Download - Spain & Portugal Travel Connection

0 downloads 159 Views 12MB Size Report
Mar 25, 2018 - It's always a good time to travel to Spain. Its cities bare the marks of a mixture of cultures, monuments
2018

SPAIN & PORTUGAL

TAKE A STROLL to the bar

Hola, Ola, Welcome Spain & Portugal Travel Connection offers a wide range of accommodation, small group tours and experiences. Think cruising along the rivers of Spain & Portugal, staying in charming Paradores and Pousadas, car rental and leasing, and attraction passes. We are a team of dedicated travel professionals standing by to offer the best possible advice to plan a dream holiday to Spain & Portugal.

Spain & Portugal Travel Connection – revive your senses!

EMIRATES FIRST AND BUSINESS Anytime is a good time to enjoy a relaxing drink or two in our spacious onboard bar*, serving cocktails, canapés, spirits and exclusive wines. You never know who you’ll meet.

Fly Emirates to Barcelona, Madrid or Lisbon and enjoy all the luxuries.

*Onboard Bar available on Emirates A380 flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.

Introduction.............................................4

About Portugal.......................................50

About Spain.............................................6

About Lisbon..........................................52

About Barcelona......................................8

About Porto............................................58

About Madrid.........................................16

Regional Portugal...................................62

Escorted Tours.......................................24

Unique Experiences...............................70

Regional Spain.......................................28

Cruising..................................................76

Unique Experiences...............................42

Car Rental and Car Leasing...................83

Prices in this brochure are current at time of printing; however they are subject to currency fluctuations and should be used as a guide only. Please contact us for up to date prices.

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

3

3

Spain & Portugal Travel Connection is Australia’s leading Spain and Portugal travel specialist. We have a dedicated team of experienced consultants who regularly travel to Spain and Portugal and give you a personalised service.

Our packages are all unique. They include different services such as accommodation, tours, transfers, cruises, classes and more.

Many cities of Spain and Portugal are easy to reach from Dubai, this includes Barcelona, Madrid and Lisbon. To truly experience regional Spain & Portugal, we recommend travelling by train or car.

We believe our expertise makes the difference between a holiday and memories to remember.

At Spain & Portugal Travel Connection we pride ourselves on the professional level of service and the experience we provide to our clients.

We offer a wide range of handpicked accommodation options such as serviced or private apartments, paradores, pousadas, hotels, cruise cabins and more.

All our local partners have been working with us for years to provide the best possible experiences in Spain & Portugal.

Visit our website www.spanishtravel.com.au 4

5

About Spain



It’s always a good time to travel to Spain. Its cities bare the marks of a mixture of cultures, monuments and natural spaces that have been awarded World Heritage designation by the UNESCO. The country is host to some of the world’s most important museums, offers beaches to suit everybody, a pleasant climate all year round, delightful Mediterranean cuisine, typical Spanish traditions such as Flamenco and much more... You’ll find it very easy to get here thanks to the multitude of international connections available to Spain. Immerse yourself and be captivated by the Mediterranean character and by the openness and friendliness of its people. Surrender to the magic of its streets. This is a place where life is always enjoyed to the utmost.

A Coruna Santiago de Compostela Vigo 3

GALICIA

About Spain

About Spain

ASTURIAS Oviedo

Santander

Sarria Leon

Bilbao

Vitoria Burgos

Pamplona

Logrono

5 NAVARRA LA RIOJA

CASTILLA Y LEON Valladolid Salamanca

San Sebastian

4

BASQUE COUNTRY

Segovia Avila

Zaragoza

ARAGON

1

CATALONIA

Girona

2

Madrid

Tarragona

Cuenca

Toledo

EXTREMADURA

Andorra

7

Barcelona

CASTILLA - LA MANCHA

Merida

Ciudad Real

Albacete

VALENCIAN Valencia

Palma de Mallorca

8 Jaen Cordoba

Seville

Ibiza Alicante

6

Murcia

ANDALUSIA Malaga

Cadiz

BALEARIC ISLANDS

MURCIA Granada

Ceuta (Spain)

CANARY ISLANDS

9

The Facts

2018 Events and Festivals

Climate: Spain is rather unique as it houses three different climate zones. The country has a predominantly warm Mediterranean climate, characterised by dry/hot summers and mild/rainy winters. Generally, the best time to visit central cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and Salamanca is in spring and autumn. The South tends to be sunny all year round however these southern cities can reach very high temperatures in the summer months.

 Carnival: February 2018

 Saint John's Eve: 23rd June 2018

 The Fallas of Valencia:

 San Fermin in Pamplona:

Time Zone: GMT + 1. Summer Time (GMT +2) runs from early April to late October. Currency: Euro. Banks: Australian debit cards can be used in most ATMs. Banks close around 3pm. It is best to use cash where possible as some foreign debit/credit cards may not work in some shops or restaurants. It is a legal requirement to show photo ID when paying by card. This is in addition to signing the receipt and typing your PIN. Electricity: European electrical plugs are used (two round pins) with 220/240 volts. Entry Requirements: Australian passport holders can stay in Spain up to 90 days without a visa. You should have at least six months validity remaining on your passport. Some regulations may apply on other passports depending on the duration and reason of the stay. Check with the Spanish Consulate (http://spain. visahq.com/embassy/Australia) for further information. Getting To and From the Airport: Spain’s two main airports are Adolfo Suarez Madrid - Barajas Airport (12km northeast of Madrid) and El Prat - Barcelona Airport (12km southwest of Barcelona).

6

March 2018  The Holy Week (Semana Santa): 25th March - 1st April 2018  The April Fair of Sevilla: April 2018  San Isidro in Madrid: 15th May 2018  El Rocio Pilgrimage: 21st May 2018

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Alboran (Spain) Melilla (Spain)

Map not to scale

July 2018  La Tomatina in Bunol: 29th August 2018  Feast of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela: 25th July 2018  Festes de la Merce in Barcelona: 24th September 2018  La Rioja Wine Festival in Logrono: September 2018

Cities 1 Madrid, Spain’s central capital, is a city of elegant boulevards all embraced by parks such as El Buen Retiro. It’s renowned for its rich European art, including the Prado, Reina Sofia National and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. 2 Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of the Catalonia region, is known for its art and architecture. The fantastical Sagrada Familia Cathedral and other modernist sights designed by Antoni Gaudi can be found throughout the city.

Mainland Spain

The Coast and Islands

3 Galicia is home to Santiago de Compostela which is the final stop on the Camino de Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage trail. Its historic centre has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7 Costa Brava owes its name of ‘wild coast’ to the uniqueness of its terrain, a sudden encounter between mountain and sea. Nature, climate and history all add to the region’s picturesque ports and villages, which have been enough to earn a worldwide reputation.

4 The Basque Country is surrounded by a fertile landscape with forests, mountains, beaches and steep coastlines. Bilbao, with a skyscraper-filled downtown and its Guggenheim Museum or San Sebastian, with its gastronomy, culture and La Concha beach are full of interest. 5 La Rioja has over 500 wineries and is internationally renowned for the quality of its wines. This region also offers a range of activities which take place in and around the extensive vineyards. Horse-riding, hotair ballooning, 4x4 routes are all possible. 6 Andalusia is a unique destination in itself. Explore Seville, the birthplace of Flamenco, famous worldwide for its culture, traditions and artistic heritage. Discover Granada with its impressive Al-Andalus palaces and gardens at the Alhambra and continue to Cordoba with the Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral. The bustling city of Malaga is a world apart on the Costa del Sol.

8 Balearic Islands include four stunning islands: Mallorca with its glorious churches, ancient villages and pristine sandy shores. Menorca for those who love the seaside, nature and country atmosphere. Ibiza for its lively ambience, beautiful beaches and UNESCO-listed Old Town. Formentera for its sheltered coves and a UNESCO-listed maritime natural park. 9 Canary Islands are seven islands in the Atlantic Ocean where the sun shines all year round. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro all guarantee a revitalising experience. From strolling along their beaches to immersing yourself in their imposing landscapes, you will feel your cares simply melt away.

7

RON DA D E DA



About Barcelona

DEL GENERAL MITRE

A ND RO

TRAV

ING

UD A

DIA

GO

NA

ESS ER

A DE D

La Ciutadella Park

ALT

E MAR

L

BA DA L

GR AN

VI A

CA R

LO S

AV

Sagrada Familia

DE

GUD A

ROM

Casa Batllo

A A RAG O

CALL E DE

GRAN VIA DE LAS CORTS CATALANES

8

Casa Mila (La Pedrera)

EIXAMPLE

Palau de la Musica

PG. DE S JOAN

ER CA RR

AVIN

L RA PA

amb

L DE

la

A. LE

La R

L

2 LA RAMBLA 7 MONTJUIC RON DA LITO RAL

Cathedral

DE

NA IA ID ER

GRAN VIA DE LAS CORTS CATALANES

4 LA RIBERA 1 GOTHIC QUARTER

DE AV

M

LA

CALLE DE ARAGO

Plaza Catalunya Boqueria Markets 3 EL RAVAL

AT

ERR

NTS

E MO

EU D

DE D

CARRER DE CARTAGENA

Barcelona is a city that ‘bubbles’. A city that has transformed itself into one of the most dynamic and stylish capitals in the world. Its enviable position between the mountains and the sea ensures the many outdoor attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Barcelona sizzles throughout the year, always on the cutting edge of architecture, food, fashion, style, music and good times. The art, with signifcant collections by Picasso and Miro, will delight enthusiasts and those new to art alike. The buildings, many the work of the eccentric genius Gaudi, will amaze you. The city has a number of distinct and vibrant districts, each with their own ambience, amazing attractions and museums.

PG. DE GRACIA

About Barcelona

SANTA COLOMA

D AV

About Barcelona

L

DE AV

DE

LA

M

AV IN G

NA IA ID ER

UD A

DIA

GO

NA

L

RE IV E PE ER D CARR

5 EL BORN Picasso Museum Guell Park RONDA LITORAL

Montjuic RAL A LITO ROND

6 LA BARCELONETA BEACH - PORT VELL

La Barceloneta

Highlights Gardens: • Guell Park. • Montjuic. • La Ciutadella Park.

Gothic Quarter

La Rambla

El Raval

La Ribera

1 The Gothic Quarter is right in the centre of the city, with its famous Cathedral, a stunning example of Catalan Gothic architecture. Try to visit the quarter at sunset when the sun lights the facade in a brown-red glow. Otherwise, pick a sunny day when the stained glass casts a rainbow over the cloisters.

2 La Rambla is perhaps the most popular, most crowded and most colourful street in Barcelona. It is a delightful place to visit. Near La Rambla, visit La Boqueria Markets, a real paradise for the senses, full of life, history and unquestionable architectural value.

3 Just a few steps off the Rambla, the district of El Raval includes the Palau Guell, one of the early works of Antoni Gaudi and one of the most magnificent buildings of the art nouveau style.

4 Make your way through the narrow streets of La Ribera district. At the top of El Born, you may stumble across the Palau de la Musica, Heritage Site since 1997. The Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar (Our Lady of the Sea) also known as the ‘Cathedral of La Ribera’, is one of the most perfect examples of Gothic style architecture.

Montjuic

Eixample

7 Montjuic, named after the Jewish cemetery, includes a pleasant large park with several attractions, such as The Magic Fountain of Montjuic and Poble Espanyol, a small village offering you a sampling of Spanish architecture and its arts and crafts. Some buildings are also left over from the 1992 Olympics.

8 Eixample is a more recent part of Barcelona. In the mid-1800s, Eixample was used to expound the architecture chosen by rich merchants. It is here that the famous Sagrada Familia is found. Gracia, Tibidabo and Zona Alta are on the northern limits of Barcelona in a hilly area with 15 parks, including the most well known Guell Park, which overlooks all of Barcelona.

Museums and art galleries: • Palau de la Musica. • Picasso Museum. Monuments: • Sagrada Familia. • Casa Mila (La Pedrera). • Casa Batllo. • Plaza Catalunya. • Cathedral. • Santa Maria del Mar Cathedral. • Boqueria Markets. Beach: • La Barceloneta.

8

El Born 5 In the El Born district, we can find the Picasso Museum built in an elegant palace. The Picasso Museum is arranged chronologically, so you can easily view his progression from youthful student through the Blue Period and towards the beginning of Cubism. La Ciutadella Park invites you to relax, to go for long walks or to use a rowing boat on the lake.

La Barceloneta beach and the Port 6 One of the top attractions of Barcelona is its weather. Everyone wants to take advantage of the city’s 4.5 kilometres of coastline and take a dip in the Mediterranean. Located in the traditional fishing district, La Barceloneta is one of Barcelona’s bestloved beaches. Port Vell, La Barceloneta and Port Olimpic are linked together and cover the port area.

9

Stay in Barcelona



Explore the enchanting city of Barcelona and discover its true potential. Spain & Portugal Travel Connection offers a wide range of accommodation in many of the city’s sought after districts, to suit you and your style of travel. Whether you prefer to relax at your hotel’s rooftop terrace or want to live like a local and attempt a paella in the comfort of your self-catering apartment, we have a large selection of properties to choose from.

HOTELS Spain & Portugal Travel Connection offers an outstanding range of hotels in Barcelona’s most sought after districts. The selection of hotels displayed in our brochure are some of our top recommendations, however they are only a very small selection of what we can offer. We have access to many other hotels and can provide you with the best available rates and room availability.

HOTELS – 3 STAR HOTEL DEL MAR M

Barceloneta

Barceloneta

Situated between the Gothic Quarter and the beaches of La Barceloneta, this hotel is in one of the best locations to experience Barcelona. Housed in a National Artistic Monument, you are surrounded by some of the most important sights of the city.

