check-out from your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for departure to your next destination. End of services. DEPARTS ANY DAY AT YOUR REQUEST 2018 COMFORT Meals As Per Itinerary SUPERIOR LOW HIGH LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 2,395 2,440 2,805 2,950 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,730 1,770 2,185 2,340 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,535 1,565 2,000 2,115 MINIMUM 8 PERSON 1,520 1,550 1,945 2,105 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT ,015 SOLO TRAVEL SUPPLEMENT 1,340 1,340 1,340 1,340 ** If you need to connect from Casablanca, please ask us for the supplement for a transfer from Marrakesh to Casablanca Airport. HOTELS / RIADS COMFORT SUPERIOR TANGIER Hotel La Tangerina (standard) Hotel La Tangerina (superior) FES Riad El Yacout Riad Fes MARRAKESH Riad Amina/Riad Slitine La Maison Arabe LOW SEASON 08/01/18 15/02/18 01/06/18 31/07/18 HIGH SEASON 24/12/17 07/01/18 16/02/18 31/05/18 01/08/18 31/10/18 Note: Driver provides simple social commentary but is supported by local guides in some cities for official monument visits. Accommodation in riads in standard rooms on breakfast only basis Transport by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver. Entrance fees to monuments and local guides in Fes and Marrakesh. Transfer from Costa del sol to Algeciras one way Ferry ticket from Algeciras to Tangier (one way only). Departure transfer to Marrakesh Airport. Porterage at hotels and airports. Local Taxes & full assistance of local operator J. NEAGLE. ARABIAN COUNCIL. FROM PALACE OF THE ALHAMBRA, GRANADA CHARLES KERIVEL, ESSOUIRA, PORTES DANS LA MEDINA, (DETAIL)

58 Marrakesh Delights 4 DAY PRIVATE CITY PACKAGE Departs: Any day at your request DAY 1 MARRAKESH Arrival at Marrakesh airport where you are met and transferred to your accommodation for check in. Rest of the day at leisure, or you may like to have an optional cooking lesson at La Maison Arabe. Overnight. DAY 2 MARRAKESH After breakfast enjoy a full day tour with local English speaking guide of the magnificent city, including the Koutoubia Minaret, Menara Gardens, Saadian Tombs and Bahia Palace. Explore the souks and the famous Djemaa El Fna square with its array of food and entertainment including fire-eaters, fortune tellers and snake charmers. Overnight. DAY 3 MARRAKESH ASNI & OUIRGANE MARRAKESH Breakfast. Today you have a most interesting drive through the High Atlas Mountain range visiting villages of Asni and Ouirgane with lunch reservations at La Roseraie. These villages are located at the foothills of the Atlas mountains (about 90 minutes drive from Marrakesh) with a gentle winter climate, moderate in summer. This is the heart of Berber countryside with picturesque villages and hamlets, forests, fruit trees (orange, lime, lemon, grapefruit), and rose gardens. The extraordinarily colourful rose gardens bloom from April to December, though April and May are the most resplendent months. Local colour can also be seen at the nearby souks at Ouirgane on Thursdays and Asni on Saturdays. Return to Marrakesh and overnight. DAY 4 MARRAKESH Breakfast. Perhaps some time for any last minute shopping before being transferred to the airport for your departure flight. ACCOMMODATION: COMFORT CLASS Riad Amina (Mogador, Menara, Mouna, Agatha, Argania rooms) ACCOMMODATION: SUPERIOR CLASS Riad Kniza (Marjana/Oriental rooms) / Dar Donab (Koutoubia Suite) ACCOMMODATION: FIRST CLASS La Maison Arabe (Badr/Doha rooms) LOW SEASON - 01/07/18 31/07/18 HIGH SEASON - 01/01/18 30/06/18 01/08/18 31/10/18 COMFORT Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON MINIMUM 4 PERSON MINIMUM 6 PERSON SINGLE SUPPLEMENT SUPERIOR Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 1,120 1,225 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 920 1,030 MINIMUM 6 PERSON SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FIRST CLASS Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 1,295 1,415 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,100 1,215 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,050 1,170 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT nights accommodation on bed & breakfast basis only Transport by air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver Entrance fees to monuments visited Full day tour with local guide in Marrakesh Full day excursion to Asni and Ouirgane Optional Lunch reservations only at La Roseraie (lunch is payable direct) Return transfers to /from Marrakesh Airport Porterage at hotels and airports Local taxes Full assistance by local operator OPTIONAL (PLEASE ASK US FOR DETAILS): Set menu lunch at La Roseraie Cooking lesson at La Maison Arabe Optional Day trip to Ait Ben haddou with visit of local home on day 3 instead of Atlas Mountains 58

