Valencia & the Scenic Coast
6 day tour
Towns dangling off cliffs, curiously carved stones, and world-famous cuisine adorn this adventure from Madrid to Barcelona.
Tour Highlights
Cuenca - Marvel at the hanging houses of this medieval city stacked on a promontory between two gorges
The 'Enchanted City' - A landscape of stones shaped like faces, crocodiles and mushrooms. A coincidence of nature or magic?
Requena - Wine has been produced here since 7th century BC. Sample the produce and savour the history
Valencia - The birthplace of Paella and one of Spain's most liveable coastal cities
Peñíscola - Surrounded by lavender and the ocean, the 'City in the Sea' is a true Mediterranean marvel
Your journey
From its sensational sights to its timeless landscapes, this tour takes you on a journey through the heart of Spain.
Xàtiva Castle regales you with legends and stories, the Parque Natural de la Serranía de Cuenca enchants you with unearthly geological structures, and Valencia keeps you up a little too late with a mix of delicious restaurants and bohemian bars.
Join this trip from Madrid to Barcelona and discover the essential scenes of Spain.
Tour Details
Check-in closes at 08:15 (tour departs at 08:30) - Madrid Pick Up Point, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid,
18:30 - Barcelona Abba Sants Hotel Do, Barcelona,
You're restricted to 20kg (44lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus one small bag for onboard personal items.
- Pack comfortable shoes for walks up to beautiful views
- Transport in a luxury mini-coach with a local driver
- Air conditioning as standard
- The stories and services of an English-speaking guide
- 5 nights in 3-4 star hotels with continental breakfast
- Entrance to Ciudad Encantada (Enchanted City)
- Entrance to Cuenca Cathedral
- Entrance to the Roman settlement at Segóbriga
- Entrance to Castillo de Belmonte
- Requena wine tasting
- Entrance to Monastery of Santa Maria in El Puig
- Entrance to Xàtiva Castle
- Meals, unless listed above
- Attractions, unless specified above
Itinerary
Day 1
- Arrive in a town that’s carved into the cliffs, Cuenca
You say adiós to Madrid and start your journey through Castilla-La Mancha, the heart of Old Spain. This stunning region boasts gentle landscapes, lush nature, and unrivalled Manchego cheese. It’s also where Cervantes set the fictional journeys of Don Quijote in his novel that laid the foundation for modern European literature.
Your first stop is Villarejo de Salvanés. This small town boasts an unusual castle and archaeological sites that pre-date the Romans.
You'll make your way to Cuenca, where you'll get the chance to learn more about this medieval town on a walking tour. Explore the cobbled streets and marvel inside the 12th-century-built Gothic cathedral (ticket included).
From Cuenca, you'll explore one of Castilla-La Mancha’s finest nature reserves - Parque Natural de la Serranía de Cuenca, a 73,000-hectare wildlife paradise.
Your first stop in the natural park is in the ‘Enchanted City’. This location boasts some of the strangest rock formations you’ll ever see. Wander around this magical landscape and spot mushroom-shaped stones and faces glaring at you from limestone.
You continue your journey through this landscape and stop at the stunning Mirador de Uña viewpoint.
You return to Cuenca where you'll stay for two nights so you can discover its gravity-defying hanging houses and delicious cuisine.
Included Activities
- Walking tour of Cuenca
- Entrance to Cuenca Cathedral
- Entrance to Ciudad Encantada (Enchanted City)
Accommodation
Hotel Exe Cuenca or similar, Cuenca
Day 2
- Revel in the ruins of a Roman settlement at Segóbriga
Today starts with a visit to the former Roman city of Segóbriga. Travel back in time as you explore one of the most important archaeological sites of the Spanish Meseta.
After you've wondered at the well-preserved ruins of the amphitheatre, public baths and temples, you'll travel south to Belmonte.
Here you'll have free time to try out some local Spanish delicacies for lunch before a visit to Castillo de Belmonte. This magnificent 15th-century castle is known for its unusual design, with a triangular courtyard and a six-pointed star shape.
