From Madrid to Andalucia

Transcription

1 Touring Holidays in Spain From Madrid to Andalucia

2 FLY-DRIVE TOURING HOLIDAYS IN SPAIN From Madrid to Andalucia 7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS Madrid Toledo Baeza Cordoba Toledo Experience the majestic history of Central Spain in picturesque Toledo, before travelling down to Andalucia, staying amongst the famous white-washed houses, and witnessing the marks left by a multitude of vibrant cultures as you go. Trace the influences of Moorish, Mudéjar, and Jewish design, visit the white windmills featured in the iconic work of Miguel de Cervantes, and sample some of La Mancha s finest wines in the region s capital, Valdepeñas. The three hotels on this seven-night touring holiday together blend Spain s rich history and phenomenal views with chic elegance and a contemporary attention to detail. This luxury touring holiday takes you down from Spain s capital into rustic Andalucia, through some of Spain s most beautiful but unexplored areas. Start with two nights in Toledo, the country s former capital. This picturesque city is built into a dramatic meander of the Tagus River, which stretches across the centre of Spain. Enjoy the stunning green views across the countryside and the rising spires and domes of Toledo, the City of Three Cultures, from the comfort of the luxury Parador de Toledo. Then, begin your journey south to Baeza, stopping off at the famous windmills of Consuegra, which feature in Cervantes Don Quixote, and then at the vineyards and bodegas of Valdepeñas, one of Spain s most renowned Denomination of Origins. Spend three nights in the Puerta de la Luna hotel, enjoying the diverse city of Baeza, and exploring the delights of the surrounding olive groves, vineyards, and countryside. On your sixth day, drive down into Andalucia proper, and spend your last two nights at the Las Casas de la Juderia in Cordoba. This city, like Toledo, holds a wealth of contrasting and beautiful architecture, inspired by a variety of cultures, religions, and historical periods. Trace the pattern of Roman ruins that punctuates the streets, and see the many cultures of Spain mesh in the mediaeval mosque turned cathedral. On your way to Granada for your return fl ight, stop off at the Alhambra Palace, to see one of Spain s most beautiful historical sights. Then, head to the airport for your return fl ight to the UK. PRICES From 990 per person Based on double occupancy in the aforementioned hotels. DATES This holiday can be arranged throughout the year. Timings can vary depending on the month and day of the week. WHAT S INCLUDED Flights from London to Madrid, and Granada to London Group A hire car for duration 2 nights bed and breakfast in Toledo 3 nights bed and breakfast in Baeza 2 nights bed and breakfast in Cordoba WHAT S NOT INCLUDED Optional extra nights in Toledo, Baeza, Cordoba or any other destination Telephone number info@expressionsholidays.co.uk 2