59 Spicy Marrakesh 4 DAY / 3 NIGHT CITY STAY IN MARRAKESH Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 MARRAKESH Arrival at Marrakesh airport where you are met and transferred to your accommodation for check in. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. DAY 2 MARRAKESH After breakfast enjoy a full day tour with local English speaking guide of the magnificent city, including the Koutoubia Minaret, Menara Gardens, Saadian Tombs and Bahia Palace. Explore the souks and the famous Djemaa El Fna square with its array of food and entertainment including fire-eaters, fortune tellers and snake charmers. Overnight. DAY 3 MARRAKESH Breakfast. A special day today as you enjoy a cooking class. Set in a Kasbah surrounded by lush greenery and a vegetable garden, the Dada (traditionally the person responsible for the preparation of meals among wealthy families) will share her recipes with you. An English translator provides a brief introduction of the history and traditions of Moroccan cuisine followed by detailed preparation and cooking instructions. Choose your menu at the beginning of the class from a variety of tajine or couscous dishes. At the end of the workshop, enjoy the meal you have just prepared on a private patio in the shade of an olive or fig tree. Overnight. DAY 4 MARRAKESH Breakfast. Perhaps some time for any last minute shopping before being transferred to the airport for your departure flight. COMFORT Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 1,025 1,080 MINIMUM 4 PERSON MINIMUM 6 PERSON SINGLE SUPPLEMENT SUPERIOR Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 1,215 1,370 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,010 1,115 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,000 1,105 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FIRST CLASS Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 1,340 1,510 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,135 1,255 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,125 1,245 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT ACCOMMODATION: COMFORT CLASS Riad Amina (Mogador, Menara, Mouna, Agatha, Argania rooms) ACCOMMODATION: SUPERIOR CLASS Riad Kniza (Marjana/Oriental room) / Dar Donab (Koutoubia Suite) ACCOMMODATION: FIRST CLASS La Maison Arabe (Badr/Doha room) LOW SEASON 01/07/18 31/07/18 HIGH SEASON 01/01/18 30/06/18 01/08/18 31/10/18 3 nights accommodation on bed & breakfast basis Transport by air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver Entrance fees to monuments Full day tour with local guide in Marrakesh Cooking class at La Maison Arabe in Marrakesh (with return transfers in comfort & superior class only) Return transfers to /from Marrakesh Airport Porterage at hotels and airports Local taxes Full assistance by local operator CHARLES KERIVEL, ESSAOUIRA, LA RUE D AGADIR, 1998, (DETAIL) 59

60 Colours of Morocco WITH PRIVATE DRIVER Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 CASABLANCA Meet your driver at Casablanca airport and transfer to your hotel for check-in. An afternoon panoramic city tour with your driver including a stop at the famous Hassan II Mosque (outside only), for a 45min stop. The Hassan II Mosque, built on the shoreline just beyond the northern tip of the Medina, is one of the biggest in the world. The Mosque opened in 1993 and can accommodate up to people, of them in its main central hall. Overnight. DAY 2 CASABLANCA LARACHE LIXUS CHEFCHAOUEN (340KM) Breakfast. Head north along the coast towards Larache, for a short break. Larache is a relaxed and easygoing summer resort town. On to the Roman ruins at Lixus before continuing to the charming blue and white town Chefchaouen. Free time. Overnight. DAY 3 CHEFCHAOUEN Breakfast. Day at leisure to explore. It was founded by Moulay Ali ben Rachid in 1471 as a base from which to attack the Portuguese in Ceuta, the town prospered and grew considerably with the arrival of Muslim refugees from Spain. It was these refugees who built the whitewashed houses with blue painted doors and window frames, tiny balconies, tiled roofs and patios with a citrus tree planted right in the centre which give the town a truly Hispanic feel. Overnight. DAY 4 CHEFCHAOUEN VOLUBILIS MEKNES (200KM) Breakfast. A leisurely morning as you travel south towards Fes, with a stop on the way to visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Continue to Meknes and city tour with local guide including the Bab El Mansour Gate, Hari Souani stables and the old Medina. Arrival in Fes, the intellectual, religious and artistic capital of the kingdom. Free afternoon. Overnight. DAY 5 MEKNES FES Breakfast. A short trip to Fes, the intellectual, religious and artistic capital of the country. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the city with a local guide, visiting the Medina and colourful souks with the tanneries quarter. Overnight. DAY 6 FES Breakfast. Today enjoy a half day tour of Fes. You will visit the Karaouiyne University, Nejarrine Fountain, the historic Medersas and the Mechouar of the Royal Palace. Free afternoon. Overnight. COLOURS OF MOROCCO Based on Bed and Breakfast MINIMUM 2 PERSON 2,495 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,720 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,490 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 535 SOLO TRAVEL SUPPLEMENT 1,480 7 nights accommodation on breakfast only basis Transport by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver Entrance fees to monuments and local guides in Meknes (half day) and Fes (2 x half day) Porterage at hotels and airport Local Taxes Full assistance by local operator Mineral water in the vehicle DAY 7 FES RABAT Breakfast. Depart Fes as you travel to Rabat, capital of the kingdom. On arrival, your driver will take you to the delightful Kasbah des Oudayas, built out on the bluff overlooking the estuary and the Atlantic ocean. Free time to explore the city. Rabat, known as the White City, owing to its whitewashed narrow streets, its beautiful houses with overhanging balconies and ornate doors of multicoloured mosaics. Rabat s most famous landmark is the Tour Hassan, which overlooks the bridge to Sale. Overnight. DAY 8 RABAT CASABLANCA AIRPORT Breakfast and transfer to Casablanca airport. ACCOMMODATION Hotel Barcelo Casablanca 4*, Casablanca Dar Echchaouen, Chefchaouen Palais Didi, Meknes Riad El Yacout, Fes Riad Kalaa, Rabat 60

