Epic Iberian and Moroccan Expedition - 20 Days

Welcome to Madrid! Upon your arrival at the airport, we will arrange your transfer to the hotel. Take some time to relax before your adventure begins. Details about the welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travellers will be available on information boards at the hotel reception. As evening approaches, we�ll whisk you away to Plaza Mayor and La Latina, Madrid�s renowned neighbourhood known for its vibrant nightlife and array of tapas restaurants. You are free to dine at a restaurant of your choice, with options ranging from Indian and Chinese to Spanish and Middle Eastern cuisines. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

The day begins with a thorough exploration of central Madrid, where we�ll immerse ourselves in the vibrant heart of the city. We will navigate through iconic landmarks such as Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, Puerta de Alcal�, Plaza de Col�n, and the historic Plaza Mayor. Our tour then takes us to Retiro Park, a tranquil green oasis featuring a picturesque lake and the striking Palacio de Cristal. You will also delight in a visit to the renowned Santiago Bernab�u Stadium, home of Real Madrid � a club often celebrated for its outstanding achievements in football. The afternoon is yours to spend as you please, perhaps exploring more of Madrid or enjoying a leisurely break. In the evening, we�ll ensure a comfortable return transfer back to the hotel.

We will set off from Madrid early in the morning as we travel south through the region of La Mancha. Our first destination is Puerto L�pice, a quaint Manchego village that captures the essence of Don Quixote. After exploring this charming locale, we will continue our journey into Andalusia via Despe�aperros, eventually arriving in Granada. Here, we'll enjoy an included lunch before spending the afternoon exploring, if you have opted for the visit to the Alhambra. This iconic palace, along with the serene Generalife Gardens, both date back to the Arab period. Our exploration will be guided by a knowledgeable local expert.

Please note: Due to legal restrictions, the number of visitors allowed in the Alhambra is limited. To secure your admission, tickets are issued upon confirmation of your tour reservation, and it's crucial to provide precise personal details, including your full name and passport or ID number, at the time of booking. Please be aware that ticket costs are non-refundable if cancelled. In the rare circumstance that a visit to the Alhambra cannot be accommodated, we will instead explore the Royal Alc�zar of Seville, which offers comparable historical and architectural value.

Leaving Granada behind, we will journey along the picturesque Costa del Sol towards Algeciras or Tarifa, where we will catch a modern ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar � tickets are included. Please note that you will need to carry your own luggage as the bus does not accompany us on the ferry. Once we arrive in Morocco, we will make our way through stunning landscapes to reach Asilah, a charming walled city on the Atlantic coast known for its vibrant life and historic past as a port and pirate stronghold. You will have some time for lunch before we continue onwards to Rabat, where we will arrive in time for an included dinner.

In Rabat, we will embark on a panoramic tour to explore key landmarks including the grand Royal Palace, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the impressive Kasbah of the Udayas. Around midday, we�ll make our way to Casablanca for a brief guided city tour. One of the tour highlights is the opportunity to visit the exterior of the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the most significant mosques in the Arab world. Later, we�ll proceed to Marrakech, where, after checking into the hotel, you can enjoy a traditional Kalesa ride to the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Dinner will be provided.

Today, we'll delve into the enchanting city of Marrakech, a place that has significantly contributed to Morocco�s cultural heritage. Our guided tour will introduce you to its iconic landmarks, including the impressive city walls, the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the historic Medina, the beautiful Koutoubia Mosque, and the ornate Bahia Palace, with tickets for entry already arranged. After the tour, you'll have time for a leisurely lunch, which is included. You might choose to unwind by the hotel pool or garden, or perhaps explore the bustling souks for some unique finds. In the evening, there's an optional "Fantasy Party" excursion available for those interested in experiencing an extraordinary cultural event.

Today, we will embark on a scenic journey through the Atlas Mountains as we leave behind the palm groves of Marrakech. As we traverse these majestic peaks, often capped with snow, we'll encounter charming Berber villages perched on the edges of deep gorges. Our expedition will include a visit to the fortified village of A�t Benhaddou, famous for its roles in numerous films. Amid landscapes that evoke biblical tales, our journey will continue to Ouarzazate, celebrated for its striking Kasbah. As we proceed through the enchanting Valley of Roses, we'll arrive in Boumalne Dades where dinner will be served. Please note that in winter, road closures due to snow may necessitate rescheduling this part of the itinerary. Access to the Sahara Desert will depend on road conditions.

