Overview
Come with us to discover the magical land of Andalusia, a rocky, sun-baked region on Spain’s southern coast. Stretching from the windswept Atlantic coast in the west to the Mediterranean beaches in the east, and from Gibraltar on its southern tip to the ancient cities in the central plains, Andalusia embodies much of what the world thinks of as Spanish: flamenco, tapas, matadors and bullfights. This area features some of the finest walking in southern Spain, with diverse landscapes that encompass snow-capped peaks and arid desert landscapes, small sleepy whitewashed villages and vibrant historic cities. Enjoy walking on scenic trails that display the best of the Andalusian countryside, and exploring on foot the historic cities of Cordoba and Granada. Under Moorish rule for almost 700 years, Andalusia’s unique legacy is most evident in its iconic architecture, including such landmarks as the Mezquita Cathedral in Cordoba the Alhambra Palace in Granada. Not to be outdone, the cuisine of the region is legendary, drawing on both the land and the ocean, and reflecting the diverse cultures who dominated this landscape over the centuries. This small-group walking adventure is for between 8 and 18 people, which is a perfect size for the charming hotels and country inns we use. Fully guided by local guides, with a Go Get Lost trip leader along to make things run smoothly.
Tour Dates & Pricing
Photo Gallery
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- RONDA, SPAIN – OCTOBER 5, 2014: Crowds walk on Calle La Bola pedestrian shopping street in Ronda.
- Ronda, Spain, April 05, 2018: Statue of Hercules with two lions, Plaza del Socorro, Ronda, Spain
- Ronda, Spain, April 05, 2018: outdoor reastaurant on Plaza del Socorro square in Ronda, Spain
- View of the famous Alhambra, Granada, Spain.
- Delicious spanish dinner covered on the table for dinner
Itinerary
Day 1: Malaga to Capileira, the Poquiera Gorge Walk
Your tour departs this morning after breakfast from our meeting point in the hotel lobby in Malaga. (You might plan to arrive in Malaga the day before the tour starts in order to get over your jet lag and prepare for your adventure.) We will have a private group transfer through Southern Spain's scenic countryside to the small town of Capiliera, one of the prettiest white villages nestled high in the spectacular Sierra Nevada mountains in the stunning Poqueira Gorge. Capiliera is in fact the second-highest village in Spain, with an excellent views down the valley. We'll start in the center of the village and walk a picturesque mountain path leading to the next town down the gorge, Bubion, and then on to the next lower town of Pampaneira. We'll have some free time in Pampaneira to explore and find a local place for lunch. After lunch we'll transfer back to Capileira to check into our hotel, nestled in the heart of the village. Later we'll have a stroll through this charming mountain gem with a rich Moorish past, and settle to a wonderful mountain dinner in one of the town's best restaurants. You'll be introduced to yet another aspect of Spanish cuisine in this off-the-beaten-path venue.
Day 2: The Alpujarras Walk
This morning we'll work our way higher into the Alpujarras to the village of Trevelez...known for it's amazing and world-famous hams, and for being the highest village in Spain! We'll start from near the village to do an excellent walk through the high country of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Our route will be dependent on conditions, but plan for some dramatic views and stunning landscapes. Returning to Trevelez we'll have lunch at a local place, then have a fascinating private tour of one of the many family-owned producers of Jamon (Spanish Ham), that gave the town it's fame.
Day 3: Granada and the Alhambra
Today we'll have a private group transfer through the scenic southern Spain countryside to Granada, situated at the base of the northern slopes of the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains, often with a dramatic backdrop of the snow capped peaks. After checking into our 3-Star hotel in the heart of the city, the rest of the day we'll spend exploring this small city with an ancient past and a surprisingly cosmopolitan feel. At midday we'll enjoy a lunch at one of our favorite restaurants in Granada.
This afternoon is a special treat, we'll have an expert local guide take us through one of the highlights of Spain...the massive palace and fortress complex known as the Alhambra and the Garden of the Generalife. Described by ancient poets as "A pearl set in emeralds", the Alhambra is a vast assortment of palaces and fortresses built for the Muslim emirs during the Nasrid dynasty, starting in the 13th century. Enduring through centuries of wars, invasions and restorations, the Alhambra today is a fascinating experience, not to be missed.
Day 4: Granada and Flamenco!
Today is all about exploring, wandering, and getting lost in this lovely Andalusian city. Shopping abounds in the winding streets and bustling squares. You can visit the Albaicin district, the Cathedral or simply do as the locals do and watch the world go by with a coffee on one of the squares. Maybe there’s time for a relaxing bath at the Hamam with a massage?
