En Route: Discover Ronda
Enjoy an exciting day out exploring the various tourist attractions of Ronda, a picturesque village perched on a dramatic rocky promontory. Soak in views of the El Tajo Canyon from the cliffs that afford views of the Punto Nuevo, an 18th century bridge built over the Guadalevin river. After taking in panoramic vistas of valleys and mountains of the Andalusian countryside from the Alameda del Tajo, visit the Arab Walls and Arab Baths. Drop by the neoclassical Ronda arena and learn about this birthplace of bullfighting heritage. Get an understanding of Ronda’s history at the 14th century Mondragón Palace that showcases Moorish architecture. Stroll on the quaint cobbled streets flanked by handsome mansions, and people-watch at the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent or admire the Santa MarÃa la Mayor Church. Explore the Ronda wine route to savor the many regional boutique wineries, before continuing onward to Seville. (Full Day; Private En route Activity & Transfer; Wine tasting included; Fitness level: Easy)
Go Back in Time at the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortified palace complex of Alhambra and the beautiful Generalife gardens in Granada. Learn about the history of the place that was built by the Nasrid emirs in 1238. A symbol of the end of 800 years of war against the invading Moors, it is also known for being the place where Columbus got permission from the Queen to set sail to America. Marvel at the distinctive features of the monument – an Alcazaba (fortress), an Alcázar (palace) and a small medina (city), all in one. Visit the Torres Bermejas, the Cuarto de Comares (Chamber of Comares), the Puerta de la Justicia (Gate of Justice), and the Cuarto de Los Leones (Chamber of the Lions) – all masterpieces of Arab architecture. Visit the beautiful Generalife Gardens, which used to be a recreation house of the sultans. (Duration: 2.5 hrs; Private Activity and One-Way Transfers; Fitness level: Easy; A tour guide, and entrance fees are included).
Authentic Flamenco Show
Enjoy a spirited Zambra show, the local form for Flamenco, in one of the historic Sacromonte caves. Meet your guide in downtown Granada – known as one of the birthplaces of flamenco, and continue on to a cave in the gypsy neighborhood that has been converted into a tablao for the flamenco show. Explore the magical quarter and learn more about its history before the show begins. As you sip a drink, watch the dancers, singers, and musicians amid the rustic setting. Your guide will explain the history of the dance, which can be traced back to the nuptial rituals of the Moors in the city. After a spectacular performance, return to your hotel. (Duration: 2 hrs; Shared Activity; Taxi Transfers; Drink included; Fitness level: Easy.)
Enjoy Hiking & Exploring in Alpujarras
Hike up the mountain villages of Alpujarras along deep valleys set against the backdrop of the snowy Sierra Nevada. Listen to your guide’s narration of the area’s history starting from when the Moors moved here resisting the Christian conquest. Enjoy a scenic hike through the historic white-stone Mozarabic style houses perched on the rugged terrain amid lush greenery to discover why the place is called ‘the country of nowhere’. Get a flavor of the traditional lifestyle of the villagers as you observe them going about their daily routines including plowing their terraced farmlands with mule-drawn plows. Learn more about how these terraces are fed by snow-melt and spring water from the mountains by a network of irrigation channels – a technique used by the Islamic Moors of Arab and Berber descent that sustains local farming even today. Relish a traditional meal of Alpujarreño at a local restaurant before you return to your hotel. (Duration: 8 hours; Private Activity and Transfers; Fitness level: Moderate; Lunch and Drinks Included; Includes a private guide.)
