Best of Spain

Early today you travel by bus to the imperial medieval city of Toledo (approx 2hrs), once the main city of Islamic Spain. Built on a hill around the Tagus River, the city is rich in culture and history, which you will explore on your walk around the Old Town. Marvel at the twisting lanes, blind alleys and decorated patios concealed behind deceptive facades. In the afternoon you return to Madrid, and we suggest you take advantage of free entry to the Prado on Sundays (only after 5PM) to see this amazing gallery. The queues might be long, but art lovers will no doubt find it is worth the wait.

Today you leave the coast and head inland by bus and train (approx. 4hrs) to the Andalucian hills and the charming town of Ronda. 

The highlight here is the spectacular Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), one of the most photographed structures in all of Spain. Built in 1751, it bridges the 100 metre deep gorge that splits the town in two. On one side of the bridge is the old Moorish town with many historic buildings including the House of the Moorish King; on the other side is the much newer El Mercadillo, and to the east of the town are well-preserved Arab Baths and of course the famous Plaza de Toros. Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting in Spain and the Plaza de Toros one of the oldest rings in the country. Adjoining the bullring is the Bullfighting Museum which displays interesting relics of Ronda's bullfighting history. The gardens behind the bullring offers the best panoramic views over the mountains.

Please note that whilst bullfighting is significant in Spanish culture and history, its practice is contrary to our Responsible Travel philosophy. We do not support or attend bullfights, as the bulls are subject to torment and fear and are often killed inhumanely. Long a controversial issue in Spain, a landmark decision in July 2010 has banned bullfighting in the state of Catalonia from January 1, 2012.

Day 9 is free for you to explore this wonderful corner of Andalucia. The surrounding mountains once proved a perfect hideout for bandits and smugglers, and a visit to the Museum of Bandits gives an entertaining insight into their history. Hotel - 2nts 

You travel by bus to Valencia (approx. 9hrs). Long the Spanish gateway to the Mediterranean, Valencia has the special charm of a sea port city. Busy markets, beautiful beaches, spectacular mountains and a fascinating mix of old and new await us. You arrive late in the evening.

On day 13 you visit the cathedral which houses what is claimed to be the Holy Grail, the chalice Jesus drank from at the Last Supper. 

Make time to visit the Museum of Fine Art or the City of Arts and Sciences, the latter which is the second most visited museum in all of Spain after the Prado in Madrid. For a taste of more ancient history, seek out the remains of the Roman Forum founded by Junius Brutus. A little more quirky, the Museum of the Fallas contains a history of the Valencia fire festival in the form of giant papier mache figures that over the years have been spared from the burning.

There are many fine parks and gardens, or you may want to head to the beach of Playa de la Malvarrosa to soak up some sun. To try the paella that Valencia is famous for, do as the locals do and head to the restaurant area of Las Arenas for a hearty and reasonably priced lunch. Hotel - 2nts