JAZZ - SUPERIOR M

Why stay in a serviced apartment? This is the most authentic way to experience Barcelona. Live like a local and enjoy the freedom of your home away from home. This is a great option for the independent traveller or if you are travelling with your family, as we offer the option of studios, one bedroom, two bedroom and three bedroom apartments. If you like the idea of cooking your own meals and relaxing in your own space, then this is a great alternative to a hotel. While still being in the heart of the city centre, you have easy access to all of the main sights and attractions.

ASPASIOS 42 RAMBLA CATALUNYA SUITES M

Passeig de Gracia

Universitat

AVENIDA PALACE

Eixample

M

Girona

M

Eixample

Passeig de Gracia

GRANDOM SUITES

LUGARIS BEACH Eixample

Surrounded by Modernist architecture, this elegant townhouse is located in a central square of the Eixample district, only moments away from emblematic monuments. Each apartment features two-bedrooms, balconies with city/square views, kitchens with modern appliances and living rooms with pull-out sofas.

M

Llacuna

LAS RAMBLAS PASSATGE BACARDI APARTMENTS

ARAI APARTMENTS

M

M

Liceu

Gothic Quarter

Originally a Colonial property built in the 1850’s, this recently refurbished building has been converted into family-orientated apartments. Offering modern facilities, while still retaining much of the building’s original character. Located along the Ramblas, you are only a short distance from the beach, Plaza Catalunya, the Cathedral and much more!

M

Liceu

Jaume I

A restored 18th Century palace, this aparthotel is a luxurious boutique aparthotel in the historic centre. These elegant apartments retain the character of their original architecture with vintage brick walls and furnishings crafted from reclaimed materials. The aparthotel offers a terrace, swimming pool, solarium, gym, sauna and room service.

M

Liceu

 Gothic Quarter

A historic and artistic heritage listed building, dating from the 19th Century and located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. You are situated on a charming pedestrian street, only a few steps away from Las Ramblas, the Cathedral as well as many restaurants, galleries and shops.

H10 CATALUNYA PLAZA BOUTIQUE SUPERIOR

M

Urquinaona



Plaza Catalunya

This late 19th Century building has been transformed into a charming retreat that combines both classical and contemporary elements to emphasise the building’s traditional archtiecture. In a truly priveleged position, you have access to all of the main sights from this boutique hotel.

El Born

HOTEL 1898



Liceu

El Raval

M

Discover a true treasure located in the heart of Barcelona, along the famous Ramblas. Hotel 1898 was once home to the Philippines Tobacco Company. With its unique colonial style structure, absorb the 19th Century architecture and enjoy the panoramic views over the Barcelona skyline from the rooftop terrace.

DUQUESA DE CARDONA M

Barceloneta

 Port Vell

The Duquesa de Cardona is situated in a 16th Century building, which for many years was home to nobility and a refuge for kings. Restored into a luxury hotel in 2003, the building retains much of its original spirit, while providing impeccable service, location and atmosphere.

HOTELS – 5 STAR HOTEL NERI

Gothic Quarter



This hotel is set in a neoclassical building, renovated with decor inspired by the voyages of yesteryear. Offering fantastic views of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and in a privileged location, you will find a restaurant and 2 bars at the H10 Montcada, including the Sunset Lounge located on the rooftop terrace.

El Poblenou

One of Barcelona’s biggest attractions is the 4.2km coastline. If you want to stay close to the beach, look no further than the Lugaris Beach Apartments. Located in prime position, only 200 metres to the water and close to Rambla del Poblenou, one of the liveliest streets in the city where you have the choice of the most authentic Catalan cuisine.

 Passeig de Gracia

Ideally located in one of the most emblematic areas of the city, the Avenida Palace has continued to savour its traditional architecture and furnishings. With the likes of The Beatles, Joan Miro and Ernest Hemingway as previous guests, this hotel is sure to impress you. Enjoy the history and grand atmosphere this hotel has to offer!

Located in the Eixample district, this 19th Century building was recently converted into 30 authentic apartments. While maintaining all of the structure’s original architectural features, each apartment offers the comfort of a sophisticated and modern living space.

H10 MONTCADA

Passeig de Gracia

Eixample

H10 RACO DEL PI

HOTELS – 4 STAR

MIDTOWN LUXURY APARTMENTS

These chic apartments are located in the Eixample district and are only 150 metres from Passeig de Gracia Boulevard! Offering fresh and modern interiors, each apartment includes a kitchen with modern appliances, a daily cleaning service and balcony/terrace!

M



A cosmopolitan delight, located between Plaza Catalunya and Passeig de Gracia. The chic Hotel Jazz is an oasis of calm in the city centre, a truly unique spot for relaxing after a day of exploring the city’s many neighbourhoods.

SERVICED APARTMENTS

10



Stay in Barcelona

Stay in Barcelona

M

Liceu

 Gothic Quarter

In the middle of the Gothic Quarter lies the Hotel Neri, occupying two historic buildings. One of these is a 12th Century medieval palace from which the old courtyard has been recovered and restored. With only 22 rooms in this boutique setting, you are sure to feel the unique and sensual atmosphere the Neri provides.

GRAND HOTEL CENTRAL M

Jaume I

 Gothic Quarter

A home in the heart of Barcelona and an icon of the city. Built in 2005, the Grand Hotel Central offers its guests a new concept of five star luxury. While radiating elegance and style, this hotel is also in the perfect location between the Gothic Quarter and El Born district.

11

Barcelona Packages



All of our Barcelona packages are customised. We create tailor made itineraries to suit the time you have and your style of travel. Every package includes transfers, accommodation, activities and more. We’ll organise everything for your stay in Barcelona.

Barcelona Discovery – 2-Night Package

Barcelona Gourmet – 3-Night Package

• Return private transfers between airport/train station/ port and your hotel

• Return private transfers between airport/train station/ port and your hotel

• 2 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• 3 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• Barcelona Highlights Coach Tour - 8:45am

• Half Day Cooking Class + Market Visit - 9:40am

• Fast Track Guided Tour of Sagrada Familia + Park Guell - 4pm

• Tapas Evening Walking Tour - 5pm

• Accommodation recommendations: 3*: Jazz, 4*: Avenida Palace, 5*: Hotel Neri

• Wine Tasting Tour - 12pm

Barcelona Packages

Barcelona Packages

• Accommodation recommendations: 3*: H10 Raco Del Pi, 4*: Hotel 1898, 5*: Hotel Neri

Build your own package: Call our team and build your own package for your stay in Barcelona. We recommend a minimum of 4 nights to discover the capital of Catalonia.

+

+

+ *$560

2-night package, price per person from*

Include your transfers:

+ *$690

3-night package, price per person from*

We offer private transfers in and out of Barcelona Airport, Barcelona Sants Train Station and Barcelona Port to your hotel or serviced apartment.

Choose your accommodation:

From 3*, 4*, 5* hotels to serviced apartments, we’ve got you covered. Tell our team what style of property and facilities you like and they will find the perfect area and accommodation for your time in Barcelona.

Choose your tours:

From experiencing the unparalleled architecture inside Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia Cathedral to having a local and private guide walking you through the history of the Gothic Quarter, we offer a wide range of experiences in Barcelona. We love to recommend a guided tour of Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia (with access to the towers) and our small group tapas walking tour that winds through the streets of the Gothic Quarter in the evening. If you are interested in art, Barcelona is your city. From Gaudi to Picasso, Modernism, Gothic, every quarter, every street has an artistic touch.

Choose your passes:

Choose from the Barcelona Card, Barcelona NightCard, Hop on/Hop off and Barcelona Iventure. Attraction Passes are amazing to have when you arrive in Barcelona. These various passes can offer access to over 25 monuments, audioguide tours, public transport, discounts in shops and entrance into night clubs. Whether you’re in the city for 2 days or 7, we have different durations available depending on the length of your stay!

Choose your nightlife activities:

Barcelona comes to life at night and offers just as much in the twilight as it does during the day. Whether you would prefer a Flamenco Show and dinner near Las Ramblas, or just a glass of cava (sparkling wine) while you visit La Pedrera as the sun goes down, our team will find the best fit for you. Receive our complimentary ‘Gran Reserva’ Bonus Pack when you book Return Transfers + 4 Nights Accommodation + 2 Barcelona Tours

Barcelona Crumpled City Map

Christopher Columbus Monument Pass

Barcelona Family Fun – 4-Night Package

Barcelona and Captivating Catalonia – 5-Night Package

• Return private transfers between airport/train station/ port and your hotel

• Return private transfers between airport/train station/ port and your hotel

• 4 nights in a central apartment

• 5 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• Fast Track Guided Tour of Park Guell - 11am

• Hot Air Ballooning Experience - 6am

• Sweets and Chocolates Walking Tour - 10:30am

• Full Day Costa Brava Coach Tour - 8:30am

• Full Day Trip to Port Aventura Park and Ferrari Land - 9:30am

• Early Tour of Montserrat and Santa Cecilia Church with Brunch - 8am

• Accommodation recommendations: 2 Bedroom Apartments: Aspasios 42 Rambla Catalunya, Grandom Suites, Lugaris Beach

+

+

4-night package, price per person from*

• Accommodation recommendations: 3*: H10 Catalunya Plaza Boutique, 4*: H10 Montcada, 5*: Grand Hotel Central

+ *$1,090

+

5-night package, price per person from*

*$1,440

Add your fifth night and receive a 1 Day Hop On/Hop Off Pass for each person travelling!

12

* Price based on 3 star hotel, on twin share basis

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

13

Barcelona Sightseeing

Barcelona is a city where there is something for everyone. From walking tours, museums, visiting famous monuments that reach the sky to gourmet and culinary experiences, Flamenco shows and more. Barcelona is sure to provide you with unforgettable memories. With so many experiences to offer, we have included some of our favourites below!

Guided Walking Tour

Guided Walking Tour

Guided Walking Tour

Guided Walking Tour

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Small Group Tour

GOTHIC QUARTER WALKING TOUR

HOT AIR BALLOON EXPERIENCE

EARLY MONTSERRAT AND SANTA CECILIA CHURCH

Daily: 9:30am (2hrs)

Daily: 7am (5.30hrs) *Pick up time can change in summer

Wed and Fri: 8am (Apr-Oct) (7hrs)

Learn about the most splendid period of the Catalan capital and its culture as you wander through the streets, squares, hidden corners and hundred year old buildings with your expert guide who will take you on a journey. Every step of this tour is full of history, charm and magic.

An unforgettable experience! Enjoy the calm sensation of gliding through the Catalonian sky! After your flight concludes, celebrate your experience with a typical Catalan brunch and glass of champagne, receive your flight certificate and watch the slide show with photos from the morning.

Enjoy a privileged, uncrowded visit to the magnificent Montserrat Mountain and Royal Basilica, followed by brunch and an unforgettable visit to the hidden treasure, Santa Cecilia Church. Here you will admire one of the most outstanding sights in the world for its magnificent fusion of Christianity and avant-garde art.

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Coach Tour

Coach Tour

FAST TRACK SAGRADA FAMILIA

FAST TRACK SAGRADA FAMILIA + PARK GUELL

GAUDI BARCELONA

GIRONA: GAME OF THRONES CITY

COSTA BRAVA

PORT AVENTURA + FERRARI LAND

Daily: 10am, 12pm, 4pm (Apr-Oct) (1.30hrs) Daily: 10am (Nov-Mar)

Daily: 4pm (Apr-Sep) (4hrs)

Daily: 3pm (Apr-Oct) (4.30hrs)

Daily excl. Tue, Thu and Sun: 8am (Apr-Oct) (6.15hrs), Mon and Fri: 8am (Nov-Mar)

Tue and Fri: 8:30am (May-Oct) (11.30hrs)

Daily: 9:30am (Apr-Jan) (12hrs)

Designed by Antoni Gaudi, skip the line and enjoy the astonishing interiors of the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, where vaults reach seventy meters! Afterward, visit the museum showcasing the history and development of the cathedral and the life of Gaudi. Ask us about entry to the towers!

Declared a UNESCO World heritage site, the architectural marvel Park Guell, is a creation in the middle of nature by Antoni Gaudi. Be led through the park by your guide and then be transported to your next stop, Sagrada Familia, where you will gaze at the interiors and be told of the Cathedral’s incredible history.

Gaudi, one of the greatest innovators of his time, left behind numerous Modernist treasures which this tour will discover. We visit Sagrada Familia and marvel at both its interior and exterior design, walk through whimsical Park Guell and end with a stroll along Passeig de Gracia where Casa Batllo and Casa Mila (La Pedrera) are found.

Guided Small Group Walking Tour

Guided Tour

Guided Small Group Walking Tour

WINE TASTING TOUR

HALF DAY COOKING CLASS + MARKET VISIT

TAPAS EVENING WALKING TOUR

Tue-Sat: 12pm (Mar-Sep) (1.30hrs) Tue, Fri, Sat: 12pm (Oct-Feb)

Daily excl. Mon and Sun: 9:40am (4.30hrs)

Daily excl. Sun: 5pm (3hrs)

Immerse yourself in a genuine wine experience right in the center of Barcelona. With over 500 different wine references and more than 40 wines by the glass to choose from, be led by your friendly wine connoisseur and enjoy the delicious flavours of Spain.

14



Discover how to create some of Spain’s most authentic dishes with our seasoned chefs. You will be guided through Boqueria market to select the best ingredients, then taken back to the kitchen to let the magic begin! Create tantilising flavours in this friendly atmosphere, then enjoy your delicious creation with a glass of wine!

Combine gourmet food and Catalan culture on a walking tour of Barcelona’s famous tapas bars. Stroll along the historic streets and taste Spain’s fundamental flavors accompanied by your knowledgeable guide.

This medieval city, which holds an important artistic heritage, is one of Catalonia’s most charming and often missed cities. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city centre, visit the Cathedral and admire its well-preserved medieval streets that lead you toward the edge of the river bank. Experience the history in the small streets of this old city.

Just north of Barcelona lies the Costa Brava. The name is due to its unique rocky and rugged coastline, composed of small coves surrounded by pine forests and lapped by crystal water. This tour explores the small and charming villages along the coast, each boasting incredible landscapes and history rich in ancient Greek and Roman heritage.

Climb on board for the ride of your life! Fun for all ages, Port Aventura hosts 40 rides for you and your family! Here you will find rides that hold records for height, speed and size. In each area of the park you can expect endless attractions, shows, shops, themed restaurants and more! For the first time in Europe, live the passion of Ferrari at Ferrari Land!

Guided Coach Tour

Pass

Pass

BARCELONA HIGHLIGHTS

HOP ON/HOP OFF CITY TOUR

Daily: 8:45am (4.45hrs)

Daily - At your own pace

Enjoy the most emblematic sights Barcelona has to offer! Enjoy the sights of Passeig de Gracia, Arc de Triomf, La Ciutadella Park, the Olympic Village and Port, La Barceloneta, Port Vell, the Columbus Monument, Montjuic Castle (and a cable car ride), the Spanish Village and more!

What better way to discover the city! Explore the amazing sights of Barcelona at your own pace from a double decker bus! You will be given a map of the city and discount vouchers for shops and restaurants along the bus routes. Buses depart regularly from points all over the city.

Barcelona Sightseeing

Barcelona Sightseeing

BARCELONA IVENTURE: ATTRACTION PASS Three, Five or Unlimited Passes Available An electronic card that includes several activities to visit the most popular monuments in Barcelona. You have the choice of 3 or 5 activities/attractions from a list of 36! Or if you have a number of monuments you want to tick off your bucket list, then why not try our Unlimited Pass?

15

CALLE DE SERRANO

L DE AP C RIN

LETO S

A

ES

Plaza de España

SALAMANCA 8

RECO

E DE

SAG

ASTA

PASE O DE

CALL

MALASANA 7 CHUECA

E ED

LA

CA

AL

LL

CA

Metropolis Building Plaza de Cibeles GRAN VIA The Church Prado Museum of San Gines Puerta Del Sol PASEO 3 SOL 1 6 AUSTRIAS LETRAS 2 DEL ARTE YOR E MA Plaza Santa Ana CALL Plaza Mayor El Retiro Park San Miguel market

Z ENDE MEN

LL

EA

TO

CH

A

LAVAPIES 4 RONDA

DE TOLE

DO

DA

RON

DE

IA

ENC

VAL

CALLE DE ALFONSO XII

ED

LA LATINA 5

XII RADO DEL P

CA

YO PELA

PASEO

CALLE BAILEN

Royal Palace

E AV. D

About Madrid

LE

Madrid is in an ideal position as the climate is cooled by mountain breezes during summer. The city’s palaces, numerous museums and art galleries provide a feast for modern culture lovers and the city prides itself on its vibrant nightlife. Spain’s capital city is full of diverse neighbourhoods ranging from the bustling business centre to the hip Chueca quarter. The ‘Golden Triangle of Art’ is an area within the city centre that is home to three museums: Prado Museum, Reina Sofia National Art Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Madrid’s historic centre is full of cobblestone pedestrian streets and the elaborate main square, Plaza Mayor, is filled with cafes and arcades.

About Madrid



L CA

About Madrid

Reina Sofa National Art Museum

Highlights Gardens: • El Retiro Park. Museums and art galleries: • Prado Museum. • Reina Sofia National Art Museum.

Sol - Gran Via

Letras

Paseo del Arte - El Retiro

Lavapies

1 Sol, one of the most vibrant and tourist driven districts of Madrid, has borne witness to many different historical events. You will find plenty of bars, restaurants, shops and famous monuments here such as Puerta Del Sol, the ‘Kilometre Zero’ where all radial roads out of Madrid commence and the ‘Oso y Madroño’ (‘Bear and the Strawberry Tree’) statue.

2 Translating as ‘Liberty Quarter’, Letras district housed authors such as Cervantes, Lope de Vega, Tirso de Molina and Quevedo. Follow the streets which pay homage to its history, where you can experience both culture and art. Plaza de Santa Ana, the famed square, features statues of Calderon de la Barca and Federico Garcia Lorca.

3 El Retiro, ‘The Golden Triangle of Art’, houses some of the finest art collections, the Prado Museum, ThyssenBornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofia National Art Museum are found here. El Retiro Park exudes life and is a cultural attraction. Don’t miss the monument to Alfonso XII, the Glass Palace, Velázquez Palace and the Fountain of the Fallen Angel.

4 The tourist district of Lavapies, lies in the south region of the city and keeps to its Middle Age origin boasting narrow, steep and maze like streets that lead in to the city centre. Here you will find a mixture of culture, religion and traditions as this district is home to many immigrants from all over the world.

La Latina

Austrias

Chueca - Malasaña

Salamanca

5 La Latina hosts many cultural and tourist attractions. El Rastro, the city’s infamous flea market, offers a broad range of products, from second hand records to jewellery, clothing and furniture. Another magnet to the district for tourists and locals is the cuisine. Visit one of the taverns along the narrow streets for some authentic tapas!

6 Austrias, one of the most lively and oldest neighbourhoods of Madrid, where you can enjoy a mixture of architecture and famous sights such as Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, Sabatini Gardens, Plaza de Oriente and the Teatro Real Opera House. Austrias is also home to hundred year old coffee houses, modern establishments and the San Miguel Market.

7 In these districts lives an exuberant bohemian atmosphere. In Chueca, you can find restaurants offering fine cuisine, art galleries and a great nightlife scene. Malasaña offers an array of shopping opportunities. This district borne witness to the beginning of an underground movement in the 1980’s, which revolutionised arts and culture in Spanish society.

8 Discover luxury, elegance and sophistication. The Salamanca district, which is mainly inhabited by Spain’s financial and political elite, offers many attractive sights. Spain’s renowned ‘Golden Mile’ of fashion boutiques, stylish nightlife and Michelin starred restaurants are all here for you to enjoy.

• Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Monuments: • Plaza Mayor. • Plaza de Santa Ana. • Puerta Del Sol. • Metropolis Building. • Plaza de Cibeles. • Plaza de Oriente. • Royal Palace. • Jeronimos Monastery. • Buen Retiro Palace. • Church of Saint Gines. • San Miguel market.

16

17

Stay in Madrid



With so much to experience in the city of Madrid, let us recommend some of our favourite properties that will make exploring this vibrant city easy! Similar to Barcelona, we offer 3*, 4* and 5* hotels as well as serviced apartments, so no matter what your style of travel, we can accommodate you in the city’s most sought after districts!

HOTELS HOTELS – 3 STAR HOTEL REGINA M

Sevilla

 Sol-Gran Via

One of the most emblematic hotels in the capital of Spain, dating back to 1918, the Regina combines a traditional ambience with modern facilities. The hotel boasts 180 stylish rooms, 10 of which are attics with a terrace that offer spectacular views of the city.

ROOM MATE LAURA M

Opera

 Sol-Gran Via

Experience elegance at the charming boutique hotel, Room Mate Laura. With duplex and deluxe rooms available, this hotel will provide an unforgettable stay! Take advantage of the amazing location, walking distance to monuments, restaurants and shopping districts.

Stay in Madrid

Stay in Madrid

HOTELS – 4 STAR ONLY YOU BOUTIQUE M

SERVICED APARTMENTS SPLENDOM SUITES M

Gran Via

Malasaña

The contemporary Splendom Suites are located in close proximity to the Gran Via and Puerta Del Sol. Offering renovated and fully equipped accommodation, there are studios, junior suites and suites available. Easily accessible to theatres, shops, famous squares, monuments and museums.

M

Callao

Salamanca

Strategically situated on the street of the Gran Via, this stylish property ensures you are in the best location to explore Madrid! Filled with natural light and modern interiors, we offer one, two or three bedroom apartments, inclusive of modern facilities and a fully equipped kitchen.

M

Sevilla

 Sol-Gran Via

Dating from 1917, this chic hotel, bursting with literature at every corner, is set on an upmarket shopping street only steps away from the Gran Via. The elegant, spacious rooms feature oak floors, handmade rugs and literary quotes that decorate the walls. Discover one of the best views of the city from the hotel’s Atico 11 Terrace.

ME MADRID REINA VICTORIA 

H10 VILLA DE LA REINA

Anton Martin

Letras

Set in an elegant 1923 building, this lifestyle hotel is filled with innovative interiors and facilities while being strategically located within steps of famous districts and monuments. Enjoy the remarkable panoramic views of the city from the ME Madrid terrace bar, ‘Radio’, which has been voted one of the top 10 bars in Spain!

Malasaña

IBEROSTAR LAS LETRAS GRAN VIA

Looking for a special stay in Madrid? Look no further! Designed specifically for you, this hotel is set in a restored 19th Century mansion, with a strong emphasis on exquisite interiors and thoughtful service. Located only steps away from the lively Chueca neighbourhood, explore Madrid from one of its best hotels!

M

GRAN VIA CAPITAL

Chueca



M

Gran Via

 Chueca

A majestic 20th Century building has been carefully restored which has lead to the creation of the H10 Villa De La Reina. Combining both modern and classical elements, the refurbished rooms are decorated with elegant and intricate design. You can relax after a day of exploring at the hotel’s restaurant ‘Las Infantas’ or bar ‘La Villa’.

HOTELS – 5 STAR ERIC VOKEL ATOCHA M

Palos de la Frontera

60 BALCONIES ATOCHA Atocha

NH PALACIO DE TEPA

Atocha Cercanias

Atocha

Completely refurbished in 2013, these apartments offer guests a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere. With modern design and facilities, you are only minutes away from Paseo Del Arte and the three famous art museums! If Madrid is only one stop on a bigger itinerary, you’ll find it easy to get to your next destination as Atocha Station is nearby.

Quirky in its design, the 60 Balconies Atocha aims to create a sense of convenience and ease for your stay in Madrid. With daily cleaning, 24-hour check in and laundry services available to you, feel free to relax and take in the city’s friendly atmosphere and prime location, near Atocha Station.

MADRID CENTRAL SUITES

60 BALCONIES RECOLETOS

M

Tribunal

Malasaña

Enjoy the unique apart-hotel ‘Madrid Central Suites’, hosted in a refurbished heritage residential building. You can have the best of both worlds while revelling in the freedom of a spacious apartment and still enjoying the services/facilities of a hotel.

18

M

M

Recoletos

Paseo del Arte

The 60 Balconies Recoletos is immersed in the centre of the artistic district. Similar to its sister property 60 Balconies Atocha in style and design. 60 Balconies organises temporary exhibitions to promote, support and sponsor artists and these works can be found in your apartment, creating an art space as well as a place to stay.

M

Anton Martin

 Letras

THE PRINCIPAL MADRID M

Banco de España

 Chueca

A uniquely charming hotel set in an elegant palace surrounded by history and romance. Still reflecting its historical splendour and 18th Century architectural design, the rooms and facilities have been refurbished and updated to allow for optimal convenience during your stay.

More than just a luxurious boutique hotel, this property is set in a prime location in lively Chueca. Offering 76 elegantly designed rooms, wellness spa, a menu created for the hotel’s restaurant ‘Atico’ by Ramon Freixa (2 Michelin stars), as well as the impressive Terraza, which boast arguably the best panoramic views of downtown Madrid.



HOSPES PUERTA DE ALCALA 

WESTIN PALACE M

Sevilla

Letras

Stay at the iconic and innovative luxury hotel that has thrived since opening its doors in 1912. Located in the dynamic city centre, you will be in prime position for visiting the ever inspiring Golden Triangle of Art. Dine at the culinary delight La Rotonda or enjoy cocktails at 1912 Museo Bar. You will be impressed by the Westin’s style.

M

Retiro

Paseo Del Arte

Find the perfect combination of gastronomy, elegance, history and architecture at the marvellous Hospes. Built in 1883, guests can find a balance of tranquillity and urban life in the very heart of Madrid. The interior decoration utilises warm colours, white marbles and noble wood to reflect the avant-garde nature of the building.

19

Madrid Packages

Madrid Sightseeing and Day Tours Madrid, the capital of Spain is sure to entice you with its many activities and never ending possibilities. From buzzing around the city centre on a Segway to being led through the Golden Triangle of Art or rediscovering the history of the city’s oldest districts while enjoying some tapas, we have something for everyone. We’ve included some of our top recommendations below to get you started.

Pass

Guided Small Group Walking Tour

Guided Small Group Walking Tour

HOP ON/HOP OFF CITY TOUR

HAPSBURG MADRID WALKING TOUR + SKIP THE LINE ROYAL PALACE

HAPSBURG MADRID WALKING TOUR + SKIP THE LINE PRADO MUSEUM

Daily - At your own pace

Daily: 10am (3.30hrs)

Daily: 10am (Apr-Oct) (3.30hrs) Wed: 10am (Nov-Mar)

See the architectural and cultural magnificence of Madrid from a double decker bus! You will be given a map of the city and discount vouchers for shops and restaurants along the bus routes. Buses depart regularly from points all over the city.

Visit the fascinating Renaissance and Baroque style buildings from the time when the Hapsburg dynasty reigned in Spain. Then visit the Royal Palace, built in the 18th Century and which was the official residence of the Spanish Monarchy from 1765 to 1931.

Visit the fascinating Renaissance and Baroque style buildings from the time when the Hapsburg dynasty reigned in Spain. Then be taken on a journey through the famous Prado Museum, which houses fine art from the medieval period all the way through to the 19th Century!

Guided Walking Tour

Cooking Class

Dinner and Show

All of our Madrid packages are customised. We create tailor-made itineraries to suit the time you have and your style of travel. Every package includes transfers, accommodation, activities and more. We’ll organise everything for your stay in Madrid.

Madrid Discovery – 3-Night Package

Madrid and Beyond – 4-Night Package

• Return private transfers between airport/train station and your hotel

• Return private transfers between airport/train station and your hotel

• 3 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• 4 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• Hapsburg Madrid + Royal Palace Walking Tour

• Hapsburg Madrid + Prado Museum Walking Tour

• Madrid Authentic Tapas and History Walking Tour

• Imperial Toledo and Winery Tour with typical lunch

• Accommodation recommendations: 3*: Room Mate Laura, 4*: Iberostar Las Letras Gran Via, 5*: Hospes Puerta de Alcala

• Segovia and The Medieval Town Of Pedraza Tour with gastronomic lunch

+

Receive our complimentary ‘Gran Reserva’ Bonus Pack when you book Return Transfers + 4 Nights Accommodation + 2 Madrid Tours

20

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

+ *$805

MADRID PAELLA, TORTILLA AND SANGRIA COOKING EXPERIENCE

FLAMENCO SHOW - CORRAL DE LA MORERIA

Daily: 7pm (3.30hrs)

Mon-Fri: 12pm (3hrs)

Daily: 7pm or 9:55pm (1.10hrs)

Get ready to have your senses and tastebuds tantalised on this gastronomic, historical walking tour. You will be given an authentic insight into the Spanish culture, history and culinary traditions. Enjoy some tapas and learn of its origin, as it involves ancient and vibrant social customs passed down from generation to generation.

Enjoy this exciting introduction to Spanish gastronomic culture. You will learn how to prepare famous Spanish dishes such as Paella, Tortilla, Sangria, and more. After taking this class you will be ready to prepare these delicious recipes at home!

Corral de la Moreria was established in 1956 and is known as the ‘Cathedral of Flamenco Art’ in Spain. In a privileged location in the main historic quarter of the city, its decoration dating from the 18th and 19th Century recreates a setting reminiscent of the original tablao Flamenco.

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Small Group Tour

Guided Small Group Tour

• Accommodation recommendations: 3*: Room Mate Laura, 4*: Only You Boutique Hotel, 5*: The Principal Madrid

+

3-night package, price per person from*

MADRID AUTHENTIC TAPAS AND HISTORY TOUR

Madrid Sightseeing and Day Tours

Madrid Packages

+

4-night package, price per person from*

Madrid Crumpled City Map

*$1,070

1 Day Hop-on Hop-off

* Price based on 3 star hotel, on twin share basis

TOLEDO FULL DAY TOUR

SEGOVIA AND THE MEDIEVAL TOWN OF PEDRAZA

IMPERIAL TOLEDO AND WINERY TOUR

Daily: 9am (Apr-Oct) (8hrs) Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun (Nov-Mar)

Wed, Fri, Sun: 9:30am (Apr-Oct) (9hrs)

Mon, Thu, Sat: 9:30am (Apr-Oct) (8hrs)

Visit the ancient cities Segovia and Pedraza, two cities rich in history and two of the best examples of walled medieval towns in Spain. Visit the well-preserved Roman aqueduct in Segovia. Stroll through Pedraza’s cobbled streets and emblazoned houses.

Visit the beautiful and ancient city of Toledo which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Discover why the city is known as the ‘City of the Three Cultures’. Afterwards, head to Bargas, home to the Finca Loranque where we’ll visit its fantastic Wine Cellars.

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Toledo is one of the oldest towns in Europe. Carrying artistic beauty from different periods (Arabian, Gothic, Mudejar, Renaissance and Baroque), you will discover why the city is known as the ‘City of the Three Cultures’.

21

Barcelona and Madrid Multi Day Tours

NORTHERN SPAIN

Multi Day Coach Tour

Explore the Iberian Peninsula with many different multi-day itineraries that vary in their duration and destination. Whether you need a short city break in the Andalusian sun or want an in depth discovery of Northern Spain finishing off with a hint of Portugal, we have it all! If you are starting/finishing in Madrid or Barcelona, we have many departures available. If you are wanting to experience Morocco, our tours depart from Malaga in the Costa Del Sol.

MULTI DESTINATION

Multi Day Coach Tour

NORTHERN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL — CGPTC/BCGPTC

 7 Days - Departures: Year Round - Sunday  Depart: Malaga, Costa del Sol / End: Malaga, Costa del Sol

 12 Days - Departures: Apr to Oct - Specific Wednesdays  Depart: Madrid/Barcelona / End: Madrid

• 4* accommodation with daily breakfast • 4 dinners included • Guided panoramic tours in Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier • Free time to explore in Fez and Tangier

• • • •

COUNTRY BASQUE — MPV5X/BPV5X

NORTHERN SPAIN AND GALICIA — MCRB8XM/BCRB8X

 4 Days - Departures: Apr to Oct Specific Wednesdays  Depart: Madrid/Barcelona / End: Madrid

 5 Days - Departures: Apr to Oct Specific Wednesdays  Departs: Madrid/Barcelona / End: Madrid

 11 Days - Madrid - Departures: Apr to Oct - Specific Mondays  8 Days - Barcelona - Departures: Apr to Oct - Specific Wednesdays  Departs: Madrid/Barcelona / End: Madrid

• 4* accommodation with daily breakfast • Panoramic sightseeing tours in San Sebastian and Bilbao • Air conditioned deluxe motor coach • Free time in Bilbao, Castro Urdiales, Santander, Santillana de Mar, Covadonga, Oviedo and Salamanca

• 4* accommodation with daily breakfast • Panoramic sightseeing tours in San Sebastian, Vitoria, Salinas de Anana, Bilbao • Walking tour of Laguardia, Balmaseda and San Sebastian’s ‘Old Town’ and port • Entrance to the Guggenheim Museum for a self guided experience • Rail ticket: Bilbao - Madrid (tourist class)

• 4* accommodation with daily breakfast • Panoramic sightseeing tours of San Sebastian, Bilbao and La Coruna • Guided city tours of Santiago de Compostela and Porto • Free time to explore in almost every city

Multi Day Coach Tour

Multi Day Coach Tour

SOUTHERN SPAIN

Airport transfers 4* accommodation with daily breakfast Guided visits in Madrid, Santiago de Compostela, Porto and Lisbon Guided panoramic sightseeing tours in San Sebastian, Bilbao and La Coruna • Free time to explore in almost every city

Multi Day Coach Tour

Multi Day Coach Tour

22

Multi Day Coach Tour

PORTUGAL AND ANDALUSIA — MPA6DM/BPA6DM

IBERIAN TOUR — RONIB/BRONIB

 14 Days - Madrid - Departures: Year Round - Specific Sundays  15 Days - Barcelona - Departures: Year Round (excl. Feb) Specific Saturdays

 19 Days - Madrid - Departures: Apr to Oct - Specific Wednesdays  17 Days - Barcelona - Departures: Apr to Oct - Specific Wednesdays

 Depart: Madrid/Barcelona / End: Madrid

 Depart: Madrid / End: Madrid OR Depart: Barcelona / End: Barcelona

Airport transfers 4* accommodation with daily breakfast 5 dinners included Guided visits of your departure city (Madrid or Barcelona), Porto and Lisbon, Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Toledo • Guided visit of the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens in Granada

• 4* accommodation with daily breakfast • 4 dinners included • Guided visits to Santiago de Compostela, Porto, Lisbon, Cordoba, Seville and Granada • Guided visit of the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens in Granada • Panoramic sightseeing tours of San Sebastian, Bilbao and La Coruna

• • • •

Multi Day Coach Tour

NORTHERN SPAIN — CG4X/BCG4X

Multi Day Coach Tour

MOROCCO, IMPERIAL CITIES IN FULL — MAR7D

Multi Day Coach Tour

Barcelona and Madrid Multi Day Tours

Barcelona and Madrid Multi Day Tours

ANDALUSIA — TOLEDO - A5J

SMALL GROUP MADRID, ANDALUSIA, TOLEDO — MA4XM/BA4XM

ANDALUSIA — COSTA DEL SOL MA8LM/BA8LM

 5 Days - Departures: Year Round Specific Thursdays  Departs: Madrid / End: Madrid

 7 Days - Departures: May to Oct Specific Mondays  Departs: Madrid/Barcelona / End: Madrid

 11 Days - Madrid - Departures: May to Sep - Specific Saturdays  12 Days - Barcelona - Departures: May to Sep - Specific Fridays  Departs: Madrid/Barcelona / End: Madrid

• 4* accommodation with daily breakfast • 4 dinners • Guided visits in Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Toledo • Guided visit of the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens in Granada • Air conditioned deluxe motor coach

• 6 nights first class hotels with daily breakfast • 3 dinners • Guided visits in Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Toledo • Tours of the Mezquita Mosque in Cordoba and Alhambra and Generalife Gardens in Granada

Return airport transfers 4* accommodation with daily breakfast 7 dinners Guided visits in your departure city, Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Toledo • Guided visit of the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens in Granada • • • •

Maximum of 15 passengers per departure

23

Escorted Group Departures - Coach Spain & Portugal Travel Connection offers a range of escorted group tours by coach, with specific departure dates. All coaches used in our group tours are modern, comfortable, air-conditioned and first class. They have on-board toilets and always offer adequate seating for our maximum group size. All coach tours are escorted by English speaking guides. Group Guaranteed Departures The term ‘group tour’ is defined as having a minimum of ten passengers travelling on the one tour. Once it is reached, the tour is guaranteed to depart. More Sightseeing Time

Escorted Tours Spain & Portugal Travel Connection is the expert when it comes to touring options through Spain. Our fully escorted tours allow you to sit back and take in the magnificent scenery and sights. All the essentials are taken care of by our team of specialists: from excellent accommodation and first-class, air-conditioned coach transportation, to sightseeing, expert commentary, entrance fees, most meals and porterage.

24

These tours are specifically designed to suit travellers who prefer less time in the tour bus and longer periods of sightseeing. Tours marked with this symbol feature more leisurely paced itineraries with two or three-night stays in the one place. This means that you are not constantly packing and unpacking. TOUR MADE FOR

Australians

Designed specifically for Australians These tours are marketed to Australian passengers and therefore do not feature multi-lingual commentary – only English.

25

Australians

Experience the best of Spain and Portugal with our fantastic 18-day tour. We do not only visit classic cities such as Granada, Madrid, Seville, Porto and Toledo but we also discover those wonderful, often ignored cities such as Cordoba, Ronda, Evora and Salamanca. To complete your experience, enjoy great shows of Flamenco and Fado and stay in historic Paradores and beautiful hotels. • Stay in carefully selected Pousadas, Paradores and hotels.

• Visit medieval Obidos and the fishing village of Nazare.

• Spend 2 nights in Granada, visit the Alhambra Palace and the Gardens of the Generalife, Cordoba’s Mesquita-Cathedral and Ronda.

• Relax over 3 nights in Porto, taste Vinho Verde at Aveleda Wine Estate and enjoy a port tasting and tapas lunch.

• Stay 3 nights in Seville and visit the Atlantic port of Cadiz. Enjoy a dinner flamenco show and a dance class. • Sleep 3 nights in a Pousada in Lisbon. See the Discoveries Monument, Belem Tower and visit Jeronimos Monastery. Discover the Pena Palace in Sintra and experience a traditional Portuguese Fado dinner show.

• Spend 2 nights relaxing in Salamanca. Enjoy a lunch cruise on the Alto Douro, visit El Valle de los Caidos and El Escorial. • Discover Segovia, its famous aqueduct and fairy-tale castle and visit Toledo’s Cathedral. • Enjoy a farewell dinner with dramatic city views in Spain.

Departure dates and prices

Guimaraes

Segovia

Salamanca Regua

24th April 2018

21st August 2018 4th September 2018

22nd May 2018

11st September 2018

5th June 2018

18th September 2018

19th June 2018

25th September 2018

Twin share

$8,499 pp

Single supplement

$2,299

Sitia Nazare

TOUR MADE FOR

Australians

During this exciting 17-day tour, you explore the beautiful northern region of Spain and the medieval town of Carcassonne in France. Immerse yourself in UNESCO listed Burgos and the vineyards of La Rioja, follow Spain’s Costa Verde from the wild Picos de Europa mountains to Santander and elegant San Sebastian. Sleep in historic Paradores in Spain and relax by the Canal du Midi in France. • Cross Castile to spend 3 nights in an ancient Parador, exploring La Rioja Alavesa wine road, visiting Logroño, spectacular Laguardia and beautiful Haro.

• Visit scenic Castro Urdiales harbour on the Costa Verde, explore Bilbao, Saint Jean de Luz and the dramatic French coastal resort of Biarritz.

• Visit ‘El Cid’s’ UNESCO listed Burgos and famous Pamplona.

• Spend 3 relaxing nights in Spain’s culinary capital of San Sebastian and take in the views from Monte Igueldo.

• Stay 3 nights at Santander, visit Santillana de Mar and view the Altamira Paleolithic cave paintings. • Follow part of the Pilgrims Way to San Vicente de la Barquera, drive through La Hermida Gorge to Potes, take the spectacular cable car ride up to the summit of the Picos de Europa.

• Visit Pau and Lourdes and stay 2 nights in Tarbes, and catch the cable car up to the Pic du Midi. • Enjoy 3 nights in the historical Carcassonne, visit the Cathar citadel of Minerve, relax by the Canal du Midi. • Visit Figueres and stay in the very heart of Barcelona.

