Gardens & Architecture of Andalucía

Departing: April 2027 - April 2027

Andalucía is unrivalled in Europe for its wealth of history, culture, Moorish architecture and gardens, all set against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada. We visit the famous Alhambra and Generalife, which commands exceptional views down towards the old city, the Albaicin. Moving on to Córdoba, we visit the Great Mosque and the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos with its characteristic terraced pools before discovering the treasures of beautiful Seville. We conclude in the dramatically situated town of Ronda, visiting the Alameda del Tajo Gardens and the Palacio de Mondragon, with its Moorish courtyards and gardens.

Included

Explore Alhambra Palace & Córdoba’s Great Mosque, with entrance fees included
All other visits as outlined in the itinerary
Professional Tour Manager
3 nights at the Senator Hotel, Granada, 3 nights at the Hotel Exe Macarena, Seville & 1 night at a Malaga or Costa del Sol Hotel
7 breakfasts & 3 dinners
Private air-conditioned coach travel

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

David Hurrion

David has explored every continent except Antarctica, discovering plants and gardens on over 70 trips accompanying groups of gardeners. He has more than 20 years’ experience writing and editing garden magazines and websites, including as Deputy and Associate Editor of BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine.

Tour Itinerary

Join our arrival transfer from the airport or meet your tour manager and fellow travellers that evening at our hotel.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Senator Granada Spa Hotel

Day 1 Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia

This morning, we visit the renowned Alhambra Palace along with its stunning Generalife Gardens. The Alhambra is situated on one of the most spectacular sites in the world. The name Alhambra translates to 'red castle,' as its buildings are constructed from a captivating pink stone and date back to the 14th century. Additionally, we explore the gardens of The Generalife, which served as the summer palace for the Sultans of Granada during the 14th century.

In the afternoon, our guide accompanies us as we stroll through the medieval streets of the Albaicín, where we can catch sight of several 'Carmens' – the enclosed gardens characteristic of the Moorish era in Granada, many of which have been well preserved by the Christians. Later in the afternoon, we return to the hotel for some leisure time.

Meals: Breakfast

Accomodation: Senator Granada Spa Hotel

Day 2 Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia

Today, we are accompanied by a local guide as we journey to the Alpujarra and the Sierra Nevada region. We explore some of the local villages, take in the stunning mountain scenery and enjoy a leisurely walk through the Alpujarra countryside, appreciating the region's diverse plant life.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Senator Granada Spa Hotel

Day 3 Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia

On our journey to Seville, we pass through a scenic landscape filled with olive trees and make a stop at Córdoba. In Seville, our first destination is the remarkable Great Mosque, originally established in the late 8th century and widely regarded as one of the true wonders of the world. Outside the mosque lies the expansive Patio de los Naranjos, a courtyard shaded by orange trees. Historically, this patio was adorned with fountains used for ritual bathing before entering the mosque. Upon stepping inside, visitors are immediately captivated by the numerous pillars supporting arches adorned with iconic red and white tiles, a distinctive feature of the mosque's architectural design.

The gardens of the Royal Palaces of the Alcázar reflect Moorish influences, meticulously arranged in rows around elongated pools complemented by multiple fountains. At the end of one such pool, statues of Columbus, Ferdinand and Isabel commemorate their historic meeting in Córdoba. After lunch at your leisure, we enjoy free time to explore the unique allure of this quintessentially Spanish town. On our May departure, guests also have the opportunity to explore the gardens while participating in the vibrant Córdoba Patio Festival. Later in the afternoon, we proceed to our comfortable hotel in Seville.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accomodation: Exe Sevilla Macarena

Day 4 Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia

Today is dedicated to exploring Seville. We start with a visit to the Maria-Luisa Park and the Plaza de España, which were designed in 1929 for the 'Fair of the Americas'. These are considered some of the most remarkable public spaces in Spain. Nearby, we find the Tobacco Factory, famously associated with Carmen, the cigar maker in Bizet’s opera. Later, the itinerary includes the Gardens of Murillo, planted to honour the renowned painter from Seville and Seville’s magnificent cathedral.

In the afternoon, we visit Seville’s Orange Tree Courtyard, originally part of the old mosque, followed by the gardens of the Royal Palaces of the Alcázar. The Alcázar is an extraordinary palace that merges Christian and Moorish architectural styles, showcasing grand patios and lavishly decorated salons. The ceilings are particularly striking, featuring intricate designs such as a wooden dome embellished with red, green and gold cells inscribed with Arabic motifs.

After marvelling at the palace's grandeur, a walk through the picturesque gardens offers a refreshing change of pace. These gardens display a variety of styles from different periods, including an 'English Garden', notable for its unusually large trees and plants, uncommon in this region. The expansive gardens provide a relaxing stroll among orange trees, eucalyptus, palms and more. You may even come across the 'Flower of Spain,' named for its resemblance to the colours of the Spanish flag. While these gardens are reminiscent of the Alhambra's, they are smaller in scale. Numerous fountains and seating areas are available for visitors to unwind and appreciate the diverse collection of trees and palms.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Exe Sevilla Macarena

Day 5 Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia

Enjoy exploring Seville at leisure today.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Exe Sevilla Macarena

day 6 Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia

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 see the Alameda del Tajo Gardens, set on the edge of the spectacular gorge with fantastic views, the Palacio de Mondragon, whose Moorish courtyards and gardens evoke memories of kings and governors who called Ronda home. We also have the option of visiting the gardens of the old Palace of the Moorish King of Ronda, with its narrow terrace overhanging the gorge. After an opportunity for lunch at your leisure in one of the many local restaurants, there is free time to explore the town before we continue to our hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel R. Polo

day 7 Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia

After breakfast, you will be transferred back to the airport where your tour ends.

Meals: Breakfast

day 8 Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia

Accommodation

Hotel Exe Macarena offers a real oasis in the city of Seville. Soak up the sun on the rooftop, admire the panoramic views from the swimming pool, enjoy a drink in the stylish lobby or a bite to eat in the cafeteria, head to the sports bar and unwind in the comfortable bedrooms, equipped with air-conditioning, mini-bar, safe and flat-screen TV.

Ideally located close to the historic centre of Granada, the Senator Hotel offers everything needed for a memorable stay. Hotel features include a spa with sauna, Turkish bath, hot tub, citrus bath, heated indoor pool and gym as well as a café bar and guestrooms with TV, air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi.