Architecture & Gardens of Andalucia 634

Architecture & Gardens of Andalucia 634

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8 Days From

$2620

Architecture & Gardens of Andalucia 634

8 Days Starting and ending in Málaga, Spain

Visiting: Málaga, Granada, Sierra Nevada, Córdoba, Seville, Ronda

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BANG

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 25

Physical rating:

Light

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2620

NB: Prices correct on 24-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an enchanting journey through the architectural and natural wonders of Andalucia with the "Architecture & Gardens of Andalucia 634" tour. Discover the pinnacle of Moorish architecture at the Alhambra Palace and its stunning Generalife Gardens. Marvel at the dramatic Sierra Nevada mountain range and explore the mesmerizing multi-arched columns of Córdoba’s Great Mosque. Wander through Seville's centuries-old orange trees and experience the historic charm of the Puente Nuevo bridge in Ronda. This tour offers comfortable coach travel, professional guidance, and accommodations, ensuring a seamless exploration of Spain's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the freedom to explore Seville at your leisure and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. With visits to iconic landmarks and serene gardens, this tour promises an unforgettable experience of Andalucia's architectural and natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Pinnacle of Moorish architecture, the Alhambra Palace

  • Dramatic views of the rugged Sierra Nevada mountain range

  • Mesmerising multi-arched columns of Córdoba’s Great Mosque

  • Centuries old orange trees of Seville

  • The historic Puente Nuevo bridge which spans the El Tajo gorge in Ronda

  • Explore the medieval streets of the Albaicín in Granada

  • Visit the Maria-Luisa Park and Plaza de España in Seville

  • Discover the Alameda del Tajo Gardens in Ronda

Places You'll See

Architecture & Gardens Of Andalucia 634

Architecture & Gardens Of Andalucia 634

Architecture & Gardens Of Andalucia 634

Architecture & Gardens Of Andalucia 634

Itinerary

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Day 1

Location: Málaga

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Santos Saray

Meals Included: Dinner

We fly from London to Málaga and on arrival we transfer to out hotel for our evening meal.

Day 2

Location: Granada

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Santos Saray

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning following breakfast we visit the famous Alhambra Palace with its Generalife Gardens.  The Alhambra has one of the most spectacular sites in the world. Alhambra means “red castle”, and the buildings are of a seductive pink stone and were built in the 14th Century.  We will also visit the gardens of The Generalife which was the summer palace of the Sultans of Granada in the 14th Century.  In the afternoon your guide will accompany you as you wander through the medieval streets of the Albaicín, glimpsing several “Carmens”, which are the enclosed gardens typical of the Moorish era of Granada and of which many good examples have been maintained by the Christians.  We return to the hotel late afternoon and there will be free time for the remainder of the day.

Day 3

Location: Sierra Nevada

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Santos Saray

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, following breakfast, we depart on an all day excursion into the Alpujarra and Sierra Nevada region, visiting some of the local villages and enjoying the mountain scenery. After lunch (not included) we will take a gentle walk in the Alpujarra countryside, admiring and studying plants of the region.
Later in the afternoon, we return to the hotel.

Day 4

Location: Córdoba

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Exe Sevilla Macarena

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast we depart for Córdoba, passing through a landscape with millions of olive trees.  We will visit the Great Mosque with its Orange Grove, which was first laid out in the late 8th Century and must be one of the true wonders of the world.  Outside is a huge patio covered in orange trees – Patio de los Naranjos – which was originally covered with fountains used for bathing before entering the mosque.  On entering you are struck by the vast number of pillars supporting the arches with their distinctive red and white tiles which are so much a symbol of the whole design.  The mosque is now a mixture of Moorish and Christian with chapels incorporated into the building and it is stunning in both its appearance and atmosphere. The gardens of The Royal Palaces of the Alcázar are Moorish in style, laid out in rows around long pools with numerous fountains. The sound of the water and the smells of the garden make it an experience for all the senses.  At the end of one of these long pools are statues of Columbus together with Ferdinand and Isabel symbolising their meeting in Córdoba. After lunch (not included) we will have some free time to discover the charms of this most Spanish of towns – please note that on our May departure, we will also spend some time looking at the gardens participating in the Córdoba Patio Festival.
Late afternoon we continue to our comfortable hotel in Seville.