France Atlantic Ocean

El Valle del los Caidos

Alto Douro

8th May 2018

Highlights

Departure dates and prices

Braga

Porto

23th May 2018

Madrid

El Escorial

Toledo

Portugal

Obidos

Sintra

Spain

Lisbon Evora Cordoba

Seville Andalusia

E

Escorted Tours

E

TOUR MADE FOR

Northern Spain and Pyrenees (17 days)

Escorted Tours

Highlights

ORTE SC TOUR

D

Magnifico Spain and Portugal (18 days)

D

ORTE SC TOUR

15th August 2018

Aquitaine

Bay of Biscay

Santander

Santillana de Mar San Vicente de la Barquera

6th June 2018

29th August 2018

27th June 2018

5th September 2018

18th July 2018

12th September 2018

Twin share

$6,799 pp

Single supplement

$1,579

Picos de Europa

Biarritz Saint Jean de Luz

Costa Verde

Castro Urdiales

Potes Bilbao

Cantabria Haro Burgos

Languedoc Roussillon

Pau

San Sebastian Navarre

Vitoria

Pamplona

Laguardia Logroño

Rioja Region

Castilla-León

Spain

Tarbes Lourdes Pic du Midi

Carcassonne Mirepoix St Hilaire

Minerve Canal du Midi

Gulf of Lions

The Pyrenees

Andorra

Figueres

Barcelona

Mediterranean Sea

Granada Madrid

Ronda Cadiz

Inclusions • • • • • •

26

+

+

+

Fully escorted by our experienced Tour Manager. Travel in a first class air-conditioned touring coach. AVE train Madrid to Cordoba. 17 nights in carefully selected hotel accommodation. Hotel porterage (1 bag per person). Meals: breakfast daily (B), tapas lunch, port warehouse visit and tasting in Porto (L), 10 dinners including welcome and farewell dinners, a Flamenco Dinner show and a Fado Dinner show (D).

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

Inclusions

Mediterranean Sea

• Welcome drink in Madrid and Aveleda Vinho Verde wine tasting. • All excursions, scenic drives, sightseeing and entrance fees. • Special highlights - Flamenco dance class in Seville, River Douro tapas lunch cruise. • Local guides and personal audio system whilst on tour. • Free WiFi available on most coaches and at hotels. • End of tour tips to Tour Manager and Driver, tips for local guides.

B= Breakfast

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

* On twin share basis

• • • • •

+

+

+

Fully escorted by our experienced Tour Manager. Travel in a first class air-conditioned touring coach. 16 nights in carefully selected hotel accommodation. Hotel porterage (1 bag per person). Meals: breakfast daily (B), Fabada mountain lunch in Potes (L), 10 dinners including welcome and farewell dinners (D).

* On twin share basis

B= Breakfast

L= Lunch

• All excursions, scenic drives, sightseeing and entrance fees. • Special highlights - cable car rides in Picos de Europa and Pic du Midi. • Local guides and personal audio system whilst on tour. • Free WiFi available on most coaches and at hotels. • End of tour tips to Tour Manager and Driver, tips for local guides.

D= Dinner

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

27

A Coruna Santiago de Compostela Vigo

GALICIA

Regional Spain

ASTURIAS Oviedo

Santander

Sarria Leon

Bilbao

Vitoria Burgos

Pamplona

NAVARRA LA RIOJA

Valladolid Salamanca

BASQUE COUNTRY

Logrono

CASTILLA Y LEON

Spain & Portugal Travel Connection makes it easy to venture beyond Barcelona and Madrid to experience the diverse history, culture, arts, architecture and cuisine of regional Spain. Discover an extensive collection of unique and luxurious properties spread across Spain’s most beautiful regions. We have a wide range of regional tours on offer, but we have selected some of our favourite private tours, guided walking tours and coach tours hosted by friendly local partners.

San Sebastian

Segovia

Zaragoza

ARAGON

Avila

Madrid

For your convenience, we have put together a selection of packages in key regional centres. Alternatively, you can create your own regional itinerary.

EXTREMADURA Merida

Andorra

Tarragona

Cuenca

Toledo

CATALONIA

Girona

Barcelona

CASTILLA - LA MANCHA Ciudad Real

Albacete

VALENCIAN Valencia

Palma de Mallorca

Guided Coach Tours Jaen

Spain & Portugal Travel Connection offers a wide selection of guided tours ranging from small to large groups, which are a great way to discover the best of each city. All coaches used in our tours are modern, comfortable and air-conditioned.

Seville

Private Tours For a customised and intimate experience of some of Spain’s most loved monuments and cities, take one of our private tours led by our gracious, expert guides.

Alicante

Malaga

Cadiz

CANARY ISLANDS

Ceuta (Spain)

BALEARIC ISLANDS

Murcia

ANDALUSIA

Guided Small Group Tours If you prefer travelling in a smaller group, Spain & Portugal Travel Connection can help. We offer a large range of small group tours across regional Spain. These tours provide a more personal touring experience. A minimum of two passengers is required on most of these tours.

Ibiza

Cordoba

MURCIA Granada

Alboran (Spain) Melilla (Spain)

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Map not to scale

28

29

Regional Spain

Basque Country: San Sebastian Why we love it

Why we love it

Bilbao is a growing metropolis and a driving factor in the modernisation of the Bay of Biscay. It is renowned for its architectural projects which are key to the regeneration of this city.

The unparalleled beauty of this city charms locals and tourists alike through a harmonious combination of culture, architecture and landscape. Embrace the culinary scene, dine in the pintxo bars or a Michelin star restaurant.

Highlights

Highlights

• Gaze at the artistic wonders inside the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. • Treat your tastebuds with some of the cities avant-garde culinary creations. • Stroll through Dona Casilda Park.

• Visit the Old Town and its many pintxo bars for lunch/dinner. • Dine at a Michelin Star Restaurant. • Learn how to cook traditional pintxo cuisine.

BILBAO 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

SAN SEBASTIAN 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

Available all year round. Departs from Bilbao.

Available all year round. Departs from San Sebastian.

DAY 1 - Private transfer from Bilbao Airport/Rail Station to the Miro Hotel. Evening at leisure. DAY 2 - Breakfast at the Miro Hotel. Half Day Walking Tour of Bilbao - Visit sights like the Cathedral of Santiago, La Plaza Nueva, the Church of San Anton, the Ribera market and more! Enjoy your ride of the cable car to Artxanda (a beloved spot for the Bilbainos) before visiting the most famous museum of Bilbao, the Guggenheim. (B) DAY 3 - Breakfast at the Miro Hotel. Day at leisure to soak up the atmosphere of the city. (B) DAY 4 - Breakfast at the Miro Hotel. Private Half Day Transfer Tour from Bilbao to San Sebastian, including your choice of one stop in either San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka, Leketio or Getaria. (B)

DAY 1 - Private transfer from San Sebastian Airport/Rail Station to the Astoria 7. Evening at leisure. DAY 2 - Breakfast at Astoria 7. Pintxo Tasting Walking Tour - Enjoy the many flavours of Basque cuisine over lunch and be taken through the famous Parte Vieja for a culinary experience. (B, L) DAY 3 - Breakfast at Astoria 7. Michelin Star Experience - A once in a life time opportunity to be taught by the best! Later, enjoy a reservation at Michelin Star ‘Kokotxa Restaurant’. (B, D) DAY 4 - Breakfast at Astoria 7. Private transfer to Airport/Rail Station. (B)

+

+

+

+ *$1,300

3-night package, price per person from*

BILBAO CONDE DUQUE

*$1,015

HOTELS BILBAO MIRO



Set along the River Nervion, overlooking the Puente Zubizuri. Only a 10-minute walk from the Guggenheim Museum, you will find impeccable service and up to date facilities.

SAN SEBASTIAN HOTEL DE LONDRES Y DE INGLATERRA  Retaining much of its original and historic elegance, this hotel is one of the largest beach front hotels in San Sebastian. Set along the seafront promenade, you will experience luxury in its facilities and service.



Only 260-metres from the Guggenheim Museum, you are in prime location for exploration. Exuding immaculate style, the hotel offers modern rooms, courtesy bar and art, spread throughout the hotel.

GUIDED TOURS

30

+

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS

SAN SEBASTIAN ASTORIA 7



With an innovative concept, the owners have elegantly transformed the emblematic ‘Astoria Cinema’ to a contemporary hotel. Located near the River Urumea and only a 15 minute walk from the Old Town.

GUIDED TOURS

Private Transfer Tour

Private Walking Tour

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Small Group Walking Tour

Private Tour

Guided Coach Tour

DISCOVER THE BASQUE COAST HALF DAY TRANSFER TOUR

BILBAO CITY WALKING TOUR AND GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM

TASTE OF THE BASQUE COUNTRY

PINTXO TASTING TOUR

MICHELIN STAR EXPERIENCE

BASQUE COUNTRY CIRCUIT

Daily: 9:30am (Year round) (4hrs) Depart: Bilbao / End: San Sebastian

Daily: 10am (Year round) (4hrs + Guggenheim Museum) Departs from Bilbao

5 Days - Departures: Year Round - Tue Departs from Bilbao

Daily: 12:30pm (Year round) (2.30hrs) Departs from San Sebastian

Daily: 11am (Year round) (2.30hrs) Departs from San Sebastian

6 Days - Departures: Year Round - Tue Depart: San Sebastian / End: Bilbao

Be transported along the winding coast between Bilbao and San Sebastian with a choice of one stop. The island of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the famous surf town of Mundaka, Lekeitio or Getaria.

Visit the Cathedral of Santiago, La Plaza Nueva, the Church of San Anton, the Ribera market and more! Ride the cable car to Artxanda for spectacular views and stroll past the impressive architectural landmarks before reaching the Guggenheim Museum.

Discover the Basque Country in this 5-day itinerary inclusive of 4* accommodation with breakfast daily. Enjoy guided panoramic tours of the Three Capitals. Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, San Telmo Museum in San Sebastian, the Sanctuary of Aranzazu, Tower House and Basilica of San Ignacio de Loyola.

Pintxo thrives in San Sebastian’s famed Parte Vieja, but knowing where to find the best pintxo is an art! Be led by our local guide into the culinary heart of the city for a unique eating/drinking experience.

Be led by a member of the Dani Lopez team, through the Bretxa market, taken to a secret kitchen where you will be served Txakoli and pintxo and in the evening, dine at the Kokotxa Restaurant, to enjoy the market menu.

Immerse yourself in the Basque Country in this 6-day itinerary inclusive of 4* accommodation with breakfast daily. Enjoy panoramic city tours of Vitoria and Bilbao and guided walking tours in Oñati and Laguardia. Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and San Telmo Museum in San Sebastian.

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

B= Breakfast

Regional Spain

Basque Country: Bilbao

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

* On twin share basis

Dinner tours also available * On twin share basis

B= Breakfast

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

31

Regional Spain

Galicia: Santiago de Compostela

Why we love it

Why we love it

While La Rioja is the smallest region of Spain, more wine is exported from here than any other region in the country. Over 500 wineries, internationally renowned and boutique, each is known for its quality.

Galicia is characterised by its coast, which alternates between valleys and cliffs. Santiago de Compostela has been designated a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO and is the final stop on the Way of Saint James pilgrimage trail.

Highlights

Highlights

• Enjoy the gastronomic delights of La Rioja region. • Visit world renowned wineries for tastings and tours. • Learn of the Middle Age history from a walking tour of Labastida or Laguardia.

• Walk through the historic centre, declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. • Climb the stairs to reach the top of the Hercules Tower. • View the rugged coastline known as the Costa da Morte (Coast of Death).

ELCIEGO 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

May to Oct. Departs from Elciego.

Available all year round. Departs from Santiago de Compostela.

DAY 1 - Arrive at Hotel Marques de Riscal. Evening at leisure.

DAY 1 - Arrive at Parador de Santiago. Evening at leisure.

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Hotel Marques de Riscal. La Rioja Discovery Small Group Tour Enjoy two wineries with full winery tours and tastings, walking tours of Labastida or Laguardia and a scenic drive to admire the avant-garde buildings. (B)

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Parador de Santiago. Enjoy a 2 hour walking tour and orientation of the magnificent city of Santiago de Compostela. (B)

Regional Spain

La Rioja: Elciego, Haro and Laguardia

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Parador de Santiago. Venture out to A Coruña and Rias Altas, including visits of Torres de Hercules and the San Anton Museum. (B)

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Hotel Marques de Riscal. Today, enjoy a private full day excursion to the boutique wineries of La Rioja region. Taste specialty wines and gastronomic delights. (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Parador de Santiago. Depart at leisure. (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Hotel Marques de Riscal. Depart at leisure. (B)

+

+

+

+ *$1,900

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS HARO LOS AGUSTINOS





Since its creation in 1373, Los Agustinos has successfully been a convent, military garrison and a hospital. Located in the centre of Haro, you are only 300 metres away from the Winery Quarter.

A boutique masterpiece created by the same architect as the Guggenheim Museum. The interiors add to its effect of appearing as an art piece including tilted walls, zigzag windows and cathedral height ceilings.

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA PARADOR HOSTAL DOS REIS CATOLICOS 

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA SAN FRANCISCO MONUMENTO 

Originally built as a royal hospital in 1499 for the pilgrims, the Parador is a blend of history, art and is an emblem of Santiago de Compostela. Located near the cathedral, you are promised a truly exquisite experience.

An 18th Century Franciscan convent which today stands as a tranquil boutique hotel, offering comfort and service. Found in the heart of the city’s centre with a distance of only 150 metres from the cathedral.

GUIDED TOURS

Guided Small Group Wine Tour

LA RIOJA DISCOVERY WINE TOUR

32

GUIDED TOURS

Private Wine Tour

WINE DELUXE TOUR OF LA RIOJA

Private Wine Tour

Private Walking Tour

BEST OF LA RIOJA

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA WALKING TOUR

Wed, Fri: Between 9am - 10am (May-Oct) (8.30hrs) Depart: Logroño, Laguardia, Elciego, Villabuena , Labastida, (Haro on request)

Mon-Fri: 9:30am (Year round) (8.30hrs) Depart: Logroño, Elciego, Laguardia, Abalos, Villabuena, Samaniego, Labastida, Haro

Daily: 9:30am (Year round) (8.30hrs) Depart: Logroño, Elciego, Laguardia, Abalos, Villabuena, Samaniego, Labastida, Haro

Visit two wineries of contrasting styles with full winery tours and tastings. Enjoy walking tours of Labastida or Laguardia, and hear stories from Middle Ages. After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive stopping along the way to admire the avant-garde buildings.

For the wine enthusiast. You will visit boutique wineries where you will discover great signature and high expression wines in extensive tastings and afterward enjoy the best local gastronomy at a favourite regional restaurant.