61 High Atlas Escape MARRAKESH & HIGH ATLAS PACKAGE Departs: Any day at your request DAY 1 MARRAKESH Arrival at the airport where you are met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Free afternoon at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a dinner at the beautiful Riad Kniza. Overnight. DAY 2 MARRAKESH Breakfast. Enjoy a half day tour of the city today. You will visit the Saadian tombs, Bahia Palace and explore the colourful souks with your guide. A highlight of your tour is a visit to a women s cooperative in the heart of the Medina. You will be able to see and purchase the work that the women produce and support the community in a tangible way. Free afternoon at your leisure. The Souks of Marrakesh are some of the best in Morocco, producing a wide variety of high-quality crafts, including brass plates, leather work, woodwork and carpets. Overnight. DAY 3 MARRAKESH Breakfast. A free day at your leisure for shopping or sightseeing. Overnight. DAY 4 MARRAKESH IMLIL Breakfast. You will head into the High Atlas today, where you will spend two nights in the High Atlas. Enjoy the stunning scenery at your beautiful mountain inn, at the base of Mt Toubkal. Dinner and overnight. DAY 5 IMLIL Breakfast. A most interesting day today as you take a guided walk. You will travel from Imlil to the village Armed via Targa Imoula and Achain, then enjoy lunch at the Kasbah Du Toubkal or outside near the river. 1hr 30 walking. Return to your property for some free time. Dinner and overnight. HIGH ATLAS ESCAPE Meals As Per Itinerary LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 2,220 2,335 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,920 2,035 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,725 1,835 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 925 1,035 CITY RIADS AND HOTELS MARRAKESH La Maison Arabe (Chourouk or Nasr room) IMLIL Dar Imlil (Standard room) LOW SEASON 01/07/18 31/07/18 HIGH SEASON 01/01/18 30/06/18 01/08/18 31/10/18 PRICE INCLUDES Arrival transfer in Marrakesh, airport to hotel Accommodation as above (Breakfast basis in Marrakesh + Halfboard in Imlil) Transport in minibus or similar with English speaking driver Local guide for visits of Marrakesh (half day tour). Including entrance fees Dinner at Riad Kniza on day 1 including return transfers from La Maison Arabe Village walk excursion with guide in Imlil, including lunch Assistance of local operator Taxes DAY 6 IMLIL MARRAKESH AIRPORT Breakfast. Farewell the mountain landscape as you are transferred to Marrakesh airport for your flight to your next destination. 61

62 Essaouira & Marrakesh CASABLANCA MARRAKESH 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS WITH PRIVATE DRIVER AND RIAD Departs: Any day at your request DAY 1 CASABLANCA SAFI ESSAOUIRA (351KM) Arrival at Casablanca airport where you will be met by your driver to travel south to Essaouira. On the way you will stop in Safi, to admire some of the very good local pottery. Arrival in the old Portugese port of Essaouira, one of the most popular coastal towns because of its magnificent beaches. Overnight. DAY 2 ESSAOUIRA Breakfast. Morning tour of the souks with a local English speaking guide, who will guide you through and explain the local handicrafts of the area. Free afternoon. Overnight. DAY 3 ESSAOUIRA Breakfast. Today you have a free day to enjoy the beach and port area at your leisure. You ll find narrow, freshly whitewashed streets, painted blinds, tranquil squares, artisans in tiny workshops working away at fragrant thuja wood and friendly cafes. Overnight. DAY 4 ESSAOUIRA MARRAKESH (187KM) Breakfast. Today you depart Essaouira as you travel on by private vehicle to Marrakesh. Marrakesh is one of Morocco s most important artistic and cultural centres. It was founded in 1062CE by Almoravide sultan Youssef Ibn Tachfin. Arrival and check-in. This afternoon, you have a dusk/sunset tour of the Menara Basin and the Majorelle Gardens, the beautiful private gardens owned by Yves Saint Laurent. Overnight. DAY 5 MARRAKESH Breakfast. Morning tour with local guide of the souks of Marrakesh, as well as the Saadian Tombs and the Koutoubia Mosque. Your tour ends at the lively Djemaa el Fna. The focal point of Marrakesh is the Djemaa el Fna, a huge square in the old part of town. Late in the evening, rows of food stalls are set up and entertainers take to the streets. Free afternoon. Overnight. DAY 6 MARRAKESH Breakfast. Free day at leisure. The Souks of Marrakesh are some of the best in Morocco, producing a wide variety of high-quality