Today, we embark on an exhilarating adventure through the Sahara Desert, exploring the Valley of the Kasbahs with its river valleys lined with palm trees, rugged plains merging into verdant oases, adobe villages, and striking fortresses that stand guard over ancient pathways. Our journey will take us to the awe-inspiring Todgha Gorge, known for its imposing canyon walls that rise over 100 metres. Along the way, we'll pause at a quaint adobe town near Khorbat to learn about the local desert community supported by the Foundation, though access may depend on weather conditions such as river flooding. We will then make our way towards Erfoud. For those interested, there's an opportunity to embark on an off-road excursion to the Sahara Desert's sand dunes, offering an unforgettable experience and a breathtaking sunset. Lunch is included, providing a chance to savour local flavours amidst this stunning landscape.

Leaving Erfoud early, we traverse the striking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains once more. Our route takes us through dramatic gorges and vast open plateaus where nomadic shepherds tend to their flocks. A brief stop in Midelt, a bustling commercial hub in the heart of the region, provides a glimpse into the area's agricultural life.

As we continue, you'll enjoy an included lunch in the picturesque Middle Atlas, set against the backdrop of a tranquil lakeside setting. The scenery shifts dramatically as we move into a forest-rich region where snowfall is a common sight in winter. Near Azrou, we explore the "House of Cedars" within a national park. This small museum offers insight into the region's ecology, and you might encounter the playful monkeys that call this area home.

Our journey then leads us to Bhalil, a quaint and peaceful Berber village of the Middle Atlas. Known for its vibrant streets and unique cave dwellings seamlessly integrated into houses, it provides a charming stop. We proceed to Fez, capping off the day with a view of the historic city from the Marinid Tombs before heading to the hotel for an included dinner.

In the morning, we'll explore Fez, beginning our journey through the impressive Bronze Gates of the Royal Palace. We'll wander through the Jewish quarter and delve into the lively souks and the renowned Tanners' Quarter. Fez, Morocco's cultural heart, is famed for its historic Medina, which offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Arab life. Our excursion will culminate with an included lunch at a historic palace nestled within the Medina. In the afternoon, we'll journey northward along a modern highway, reaching Tangier by evening, where dinner will be provided.

Today, enjoy some free time in Tangier � perhaps do some last-minute shopping or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this lively Moroccan city. Later, we�ll take a ferry back to Spain, crossing the iconic Strait of Gibraltar. Please note, the bus will not accompany us, so you'll need to manage your own luggage during the ferry crossing. Once we arrive in Algeciras or Tarifa, we will continue our journey to Seville. We'll arrive in Seville by the evening, where a delightful dinner awaits.

This morning, we will set off for an exploration of Seville, beginning with a city tour that showcases the grandeur of the cathedral, famed for its Giralda tower. We'll meander along the banks of the Guadalquivir River and wander through the lively neighbourhoods of Santa Cruz and Triana. Following the tour, we'll take a relaxing boat ride on the Guadalquivir River to enjoy splendid panoramic views of the city. Later in the evening, you're free to experience one of Spain's most iconic cultural traditions by attending a captivating flamenco tablao performance.

Upon departing Seville, we travel through the gentle, rolling landscapes of pasturelands heading into Extremadura. Our destination is M�rida, where we include a visit to the Archaeological Ensemble, a World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre. You'll have time for lunch and a leisurely walk through M�rida's pedestrianised historic centre, rich with local character and inviting eateries. Our journey then takes us into Portugal, stopping in �vora, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can explore its picturesque streets, Renaissance palaces, and impressive cathedral. We will arrive in Lisbon by the evening.

Today, you'll discover the rich cultural tapestry of Lisbon, the captivating capital of Portugal. Our morning kicks off with a guided tour through the city's historic neighbourhoods, where the narrow alleys and iconic tiles tell stories of a bygone era. As you wander through the hills, you'll experience the unique charm and emotional depth known as "saudade," all accentuated by Lisbon's distinct Atlantic light.

