Andalucia, in a Parador

Once you arrive at the Málaga-Costa del Sol airport, you’ll be met by an AHI Travel representative who’ll take you to the modern Parador de Antequera, overlooking the plains with La Peña de los Enamorados, or Lovers’ Rock, in the distance. Settle in and join your fellow travelers at the Welcome Reception and Dinner.

Near Antequera, witness striking prehistoric architecture, the Menga and Viera dolmens, megalithic burial chambers built between 3500 and 3000 B.C. by farmers in the valley. Marvel at the sophisticated engineering skill required to construct them. Return to Antequera for an old town walk beginning at the Alcazaba, a 14th-century Moorish fortress that once guarded the city. Later, learn how eight centuries of Muslim rule shaped the region’s culture.

A scenic drive to Granada brings you to the Alhambra, the stunning Moorish fortress and palace complex built in the 13th and 14th centuries by the kings of the Nasrid dynasty who sought to create their own paradise on earth. In the exquisite palace, see beautifully filigreed courtyards and halls. Visit the Alcazaba fortress and stroll through the landscaped gardens of Generalife. Inside the Alhambra walls, relax over lunch at the Parador de Granada’s restaurant.

Journey to Sevilla, southern Spain’s cultural heart, immortalized by artists like Mozart, Bizet and Rossini. Visit the impressive Real Alcázar, once a 10th-century Moorish palace, and see the astounding Cathedral of Sevilla, the world’s largest Gothic building. Enjoy a walk through the charming Barrio de Santa Cruz, and after lunch on your own, visit the magnificent Plaza de España.

Spectacularly set over El Tajo Gorge, Ronda is a showstopper and the largest of Andalucía’s pueblos blancos, or white towns. Enjoy the sweeping views before visiting the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor. Next, delve into the intensely dramatic world of bullfighting at the Plaza de Toros. Savor a final view of Ronda from the terrace of Casa de San Juan Bosco, then it’s off to a countryside bodega for lunch and a wine tasting.

Explore the grand mosque-cathedral, La Mezquita, which contains some of Spain’s finest examples of Moorish architecture, including a dazzling prayer hall adorned with red-and-white-striped arches. While the original mosque was constructed in the eighth century by Abd al-Rahman, subsequent emirs added to its splendor. After Córdoba was recaptured by the Spanish, a cathedral was built inside the complex walls in the 16th century. Afterward, stroll through the winding streets of the atmospheric Jewish quarter. Later in the evening in Antequera, enjoy dining on traditional dishes and a show featuring a passionate flamenco performance. 

After a talk about contemporary Spanish life, spend your free day in Antequera or take a complimentary shuttle to Málaga to explore independently. You can also join today’s Elective Activity. On this optional tour, visit a family-owned olive mill for a tasting and brunch, plus stop in El Torcal de Antequera nature park known for its unusual rock formations. At the hotel tonight, gather for your Farewell Reception and Dinner.

Bid farewell to Andalucía and your fellow travelers. Depart for the airport in Málaga and head home.