3 DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY Madrid - Toledo - Baeza - Cordoba Days one to two: Madrid to Toledo Fly into Madrid, collect your hire car, and drive south to Toledo, Spain s former capital, for two nights at the Parador de Toledo. This converted monastery is separated from the bustling city by a meander of the Tagus River and its lush, verdant banks. Raised on higher ground, the rooms have excellent views out across the domed skyline of Toledo, and the green agricultural land beyond. Spend a few hours on your fi rst day walking around the eclectic City of Three Cultures, named as such because of its intriguing blend of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim infl uences. Visit the central 13th Century Gothic Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo to see the golden altar, ribbed vaulted ceiling, and spectacular stained glass which dates back to the cathedral s beginnings. Enter through the Puerta de Mollete, the doorway through which food was once given out to the poor, and see the marble tombs in the Capilla de Santiago, the retablo of the New Testament in the Capilla Mayor, and the rich collection of paintings in the Sanctuary. Alternatively, visit the Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz to see its traditionally Arabic keyhole archways and colourful stone. The Iglesia de Santiago del Arrabal is reputedly the most stunning example in the city of the Mudéjar architecture so prevalent in the region, with dark brick curved walls that are indented on all sides. The Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo does, however, incorporate many Mudéjar features into its Roman Catholic design. On the outskirts of the city, the remains of the Moorish town walls can be seen in the layered archway and battlements of the Puerta Vieja de Bisagra, while the Iglesia de Santo Tomé harks back to the city s Moorish infl uence in its tower, which resembles one of the Minarets of Morocco. To reach your hotel from the city centre, cross the river on either the Puente de Alcantara or the Puente de San Martin, both of which are scenic historic bridges. In the evenings, enjoy the views from your terrace, and then dine in the restaurant on excellent gastronomic food based on the local cuisine and ingredients. Days three to five: Toledo to Baeza Leave the magnifi cent hilltop aspect of the Parador de Toledo behind, and continue south towards the border of Andalucia. Take this opportunity to stop off in Consuegra and Campo de Criptana to see the famous white windmills of Miguel de Cervantes Don Quixote, or, alternatively, come back to visit them as part of a longer day-trip. These stout white-washed windmills, with black pointed roofs and traditionally gridded vanes, line the ridges of the land high above the fi elds below. With their small doors and surreal situation, Cordoba they could quite easily be taken straight from a storybook. Take another detour or day-trip to Valdepeñas, the capital of the La Mancha wine region, and its surrounding vineyards. More than 30 bodegas are open to visitors, and offer the very best of the region s red wines. The light red Clarete, or Aloque, and Rosado wines established this region as one of Spain s best, though as time goes by robust aged and unaged reds that are soft as velvet with vibrant fruit fl avours are becoming increasingly popular. Continue south from here and arrive at the hotel Puerta de la Luna in Baeza in the evening. On your fi rst day in Baeza, we recommend exploring the city in earnest, leaving the second day for revisiting anything you missed on the drive down. The white-washed houses of Baeza stand on a promontory which rises out of the Jaén landscape, which is otherwise dominated by olive trees. As you walk along the streets, you will notice the impressive legacy of Renaissance architecture, unusual for southern Spain. Then, enjoy some of the excellent Mediterranean cuisine in a local restaurant, such as the Palacio de Gallego, or have a lighter dish in a cafe. For a taste of some of Baeza s best architecture, take in the cathedral, built in 1567 and decorated in soft whites and creams, and the unique Isabelline style of the Palacio de Jabalquinto. Perhaps venture out on your second day in Baeza into the Jaén province s olive groves to taste some of the locally produced olive oil. Dine in the evening in the intimate courtyard of your hotel, or in a restaurant in town. Days six to seven: Baeza to Cordoba From Baeza, drive on to Cordoba, a city which encapsulates the mixture of Jewish and Arabic infl uences in Andalucia, where you will stay for two nights at Las Casas de la Juderia. This converted fortress, though unassuming from the front, epitomises the heritage of Cordoba. Traditional Moorish keyhole archways break up the lounge and dark wood beams adorn the bedrooms. Tiled courtyards are built around fountains, and yellow-ochre walls and columns fi nish off the historic atmosphere. Spend these two days soaking up the Cordoban charm, navigating the uneven stairways that lace the Jewish quarter, and snake their way down narrow cobbled streets, drawing visitors out across the Puertas de Almodovar, into the lively hidden squares, and past quaint cafes and bars. Be sure to visit the Mezquita de Cordoba, a medieval mosque turned Catholic cathedral, characterised by its 88 red and white striped pillars, and golden altar accompanied by painted portraits and a cross-arched ceiling. The architecture of this building is typical of the Omeya style, with hints of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance integration. The multi-cultural feel of Cordoba is at its peak beside the high pillars of the ancient Roman temples that emerge from the busy city streets with grace and authority. Formidable reconstructed Roman water wheels stand poised for action in the Guadalquivir river-bed. To see Cordoba through the eyes of an artist, take a walk along the Calle de las Flores, observing the decorative fl owers that adorn the walls and Telephone number info@expressionsholidays.co.uk 3

4 DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY Madrid - Toledo - Baeza - Cordoba attract local artists. The Palacio de Viana gives visitors a taste of the grandeur of the nearby Alcazar Palace, though we would recommend visiting there too, with beautiful courtyards and charming interior rooms. To see some of the local contemporary and historic artwork, visit the Episcopal Palace, opposite the Mezquita de Cordoba, or sit in one of Cervantes favourite spots on the Posada del Potro. Dine in the evenings in the Emporion Restaurant at the Hotel las Casas de la Juderia, in the ambience of dark wood, leather, and fl ourishes of gold leaf. Day eight: Return to the UK On your fi nal day, drive south to Granada for your return fl ight to London, perhaps leaving time for a few hours in the city. If you have time, stop off at the Alhambra Palace, a complex of traditional Arabic architecture that dates back to the 9th century. Its scale, the intricate beauty of its rooms, and its commanding presence in the countryside has led it to be considered the crowning glory in the Arabic Art of the Emirate of Granada. Consuegra windmills OPTIONAL Add extra nights in any destination visited on this tour, or combine with others to create a fully tailor-made holiday. Telephone number info@expressionsholidays.co.uk 4

