SMALL GROUP TOUR: Take in the best of Spain's eastern coast, including Valencia, on this 6-day group tour travelling from Madrid to Barcelona. Discover the town of Cuenca, hewn into the cliffside and admire dramatic rock formations in La Serrania National Park. Enjoy wine tasting in the historic region of Requena before spending three nights in the coastal city of Valencia, birthplace of paella. Explore the narrow and historic streets of Xativa and then travel along the beautiful Spanish coast on the way to the famous city of Barcelona.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Cuenca & La Serrania National Park
Madrid – Cuenca – La Serrania National Park – Cuenca. Leaving Madrid, we journey through the heart of Old Spain, Castilla-La Mancha. This region boasts serene landscapes, diverse nature, and renowned Manchego cheese.
Our first destination is Villarejo de Salvanes, a small town with an intriguing castle and pre-Roman archaeological sites. Continuing to Cuenca, we enjoy a guided walking tour, including a visit to the 12th-Century Gothic cathedral.
From Cuenca, we venture into La Serrania National Park, a vast 73,000-hectare wildlife sanctuary. We take in the incredible and bizarre mushroom-shaped rock formations of the 'Enchanted City', and keep our eyes peeled for resident wildlife, including wild boar, golden eagles and majestic griffon vultures. Enjoy the panoramic vistas from the Mirador de Una viewpoint before we return to Cuenca, our base for two nights. The evening is at leisure.
Please note: Pick up for this tour is at 8:15 on day 1 (tour departs at 8:30) - Madrid Pick Up Point, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid.
Overnight: Cuenca
Roman ruins & Castillo de Belmonte
Cuenca – Seobriga – Belmonte – Cuenca. We start today with an included visit to the Roman settlement of Segobriga, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Spanish Meseta. After exploring the remarkably preserved amphitheater, public baths, and temples, we head south to Belmonte. There's free time for a tapas lunch before our included visit to the remarkable 15th-Century Castillo de Belmonte, known for its unique triangular courtyard and six-pointed star shape.
Back in Cuenca, there's free time to explore at leisure. You may wish to visit the Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum, home to incredible dinosaur fossils and models.
Overnight: Cuenca | Breakfast
Wine Tasting & Valencia
Cuenca – Alcala del Jucar – Valencia. From Cuenca, we journey to Alcala del Jucar, a captivating town nestled within natural caves and perched between the castle and the Jucar River. There's free time to explore the town and find somewhere for lunch.
Next, we visit a winery in Requena for included wine tasting. This region has produced some of Spain's finest wine as far back as the 7th Century BC. After sampling some of the regional produce, we head to Valencia. This coastal gem is known as the birthplace of paella, boasts a vibrant nightlife, and is home to stunning architecture.
Overnight: Valencia | Breakfast
Valencia sightseeing & Albufera Natural Park
Valencia - Albufera Natural Park - Valencia. This morning, we explore the Monastery of Santa Maria in El Puig on an included visit. This structure has a diverse history with cloisters and defensive elements - it has served as a temple, a school, and even a prison
Next, we visit Albufera Natural Park, home to the rice paddies where paella was born. You can enjoy an optional boat ride or spend our time here observing the unique flora and fauna. There's also time for lunch independently. Returning to Valencia, we enjoy a short orientation tour of the city and the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Valencia | Breakfast
Xativa & Cullera
Valencia – Xativa – Cullera – Valencia. Today we journey to Xativa, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Fountains'. Situated on the slopes of Monte Vernissa, it is best known as the historic home of the notorious noble family of Borgia. We enjoy an included visit to Xativa Castle and a short tour of the town, as well as free time to further explore independently.
Next, we head to the charming coastal town of Cullera. Our time here is free to relax on the beach, or enjoy panoramic views from the 13th-Century castle. In the afternoon, we return to Valencia. The rest of the day is free, or you can join an optional walking tour of the city, coupled with a delectable tapas experience.
Overnight: Valencia | Breakfast
Coastal Journey to Barcelona
Valencia – Peniscola – Sitges – Barcelona. In the morning we depart Valencia for the coastal town of Peniscola, known as the 'City in the Sea'. There's an optional visit to the Papa Lunas Castle, built by the Knights Templar in the late 1200s. Perched at the peninsula's highest point, the castle offers panoramic coastal views. Alternatively, don your swimsuit for a refreshing swim in the tranquil sea.
Continuing along the Mediterranean coast, our next stop is Sitges, a lively cultural hub boasting modernist architecture and intriguing museums. After a short visit, we complete our journey to Barcelona, where our tour ends.
Please note: This tour finishes at 18:30 - Barcelona Drop Off, Abba Sants Hotel, Barcelona. (If travelling prior to April 2024, you will be dropped at Hotel Evenia Rocafort, Barcelona).
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 8 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The Single Room price applies for solo travellers who require their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Hotel Exe Cuenca, Cuenca
The Hotel Exe Cuenca, in the picturesque city of Cuenca, offers a peaceful blend of comfort and convenience. Located in one of the quietest areas on the edge of the city, this contemporary hotel boasts easy access to the city centre and a quiet and noise-free environment. Rooms are stylish and well-appointed, each offering modern amenities and a relaxed feel. You'll enjoy a comfortable stay with beautiful views of the surrounding area. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant serving delectable Spanish cuisine, a fully stocked bar, and a fitness centre. The Hotel Exe Cuenca is the ideal base for leisure travellers seeking an unforgettable stay in this charming Spanish city.
Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime, Valencia
The Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime offers an ideal location for exploring the city's vibrant culture. Situated a short walk from the historic Old Town (Ciutat Vella) and Cathedral of Valencia and opposite the iconic Turia Gardens, guests can easily explore the city's attractions and landmarks. The hotel boasts a variety of well-designed rooms, providing a comfortable retreat with modern amenities and tasteful decoration. Guests can unwind by enjoying a drink at the bar, taking a dip in the outdoor pool, or by making use of a modern fitness centre. The Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime ensures a convenient and enjoyable stay in Valencia.
At a Glance
