The Secrets of France & the Iberian Peninsula
20 day tour

Day 1

• Wander through the old town of Auxerre full of timber-framed medieval houses
• Admire the flamboyant Gothic architecture of the Hospices de Beaune in the heart of Burgundy

You depart the cosmopolitan city of Paris and watch the lowlands turn into the landscapes of northern Burgundy.

Your first stop of the day is historic Auxerre. This rural town boasts one of the best restored medieval quarters in northern Europe. You’ve got time here to stretch the legs and discover the narrow lanes, lovely open squares, and half-timbered houses.

You then travel to the remote village of Vézelay. Perched on a hill in the sea of greenery, this commune clustered around a UNESCO World Heritage basilica is a perfect stop for lunch.

Once you’ve tried the local specialities, you travel through the unspoiled forests of the Morvan Regional Nature Park. The scenes of lakes and rivers make you feel far away from the Parisian metropolis.

In the early evening, you arrive for your overnight stay in Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. It’s time to indulge yourself in two great French passions, food and wine.

Day 2

• Explore the ruins of Cluny Abbey, a powerful religious centre in the Middle Ages
• Savour some of the best Burgundy wines in a beautiful location

Bonjour! Today you travel through Burgundy to the dignified Cluny Abbey. In its heyday, this religious centre was one of the most powerful Christian capitals in medieval Europe. You’ve got time to explore the quiet cloisters of this stunning monastery and explore the Roman houses before you have lunch.

Then you head to Vienne, a town steeped in Gallo-Roman heritage. Its old quarters hide ruins of a Roman temple and theatre. Enjoy some refreshments and discover more of the town’s fascinating past before you continue your journey.

In the afternoon, you delve into the wine region of Côte-Rôtie to appreciate the best local vintages in a charming winery.

After you’ve satisfied your taste buds, you venture south to the famous Ardèche area. In the evening, you arrive in Tournon-sur-Rhône, a welcoming little town sitting upon the River Rhône. You spend two nights here.

Day 3

• Take in the spectacular stone arch created by the torrents of the Ardèche River
• Discover the world and art of Palaeolithic people in the replica of the Chauvet Cave

It’s time for something more majestic. It’s time to discover the rugged heart of Ardèche.
In the morning, your driver takes you along the scenic roads of a regional natural park to Aubenas, a city full of architectural treasures. But that’s just the beginning of today’s highlights.

Next, you follow the serpentine of the Ardèche River to Pont D’Arc where the water’s torrents etched an iconic natural stone arch in the limestone.

Once you’ve feasted your eyes on this natural wonder, you travel higher up in the mountains to visit Grotte Chauvet 2. Get a glimpse into the prehistoric art and life of Palaeolithic people when you explore the replica of a UNESCO World Heritage cave on a guided tour.

Amazed by the talents of our ancestors, you travel back through the spectacular landscapes carved out by the adamant river.

You arrive in Tournon-sur-Rhône in the early evening.

Day 4

• Stare in wonder at the colossal Palace of the Popes in the historic centre of Avignon
• Delve into the narrow winding streets of the honey-coloured village of Gordes

Provence has many dreamy and seductive faces. And today you’re going to discover more of this inspiring region.

First on your agenda is Avignon. You have time to explore the historic centre and the soaring Palace of the Popes. This fortress was the hub of the Roman Catholic world when the popes fled the political pressures of Rome. Grab a bite to eat, stroll through the streets, and discover the youthful vibe of the city before we move on.

In the afternoon, we head east to Sénanque Abbey nestled among the Luberon hills. If you’re searching for an iconic shot of a medieval monastery surrounded by fragrant lavender fields, you’ve come to the right place. Explore the quiet cloisters and hear about the monks who still live here before you continue your journey deeper into the hills

Next, get a taste of traditional Provençal life in Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France. This honey-coloured hamlet clinging to the edge of a hill is a perfect place to admire the grand vistas of the Luberon valley.

After a day of savouring the charms of the region, you head to Manosque for two nights.