Day 5

Location: Seville

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Exe Sevilla Macarena

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast the whole day is spent in Seville.  We begin by visiting the Maria-Luisa Park and also the Plaza de España, laid out in 1929 for a “Fair of the Americas”.  This is among the most impressive public spaces in Spain.  Nearby is the Tobacco Factory where Carmen – in Bizet’s opera – worked as a cigar maker.  Later you will see the Gardens of Murillo, planted in honour of the famous painter from Seville, and Seville’s majestic Cathedral.
In the afternoon we will visit Seville’s Orange Tree Courtyard which belonged to the old mosque and the gardens of the Royal Palaces of the Alcázar.  The Alcázar is a magnificent palace which mixes Christian and Moorish styles and has several patios and salons all of which are grand and very highly decorated. The ceilings, in particular, are incredibly intricate in design, one with a wooden dome decorated with red, green and gold cells inscribed with Arabic.  After the wonder of the palace it is refreshing to walk through the beautiful gardens made up of a mixture of several eras. There is an “English Garden” unlike any garden in this country as the trees and plants are much larger! The gardens are rambling and a leisurely walk here shows orange trees, eucalyptus, palms and many others. You may also see the “Flower of Spain”, so-called because of its colours of the Spanish flag. The gardens are like those of the Alhambra but not so large. There are many fountains and places to sit and admire the great variety of trees and palms.

Day 6

Location: Seville

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Exe Sevilla Macarena

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is free to explore Seville at leisure.

Day 7

Location: Ronda

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel R. Polo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast we head for Ronda, a spectacular town rising dramatically amid a ring of dark, angular mountains set above the gorges of the River Tajo.  We will see the Alameda del Tajo Gardens set on the edge of the spectacular gorge offering fantastic views. These were completed in the early 19th century and give fine views over the plains. We have also included a visit to the Palacio de Mondragon, whose Moorish courtyards and gardens that evoke memories of kings and governors who called Ronda home. You also have the option of visiting the gardens of the old Palace of the Moorish King of Ronda with its narrow terrace over-hanging the gorge. After an opportunity for lunch in one of the many local restaurants here (not included) there will be free time to explore the town before we continue to our hotel.

Day 8

Location: Málaga

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning after breakfast we will transfer to the airport at Málaga in time for our return flights.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Meals - as per the itinerary

    Meals are provided according to the itinerary.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is included for the duration of the tour.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    A professional tour manager will be available throughout the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Train Tickets

    Train tickets are not included in the tour package.

  • International Travel

    International travel is not included in the tour package.

  • Lunch on Day 3 and Day 4

    Lunch is not included on Day 3 and Day 4 of the tour.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort with our coach service, providing seamless transportation throughout the tour, ensuring you can relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Andalucia without any hassle.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Hotel Santos Saray in Granada, the Exe Sevilla Macarena in Seville, and the Hotel R. Polo in Ronda, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, ensuring a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration.

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the main focus of the tour in Andalucia?

    The tour focuses on exploring the architecture and gardens of Andalucia, highlighting Moorish architecture and the natural beauty of the region.

  • What can I expect to see at the Alhambra Palace?

    At the Alhambra Palace, you will see the stunning architecture of the 'red castle' built in the 14th century, along with the beautiful Generalife Gardens, which were the summer palace gardens of the Sultans of Granada.

  • What activities are included in the visit to the Sierra Nevada region?

    The visit to the Sierra Nevada region includes an all-day excursion to explore local villages and enjoy the mountain scenery, as well as a gentle walk in the Alpujarra countryside to admire and study the local plants.

  • What is special about the Great Mosque in Córdoba?

    The Great Mosque in Córdoba is renowned for its vast number of pillars supporting distinctive red and white arches, and its mixture of Moorish and Christian architectural styles. It also features the Patio de los Naranjos, a large courtyard filled with orange trees.

  • What will I experience in Seville during the tour?

    In Seville, you will visit Maria-Luisa Park, Plaza de España, the Tobacco Factory, the Gardens of Murillo, and Seville's majestic Cathedral. You will also explore the Orange Tree Courtyard and the gardens of the Royal Palaces of the Alcázar, which feature a mix of Christian and Moorish styles.

  • What is unique about the town of Ronda?

    Ronda is a spectacular town set above the gorges of the River Tajo, offering dramatic views. It features the Alameda del Tajo Gardens and the Palacio de Mondragon with its Moorish courtyards and gardens.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

John G R (Google Reviewer)  

Now, this is a wee...

08-Nov-2024

Now, this is a wee family run holiday that is run from a bedroom. Outrageous prices for a holiday in scotland.👍

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

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1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Monday

May 12, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$2620

Monday - Monday

May 12, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$2625

Including UK Flights

Monday - Monday

Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 15, 2025
$2620

Monday - Monday

Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 15, 2025
$2625

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 23-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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