Tonight is all about Flamenco! A captivating art from combining music, dance, and passion, it is a pure Andalusian experience. It is said that Granada breathes Flamenco, and the venues in this city are unlike any other in Spain. So tonight we are going out on the town to one of our favorite "off-the-beaten-path" clubs tucked away on a little street. Here you'll be treated to a Flamenco show and dinner, as others have for hundreds of years.
Day 5: Zuheros and the Greenway
This morning you'll get to enjoy a bike ride on the longest bike path in Andalusia, the Olive Oil Greenway. Converted from an abandoned railway grade, the greenway cuts through picturesque Andalusian countryside, over metal viaducts and through endless olive groves. Even if you're not a biker you'll have no trouble today, the greenway is flat and slightly downhill all the way! We'll have a break at one of the old train stations (now a "bike station") before pulling in to the final stop for some well-deserved drinks and tapas! Afterwards our private coach will take us through the nearby town of Moriles to a local vineyard that specializes in the areas world-famous production of sherry. We'll have a tour of their cellars...and a tasting , of course! Then on to our 4-Star country hacienda (set in a restructured olive oil mill) just outside the village of Zuheros. Depending on time, we may be able to laze around the pool a bit. The kitchen at the hacienda is famous, so tonight we'll feast on regional specialties and wash them down with some of the excellent Spanish wines. (If biking is not your thing, today's bike ride can be done as a walk instead.)
Day 6: Cordoba and the Mezquita
Today we journey to Cordoba, one of the most historic and fascinating cities in all of Europe. Originally settled by the Carthaginians, Cordoba was also ruled by the Romans and Moors, who both left their mark on the city. After arriving this morning we'll check in to our 4-Star hotel in the center of the old town, then have a short orientation walk past some of Córdoba's fascinating spots. Then you're free to wander and find a quaint little spot for lunch. Right outside the door of your hotel you'll find a maze of tiny winding streets and countless shops and bars...a joy to explore!
This afternoon we have a private guided tour of the Mezquita, one of the most unique and beautiful architectural wonders of Spain! Originally known as the Mosque of Cordoba, now know as the Cathedral of Cordoba, it’s impossible to overstate its beauty, with its remarkably serene and spacious interior. One of the world's greatest works of Islamic and Christian architecture, the Mezquita hails from a refined age when Muslims, Jews and Christians lived side by side and enriched their city with a wonderful mixture of diverse, vibrant cultures.
The rest of the day is free until dinnertime, when we'll take you through Cordoba's winding streets to yet another excellent local restaurant, known to the locals...and to us. Perhaps afterwards you might want to sample the night life Cordoba has to offer. Don't stay out too late, though, as tomorrow we're off into the countryside again!
Day 7: The Caminito del Rey Walk
Today we'll experience one of the world's most spectacular pathways, the Caminito del Rey, or The King's Little Pathway! Perched impossibly midway up the sheer walls of El Chorro gorge, the suspended walkway, (completely rebuilt in 2015) provides unparalleled views of the magnificent gorge. After our walk we'll have lunch at a local eatery and refuel for the afternoon, when we continue on to a small local family-owned vineyard where we'll enjoy a tour and a relaxed tasting while taking in the views of the town of Ronda, just across the gorge. After this peaceful pause we'll head into Ronda, one of the oldest towns in Spain. Built on a rocky outcropping high over the Rio Guadalevein, the town was a stronghold for the legendary Andalusian bandits who actually ruled the area from the 18th to the 20th century. Our 4-Star hotel has some wonderful views over the valley far below, and after freshening up our guide will take us on a short orientation walk through town before turning us loose for dinner. The charming town center, with its 18th century bull ring is a pleasure to explore, with stunning views over the gorge below.
Day 8: Sierra de Grazalema National Park
This morning after breakfast we'll have a short transfer to the scenic white village of Grazalema, where we'll enjoy a stroll through the lovely village. Just outside of town our walk begins winding up the mountainside, cutting through small bands of sheep, and affording views of the Sierra de Grazalema Park in all directions. You'll want your camera along as you enjoy the panorama! Your reward awaits you at the summit....not only the 360 degree vista, but a picnic lunch of local specialties and vintages!
After lunch we'll drive through the Puero Paloma mountain pass, with superb views of the entire region. Depending on time, we may spend the rest of the afternoon visiting and exploring a few of the area's iconic and charming white villages, like Zahara and Sentenil, or we have the option to return to Ronda to explore it's vibrant streets and shops.
Tonight we'll meet one last time for our farewell dinner at a wonderful local restaurant. We'll exchange pictures, relive adventures, and celebrate our time together in Andalusia!