crafts, including brass plates, leather work, woodwork and carpets. Overnight. DAY 7 MARRAKESH After breakfast, transfer to Marrakesh airport. Assistance with departure formalities and end of services. CITY COMFORT CLASS SUPERIOR CLASS FIRST CLASS ESSAOUIRA RIAD MIMOUNA (BB) RIAD DAR LOUSSIA (DELUXE ROOM) (BB) MARRAKESH RIAD SLITINE / RIAD AMINA (BB) RIAD CHERGUI (AWADA / GHAITA ROOMS) (BB) HEURE BLEUE (STD CLASSIC ROOM) (BB) LA VILLA DES ORANGERS (DELUXE ROOM) (BB) 6 Nights accommodation in the above mentioned rooms with breakfast Transport by deluxe A/C vehicle with English speaking driver Dusk / Sunset tour of the Menara Basin & Majorelle Gardens with driver guide only Sightseeing as per itinerary with local guides in Essaouira and Marrakesh Porterage at airport Local taxes ESSAOUIRA PORT COMFORT Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast MINIMUM 2 PERSON 1,995 MINIMUM 3 PERSON 1,625 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,440 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,285 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 425 SUPERIOR Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast MINIMUM 2 PERSON 2,195 MINIMUM 3 PERSON 1,825 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 1,650 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 1,485 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 705 FIRST CLASS Price per person Twin Share in AUD Based on bed and breakfast MINIMUM 2 PERSON 3,365 MINIMUM 3 PERSON 2,950 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 2,785 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 2,610 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 1,870 Note: 62

63 Discover Morocco in Riads WITH PRIVATE DRIVER Departs: Any day at your request. FROM CASABLANCA 10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS DAY 1 CASABLANCA RABAT (95KM) Meet your driver at Casablanca airport and transfer to Rabat, capital of Morocco. Rabat, known as the White City, owing to its whitewashed narrow streets, its beautiful houses with overhanging balconies and ornate doors of multicoloured mosaics. Rabat s most famous landmark is the Tour Hassan, which overlooks the bridge to Sale. Overnight. DAY 2 RABAT MEKNES FES (240KM) Breakfast. Sightseeing of Rabat with your driver, visiting the entrance to the royal palace, the impressive Mohammed V Mausoleum and Tour Hassan. Continue to Meknes and city tour with local guide including the Bab El Mansour Gate, Hari Souani stables and the old Medina. Arrival in Fes, the intellectual, religious and artistic capital of the kingdom. Overnight. DAY 3 FES Breakfast. Full day sightseeing tour of the medieval city of Fes. Visit the medina, the heart of the old city, with its fascinating souks, tanneries, artisan quarters and remarkable Islamic architecture. Overnight. DAY 4 FES AZROU ERFOUD (421KM) Breakfast. Early departure to Azrou, a Berber village known for it s handicraft cooperative. Continue via Midelt and the route carved by the Ziz River, passing many fortified villages to arrive in Erfoud. Optional: 4WD sunset excursion to the Merzougan sand dunes. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 5 ERFOUD TINERHIR OUARZAZATE (385KM) Breakfast. Drive to Tinerhir via Rissani to visit the ruins of Ksar Abbar. Departure along the Tinejdad road with its spectacular Kasbahs. Visit of the famous Todra Canyons. Continue to Ouarzazate via El Kelaa M gouna and the most beautiful of all the valleys, the Dades valley. You will spend the next two nights in your lovely kasbah hotel at the edge of a lake, away from the hustle of the town. Overnight. DAY 6 OUARZAZATE Breakfast. Visit Ouarzazate including the Tourirt Kasbah, considered to be one of the most beautiful in Morocco and Tifoultout Kasbah with its remarkable views over the valley. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight. DAY 7 OUARZAZATE MARRAKESH (204KM) Breakfast. Morning visit of Ait Ben Haddou. The village of Ait Ben- Haddou has one of the most exotic and best preserved kasbahs in the whole Atlas region. The town has been the setting for as many as 20 films, notably Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. Continue on, crossing the High Atlas mountains via spectacular Tizi-n-Tichka pass to finally arrive in Marrakesh. Overnight. Price per person Twin Share in AUD Meals as per Itinerary LOW MID HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 3,010 3,055 3,060 MINIMUM 3 PERSON 2,425 2,475 2,500 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 2,145 2,175 2,185 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT added to the above cost. CITY RABAT FES ERFOUD OUARZAZATE RIADS AND HOTELS Riad Dar El Kebira (Agdal Room) Riad Ghita (Jawhara Suite) or Riad El Yacout (standard room) Kasbah Xaluca Les Tourmalines (19Km Outside Ouarzazate) MARRAKESH Riad Amina Or Riad Slitine CASABLANCA Hotel Novotel Casablanca City Centre 4* PRICE INCLUDES Accommodation in Riads & select hotels on breakfast only basis, half board in Erfoud Transport by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver Entrance fees to monuments & Local guides for Fes, Marrakesh & Meknes Return transfers to/from Casablanca Airport Porterage at hotels and airport Local Taxes Full assistance by local operator OPTIONAL Dinner show in Marrakesh & 4WD excursion to Merzouga to see the sand dunes LOW SEASON 09/01/18-14/02/18 16/06/18-31/07/18 MED SEASON 15/02/18-28/02/18 01/08/18-31/08/18 HIGH SEASON 20/12/17-08/01/18 01/03/18-15/06/18 01/09/18-31/10/18 EXTENSION TO ESSAOUIRA BETWEEN MARRAKESH & CASABLANCA (2 NIGHTS) CITY ESSAOUIRA RIAD Note: Driver provides simple social commentary but is supported by local guid es in some cities for official monument visits. EXTENSION ALL YEAR 2018 LOW MID HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON MINIMUM 3 PERSON RIAD DAR MIMOUNA (SEA VIEW ROOM) PRICE INCLUDES 2 nights accommodation at Riad Dar Mimouna (sea view room), breakfast only basis Half day tour of Essaouira with local English speaking guide Transport from Marrakesh to Essaouira to Casablanca DAY 8 MARRAKESH Breakfast. Full day sightseeing tour of Marrakesh including the Koutoubia Minaret, Menara Gardens, Saadian Tombs and Bahia Palace. Explore the souks and the famous Djemaa El Fna Square with its array of food and entertainment including fireeaters, fortune tellers and snake charmers. Optional: Dinner show at Ksar el Hamra. Overnight. DAY 9 MARRAKESH CASABLANCA (250KM) Breakfast. Morning at leisure before returning to Casablanca, the commercial capital of the country. Overnight. DAY 10 CASABLANCA Breakfast. After breakfast and check-out from your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for departure to your next destination. LIONEL LINDSAY, A CARAVANSERAI, KAIROUAN TUNISIA, C 0000 (DETAIL) 63

64 Aromatic Morocco PRIVATE FOODIE TOUR IN DELUXE ACCOMMODATION WITH PRIVATE DRIVER 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 MARRAKESH Arrive Marrakesh where you are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. This evening you will enjoy a Medina by night tour. Pick up from your hotel by horse carriage to see the Medina walls and the Koutoubia Minaret by night. Drop off at the lively Djemaa el Fna Square to see the thriving night entertainment, followed by a welcome dinner in the Medina at the Le Tobsil Restaurant. Transfer back to your hotel. Overnight. DAY 2 MARRAKESH Breakfast. Enjoy a half day tour of the city today. You will visit the Saadian tombs, Bahia Palace and explore the colourful souks with your guide. A highlight of your tour is a visit to a women s cooperative in the heart of the Medina. You will be able to see and purchase the work that the women produce and support the community in a tangible way. Free afternoon at your leisure. Overnight. DAY 3 MARRAKESH OURIKA VALLEY - MARRAKESH Breakfast. Today you have a most interesting drive to the Ourika Valley located in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountain Range, where you will visit the Jardins du Safran Gardens. Continue to the Berber Villages of Asni and Ourigane where you will enjoy lunch at La Roseraie. Time for exploring the gardens at La Roseraie before heading to the Nectarome Aromatic Garden, for a visit of this bio-aromatic garden. Return to Marrakesh for a free evening to relax. Overnight. DAY 4 MARRAKESH ESSAOUIRA (187 KM) Breakfast. Today you depart to Essaouira. Arrival in the old Portuguese port of Essaouira, one of the most popular coastal towns because of its magnificent beaches. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. DAY 5 ESSAOUIRA Breakfast. Today you have a free day to enjoy the beach and port area at your leisure. You ll find narrow, freshly whitewashed streets, painted blinds, tranquil squares, artisans in tiny workshops working away at fragrant thuja wood and friendly cafes. This evening you have dinner reservations at the charming and eccentric Elizir Restaurant. Overnight. DAY 6 ESSAOUIRA SAFI OUALIDIA (185 KM) Breakfast. Today you depart Essaouira to Oualidia. On the way you will stop in Safi, to admire some of the very good local pottery. Arrival at Oualidia for free afternoon. This small coastal resort is named after the Sultan Ek Oualid who built the Kasbah in Overnight. DAY 7 OUALIDIA Breakfast. Full free day to relax by the pool enjoying the breathtaking views of the lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. Overnight. DAY 8 OUALIDIA EL JADIDA - RABAT (270 KM) Breakfast. Departure via El Jadida for a brief visit before continuing to Rabat. Begin your journey to Rabat, capital of the kingdom and modern administrative centre. Rabat is known as the "White City", owing to its whitewashed houses and buildings. City tour including the Kasbah of the Oudaya, the Hassan Tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the Royal Palace & Mechouar (exterior). Overnight. DAY 10 FES Breakfast. Full day tour of Fes with local guide, the religious, artistic and intellectual centre of Morocco. Visit the Medina, the Cherratine and El-Attarine Medersas (beautifully decorated buildings dedicated to religious study), the Karaouiyne University and the Nejjarine Fountain. After lunch there is a tour of the many souks, the dyers and tanners quarter and the Mechouar of the Royal Palace. Overnight. DAY 11 FES CASABLANCA (289 KM) Breakfast. Today is a special morning as you have a cooking class at the beautiful Riad Maison Bleue. At the end of the class enjoy the authentic Moroccan cuisine you have prepared for lunch. Transfer to Casablanca. On