5 HOTELS These are the luxury hotels that feature on this touring holiday from Central to Southern Spain. Alternative hotels are available at some destinations - please contact us for full details. TOLEDO Parador de Toledo 4 star Parador de Toledo is a four-star converted monastery located about 4km from the centre of Toledo, separated from the city by the Tagus River and its lush banks. There is an evident sense of history in the hotel s exposed bricks and wooden terraces humbly placed against the domed skyline of Toledo s mosques and its tall spired cathedral. Set on the Emperador Hill, Parador de Toledo offers atmospheric views of the city that are particularly beautiful at night, earning the local name, City of Lights. There is an understated elegance about Parador de Toledo s white washed walls and wooden beamed ceilings which retain a sense of the hotel s monastic past. The walls act as a canvas for intricate pieces of art work and large spacious rooms contain modern, comfortable furniture. The 79 individually decorated rooms offer spacious accommodation with a neutral colour tone of creams and creams. Rooms have terraces with views of the outdoor pool and some offer four poster beds. The restaurant at Parador de Toledo places importance on local gastronomy and offers a selection of traditional dishes with venison and honey, roast lamb and pisto manchego, which is similar to ratatouille, all paired with La Mancha wine. The outdoor pool is surrounded by sun loungers where guests may swim and relax against spectacular views of Toledo. Parador de Toledo s close proximity to the city makes an ideal location for sightseeing excursions and trips into Toledo s countryside. read more Parador de Toledo, Toledo BAEZA Puerta de la Luna The former residence of a prominent 16th century family, the unassuming façade of Hotel Puerta de La Luna can be found amid the peaceful alleyways of Baeza s old town. Through ancient, fortifi ed doors you disappear into elegant interiors where original features abound. An internal patio demonstrates this best, where age-old stone columns support exposed wooden beams and decorative cobblestones fall underfoot. You can look down to this spot from the upper gallery, along which you gain access to some of the best rooms. Hotel Puerta de La Luna is undoubtedly deceiving in its size. An unexpected 44 guest rooms and suites can be found within, each individually decorated in a contemporary style that promotes light and airiness with a fresh palate, subtle lighting and terracotta fl oor tiles. Original features are retained where possible. Elsewhere, the popular La Pintada restaurant spills from a refi ned dining room out onto the outdoor patio area. Surrounded by the hotel s three buildings, this walled enclosure features a small swimming pool and terrace overseen by the looming tower of the Cathedral de Baeza. Dine under orange and cypress trees for an authentic taste of celebrated local cuisine at an intimate table for two either under the stars or beneath the protection of a shaded arcade lined with Romanesque columns. You can also enjoy light poolside lunches from the cafeteria here. The service is simple at Hotel Puerta de La Luna, the atmosphere is special and the address even more so, allowing for superb value for money at the heart of the historic centre of Baeza. read more Parador de Toledo, Toledo Puerta de la Luna, Baeza Puerta de la Luna, Baeza Telephone number info@expressionsholidays.co.uk 5

6 HOTELS These are the luxury hotels that feature on this touring holiday from Central to Southern Spain. Alternative hotels are available at some destinations - please contact us for full details. CORDOBA Las Casas de la Juderia 4 star A sublime maze of patios and courtyards, the four-star Hotel Las Casas de la Judería occupies a charming fortress palace in the Jewish quarter of Córdoba. Located midway between the Alcazar and the Mezquita, this boutique hotel exudes refi ned elegance - and a tangible sense of its own history. This is owed to a respectful refurbishment, in which the building s original charm has remained intact due to scant modern embellishment. As befi ts the Andalucian tradition of outdoor living, Hotel Las Casas de la Judería holds a nexus of covered patios, terraces and fl owerfi lled courtyards. These cute nooks, fi lled with archways and columns, are the perfect place for quiet refl ection accompanied by the gentle soundtrack of water features. It is a pleasure to disappear here from the chaos of the bustling streets, while a small outdoor swimming pool is an exclusive addition at this central address. There is a type of simplicity in the hotel s interior design that refuses to detract from the original character of the property. The galleria shows this best with its frugal decoration, featuring wooden fl oorboards and beams separated only by white walls; the feeling is almost mediaeval. By evening, dine on a menu of revamped Andalucian fl avours in the converted stable buildings of Restaurante La Caballerizas de los Marqueses before retreating to guestrooms decorated with regal bed linens and views across the ancient rooftops of Córdoba to the majestic Mezquita. read more Las Casa de la Juderia, Cordoba Puerto de la Luna, Baeza Las Casa de la Juderia, Cordoba Las Casa de la Juderia, Cordoba Telephone number info@expressionsholidays.co.uk 6

7 MAP OF THE MADRID TO ANDALUCIA TOURING HOLIDAY The map below illustrates the route outlined in this touring itinerary, with overnight stops and places of interest highlighted. DRIVING TIMES FOR THIS TOURING HOLIDAY: Barcelona to Figueres: 1 hour 55 minutes Figueres to S Agaro: 1 hour 20 minutes S Agaro to Sitges: 1 hour 40 minutes Sitges to Valencia: 2 hours 55 minutes Valencia to Denia: 1 hour 15 minutes Denia to Alicante: 1 hour 10 minutes Telephone number info@expressionsholidays.co.uk 7