Back in Cuenca, you can admire natural wonders and see dinosaurs at the Paleontological Museum if it’s open. Or, you can scroll through your images from the day over tapas and red wine before enjoying a well-earned rest.
Included Activities
- Entrance to the Roman settlement at Segóbriga
- Entrance to Castillo de Belmonte
Optional Activities
- Entrance to Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum
Accommodation
Hotel Exe Cuenca or similar, Cuenca
Day 3
- Savour the flavours of the wines and cuisines of the region
- Relish paella at its birthplace in Valencia
You leave Cuenca and travel to the fascinating town of Alcala del Júcar. Built deep into natural caves, it's located on a rocky slope between the castle and Júcar river. Here you'll have time for lunch.
Later on, you head to a winery in Requena for an included wine tasting which will invigorate your taste buds. The delicious beverage has been produced in this area since at least the 7th century BC, so you know it’s going to be delicious.
You then travel to Valencia; the home of paella, laid-back nightlife, awesome architecture, and your accommodation for the next three nights.
Included Activities
- Requena wine tasting
Accommodation
Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime or similar, Valencia
Day 4
- Learn about Monastic life at the Monastery of Santa Maria
- Roam through the unique wetlands of Albufera Natural Park
Today, your journey takes you on a half day trip that combines monastic knowledge with fantastic nature spots.
In the morning, you'll visit the Monastery of Santa Maria in El Puig (ticket included). This large building combines cloisters with defensive structures and has been used as a temple, a school, and even a prison.
It’s now time to explore the rice paddies that gave birth to the paella in the Albufera Natural Park. You have the chance to take an optional boat ride or spend your time spotting the unique flora and fauna around the large freshwater lagoon. You'll also have time here for lunch.
You arrive back in Valencia in the afternoon and discover more about the city on an orientation tour.
Use the evening to either enjoy the city’s famous nightlife or prepare for the next day of your adventure.
Included Activities
- Entrance to Monastery of Santa Maria in El Puig
- Orientation tour of Valencia
Optional Activities
- Boat ride in Albufera Natural Park
Accommodation
Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime or similar, Valencia
Day 5
- Lose yourself in the history and narrow streets of Xàtiva
- Enjoy panaormic views of Cullera coastline
Xàtiva, the town of ‘a thousand fountains’ lies upon the slopes of Monte Vernissa. A castle crowns the hills, and the location is famous for ancient paper production, educational institutions, and the notorious House of Borgia. This morning, you travel here and start off with visiting the castle, an orientation tour, and free time to delve deep into all this history. The ticket to the fortress is included in your tour.
You'll then embark on a journey to the lovely town of Cullera. You'll have free time here to soak up the sun on one of the long sandy beaches or take in the panoramic views from the castle vantage point. The emblematic medieval structure dates back to the 13th century.
You return to Valencia in the afternoon and can join an optional guided tour of the city combined with a tasty tapas experience.
Included Activities
- Entrance to Xàtiva Castle
Optional Activities
- Guided city walk and tapas experience in Valencia
Accommodation
Hotel Eurostars Rey Don Jaime or similar, Valencia
Day 6
- Admire a fusion of artistic and architectural styles in Sitges
You depart Valencia in the morning and make your way to the seaside town of Peñiscola. This place is known as the ‘City in the Sea’ and boasts a castle built by the Knights Templar. Choose to visit the fortress, which stands on the highest point of the peninsula, and admire the panoramic coastline. Or take a dip in the tranquil seas to cool off. You'll also have time here for lunch.
A little further along the Mediterranean coast, your journey takes you to Sitges. A happening cultural hotspot, a menagerie of modernist architecture, and a few fascinating museums make this a great preparation for the big city.
You arrive in Barcelona in the evening.
Optional Activities
- Entrance to the Papa Lunas Castle in Peñiscola
Accommodation
Where does this tour stay overnight?
You stay two nights in Cuenca and three nights in Valencia. For examples of the accommodation, please see the tour itinerary.
How does the accommodation work?
A good night’s sleep is often needed for a good day of travel.
So we’ve hand-picked three-star to four-star hotels in remote coastal villages, bustling towns, and mountain valleys.
Your accommodation is included in the tour price; and when you book your trip, you can choose whether you want a double room, a twin room, or a single room.
Are there any extra accommodation costs?
The price you see is for all your tour accommodation and for the tour itself. It also includes a tourist tax. This figure is based on shared accommodation. When you're booking your tour and select a single room, an additional single room supplement will be added to the price.
FAQs
Do I need a visa to take this tour?
You may need a Schengen Visa to travel throughout Europe. Check the official tourism website of the country you’re visiting for up-to-date and reliable information. Travel between countries is easy because there are no passport checks at the borders.
Are the tours suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most people can comfortably enjoy our tours, but it's worth bearing in mind that we often include optional short walks in scenic locations. Please also be aware that many of the old European towns are built on steep hills with cobbled lanes, and you may have to carry your own luggage at times.
So that we can ensure you're comfortable travelling with us, please let us know about any special requirements or needs at the time of booking. If you have any more questions, simply email tours@rabbies.com .
Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?
Europe's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure and avoid contributing to congestion issues, we start our trip from hotels located conveniently on the edge of cities. We choose hotels with good public transport connections to the city centre, so you can enjoy your evening explorations.
To make your tour more convenient, you can add an optional pre and post-departure accommodation in the hotel we use as a pick up or a drop off point.
When should I get to the departure point?
Arrive at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before your departure time. Unfortunately, we’re unable to wait for you if you’re late due to vehicle restrictions. But depending on your situation, we may be able to help you catch up with your tour.
What are your cancellation policies?
We have a cancellation period of 42 days for our Europe tours. If you cancel your trip before this period, we give you a full refund minus a 10% admin charge. If you cancel inside this time frame, you’re liable for the cost of the tour package.
We understand how disappointing it is when you have to cancel a trip with us, so please contact our friendly team who will try their best to resell your ticket and refund you.
Click here to view full terms and conditions.
What is a guaranteed departure?
It's simple: you book, you go. This means we'll never cancel your tour because of a minimum numbers policy.
Can routes change?
Your friendly driver and guide are passionate about the places they visit and know all the local gossip. This means your tour itinerary can change a little due to festivities, attraction opening hour changes, and spontaneous photo opportunities.
Can I pre-book a specific seat?
Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable mini-coaches offer a good view.
Are there toilets on the bus?
We like to keep our coaches small, nimble, and odour free. This means we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you frequently stop in local towns and villages for comfort breaks.
Do you take children on your tours?
We're unable to permit children under 16 years old on our Europe tours due to the nature of the activities that are included.
How much time do I get off the bus?
We want you to enjoy your trip to Europe. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of stops to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.
What are 'included activities' and 'optional activities'?
We've arranged experiences for you on your tour. The 'included activities' are already booked and paid for as part of your trip, whereas you can purchase 'optional activities' while on your tour. You also have free time in many destinations to pick and choose which attractions you visit.
Do we need to bring our own lunch?
You don't need to pack or bring along food on the mini-coach. We stop in small European towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.
What should I do if I have too much luggage?
It’s more enjoyable to travel with light luggage. You can take less by cleaning clothes along the way. Most hotels provide affordable laundry service.
But if you're travelling with more than 20kg, don't worry! There are left luggage facilities close to the majority of our departure points, and courier companies who could ship your excess luggage on to your chosen destination. Our team are happy to help if you need any suggestions or recommendations.
Should I tip the driver and the guide?
Let's be honest, our drivers and guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.
What about travel insurance?
We highly recommend you take out travel insurance, so you can enjoy a stress-free journey.
What is ABTOT?
You're protected by ABTOT when you book a tour with us. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we run into any issues. Read our terms and conditions for more information.
Our packages are covered by the Package Travel Regulations. For full details of your key rights please click here.
I have more questions, who can help me?
If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com, or check out our full FAQs.
Restrictions
This tour is exclusively for passengers aged 18 years and over due to the inclusion of a distillery visit and alcohol tasting. This means children are not permitted on this tour.
You're restricted to 20kg (44lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus one small bag for onboard personal items.