arrival in the city, you are taken to the very impressive Hassan II Mosque by your driver. This is one of only 2 mosques in Morocco non-muslims are allowed to enter, you may like to take the opportunity (optional). The Mosque opened in 1993 and can accommodate up to people, of them in its main central hall. Overnight. DAY 12 CASABLANCA Breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight out of Casablanca. AROMATIC MOROCCO Price per person Twin Share in AUD Meals as per Itinerary LOW HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 4,990 5,250 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 4,090 4,365 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 3,775 4,050 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 2,230 2,710 LOW SEASON 16/06/18-31/08/18 HIGH SEASON 01/01/18-15/06/18 01/09/18-31/10/18 PRICE INCLUDES Arrival transfer into Marrakesh by private vehicle 11 nights accommodation with meal inclusions as per itinerary Transport by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver Medina by night tour with welcome dinner at Le Tobsil in Marrakesh, including return transfer Entrance fees to monuments and local guides in Marrakesh, Rabat & Fes Full day excursion to Ourika Valley including entrance fees to Jardins du Safran & Nectarome Aromatic Gardens Lunch at La Roseraie Dinner reservations at Elizir (Essaouira) & Lunch reservations at Scorpion House (Moulay Idriss) (meals payable locally) Visit of Domaine del Zouina wine estate Cooking class at Riad Maison Bleue including lunch Departure transfer to Casablanca airport by private vehicle Porterage at hotels and airport Local Taxes Full assistance by local operator DAY 9 RABAT MEKNES VOLUBILIS MOULAY IDRISS FES (240 KM) Breakfast. Today you will visit the beautiful Domaine del Zouina, a 63 hectare vineyard outside Meknes, located between the foothills of the Rif and the Middle Atlas. Continue to the impressive Roman ruins of Volubilis for free time to explore before heading to Moulay Idriss for lunch reservations at Scorpion House Restaurant enjoying spectacular Views over the town. Back on the road to Fes, the intellectual, religious and artistic capital of the Kingdom. Overnight. 64

65 Enchanting Morocco In Riads WITH PRIVATE DRIVER Departs: Any day at your request. DAY 1 CASABLANCA RABAT (95KM) Arrival at Casablanca airport where you are met and transferred to the city for a City tour of this legendary and cosmopolitan city, the financial capital of Morocco. Departure to Rabat. City tour of the political capital of the Kingdom including a visit to the Mechouar of the Royal Palace, the ruins of Chellah, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, the Kasbahs des Oudayas and the Hassan tower - an historic minaret which is the city s landmark. You will also stop at the lovely Kasbah Des Ouadayas, built out on the bluff overlooking the estuary and the atlantic ocean. Overnight. DAY 2 RABAT VOLUBILIS -MOULAY IDRISS MEKNES - FES (240KM) Breakfast. Departure to Meknes via Volubilis, the Roman ruins (optional visit), and Moulay Idriss, the holy town and important place of pilgrimage where the founder of Morocco s first dynasty is buried. Continue on to Meknes. City tour of Meknes with local guide including El Hdim square, Bab El Mansour, the massive gate which is the entrance to the old city and the Jewish quarter, the Royal Granaries and the city ramparts. In the afternoon departure for Fes. Overnight. DAY 3 FES Breakfast. Full day tour of Fes with local guide, the religious, artistic and intellectual centre of Morocco. Visit the Medina, the Cherratine and El-Attarine Medersas (beautifully decorated buildings dedicated to religious study), the Karaouiyne University and the Nejjarine Fountain. After lunch there is a tour of the many souks, the dyers and tanners quarter and the Mechouar of the Royal Palace. Overnight. DAY 4 FES MIDELT ERFOUD (440KM) Breakfast. Travel via the mountains of the Middle Atlas Ranges passing Ifrane and Azrou, an important Berber handicraft centre, arriving at Midelt. Continue through Errachidia through the valley of the Oued Ziz, passing many fortified villages. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 5 ERFOUD - MERZOUGA Breakfast. A leisurely morning at the hotel today, before you are collected at mid morning for your transfer south to Merzouga, at the edge of the Saharan sand dunes, a journey of approximately 1 hour. You will arrive at the property in time for lunch at leisure. Today, a 2 hour camel ride to a special desert camp at the edge of the dunes to sleep under the stars! Dinner and Overnight. DAY 6 MERZOUGA TINERHIR - BOUMALNE DU DADES (320KM) This morning you will have to rise early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the dunes. Breakfast. Departure for Tinerhir along the Tinejdad road with its spectacular Kasbahs. Afternoon visit of the famous Todra Canyons. Continue on to your guesthouse in Boumalne du Dades. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 7 BOUMALNE DU DADES OUARZAZATE (115KM) Breakfast. Departure for Ouarzazate via El-Kelaa, famous for its May festival which celebrates the harvest of the roses. Continue through the Dades Valley along the road of a Thousand Kasbahs finally arriving in Ouarzazate. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 8 OUARZAZATE Breakfast. Morning at leisure for shopping or sightseeing. In the afternoon, visit the old town and the Kasbahs of Tiffeltout and Taourirt in and around Ouarzazate. Continue on to the wonderful fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, the most spectacular fortress village in the south of Morocco. Return to Ouarzazate. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 9 OUARZAZATE TALIOUINE TAROUDANNT (350KM) Breakfast. Morning departure for the beautiful oasis towns of Taliouine and Taroudannt, the latter surrounded by old, fortified city walls and towers. Once a former regional capital, Taroudannt is famous for its stone cutters. Visit the remarkably picturesque souks. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner and Overnight. DAY 10 TAROUDANNT AGADIR ESSAOUIRA (260KM) Breakfast. Morning city visit of Taroudannt then departure for Agadir. Afternoon panoramic tour of Agadir and its beautiful beaches, souks and kasbah. Departure from Agadir and head towards Essaouira. City tour with local guide. Formerly known as Mogador, an historic Portuguese port, Essaouira boasts a beautiful Medina and fine local crafts. Overnight. DAY 11 ESSAOUIRA Breakfast. Today you have a free day to enjoy the beach and port area at your leisure. You ll find narrow, freshly whitewashed streets, painted blinds, tranquil squares, artisans in tiny workshops working away at fragrant thuja wood and friendly cafes. Overnight. DAY 12 ESSAOUIRA - MARRAKESH (176KM) Breakfast. Depart Essaouira via the inland road to Marrakesh. Afternoon visit of the Menara Gardens and orchards and the city ramparts. Overnight. DAY 13 MARRAKESH Breakfast. Full day sightseeing of the historical sites of this impressive southern capital, called the pearl of the South. The tour visits the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia Palace and the famous Djemaa El Fna Square. Dinner and show at the Ksar el Hamra restaurant. Overnight. DAY 14 MARRAKESH CASABLANCA (250KM) Breakfast. Morning at leisure for browsing and shopping. Optional lunch and departure for Casablanca. Overnight. DAY 15 CASABLANCA Breakfast and transfer to Casablanca Airport for your flight out of Morocco. End of Tour services. Price per person Twin Share in AUD Meals as per Itinerary LOW MID HIGH MINIMUM 2 PERSON 4,545 4,580 4,645 MINIMUM 4 PERSON 3,315 3,360 3,420 MINIMUM 6 PERSON 2,930 2,960 3,020 MINIMUM 8 PERSON 2,760 2,810 2,870 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 1,355 1,355 1,355 SOLO TRAVEL SUPPLEMENT 1,895 1,895 1,895 LOW SEASON 05/01/18 15/02/18 01/06/18 31/07/18 MED SEASON 01/08/18 31/08/18 HIGH SEASON 24/12/17 04/01/18 16/02/18 31/05/18 01/09/18 31/10/18 PRICE INCLUDES 14 nights accommodation Transport by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver Entrance fees to monuments and local guides in Fes, Marrakesh, Meknes & Essaouira Dinner in Marrakesh, with musicians and bellydancer 2 hour camel ride to reach the overnight Bivouac Tents (out of Merzouga) Return transfers to/from Casablanca Airport Porterage at hotels and airport Local Taxes Full assistance by local operator Note: Driver provides simple social commentary but is supported by local guides in some cities for official monument visits. CHARLES KERIVEL, PORTEUR D EAU,

66 Riads of Morocco TRADITIONAL GUEST HOUSES Riads are traditional guest houses that are often renovated and restored homes of wealthy Moroccan families. There is an enormous variety as a result of the individual nature of the accommodations and Riads vary from humble and rustic homes to sumptuous, luxurious palaces. Mostly decorated with regional fabrics and exotic handicrafts, Riads also often have their own internal patios and sometimes their very own hammam, or traditional steam bath. Best of all, many of these homes are located in the most sought after parts of the city and often inside the walls of the Medina (old city). Many Riads are centuries old but have been transformed in such a way as to combine the best of the old with the new - enchanting earthenware and raw colours with the finest of life s little indulgences. This is the ideal way to experience the real Morocco in style. Important Note: As each room in a Riad is unique, prices vary accordingly. MARRAKESH RIAD KNIZA Dating from the 18th century, Riad Kniza is a small luxury Hotel de Charme in the heart of the old Médina of Marrakesh. The house was completely restored with great care and style by Haj Mohamed Bouskri, a famed antiques dealer. The riad boasts 11 uniquely decorated rooms and suites built around 3 courtyards, swimming pool, spa and hammam, beautiful lounges with open fire places and outdoor terrace with sunbeds. MARRAKESH RIAD CHERGUI In the heart of the old city, near the Bab Doukkala Mosque is this welcoming escape from the hustle of the medina. Centred around an elegant patio, the riad offers 6 uniquely furnished rooms, a beautiful salon complete with open fireplace and a swimming pool. There is a dining room and special dinners are also served around the swimming pool on warm evenings, accompanied by musicians and dancers. FES RIAD FES Wonderful combination of Moroccan architecture and contemporary style, Riad Fes is located in the