8 GENERAL INFORMATION This touring holiday is one of several suggested holidays we can offer you exactly as it is, but also with any alterations you might want, including extra nights in one or more places or adding in extra places. All our tours can be extended so that you can include a longer stay in one resort, perhaps at the end of the itinerary. Do call to discuss the options with our travel consultants. OUR TOURS Your fly-drive touring holiday can be as simple or as complex as you wish you can choose to follow one of the sample itineraries which we have created, you can modify one of these itineraries according to your requirements, or you can allow us to develop a whole new itinerary based on your preferences. We will use our expertise to create a bespoke touring holiday just for you, offering advice to ensure that everything runs smoothly. As we work with a large selection of hotels throughout Spain, you have the freedom to choose where you want to stay and how long for. We provide directions to each hotel that you are visiting during your touring holiday, as well as our own suggestions for sightseeing and local visits. FLEXIBLE ARRANGEMENTS Our arrangements are very flexible in that you choose to travel on any day you want, subject to availability of flights and hotels. As mentioned above, additional nights can be added at any point. OUR HOTELS Each of the hotels that are featured by Spanish Expressions has been personally selected to offer exceptionally high standards of comfort, service and cuisine. Most of the hotels we feature are four or five star, although we have also chosen some small, charming hotels that haven t been officially categorised. In this programme you will find our handpicked selection of characterful boutique gems, exclusive seaside resorts, modern hotels and rustic properties in a rural setting, some located on large countryside estates. We also feature a number of the renowned Parador hotels, a collection of state-run properties which occupy historic buildings such as former monasteries, mediaeval fortresses and hilltop castles. HOLIDAYS BY AIR Most of our suggested touring itineraries are based on scheduled flights with British Airways, although we have used low cost airlines such as Easyjet where more convenient. British Airways operates a number of flight routes to mainland Spain and the Spanish islands, but none go to northern Spain so it is necessary to fly direct with a lowcost airline or to take a connecting flight within Spain. Low cost airlines operate a large number of flights from regional airports in the UK to destinations throughout Spain. There are also flights within Spain making it easy to combine north and south without driving or spending all day travelling. HOLIDAYS WITH A HIRE-CAR A hire-car is essential for many of our hotels with Spain, so is usually included in the price of your holiday. Some of our hotels offer transfers, but it may be more convenient to take a taxi in some city hotels. Hire-car is a very cost-effective and convenient means of getting from the airport to your hotel and back, and also allows you to explore the area during the course of your stay. We work with Avis as they offer a variety of cars at a good range of offices throughout Spain, and have negotiated a number of benefits for you such as theft protection being included and no oneway drop off charge for most car types. It is possible to upgrade your hire-car if required we include a basic hire-car which is adequate for just two people, a short break or if you don t intend to do much driving, but you might want to up-grade to something larger and more powerful. Telephone number info@expressionsholidays.co.uk 8

9 OUR PRICES The sample prices mentioned in this leaflet are generally a from price based on the cheapest season of travel. However, hotel and car hire rates can change (up and down depending on offers), so we give you an accurate price for your holiday when we provide you with a quotation. Our sample prices should be used as an indication of how much a particular combination will cost and to show the differences on average between the hotel categories on offer. PRICE INFORMATION IN MORE DETAIL Scheduled British Airways flights from London to Madrid and Granada to London, with Group A hire car for 8 days, and 7 nights accommodation at the Parador de Toledo in Toledo, the Puerta de la Luna in Baeza, and Las Casas de la Juderia in Cordoba. From 990 per person BOOKING CONDITIONS Our booking conditions apply to all holidays. A copy can be found on our website and a copy is also sent to you with a written quotation and when you make a booking. FINANCIAL PROTECTION Expressions Holidays offers full financial protection for all holidays you book with us. If your holiday includes a flight, the ATOL (3076) covers the costs of the holiday. If the holiday does not include a flight, it is the ABTOT bond that protects the cost of the holiday. We are also members of AITO (the Association of Independent Tour Operators) and ABTA. Expressions Holidays Lynx House, Pynes Hill, Exeter EX2 5JL HOW TO BOOK To make a booking, just phone us on and we can take you through the details we need and start the booking process. A deposit is required to confirm the arrangements and this can be paid by debit or credit card over the phone. No handling fee is charged on deposits up to The level of the deposit will be confirmed at the point of booking and will depend on the ticketing deadlines of the rail tickets involved in your booking. Telephone number info@expressionsholidays.co.uk 9