Visit 3 world renowned wineries of contrasted styles, each a strong representative of the region. You will taste different wines, from classical to more contemporary, which will give you the best introduction to La Rioja wines.

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

B= Breakfast

*$1,110

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS ELCIEGO HOTEL MARQUES DE RISCAL

+

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

* On twin share basis

Private Tour

Private Tour

FULL DAY: A CORUNA + RIAS ALTAS

FULL DAY: FINISTERRE + SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

Daily (Year round) (2hrs) Departs from Santiago de Compostela

Daily (Year round) (7hrs) Departs from Santiago de Compostela

Daily (Year round) (8hrs) Departs from Santiago de Compostela

You will see distinguished monuments, charming chapels, monasteries and medieval arcades. Visit the Obradoiro Square, Quintana Square, the oldest monastery of the city San Paio de Antealtares and Azabacheria Square with the second biggest monastery in Spain, San Martin Pinario.

Visit A Coruña´s important monuments like the Tower of Hercules, which is the oldest lighthouse in the world, Castillo de San Anton, the fishing villages of Rias Altas, Pontedueme and Betanzos and the Military Castle of San Felipe just next to Ferrol.

Begin in the pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela, then follow Costa da Morte (Coast of Death, due to all of the ship wrecks along the shore) and pass through small villages to reach Finisterre, which is considered the end of the Earth.

* On twin share basis

B= Breakfast

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

33

Regional Spain

Andalusia: Granada Why we love it

Why we love it

Seville is filled with rich Moorish heritage, winding medieval streets, baroque churches and a lively historic quarter. This Andalusian capital has everything from World Heritage buildings to intimate Flamenco clubs and funky tapas bars with indescribable flavour.

Make no mistake; you will fall in love with the city of Granada. Filled with UNESCO sites, aromas from a combination of gastronomy and floral embellishments on buildings, an unmistakable Moorish essence and of course, the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

• Learn about the history, architecture and culture of ancient and new Seville. • Experience a traditional Flamenco Show. • Visit the famed city Ronda and White Villages.

• Visit the UNESCO Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. • Walk through the Albayzin Quarter at dusk. • See the gypsy Flamenco in the Sacromonte caves.

SEVILLE 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

GRANADA 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

Available all year round. Departs from Seville.

Available all year round. Departs from Granada.

DAY 1 - Private transfer from Seville Airport/Rail Station to Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza. Evening at leisure.

DAY 1 - Private transfer from Granada Airport/Rail Station to the Hotel Alhambra Palace. Evening at leisure.

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza. Half Day Walking Tour - Seville Behind The Scenes. Meet with your private local guide in the morning who will lead you around the historic city and its most famed monuments. (B)

DAY 2 - Breakfast at the Hotel Alhambra Palace. Pick up from your hotel for a morning tour of the UNESCO Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. (B) DAY 3 - Breakfast at the Hotel Alhambra Palace. Day at leisure. Pick up from your hotel in the evening for a guided walk through the Albayzin Quarter and Sacromonte Flamenco Show with Dinner. (B, D)

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza. Day at leisure. This evening, be taken to an intimate and local Flamenco show and learn about the Flamenco’s origins. Afterward, enjoy some tapas with your local guide at one of the city’s best spots! (B, D)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at the Hotel Alhambra Palace. Private transfer to Granada Airport/ Rail Station. (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza. Private transfer to Airport/Rail Station. (B)

+

+ *$1,000

3-night package, price per person from*

SEVILLE HOTEL BOUTIQUE ELVIRA PLAZA

Typically Andalusian and originally an 18th Century courtyard, featuring elements that create a real and authentic sense of life in Seville. The hotel embodies hospitality, history, beauty and culture.

Located in the Dona Elvira Square in the charming Santa Cruz district, enjoy exceptional views of the square and Giralda Tower and relish in the aromas of the orange trees close by.

GRANADA HOTEL ALHAMBRA PALACE



GRANADA 

Aristocracy and culture coexist in this Alhambra Palace inspired hotel. Radiating gastronomy, romantic views, intricate detail in the interiors and original decoration. Only 260 metres away from the Alhambra.

GUIDED TOURS

34

Private Walking Tour + Show

SEVILLE FLAMENCO TAPAS TOUR

Guided Coach Tour

WHITE VILLAGES AND RONDA

Daily: 6:30pm (Year round) (4hrs) Departs from Seville

Daily: 9am (Year round) (10hrs) Departs from Seville

Explore the architecture, identity and local everyday life of 4 different quarters in the city. Ideal for travellers who have already seen the world heritage sites, and are curious about the Sevillanos and their way of life.

This tour focuses on artistic and gastronomical traditions. Learn about the history of Flamenco during a walking tour of Seville’s Old Town, before an intimate performance. Then be guided by your local host to the best tapas bars of the city.

Travel through the ancient Andalusian kingdoms, whilst reveling in the scenic nature, history and tradition. You will visit the Castle of Las Aguzaderas, white village of Zahara de la Sierra, drive through Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park before arriving at Ronda.

B= Breakfast

PALACIO DE LOS NAVAS



Originally commanded to be built for Cpt. D. Francisco de Navas, a participant in the reconquest of the Kingdom of Granada. Today, a tasteful, quaint, boutique hotel located in the heart of the Albayzin.

GUIDED TOURS

Tue-Sun: 9:30am (Year round) (5hrs) Departs from Seville

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

*$805

HOTELS

SEVILLE HOSPES LAS CASAS DEL REY DE BAEZA 

SEVILLE BEHIND THE SCENES

+

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS

Private Walking Tour

Regional Spain

Andalusia: Seville

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

* On twin share basis

Guided Walking Tour

Guided Walking Tour + Show

Private Walking Tour

ALHAMBRA AND GENERALIFE GARDENS

SACROMONTE FLAMENCO SHOW WITH DINNER + GUIDED WALK THROUGH THE ALBAYZIN QUARTER

ALBAYZIN + SACROMONTE WALKINGTOUR

Daily: 9:15am (Year round) (3hrs) Departs from Granada

Daily: 8pm (Year round) (3hrs) Departs from Granada

Daily: 7:30pm (Apr,May, Aug-Oct) (2.30hrs) Daily: 8:30pm (Jun,Jul) Tue-Sat: 6pm (Nov-Feb) Departs from Granada

You will be astounded by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. The grounds and monuments within feature elaborate detail at every turn. Get lost in the exquisite detail of Islamic art and architecture.

Discover the secrets of the Albayzin Quarter and the essence of the Sacromonte district during a magical evening of history, tradition and gastronomy! Admire glorious views and be enthralled by a performance of traditional gypsy Flamenco.

Stroll through the maze of narrow streets in the Albayzin Quarter at dusk, appreciating the aroma of jasmine and breathtaking views that surround you. See the district and caves of Sacromonte where the gypsies accompanied the troops of Catholic Monarchs when they conquered the city.

* On twin share basis

B= Breakfast

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

35

Regional Spain

Costa Del Sol: Malaga Why we love it

Why we love it

Cordoba is a blend of ancient and modern, a living legacy of different cultures that have settled here throughout history. Discover courtyards covered in flora and blooms and one of the world’s greatest Islamic buildings and symbol of this city, La Mezquita.

The coastal provincial capital, lively and warm hearted, is rich in history and culture. The city and its neighbouring towns offer numerous activities and are only minutes away from the ocean.

Highlights

Highlights

• Admire the art inside the Picasso Museum. • Visit the Alameda, Gibralfaro Castle and Malaga’s Cathedral. • Climb to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar in our full day tour!

• Visit the Alcazar and Mezquita Mosque. • Stroll through the network of alleyways and see the white washed houses. • See the Medina Azahara, known as ‘Old Cordoba’.

CORDOBA 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

MALAGA 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

Available all year round. Departs from Cordoba.

Available all year round. Departs from Malaga.

DAY 1 - Arrive at Las Casas De La Juderia. Evening at leisure.

DAY 1 - Private transfer from Malaga Airport/Rail Station to Molina Lario. Evening at leisure.

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Las Casas De La Juderia. Be taken on a journey and learn the history of the two most famed monuments in Cordoba, the Mezquita Mosque and the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. (B)

Regional Spain

Andalusia: Cordoba

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Molina Lario. A full day excursion awaits, introducing you to the best spots in Malaga! Enjoy the modern art in the Picasso Museum and the best tapas in town. (B)

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Las Casas De La Juderia. Enjoy the colour and tradition as you wander through the streets admiring various patios. (B)

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Molina Lario. An early start today for a full day excursion of Gibraltar! Climb to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar and meet some of its local inhabitants, the macaque monkeys! (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Las Casas De La Juderia. Depart at leisure. (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Molina Lario. Private transfer to Airport/Rail Station. (B)

+

+ *$680

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS CORDOBA HACIENDA POSADA DE VALLINA



In the heart of the Jewish Quarter lies the emblematic hotel of Cordoba. Restored to ensure maximum comfort, the hotel retains its original architecture full of charm. White walls and blooms in the public areas.

MALAGA VINCCI SELECCION POSADA DEL PATIO  Experience the exclusive atmosphere situated only 500 metres from the cathedral. From the rooftop, enjoy a plunge pool and views of the city. If you prefer the ocean, you are only a 15 minute walk away.



Situated in the centre of monumental Cordoba and close to La Mezquita. Many of the building’s original features have been preserved including the typical Andalusian decor, stone walls and beamed ceilings.

GUIDED TOURS

36

*$895

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS CORDOBA LAS CASAS DE LA JUDERIA

+

MALAGA MOLINA LARIO



The exceptionally positioned Molina Lario, is formed by two restored 19th Century buildings and a third new building. Offering a restaurant/ bar and outdoor terrace, the hotel reflects Malaga’s lively personality.

GUIDED TOURS

Private Walking Tour

Guided Walking Tour

Private Tour

Guided Small Group Tour

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Coach Tour

COMBINED ALCAZAR AND MOSQUE TOUR

CORDOBA PATIOS TOUR

HALF DAY MEDINA AZAHARA

MALAGA TAPAS + PICASSO MUSEUM

FULL DAY GIBRALTAR SIGHTSEEING

FULL DAY TANGIER BY FERRY

Daily (Year round) (3hrs) Departs from Cordoba

Wed-Sat: 11:30am (Year round) (2hrs) Departs from Cordoba

Daily (Year round) (4hrs) Departs from Cordoba

Discover the enchanting mix of Roman, Arabic and Spanish influences in Cordoba. Visit the Mezquita Mosque, an architectural wonder and famous for its blend of Moorish and Christian heritage. You will then visit the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, which was constructed in 1328.

Learn how the various religions influenced Cordoba’s unique patio culture during this history and architecture tour. Designated a UNESCO site, the patios are celebrated annually in May during the traditional Fiesta de los Patios.

Located in the western outskirts of Cordoba, the ancient city of Medina Azahara’s original intention was to be the capital of a new province of the Caliphate of Cordoba. You will see the remnants of tiled borders, paintings and columns in the palaces and mosque!

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

B= Breakfast

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

* On twin share basis

Friday: 10am (Year round) (8hrs) Departs from Malaga

Mon-Sat: 7am (Year round) (11hrs) Departs from Malaga

Tue-Sat: 5:30am (Jun-Oct - Summer Program) (12hrs) Tue-Sat: 5:30am (Nov-May - Winter Program) (10hrs) Departs from Malaga

Discover every corner of enchanting Malaga; the Alameda, the Gibralfaro Castle, Malaga Cathedral, inside the Picasso Museum and more! In addition, you will enjoy the local cuisine and culture in the most authentic places in the city.

See the port of Gibraltar, the walled inner city, Europa Point and St Michael’s Cave. Reach the top of the Rock of Gibraltar where you have amazing views of the Mediterranean. Meet the macaque monkeys and enjoy free time for lunch!

Explore the ‘Medina’ and ‘Kasbah’, snake charmers, a Bazaar filled with carpets and local handicraft, the seafront promenade, Cape Spartel, the Caves of Hercules and an Atlantic dune to take pictures and ride the camels. Enjoy this and much more!

* On twin share basis

B= Breakfast

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

37

Regional Spain

Catalonia: Costa Brava Why we love it

Why we love it

In the North East of Catalonia lies an extensive history of treasures in the city of Girona. Host to many architectural delights, museums and churches throughout a web of cobbled lanes and medieval walls.

Here lies 214 kilometres of the most romantic and unspoilt stretch of coastline in Europe. Renowned for its remarkable combination of medieval architecture and seaside location. Explore in depth, the many villages that create this beautiful region.

Highlights

Highlights

• Explore the medieval architecture throughout the city. • Visit the Dali Museum. • Get a taste of the Catalonian coast on a day trip to the Costa Brava.

• Admire the seafront Castillo de Tossa de Mar. • Visit Cadaques, the picturesque town said to have inspired Salvador Dali’s great works. • Soak up the sun and sights from Playa de Aiguablava in Begur.

Regional Spain

Catalonia: Girona

GIRONA 3-NIGHT PACKAGE April to October. Departs from Girona. DAY 1 - Arrive at Nord 1901. Evening at leisure. DAY 2 - Breakfast at Nord 1901. Many cultures have left their imprint on the streets of Girona, enjoy a tour through the medieval city before making your way to the famous Dali Museum. (B) DAY 3 - Breakast at Nord 1901. Embark on a half day tour to the famous Dali museum. The surrealist painter has included many of his masterpieces within, enjoy the captivating works you will find inside! (B) DAY 4 - Breakfast at Nord 1901. Depart at leisure. (B)

+

+ *$595

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS GIRONA NORD 1901

GIRONA HOTEL MUSEU LLEGENDES DE GIRONA 



Discover the city on foot from this charming hotel that is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience. Centrally located, it is inclusive of modern interiors and facilities and a stylish outdoor terrace with pool.