Day 5

• Breathe in the inebriating scent of lavender in the fields of Valensole Plateau
• Peruse famously fine pottery in the atmospheric ateliers of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Today you follow the trail of quaint villages and lavender fields as you delve into the Verdon Regional Nature Park.

You journey across the Valensole Plateau where lavender, ‘the soul of Provence’, grows. These fields of ‘blue gold’ and sunflowers are some of the most famous in the world. And they stretch as far as the eye can see, so have your camera at hand.

After a traverse through the mountains, you stop to take in the spectacular views of the immense lake of Sainte Croix and descend to the village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon.

Next, is a village that literally clings to a cliff face, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Enjoy your lunch and decide how you want to spend your time here. You can visit ateliers selling the local pottery or climb 262 steps leading to a beautiful chapel perched above the village.

After lunch, we head towards the western side of Verdon Gorge to admire the spectacular vistas of this natural wonder.

Intoxicated with today’s experiences and sights, you arrive in Manosque in the evening.

Day 6

• Dare to look down into the great depth of Verdon Gorge
• Set your sights on beautiful Saut du Loup Waterfalls

Impressive canyons, magnificent mountains, idyllic villages and the French Riviera. This is today’s exciting journey through Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Alpes-Maritimes.

Your first stop is the commune of Castellane, the gateway to the eastern part of Verdon Gorge. Stretch your legs and wander through the maze of picturesque narrow lanes. And if you’re keen on history, you can visit a place where Napoleon stopped for lunch on his return from Elba.

Next, you travel to the Point Sublime of Verdon Gorge. Brace yourself, because this spectacular view will make your heart race. It’s the best viewing point for admiring the sheer cliffs, the vastness of the canyon, and the turquoise colour of the River Verdon.

Then, you travel onwards through the mountains, forests, and hillside vineyards until you reach Saut Du Loup Waterfalls. And just before you leave the mountains and plunge down to the glamorous French Riviera, you visit your last idyllic village, Tourrettes-sur-Loup. Take some photos of this hamlet that’s affectionately called the ‘city of violets’ and say au revoir! to the lush countryside.

In the early evening, you arrive in Nice.

Day 7

• Stroll along Promenade des Anglais, the most famous stretch of coast in Nice
• Pop in to the Cours Saleya market to try some delicious local specialities

Bonjour! Today is your free day to explore Nice La Belle, the capital of the French Riviera. This city is famous for its sparkling sea, 19th-century mansions, and glamorous promenades and boulevards.

Sun worshippers can familiarise themselves with the city on a quick hop on hop off bus and then spend the rest of the day on the beach.

Intrepid explorers can grab a map and delve into the Vielle Ville (the Old Town): a maze of shady alleys, colourful facades, and local shops and restaurants. When you explore this area, make sure to stroll to Cours Saleya, the lovely market which will make you crave a few more breakfasts than you usually have.

Next, you can pop into an art museum or a gallery. Among the more prominent ones, there’s the Matisse Museum with the world’s biggest collection of the impressionist’s work and Masséna Museum inside a magnificent Belle Époque mansion.

Once you’ve had your art fix, choose a café or a restaurant and try some of the unique Provençal and Niçoise flavours of the region.

In the afternoon, you can burn some of these delicious calories off as you stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais. This gorgeous stretch along the coast is framed by the azure water on the one side and lined up with the palm trees on the other.

In the evening, head to the Old Port to explore wine bars and pubs and absorb the city’s nightlife. But remember, don’t let your soirée become too crazy because you continue your tour tomorrow morning.

Day 8

• Admire a palette of ancient architecture and leafy avenues in Aix-en-Provence
• Enjoy the serenity of Fontfroide Abbey

You say ‘au revoir’ to glamorous Nice and head west towards Aix-en-Provence. This classy city is full of lively streets, elegant fountains and leafy squares. You can delve into the winding streets and visit local cafés or walk in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne and follow a special pedestrian route through the city.

Continue your journey south into the heart of the Regional Natural Park of Narbonne. This peaceful area is a haven for Fontfroide Abbey which held considerable power during the Middle Ages. Enjoy the tranquillity of this place and breathe in the fresh air before you travel to the walled city of Carcassonne, your base for the night.