We will also explore the Belem district, a place of historical significance, from where Portuguese explorers set sail during the Age of Discoveries. The afternoon is yours to explore as you wish. You might choose to lose yourself in the lively Bairro Alto, where vibrant views await at its renowned lookout point. Alternatively, consider an optional excursion to the charming towns of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril, known for their picturesque landscapes and historical allure.

In the evening, feel free to stroll around the vibrant Restauradores Square. This bustling area offers a wonderful selection of bars and caf�s, perfect for unwinding before we regroup to head back to the hotel.

On Day 15, we journey north from Lisbon to F�tima, a major pilgrimage site known for its miraculous apparitions. Here, you will have the chance to absorb the serene atmosphere that draws millions of pilgrims each year. Following our visit, we proceed to Porto, Portugal's vibrant second city. After lunch, we embark on a delightful 50-minute cruise along the Douro River aboard a traditional Rabelo boat. This unique vessel offers marvellous views of Porto's stunning riverside scenery. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore the lively Ribeira district, famed for its narrow streets, historical merchant houses, and enticing caf�s. Later, we will check into our hotel for the night.

Today, we embark on a journey through enchanting landscapes. Our first stop is Braga, where we'll experience a ride on the world's oldest water-operated cable car to reach the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus. From there, you'll be captivated by breathtaking views. After exploring the sanctuary, you might choose to descend its picturesque staircase, offering a unique perspective of your surroundings. Our adventure continues into Galicia, leading us to Cambados in the R�as Baixas region. Here, we'll enjoy a glass-bottom boat trip along the R�a de Arousa, providing insights into the mussel and oyster farming that thrives in this area. Onboard, we'll indulge in a wine and mussel tasting, an authentic taste of the region.

As lunchtime approaches, we'll arrive in the historic city of Santiago de Compostela. Known for its medieval streets and esteemed pilgrimage sites that have attracted visitors since the Middle Ages, Santiago promises a wealth of history and culture. A local guide will lead us on a tour of the city, unveiling its most renowned sites and sharing stories that span centuries. The day promises an exquisite blend of spiritual, cultural, and culinary experiences.

Today, we journey along the historic Way of St. James, starting our day in Lugo. Here, you will have time to wander through the charming old town and marvel at the ancient Roman walls, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our next stop is O Cebreiro, a picturesque village in Galicia known for its distinctive stone architecture.

Continuing our adventure, we head to Le�n, arriving around lunchtime. In Le�n, you'll be captivated by the splendid Gothic cathedral, renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic town centre as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Our journey then takes us across the scenic Cantabrian Range towards Asturias, where we arrive in Oviedo by evening. We'll explore the city with a local guide, either upon arrival or the following morning. This hour-and-a-half tour includes the 9th-century cathedral, the innovative Calatrava Congressional Palace, the elegant Campoamor Theatre, and the bustling Calle de la Rua. We conclude our day with an authentic Asturian dinner in a traditional cider house, giving you a taste of the region's culinary delights.

This morning, we will set off towards the majestic Picos de Europa, a stunning mountain range in northern Spain. Our first destination is the Basilica of Covadonga, a revered pilgrimage site nestled within the dramatic landscape. Moving on, we will trace the coastline to reach Santillana del Mar, renowned for its perfectly preserved medieval quarter. While there, we will visit the Altamira Cave Museum, known for replicating prehistoric paintings of the original Altamira Cave. As the day continues, we'll make our way to Santander, the capital of Cantabria. The city boasts a picturesque blend of mountains and beaches. Here, we will enjoy a guided tour, taking in the scenic beauty of this elegant coastal city and its serene bay.

We'll journey along the breathtaking Cantabrian coast, where the mountains dramatically embrace the sea, as we make our way to Bilbao, the bustling heart of the Basque Country. Our visit includes a brief yet enriching city tour guided by a local expert, highlighting key sites such as the iconic Guggenheim Museum, the charming old quarter, and the historic Cathedral. Following the tour, you'll have some free time to indulge in the local culinary delight of authentic "pintxos." We'll then continue our journey, heading towards Madrid with an anticipated evening arrival around 8:00 p.m. Please note that the segment from Bilbao to Madrid may be conducted by either regular coach or train service, based on the group size.

After enjoying breakfast, our tour concludes, leaving you with a wealth of cherished memories from this unforgettable journey.