Situated in the heart of the Old Town on a cobbled street close to Girona’s Cathedral and Arab Baths, lies this 15 room, boutique hotel. Admire the careful contrast between traditional and modern features.

GUIDED TOURS

Guided Small Group Tour

FULL DAY DALI MUSEUM AND GIRONA

38

Modernist and emblematic, boasting a privileged beach front location. The hotel had a full refurbishment in 2015 that ensured that while the facilities and decor were updated, the unique architectural features were kept.

TAMARIU HOTEL TAMARIU



Originally a tavern, this is the oldest hotel in Tamariu. The beachfront property has been owned by the same family for four generations and has been maintained with great service and warm welcomes.

Private Tour

HALF DAY DALI MUSEUM

FULL DAY COSTA BRAVA AND THE EMPORDA

Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat: 8:30am (Apr-Oct) (4.30hrs) Departs from Girona

Many cultures have left their imprint on the streets of Girona and by doing so have created a collection of unforgettable monuments, quarters, churches and gardens, some of them you will visit today! After your guided visit of the city, we will make our way to Figueres and the Dali Museum.

The surrealist painter, Salvador Dali was born in Figueres, which is where he decided to construct his museum. Dali’s concept was to try and give visitors an insight in order to understand his captivating and artistic world.

L= Lunch

Daily (Year round) (8hrs) Departs from Girona Discover the ‘rugged coastline’ which lies between the Ter River and the Pyrenees Mountains, one of the most beautiful in the world. You will also visit the key cities for traditional ceramics and other handicrafts.

D= Dinner

Cadaques Roses

CATALONIA BEGUR EL CONVENT



Pals

Girona

Begur Tamariu LIafranc Calella de Palafrugell

Guided Small Group Tour

B= Breakfast

BOUTIQUE

Surrounded by a rich natural setting, stands El Convent. A refined hotel, set within the walls of a medieval monastery. Close by you can find the Sa Riera beach, where you are sure to find tranquillity.

Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat: 8:30am (Apr-Oct) (8.30hrs) Departs from Girona

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

TOSSA DE MAR HOTEL DIANA

* On twin share basis

ROSES HOTEL VISTABELLA



A romantic seafront hotel in the idyllic town of Roses. Located in a quieter area, you can enjoy peace and relaxation amongst beautiful landscapes from this property. Offering terraces, restaurants, a SPA and jetty.

Platja d’Aro Sant Feliu de Guixols Tossa de Mar

COSTA BRAVA

39

Regional Spain

Balearic Islands Why we love it

Why we love it

Seven islands in the Atlantic Ocean that beam sunlight year round, dramatic landscapes, looming volcanoes, kilometres of sand dunes, hundreds of beaches, prehistoric sites and more. There is plenty to compel art and culture enthusiasts or outdoor fanatics with varied and accessible activities.

One of the most enchanting destinations in the western Mediterranean, the Balearic Islands. A combination of islands that produce a mixture of coves, natural landscapes, culture and history. Experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere on any of the islands.

Highlights

Highlights

• See Teide (the third highest volcano in the world) in Tenerife. • Visit the Cesar Manrique Foundation in Lanzarote. • Admire the picturesque fishermans village of El Cotillo in Fuerteventura.

CANARY ISLANDS LA PALMA

TENERIFE

Santa Cruz de La Palma

LA GOMERA Valverde

Santa Cruz de Tenerife San Sebastian

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

MALLORCA

Arrecife

Corralejo La Oliva Betancuria

GRAN CANARIA

Ciutadella

Soller

LANZAROTE

Alcudia

MENORCA

Palma

Rosario

Sant Antoni de Portmany

FUERTEVENTURA

Morro Jable

Mahon

IBIZA

Ibiza Town

EL HIERRO

FORMENTERA

BALEARIC ISLANDS

TENERIFE ROYAL GARDEN VILLAS AND SPA 

MALLORCA POSADA TERRA SANTA 

MALLORCA BELMOND LA RESIDENCIA MALLORCA 

Located in Corralejo, these luxury villas offer private pools and Jacuzzis as well as the services of a 5* hotel. Enjoy the privacy of your own white washed villa with chic and modern decor.

Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and forest, you are perfectly located in a 200 year old mansion that has been converted to an exclusive hotel. Featuring beautifully decorated villas with private pools and high quality facilities.

Nestled between courtyards and narrow paths, is the original mansion over 500 years old, that today, is the Posada Terra Santa. A symbol of elegance and comfort, you are in the perfect location for exploring the city.

If you enjoy luxury, the charismatic Belmond La Residencia is for you. Located in the beautiful village of Deia, the facilities of this establishment are sure to impress. Embrace one of the most scenic parts of the island.

LANZAROTE PRINCESA YAIZA SUITE HOTEL RESORT 

TENERIFE HOTEL BOTANICO AND THE ORIENTAL SPA GARDEN

IBIZA HOTEL TORRE DEL MAR

IBIZA USHUAIA IBIZA BEACH HOTEL

FUERTEVENTURA BAHIAZUL VILLAS AND CLUB



Located right by Dorada beach on the Playa Blanca, this colonial style hotel provides views across the ocean to Isla de Lobos and Fuerteventura, spacious rooms, gym, kids activities and eight restaurants with local and international cuisine.

40

• Soak up the sun and spend your day on a chartered yacht from Soller in Mallorca. • Party the night away in Playa d’en Bossa in Ibiza. • Sunbake at one of the many private coves in Menorca.

Regional Spain

Canary Islands







Enjoy your unforgettable stay in Puerto de la Cruz with all of the services and comfort of this luxury hotel. Offering a relaxing atmosphere, stunning views, an oriental touch on the interiors and international cuisine.

A mixture of entertainment and relaxation awaits you at the Hotel Torre del Mar. Located just minutes away from the island’s nightlife, you can experience the authentic essence of the Mediterranean and the culture the island is famed for.

Playa d’en Bossa, the strip of Ibiza that has earnt its acclaim of ‘party island’. Want to experience the nightlife of this island? Ushuaia can offer you that and more. Sensual and modern interiors along with ideal location on the beach.

41

EN EP D

T EN

IND

Unique Experiences TOUR

CAMINO DE SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

EN EP D

T EN

IND

The pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela has never been easier than with Spain & Portugal Travel Connection. There are various ways to travel the route of Santiago de Compostela; on foot or by bike. With many durations and destinations available, tell your specialist what you would like to discover and they will make your Camino a journey to remember.

TOUR

WALKING TOURS

EN EP D

T EN

IND

There is no better way to discover the Iberian Peninsula than off the beaten track. Walk around the authentic white villages perched in the Sierra Nevada, enjoy the breathtaking sea view from a limestone cliff, discover the local Pyrenees cuisine or taste the sun-kissed Catalan wines.

TOUR

CYCLING TOURS

LUXURY TRAINS

T EN

IND

TOUR

Our Independent Tour options give you both structure and flexibility - you will receive recommended itineraries and schedules, though you can travel at your own pace and decide your daily activities. You are not with a guide on Independent Tours.

ORTE SC

ESCORTED TOURS

TOUR

Our Escorted Tours allow you to sit back and relax as the essentials are arranged for you - from excellent accommodation and transportation, to sightseeing, expert commentary, entrance fees and many meals. Tour guides are included on Escorted Tours.

N EPE D

INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

EN EP D

TRAVEL

PARADORES

T EN

These luxury hotels are usually situated in converted historic buildings such as castles, palaces, convents, monasteries and fortresses. Paradores are often part of Spain’s heritage although there are some modern hotels in some spectacular locations. You will findthem a most pleasant surprise.

42

INDEPENDENT TOURS

D

Discover Spain in comfort and style. El Transcantabrico, Al Andalus and El Expreso de La Robla are five-star hotels on rails. On Al Andalus, travel through Andalusia, the land of Conquistador Extremadura or the holy place of Santiago de Compostela or maybe you prefer cruising through northern Spain on the El Transcantabrico or El Expreso de La Robla.

E

TOUR

IND

E

D

ORTE SC

N EPE D

T EN

IND

Our cycling tours take you through the stunning landscapes of Spain and Portugal. We provide unique trips to our customers, we look after the logistics, you just have to think about riding and enjoying your holidays! It is not just cycling, it is about discovering!

TRAVEL

For Independent Travel, we offer an interesting range of regional accommodation options. Our specialist team can assist with car rental, car leasing or rail – combine this with pre-arranged authentic stays and explore the area at your leisure.

43

Walking

Walking

TOUR

Walking

ST JEAN PIED DE PORT TO PAMPLONA

SARRIA TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

PICOS DE EUROPA

THE ALPUJARRAS - MOORISH SPLENDOUR ON HIGH

Duration: 5 Days/4 Nights - 68km

Duration: 7 Days/6 Nights - 111km

Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights - Depart Arenas de Cabrales

Difficulty: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 7 Days/6 Nights - Depart Alpujarras

Difficulty: Moderate

Difficulty: Easy - Moderate

Operation: Independent tour - All year round

Operation: Independent tour - All year round

Operation: Independent tour - All year round

Operation: Independent tour - All year round

Begin in St Jean Pied de Port, the second most popular starting point for pilgrims. Explore this picturesque town and its monuments. Over the next 3 days, you will walk through the Roncesvalles Pass across the Pyrenees, cross two mountain passes: Alto de Mezquiriz and Alto de Erro, see the medieval bridge ‘Puente de la Rabia’ of Zubiri. Follow the River Arga to Larrasoaña, before reaching Pamplona, the city famed for its San Fermin festival.

The most popular route for pilgrims providing an authentic Camino experience, the final 100km of Camino Frances. Beginning in Sarria, venture through the varied landscapes of Galicia residing in Portomarin, Palas do Rei, Arzua and Amenal. See highlights such as the Romanesque church in the village of Barbadelo and the chapel of Santa Irene, with its unique statue of Santiago. Obtain your pilgrim certificate once you arrive in Santiago de Compostela!

The Picos de Europa are located in the north of Spain and provide some of the wildest and most beautiful landscapes in the northern region. The Picos National Park is comprised of three limestone massifs and together they cover 671 square kilometres. Ideal for hiking, the path is covered with tiny villages and mountain huts, as well as native birds and colourful vegetation.

The Alpujarras is a mountainous region situated between the summits of the Sierra Nevada and the Mediterranean coast. It was the last refuge of the Moors in Spain and therefore contains a history rich in Islamic heritage and culture. Discover the breathtaking scenery of Andalusia as you embark on a seven-day walking expedition from Capileira to Rio Grande Valley. You will pass through Portugos, Valle del Rio Trevelez and El Portichuelo.

INCLUDED

INCLUDED

• Your choice of accommodation: Standard or Superior

• A mixture of authentic accommodation

• Luggage transfer between hotels

• Luggage transfer between hotels

• Pilgrimage passport

• Detailed maps, route descriptions

• Emergency contact throughout Walking

ST JEAN PIED DE PORT TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

Difficulty: Moderate Operation: Independent tour - All year round (Best time Apr-Oct) Millions have travelled the complete trail from St Jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Compostela since the Middle Ages. Experience medieval villages, breathtaking landscapes like the Pyrenees, La Rioja and the vast spaces of the Meseta. Absorb the culture around you and the contrast between quaint little towns and lively cities such as Pamplona, Logrono, Burgos, Leon, Astorga, Ponferrada and of course, Santiago de Compostela.

• Emergency Support

• Holiday pack: Walking notes and maps • List of local words and phrases of the region • Pilgrim certificate: Minimum 100km walking or 200km cycling

Duration: 37 Days/36 Nights - 772km

44

IND

IND

Unique Experiences

Walking and Cycling

Cycling

ANDALUSIA FROM SEVILLE TO CADIZ Duration: 7 Days/6 Nights - 300km - Depart Seville

NOT INCLUDED • Flights • Travel insurance • Transfers to/from each tour • Entrance fees to all monuments and parks • Personal expenses • Any items not specified on itinerary

Unique Experiences

TOUR

N EPE D

T EN

Walking

T EN

Camino de Santiago de Compostela

N EPE D

Difficulty: Moderate Operation: Independent tour - All year round Experience a unique cycling tour that travels along the plains of the Guadalete River in Andalusia. Reside at authentic Paradores and Haciendas in the heart of the southern region, passing through Seville, Carmona, Montellano, Arcos de la Frontera, Jerez de la Frontera and Cadiz. Due to the high temperatures reached in the summer months, it is recommended to cycle between March and June or September and November.

NOT INCLUDED • Flights • Travel Insurance • Transfers to/from each tour • Entrance fees to all monuments and parks • Personal expenses • Any items not specified on itinerary • Bicycle/E-Bike rental is an optional extra

45

E

Unique Experiences



D

Luxury Rail Journeys

Gijon

Originally built in France in the 1920’s for members of the British monarchy, prestige and modern comforts coexist in this elegant moving palace. One of the most spacious and luxurious tourist trains in the world await you on this classic rail journey throughout some of the most beautiful locations in Spain.

Ferrol Covadonga

Ovideo

Santander

Lianes

San Feliz

Bilbao

Mataporquera

Leon Green Paradise route (El Expreso de La Robla) Gran Lujo route (El Transcantabrico) Clasico route (El Transcantabrico) La Robla route (El Expreso de La Robla)

The Gran Lujo evokes the nostalgia and charm of early 20th Century grand rail journeys, with its decor and construction. The Clasico service, has been carefully remodelled/redecorated to ensure the comforts of 21st Century travel with historic inspired interiors. The Expreso de La Robla train provides the charm and comfort of the classic rail journey.