Day 9

• Traverse the medieval monuments of Carcassonne
• Delve into humanity’s prehistoric past in the Mas d’Azil Cave

Wake up, enjoy your breakfast, and start exploring this fascinating medieval city. Carcassonne has more stone towers, spiky turrets, and zigzag battlements than you can shake a sword at. So, it will come as no surprise it boasts a UNESCO World Heritage title.

All this sightseeing must have worked up your appetite, so we travel to a small town on the edge of the Pyrenees for lunch. After you’ve enjoyed the local specialities, we head deeper into the Midi-Pyrénées.

Next, instead of travelling up the mountains, you descend to the fascinating underground world of The Mas d’Azil Cave. The immensity of the grotto (the only one in Europe you can drive through) and the rich discoveries will leave you speechless.

In the early evening, you arrive in Lourdes, a small Pyrenean town; a spiritual centre and your home for two nights.

Day 10

• Explore the spiritual beauty of Lourdes, the most visited pilgrimage shrine in the Christian world
• Choose to go for a hike to the hidden waterfall of Cirque de Gavarnie

Today, it’s up to you how you spend your time.

You can stay in Lourdes and discover the sites at your own pace. There’s the soaring sanctuary of Notre Dame de Lourdes, a nearby castle, and a funicular ride to the top of Pic du Jer for a great view of the Pyrenees.

Alternatively, you can spend the morning on tour exploring the village of Gavarnie deep in the Pyrenees.

And if you feel the wilderness calls you, why not spend the whole day in the mountains and go on a hike to Cirque de Gavarnie? The effort is worth it: this majestic amphitheatre-like valley with tumbling waterfalls will reward you with one of the Pyrenees’ most stunning vistas.

Whichever option you choose, you return to Lourdes and enjoy the local atmosphere in the afternoon.

Day 11

• Journey through the peaks and valleys of the Pyrenees
• Discover one of the most enchanting monuments in Navarre, Leyre Monastery

It’s time to travel through the impressive Pyrenean mountain passes into Spain. You venture through this massive national park and descend into Lanuza, a small town boasting spectacular views. Grab a coffee and continue your mountain crossing to Jaca.

This Spanish town is nicknamed ‘Pearl of the Pyrenees’ and has a captivating history. It was founded by the Romans, conquered by the Moors, and taken over again by the Christians. Ponder over the bravery of the locals as you explore the city and savour your lunch.

Next, you head west to the Sea of the Pyrenees, Yesa Reservoir and the peaceful Leyre Monastery. Built on a mountain range overlooking the reservoir, this serene place has been a refuge for the ancient monarchs and bishops of Navarre.

After the afternoon’s adventures, you head to La Rioja region, the wine connoisseur’s heaven, to spend two nights in Haro.

Day 12

• Soak up the famous wines of La Rioja region
• Savour the flavours and picturesque Nature Parks of the Basque Country

You wake up in a town surrounded by the vineyards of La Rioja. This is a fantastic base for exploring this rich region where wine has been cultivated since Roman times.

In the morning, you travel through mountains and forests of Montes Obarenes Nature Park to a hilltop town of Frías. This tiny medieval city is adorned with a ruined castle that will make you stare in wonder.

Next, you jump over to the Basque Country. Here you drive through Sobrón Gorge and the River Ebro, which nurtures the precious vineyards of La Rioja.

You have a chance to call on a local bodega where you can savour the aromas and flavours of this beverage. You may also try a superb food and wine pairing to complete your experience.

Now you know the local wine, uncover the culture and history of this drink in Vivanco Wine Museum in Briones. After discovering the long-lasting relationship between human and wine, you return to Haro where you can spend your evening discovering gastronomic delights.

Day 13

• Learn the terrific tales of the folk hero El Cid while aside his famous tomb
• Appreciate ancient Roman engineering at the grand Aqueduct of Segovia

Say farewell to La Rioja and the vineyards because it’s time to travel to Burgos. This proud city, situated on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, is famous for its Gothic cathedral looming over the skyline. Marvel at this jewel of Spanish architecture and visit the tomb of Burgos’ favourite and most roguish son, El Cid.

