The Jamón Ibérico Route and the Pueblos Blancos - Amazing Andalusia: Enchanting Traditional Architecture and Fabulous Cuisine (port-to-port cruise)

We'll leave on foot with our host/hostess for the Osborne Bodega. One of the oldest wineries in the region, Osborne began producing its Sherry Solera in 1772. The iconic Osborne bull silhouette has become part of the landscape in the area. We'll enjoy a tasting of three different wines* along with some regional products.

PLEASE NOTE

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• *Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

You will travel to Granada by coach (driving time is approximately 3 hours round trip). Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada and at the confluence of three rivers, Granada was the capital of the last Islamic kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula.
Upon arrival, you will begin your tour at the Alhambra, directly translating as "the red”, reflecting the color of the walls at sunset. It is one of the major monuments of Islamic architecture and the most majestic mediaeval fortress in the Mediterranean. Along with the Great Mosque of Córdoba, it is the most impressive evidence of the Islamic presence in Spain from the 8th to the 15th century. The tour continues with a visit to the Generalife, which was the summer residence of the Nasrid Emirs, and its marvelous 14th-centruy gardens, where water was harnessed to refresh every courtyard and garden.
Transfer to a restaurant in the center for lunch. In the afternoon, you'll be able to enjoy the delights of the historical center of Granada at your own pace. Return by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• Entrance included to the Alhambra and the Generalife.
• Good walking shoes are recommended. There are some stairs and slopes at the Alhambra.
• Lunch includes 250ml of wine and 250ml of water per person.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• For your information, please note that the bus trip should take about 3 hours to go and 3 hours to return.

We'll leave on foot for a guided tour of Seville, beginning with the Plaza de España—a majestic crescent-shaped complex arranged around a central square. Built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition to showcase Spain's industrial and technological exhibits, the building's tiled alcoves each represent a different province of Spain. The complex faces the Guadalquivir, signifying the prosperous trading route towards the Atlantic Ocean and the Americas. Architect Aníbal González combined a mix of 1920s Art Deco, "mock Mudejar” and Neo-Mudéjar styles, and the Vicente Traver fountain is found in the center. The Plaza de España has been used as a backdrop for many films, including Lawrence of Arabia, Star Wars Episode II, and The Dictator. We'll continue on to Santa Cruz, the most picturesque and delightful part of the city with narrow, winding cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. Formally the Jewish quarter, it remains part of the historical center of the city and contains many renowned monuments. In the 18th century, the neighborhood underwent a major process of urban renewal, and even today remains incredibly picturesque and full of history and hidden passageways. Then, discover the Alcazar(1), which houses the King of Spain and is one of the oldest Royal Palaces in Europe. A fortress and Moorish residence, the Alcazaba (the old Arab quarter) is the sublime illustration of the Mudejar style, showcasing a virtuoso combination of Moorish techniques and Christian symbols. We'll return to the ship at the end of the morning. 

PLEASE NOTE

• (1) Except on Sunday afternoons and Mondays: visit of the Pilate Palace.
• Entrance to the Alcazar is included.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.