most popular part of the medina, a few minutes away from the Blue Gate. The decor is luxurious yet understated and the riad will please the most discerning. The stylish restaurant and lounge area is the perfect backdrop for a memorable moment with friends and family. Facilities include wireless internet, panoramic terrace, lounge and bar, room service, swimming pool and beauty treatments in the inhouse hammam. FES RIAD MAISON BLEUE & SPA The main courtyard, with its swimming pool and garden is surrounded by three deluxe rooms and a Moorish salon. The eleven deluxe rooms and two standard rooms of the Riad are each equipped with an ensuite bathroom, reversecycle airconditioning, telephone, television, internet access, mini bar and room safe. Three terraces offer breathtaking views of the different aspects of the medina. In the warmer weather, you will be served your requested meals on these lovely terraces. ESSAOUIRA DAR L OUSSIA On the ramparts of the city s Medina, this lovely boutique riad is in close proximity to the souks as well as the beach and old port. There are 24 spacious and inviting rooms and suites, all uniquely decorated with local fabrics and materials and equipped with WiFi. The riad is built around a large inner courtyard and guests can enjoy a hammam or massage at the property or just relax with a book in the lounge or on the terrace, with its lovely panoramic views. An inhouse restaurant and bar complete the picture. RABAT DAR EL KEBIRA Delightful riad in the heart of the Medina, fully restored with great taste and flair. Traditional elements and decor blend with modern comforts such as air conditioning and wifi internet access. There are 4 uniquely furnished rooms and 2 suites, an open air courtyard, a wonderfully tiled Moroccan sitting room, a terrace with wonderful city views and an elegant restaurant complete with fireplace. Please see our website ( for further examples 66

67 Terms & Conditions (All prices in Australian Dollars) DEPOSITS & HANDLING FEES be accepted upon receipt of a Deposit to be paid within 7 days of confirmation and is Final payment must reach Ibertours Travel no later than 45 days prior to departure from Australia Magnificent Spain and Portugal Cruise package, the Great Train Journeys, El Transcantabrico, Al Andalus and El Expreso de la Robla, a special non-refundable deposit per person is required prior to confirmation. A non-refundable deposit is riad bookings in Morocco, a Credit Card Guarantee form is required to be filled out prior to any LATE BOOKING FEE within 14 days of departure from Australia. If the booking is made 7 days or less prior to MINIMUM RESERVATION FEES AND CONDITIONS with an accommodation package. PRICES between 01 January 2018 and 31 October Currency fluctuations during this period Higher weekend rates may apply at some properties. of products for the brochure, communications with suppliers, brochure production & able to be obtained at a lower price elsewhere. AMENDMENTS (a) before documents are issued, no fee will apply for the first amendment. For each CANCELLATION If it is necessary to cancel your arrangements then cancellation fees will be incurred. These cancellation fees are as follows; Between 35 days and 44 days prior to departure from Australia: Between 16 days and 34 days prior to departure from Australia: Between 8 days and 15 days prior to departure from Australia: Between 7 days and departure from Australia: full amount PLUS the cancellation unless the cancellation fee is the full amount. Note: Special Cancellation Charges apply for the Riads of Morocco, the Great Train Journeys and Magnificent Spain and Portugal cruise package. UNUSED SERVICES suppliers or hotels. REFUNDS Any application for a refund must be made in writing and must be supported with appropriate documentation. The application must be made within one month after HOTEL STANDARDS & CATEGORIES The hotel gradings and categories referred to in this Brochure are regulated by the TRAVEL INSURANCE of your itinerary in respect of illness, injury, death, loss of luggage and personal items, INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS NOT INCLUDED IN PRICES SHOWN RESPONSIBILITY no liability for personal injury, disablement or death nor for loss arising from accident, changes to schedules or other causes. upon request. required by law and any interest earned on these moneys will be its property. All prices published in this Brochure are calculated in Australian Dollars and are obtained at a lower price elsewhere. AGENT S RESPONSIBILITY B. No representation made by your Agent to you concerning the quality, location, Your Travel Agent IBERTOURS TRAVEL are the industry specialists in the entire region of SPAIN, PORTUGAL and MOROCCO. Contact us for more information!!! VISIT OUR WEBSITE: TO 1027 Unit 5, 20 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia Telephone: (61) - (3) Facsimile: (61) - (3) RESERVATIONS ONLY TOLL FREE (AUS) (NZ) ENETT payee code: IBERTOURS The Iberian Specialists 67

68 It s always HAPPY HOUR at 40,000 ft EMIRATES FIRST AND BUSINESS Anytime is a good time to enjoy a relaxing drink or two in our spacious onboard bar*, serving cocktails, canapés, spirits and exclusive wines. You never know who you ll meet. Hello Tomorrow