You then travel through the vast plains of Castile and León and arrive in Segovia. This place still has the spirit of an old Spanish city and is steeped in history.

Start uncovering the city’s rich heritage by gazing in awe at the perfectly engineered Roman aqueduct now standing in the vibrant centre. Then wander the cobbled streets and get dazzled by Alcázar de Segovia. With soaring towers and turrets topped with slate witches' hats, this castle looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale. So much so it supposedly inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland.

Drink in the last panoramas of this magnificent city and travel south where the grand metropolis of Madrid awaits you in the evening.

Day 14

• Marvel at the opulence of the Royal Palace in Madrid
• Try tapas in one of the La Latina district’s local bars

You have a free day in the golden metropolis of Madrid and can decide how you want to spend it. Packed with tapas bars, world-renowned art, and amazing architecture; this city really knows how to live.

To get around town, you can use Madrid’s fantastic public transport or jump on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.

Start your day by trying delicious pan tumaka; crusty bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil.

You’re really spoilt for choice here because no two districts are the same.

You can begin with the oldest part of Madrid, home to the lavish Royal Palace. It boasts a staggering 3,418 rooms decorated with the paintings by world-renowned artists. After admiring the splendour of the Royal Family’s official residence, you can stroll around the city’s grand plazas. The portico-lined square of Plaza Mayor used to be the centre of Old Madrid. And Puerta del Sol, is where the symbol of Madrid; The Bear and the Madroño Tree resides.

Next, fuel your batteries in one of their many restaurants before an exciting afternoon. For the art lovers; there’s Prado Museum and other exhibitions lined with Spanish, Italian and Flemish masterpieces. For the nature lovers; there’s El Retiro Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city where you can row a boat.

And in the evening head to La Latina; the city’s top district for tapas, mojitos, and terraces. But don’t get carried away by the city’s energy too much, because tomorrow you join the next leg of your tour.

Day 15

• Uncover the fusion of cultures that shaped Toledo, the former capital of Spain
• Travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the backdrop for Don Quixote’s adventures

You leave the heart of Spain and head south to the former capital of the country, Toledo.

Sitting atop a hill and overlooking the Tajo River, this city used to be known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’. To get the real feel of the place, wander through the cobbled streets and try to spot the Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues and Gothic cathedrals. Make sure to sample the local specialities while you admire this amazing architectural ensemble.

You travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the setting for the adventures of the literary hero Don Quixote. Next, you stop on the way through the Despeñaperros Natural Park, the gateway to Andalucía.

Córdoba, your home for the night, welcomes you with its bustling squares and delightful architecture.

Day 16

• Get dazzled by the gems of Moorish architecture in Córdoba
• Learn about olive-making and take in views of endless olive groves

In the morning, you have free time to explore the city.

Once the heart of the western Islamic empire, Córdoba feels exotic and sophisticated.

Here, you have time to admire the countless rows of decorated arches in the serene interior of La Mezquita, the most spectacular mosque constructed by the Moors in Spain. Or wander through the lush gardens of Alcázar de Los Reyes Cristianos, the ‘Palace of the Christian Kings’.

Next, you travel through the rolling hills blanketed with the silvery-grey-green leaves of olive trees. It’s a sign you’ve entered the oil-producing province of Jaén. You have a chance to learn about the production of Spain’s ‘liquid gold’ and enjoy lunch.

Then, you continue south and visit the ruined hilltop fortress of Fortaleza de la Mota before you arrive in Granada early evening. You stay for two nights.

Day 17

• Set your sights on the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the inspiration for a great Spanish poet
• Become entranced by the ornamentation of the Alhambra Palace

You wake up in a city adorned with the most sensual palace of Europe, Alhambra.

The day is yours, so you can decide how you want to spend your time in this dazzling location.

In the morning, you can take a half day tour and follow in the footsteps of Federico Garcia Lorca. National Park. He was a poet and a theatre director who drew his inspiration from Spanish folklore.