Day 9: Adios Andalusia
Your Go Get Lost adventure comes to an end this morning after breakfast. You will have a private group transfer directly to the airport in Malaga. Be sure to coordinate with your trip leader before booking your flights. As an option we can arrange transfers to Seville or Madrid for a post-trip extension tour!
HOTELS
Due to availability at the time of booking, hotels listed may change to similar hotels
Capileira - 3 Star Hotel Real de Poquiera Hotel Real de Poqueira is located in the picturesque town of Capileira, in the heart of Sierra Nevada National Park, which has been declared Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. This charming hotel features a mountain-style design with tiled floors and bricked walls. Its elegant rooms with air conditioning and heating come with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with hairdryer and free toiletries. A seasonal outdoor pool is available for relaxing. The restaurant at the Real de Poqueira hotel serves local dishes and homemade desserts.
Granada - 3 Star Palacio de Santa Ines - This picturesque boutique hotel consists of 35 rooms in two small sixteenth century Mudejar buildings. The first one is called the Eternal Father's House which was renovated in 1995. The hotel was expanded in 2001 with the renovation of the building adjoining the St. Agnes’ s laundry. Located in the historic Albaycin district of Granada, its location is perfect for exploring the Alhambra, the shopping district and the old city center.
Zuheros - 4 Star Hacienda Minerva Situated just outside the picturesque white village of Zuheros, embedded in the vast forest of olive trees, the hacienda has a long and fascinating history as a retreat for the rich and famous, then as a working farm and olive press. Finally rescued from ruin and renovated as a country inn, the hacienda reflects the style and ambiance of the inns that wealthy travelers from the 19th century could expect. Rustic yet elegant, the Minerva is an oasis of peace and tranquility. Its kitchen is one of the best-kept secrets of the area, and many locals make the journey to Minerva to dine and enjoy the cellars.
Cordoba - 4 Star Las Casas de la Juderia Las Casas de la Judería de Córdoba is a boutique hotel with an excellent location. Its doors open out to the Jewish Quarter, within the vicinity of the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, the Royal Stables, the 10th century Caliphate Baths and the synagogue. The establishment is just 200 meters from Cordoba's Mosque-Cathedral. The hotel encompasses five noble houses and its renovation was carried out while showing maximum respect for the building's architecture and history. The end result is a uniquely charming hotel with all the services and facilities any guest could need in a beautiful setting where visitors will enjoy peace and quiet.
Ronda - 4 Star Hotel Reina Victoria: The hotel is settled in a unique environment, between a lovely pine forest in the middle of the town, very close to Ronda's landmarks and the famous Tajo de Ronda. Around the hotel, which has 95 fully equipped rooms, there's an amazing 3,000 sq meter garden in which our guests can enjoy their swimming pool and terrace. The Catalonia Reina Victoria hotel was built in 1906 in Victorian style and was the residence and workplace of the famous Czech poet Rainer Maria Rilke, whose room is nowadays a small museum. It has an easy access to the most famous Ronda landmarks, like the oldest bullring in Spain and the New Bridge. In the charming town center, which is just 500 meters away from the hotel, there are many shops, bars and restaurants.
What´s Included
- 2 nights in a 3-Star hotel in Capileira
- 2 nights in a 3-Star hotel in Granada
- 1 night in a 4-Star hacienda in Zuheros
- 1 night in a 4-Star hotel in Cordoba
- 2 nights in a 4-Star hotel in Ronda
- Meals as specified: 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners, 2 wine tastings (all group meals include water and local wine)
- 4 countryside walks, 3 city walking tours, 1 bike ride (which can be converted into a walk instead).
- Flamenco show, with dinner
- Guided tour of the Mezquita
- Visit to ham producer
- Guided tour of Alhambra (specific sites such as the Nasrid Palace within the Alhambra are not guaranteed)
- Bike and basic gear rental
- Private group departure transfers from the hotel in Ronda to Malaga airport (please coordinate your air schedule before booking your ticket)
- All transfers during the tour, as per the itinerary
- All excursions, tours, and visits as per the itinerary
- Completely escorted by a Go Get Lost Tour Leader along with local guides at specified sites throughout the itinerary
- All tips for waiters at group meals, coach drivers, and local guides...EXCEPT for your primary local tour leader(s)
- Local taxes
- A Lifetime of memories!
What´s not Included
- Airfare
- Arrival airport transfers
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Visa fees, if applicable
- Beverages at meals unless specified in itinerary (all group meals include water and wine)
- Entrance fees not listed
- Gratuity for primary local tour leader(s)
- Trip Interruption/Cancellation and Medical Insurance, (strongly recommended, call for details)
- Single Supplement charge
- Items of a personal nature; phone calls, laundry, etc.