| Journey through al-Andalus |
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Andalucia,
the most southerly region in Europe has spectacular scenery and
climate. It has been the jewel of civilisations for thousands of years.
The most influential invaders of all, the Moors, ruled the region for
seven centuries and named it al-Andalus.
Our unique 8 day Journey
starts in Cómpeta and ends
in Tarifa, the most southerly point in Europe. The
accommodation on route is in carefully selected family hotels with twin
or double bedded rooms. Luggage is transported between
locations. It is possible to opt out of walks (except Day 2) but few
choose to so. |
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Itinerary  |
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Day 1 - Cómpeta Wine
New arrivals transfer from
Malaga airport to Cómpeta. Time for a welcome drink, tapas,
exploring the town or a siesta for those who started early.
In the evening we discuss practical aspects of the holiday over a glass
of Cómpeta wine, supposedly the best muscatel in the
province. This is followed by dinner at Cortijo Paco one of
our favourite restaurants.
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Day 2 - Through the
Mountains
After breakfast in the
Plaza, a short transfer takes us high above Cómpeta to pick up the the
old silk route into Granada province. The walk is
then about 11 miles through remote countryside with spectacular views.
The pace is relaxed, with no time constraints other than thoughts of a
cold beer in Jatar on the other side of the sierras. A
short road transfer then takes us to El Cruce, our simple
hotel close to the lake of Los Bermeales.
Walking
time 5 - 6 Hours |
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Day 3 - Granada and the palaces of the Alhambra
After a breakfast, Paco
and Roberto drive us to the Plaza Rib-Rambla in the centre of
Granada and we walk up to The
Alhambra. Entrance fees to this stunning Moorish complex are
included in the holiday plus time to see and marvel.. Later we meet up
for an unforgettable lunch in the Plaza San Nicolas and then
walk though the old Albaicin to catch the late afternoon
train to Antequera. We stay for two nights in a
converted palace hotel in the historic centre of this attractive,
ancient town.
Total Walking time 2 - 3 Hours
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Day 4 - Antequera and El Torcal
A thousand years ago, Antequera
saw many battles between Christians and Moorish
forces. Now it has 23 churches, much charm and character, and few
tourists. A few miles away lies El Torcal, a
massive high plateau of glaciated limestone sculptured by the elements
into spectacular sights and scenery. Our walk takes us through El
Torcal Alta with the option of a unforgettable walk back to the
fort in Antequera. Walking
time 1 or 5 Hours
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Day 5 - South to Tarifa
We leave Antequera by
train for Ronda. In just over an hour we reach the
centre of this historic town. After some free time to explore, our walk
takes over the famous gorge towards the Parque Natural of Grazalema.
At Benoajan we re-board the train for the 'best rail
journey' in Andalucia. Our final destination is Tarifa,
the most southerly tip of Europe. We stay for three nights, our hotel
built into the walled defences of the old town. Walking time 4 - 5 Hours |
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Day 6 To Africa
Officially the rest day
but many guests choose the optional day excursion to Tangier.
The crossing takes 45 minutes from the quayside close to our hotel.
Tangier is an exciting and vibrant city and the crossing to Africa is
very much part of the theme of the Journey. Back in time for
a 'sundowner' and lots to talk about over dinner. |
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Day 7 - On to the beaches
Our last walk takes us
into the cork oak forests of the Alcornocales high above the
Straights of Gibraltar. We are likely to
see Grifon vultures soaring above the sheer rock faces and views acoss
to Africa. Far below, we see the silver-white beaches where the Moorish
invaders landed in AD 711. A truly fitting end to our own adventure.
Walking
time 4 - 5 Hours |
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Day
8 - Buen Viaje
Farewell breakfast,
transfers to Malaga or Gibralter. |
Click for comments on the
holiday
Click for Foto Album
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| Dates & Prices |
Spring
2012***
Sun April 29 - May 6
Cost £695** p/p |
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Autumn 2012
Sun Sept 23 - 30
Cost £695** p/p |
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What is included:-
- 7 Nights accommodation with breakfast.The first night will be at
Spanish Steps. Subsequent nights in carefully chosen hotels with double
or twin room with en-suite facilities*.
- Three-course meals with wine at favourite local restaurants or
hotels. (Excluding rest day)
-Guided walks and travel costs for all elements of the Journey excluding
the optional day excursion to Tangier(approx. 60 Euros).
- Entrance to the Alhambra Palace
- Transfer of bags.
- Airport transfers at specified times from Malaga airport on arrival
and Gibraltar or Malaga airport on departure.
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* Single
supplement charge is £125 per week.
** Less £25 when booked with a Cómpeta based holiday.
*** See Stop Press |
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Starting Point for the holiday is Malaga airport with a 2.00 pm pick
up. On departure, transfers arrive back in Malaga at 12 Noon.
Alternatively, some guests choose to leave from Gibraltar. This gives
an extra dimension to the holiday and reduces the two hour road
transfer back to Malaga. Click here for travel and booking information. |
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