If you choose this half day trip, you first head to Huerta de San Vincente and discover the 20th-century villa where the poet wrote many of his best works.

Then, delve into the rugged landscapes of the Cumbres Verdes mountains on the forefront of the Sierra Nevada. Breathe in the mountain air and admire the contrast between lush green valleys and arid badlands.

You leave the dramatic peaks behind and continue your journey to Valderrubio. Lorca spent his childhood here and gathered inspiration from the town’s people, customs, and views.

After a morning filled with poetry and vistas, you return to Granada at lunchtime. Try local delicacies and decide how you want to spend the rest of your afternoon.

Alternatively, you can spend the whole day discovering the fusion of Arabic and Christian cultures in Granada. From the Great Bazaar to the Granada Cathedral, this city will carry you away with its energy.

And let’s not forget, there’s the paradigm of Moorish architecture, the Alhambra. When you look at it, you feel like you’ve been transported to the tales of 1,001 Nights. Originally a fortress and then a palace, this UNESCO World Heritage site will seize your imagination.

You spend tonight in Granada. Use this time to discover tapas restaurants and more of the culinary delights.

Day 18

• Discover the charm of Ronda, the most stunning of the pueblo blancos
• Delve into a maze of cobbled streets in Arcos de la Frontera

Today is all about exploring the other faces of Andalucía; the beautiful wilderness and iconic pueblos blancos.

Your adventure takes you west through the landscapes of Malaga’s ‘Lake District’ before you reach Ronda. Precariously clinging to a steep cliff of the El Tajo Gorge, this commune captures your imagination with its literary connections and history full of outlaws. Stroll along the city walls, explore picturesque plazas, and enjoy your lunch before the next pueblo blanco.

You leave the rural part of the region and travel past Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park to Arcos de la Frontera. This stunning white town has it all: dramatic clifftop location, spectacular vistas, and an old town with a maze of beautiful buildings and cobbled streets.

Cast the last glance over the Andalusian countryside and start your journey to Seville, your home for two nights.

Day 19

• Marvel at the allure of the palace of Real Alcázar in Seville
• Soak up the grandeur as you stroll through the Plaza de España
• Try the finest sherry in Jerez de la Frontera

Seville signifies the essence of Spain. This city will seduce you with its rich Moorish heritage, the orange trees, tapas and passionate flamenco.

Today it’s up to you to decide how to spend the day.

You can dedicate your time to discover the best gems of the city. Lose yourself in one of the 80 chapels in the enormous Seville Cathedral or take in views of the city from La Giralda, the bell-tower which used to be a minaret. Then, delve into the exotic gardens of the palace of Real Alcázar and marvel at its dream patios, opulent domes and intricate carvings.

Alternatively, you can join our half day tour in the morning and travel to Jerez de la Frontera. This elegant town is the heartland of sherry and Spanish brandy. It’s also home to Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, famous for its specially-trained horses that star in incredible performances. Sample some sherry or wine in one of the local bars and soak up the atmosphere before you return to Seville for lunchtime.

Whichever option you choose, spend the afternoon strolling through the shaded arches of the grand Plaza de España and enjoy the pulse of Seville. Warning: with the hypnotic Flamenco performances, delicious tapas and buzzing bars, this city can keep you entertained till the small hours.

Day 20

• Soak up the sun in Huelva on Costa de la Luz
• Wander through Tavira, one of the most charming towns of the Algarve

Say farewell to Seville and enjoy the last glimpses of the Andalusian countryside as you travel west towards Costa de la Luz. It translates into ‘the Coast of Light’, this refers to the bright sunlight and golden sandy beaches.

You stop in the seaside city of Huelva, where Christopher Columbus planned his trip to find a western sea route to China and India.

Next, you cross the Portuguese border and stop at Tavira in the Algarve. Set on the River Gilão, this town exhumes an irresistible charm and makes you want to discover its hidden corners. Wander through the cobblestone streets, cross an old Roman bridge and try Portuguese cuisine for the first time.

Take in the last views of the Algarve and journey north where the laid-back and charming Lisbon awaits you in the evening.