Barcelona

TRAIN

AL ANDALUS

Cabins On Board:

30 Suites

Capacity: Type Of Cabins: Lounge Cars: Bed Configuration:

Madrid Aranjuez Monfrague

Toledo

Caceres

Zafra

Deluxe Suite, Grand Class Room

Cordoba

4

Ubeda Baeza

Seville

Double/ Deluxe Suite/ Twin/ Grand Class Room

Granada Andalusia I Andalusia II

Jerez Cadiz

EL TRANSCANTABRICO

EL TRANSCANTABRICO

EL EXPRESO DE LA ROBLA

TRAIN JOURNEY

CLASICO

GRAN LUJO

GREEN PARADISE / LA ROBLA

Cabins On Board:

23 Suites

14 Suites

27 Suites

Capacity:

46 Passengers

28 Passengers

54 Passengers

Type Of Cabins:

Grand Class Room

Deluxe Suite

Compartments

Lounge Cars:

4 + Saloons

4

3

Bed Configuration:

Double

Double/Twin

Bunk Beds

Valencia

Merida

60 Passengers

TRAIN

Unique Experiences

ORTE SC TOUR

Ronda

Extremadura

AL ANDALUS

AL ANDALUS

AL ANDALUS

EL TRANSCANTABRICO

EL TRANSCANTABRICO

EL EXPRESO DE LA ROBLA

EL EXPRESO DE LA ROBLA

ANDALUSIA I

ANDALUSIA II

EXTREMADURA

CLASICO

GRAN LUJO

GREEN PARADISE ROUTE

LA ROBLA ROUTE

Start/End: Seville - Seville

Start/End: Seville - Granada

Start/End: Seville - Madrid

Days/Nights: 7 Days/6 Nights

Days/Nights: 4 Days/3 Nights

Days/Nights: 6 Days/5 Nights

Itinerary: Seville, Jerez, Ronda, Granada, Cordoba, Seville

Itinerary: Seville, Jerez, Ronda, Granada

Itinerary: Seville, Zafra, Merida, Caceres, Monfrague, Aranjuez, Madrid

Season: April to May/ September to October

Season: April to May/ September to October

Season: June

Departures: 11 Departures

Departures: 11 Departures Reverse Itinerary Available

Departures: 1 Departure

Start/End: Leon - Santiago de Compostela

Start/End: San Sebastian Santiago de Compostela

Days/Nights: 8 Days/ 7 Nights

Days/Nights: 8 Days/ 7 Nights

Itinerary: Leon, Cistierna, Villasana de Mena, Santander, Arriondas, Candas, Luarca, Viveiro, Santiago

Itinerary: San Sebastian, Villasana de Mena, Santander, Cabezon de la Sal, Arriondas, Candas, Luarca, Viveiro, Santiago

Season: May to July/ September to October Departures: 18 Departures

The itinerary provided is a guide to the cities where you will stay each night. You may visit additional cities throughout the day on your way to the next destination.

Inclusions • Accommodation in chosen compartment • Dinners and lunches aboard the train or in top restaurants (including wine, water, soft drinks, coffee) • Farewell dinner – gala party • Travelling toiletries bag (with amenities and slippers)

46

+

+

+

• Activities on board: music and live performances, cooking and cocktails demonstration, dancing, etc. • Excursions and scheduled tours, tickets to museums, attractions and shows • Multilingual guide throughout the tour

Additional itineraries available: 5 Day/4 Night - Santander to Santiago 4 Day/3 Night - Santander to Leon

Start/End: Bilbao - Oviedo

Start/End: Bilbao - Leon

Days/Nights: 4 Days/ 3 Nights

Days/Nights: 4 Days/ 3 Nights

Itinerary: Bilbao, Santander, Llanes, Nava, Oviedo Season: August

Itinerary: Bilbao, Espinosa de los Monteros, Mataporquera, Cistierna, Leon

Departures: 2 Departures

Season: August to September Departures: 2 Departures

Season: April to October Departures: 21 Departures

The itinerary provided is a guide to the cities where you will stay each night. You may visit additional cities throughout the day on your way to the next destination. These four programs have reverse itineraries available.

Inclusions • El Transcantabrico services have similar inclusions to Al Andalus • Additional inclusions available for Deluxe Suites

+

+

+

El Expreso de la Robla includes the following: • Accommodation in double cabins with ensuite bathroom (including toiletries bag) • Onboard buffet breakfast every day • Dinners and lunches in top restaurants (including wine, water, soft drinks and coffee) • Excursions and scheduled tours/tickets for museums, attractions and shows • Guide throughout the tour

47

IND

Unique Experiences

TRAVEL

NORTHERN SPAIN 1

3

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, GALICIA

2

PARADOR HOSTAL DOS REIS CATOLICOS 

PARADOR DE HONDARRIBIA

This luxurious Parador is a blend of history, art and the dream of pilgrims. It is located on Obradoiro Square near the cathedral. A truly unique and exclusive location.

Occupying a beautiful castle built in the 10th Century, this elegant hotel retains its original appearance and atmosphere of a medieval fortress while ensuring that interiors are tastefully renovated. 4

CARDONA, CATALONIA PARADOR DE CARDONA

Since the successful completion of the first Parador de Gredos in 1928, the ‘Board of Paradores and Inns of Spain’ was born and continues to rescue properties from ruin and abandonment. The original concept has been adapted and improved to perfect the restoration of historical-artistic monuments and beautiful landscapes for the establishment of new Paradores.

RIBADEO

P

P

5

FERROL

P P

CAMBADOS

VILALBA 1 P SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

P

PONTEVEDRA BAIONA

P

P

P

P

TUI

SANTO ESTEVO P

P

P

FUENTE DE LIMPIAS

LEON

P

BENAVENTE

P

P

P

P

SEGOVIA

Madrid

P

TRUJILLO

9

P

EL SALER

MERIDA

P

ALBACETE

MANZANARES

P

ALMAGRO

JAVEA

ZAFRA P

9

UBEDA

P

P

CARMONA

12 P JAEN

CORDOBA

P

P

P

P

11 ANTEQUERA P RONDA

MAZAGON P

CADIZ

P

ARCOS DE LA FRONTERA P

P

P

P

LORCA

P

AYAMONTE

CACERES, EXTREMADURA PARADOR DE CACERES

Upon a hill, you are in a privileged location to enjoy the silhouette of Imperial Toledo. It offers an expansive outdoor area, swimming pool, spacious rooms and Mudejar elements in the rugs and tiles.

Representing a harmonious union of palaces dating from the 14th Century and located in the city’s old quarter, this elegant renovated hotel sets a standard for tourism and gastronomy in Caceres.



10

CARMONA, ANDALUSIA

GRANADA, ANDALUSIA PARADOR DE GRANADA



Stay within the Alhambra complex amongst the gardens in an ancient and enchanting convent. Numerous works of art and exceptional furnishings decoratively cover the interior of the public areas and rooms.

CAZORLA P

10 GRANADA

8

This Parador offers beauty, tranquillity, exquisite cuisine and lovely scenery just outside Seville. The building is a stunning 14th Century Arab fortress, standing high above the town.

P P

This hotel is housed in a magnificent 17th Century building, previously the Santo Tomas Dominican Convent and School. Soak up the history amongst the blend of traditional and avantgarde architecture and decor.

PARADOR DE TOLEDO

PARADOR DE CARMONA

P

ALARCON

GUADLUPE

PARADOR DE ALCALA DE HENARES 



TOLEDO, CASTILLA LA MANCHA

ALCALA DE HENARES, MADRID

SOUTHERN SPAIN

CUENCA

TOLEDO 7

6

P

BENICARLO

P

P

TERUEL

TORTOSA

CHINCHON P

OROPESA

VIC-SAU

ALCANIZ

P

P

P

P

3 CARDONA

4 AIGUABLAVA

Barcelona P

6 ALCALA DE HENARES

P

GREDOS

P

P

P

P

AVILA

P

P 8 CACERES

P

P P

LA GRANJA

SLAMANCA

PLASENCIA

P

LA SEU D’URGELL



Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea lies the Parador de Aiguablava. Boasting unique location atop a cliff that provides unforgettable landscapes of the town and the crystalline waters of Aiguablava beach.

An ideal enclave covered in ivy and perched above the River Agueda valley. Perfect for discovering the monumental city of Ciudad Rodrigo. The hotel offers Castilian furnishings and a beautiful patio. 7

ARTIES

P

SORIA

SIGUENZA P

P

JARANDILLA DE LA VERA

VIELHA

SOS DEL P REY CATOLICO OLITE

TORDESILLAS

ZAMORA

P

P

BIELSA

P

STO. DOMINGO P DE LA CALZADA CALAHORRA LERMA

P

5 CIUDAD P RODRIGO

P

P

ARGOMANIZ

P

PUEBLA DE SANABRIA

CASTILLO DE MONTERREI

P

P

CERVERA DE PISUERGA

P

MONFORTE DE LEMOS P

P

CANGAS DE ONIS

VILLAFRANCA DEL BIERZO

P P

CORIAS

CIUDAD RODRIGO, CASTILLA Y LEON PARADOR DE CIUDAD RODRIGO

HONDARRIBIA 2 P

SANTILLANA GIL BLAS P

GIJON

AIGUABLAVA, CATALONIA

CENTRAL SPAIN

You have the opportunity to experience stays in restored castles, convents and monasteries, citadels, palaces as well as historic buildings, regional properties and more recent additions to the Paradores brand that are hosted in modern buildings.

P



PARADOR DE AIGUABLAVA

Situated on a headland in a 9th Century fortified enclosure is the now converted Parador de Cardona. Relax and enjoy tranquillity, nature, history and the delights of Catalan cuisine.

In order to improve Spain’s image abroad and entice travellers to visit the beautiful country, the Spanish government assigned the Marquis de la Vega Inclan in 1910, the task of creating a hotel infrastructure that would house these travellers.

HONDARRIBIA, BASQUE COUNTRY

Unique Experiences



T EN

Paradores

N EPE D

MOJACAR

Paradores

P

CANARY ISLANDS

NERJA

LANZAROTE

P LA PALMA

MALAGA-GIBRALFARO

FUERTEVENTURA

TENERIFE

MALAGA-GOLF

P LA GOMERA

P

GRAN CANARIA

P

P EL HIERRO

11

12

RONDA, ANDALUSIA PARADOR DE RONDA



In a privileged position next to the Puente Nuevo bridge, overlooking the El Tajo Gorge, is the Parador, occupying the former Town Hall. It provides the most spectacular views imaginable as well as modern facilities and great service.

JAEN, ANDALUSIA PARADOR DE JAEN



Located on the Cerro de Santa Catalina, this Parador feels like a defensive fortress due to both its majestic appearance and superior location. Enjoy magnificent views, soft interior decoration and a varied gastronomic menu.

Map not to scale

48

49

About Portugal



Portugal is an ancient Iberian nation that has seen the Celts, Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Christians each leave their mark. Embrace the Portuguese culture and be welcomed by the effervescent hospitality of the locals. Encounter history in the medieval castles and cobblestone villages, gastronomy in Lisbon’s famous patisseries or one of the many seafood restaurants along the bountiful coastline. Admire idyllic scenery from the dramatic rock formations of the Algarve to the enchanting vineyards of the Douro Valley. You will soon understand the allure of Portugal, with its sensational blend of captivating cities and dune-covered beaches. If that is not enough to entice you, the island of Madeira or nine islands of the Azores await you with a tropical climate and a collection of contrasting landscapes and adventurous activities.

Viana do Castelo

AZORES ISLANDS

2

8

Guimaraes Vila Real

Braga Porto

About Portugal

About Portugal

Pinhao

3

NORTHERN PORTUGAL

Ponta Delgada Viseu

Aveiro

Guarda

4

CENTRAL PORTUGAL Belmonte

Coimbra Nazare

Castelo Branco

Obidos

Portalegre

Sintra

Lisbon

1

Setubal

Evora

5

ALENTEJO

MADEIRA ISLANDS Beja

Funchal

7

Milfontes

Sagres

The Facts

2018 Events and Festivals

Climate: The climate of Portugal is temperate, but varies considerably between regions and from the coast to the mountains. In summer, Portugal is protected by the Azores High, therefore sunshine is usually found throughout the country. The further inland you are, the dryer and hotter the heat will be. Temperatures drop slightly towards the coast, being influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. The temperatures in winter are cold but still mild when compared to the rest of Europe and there is a good amount of rainfall in the North, which adds to the green landscape.

 Carnival – February 2018

 Fatima Pilgrimage – May 2018

 Easter Holy Week – March/

 Rock in Rio – Lisboa – June 2018

Time Zone: GMT + 1. Summer Time (GMT + 2) runs from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October. Currency: Euro. Banks: Australian debit cards can be used in most ATMs. ATMs can be identified by the symbol ‘MB’ (Multibanco). Banks close around 3pm. It is best to use cash where possible as some foreign debit/credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops, restaurants, towns or rural areas. Electricity: European electrical plugs are used (two round pins) with 220/240 volts. Entry Requirements: Australian passport holders can stay in Portugal up to 90 days without a visa. You should have at least six months validity remaining on your passport. Some regulations may apply on other passports depending on the duration and reason of the stay. Check with the Portuguese Consulate (https://portugal.visahq.com.au/embassy/ australia/) for further information. Getting To and From the Airport: Lisbon Portela Airport is Portugal’s main airport (7km northeast of Lisbon).

50

April 2018  Obidos International Chocolate Festival – March/April 2018  Madeira Flower Festival – April/ May 2018  The Holy Feast of Christ of the Miracles – Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel, Azores – May 2018  Eurovision – Lisbon – May 2018  Sintra Music Festival – May 2018

Faro

ALGARVE

6

Map not to scale

 Festival das Artes – Coimbra – July 2018  Festas Gualterianas – Guimaraes – first weekend in August 2018  Festa de Sao Mateus – Elvas – September 2018  Feira Nacional do Cavalo (National Horse Fair) – Golega – November 2018

Cities 1 Lisbon, a city that has been crafted over centuries and is spread across breathtaking hillsides that overlook the Rio Tejo. Wander through the cobbled backstreets like a local, visit the gothic cathedrals, majestic monasteries and quaint museums that all unite to create the colourful cityscape of Lisbon. 2 Porto, which was once a base for shipping and trade is now the bustling capital of the north. With its charming districts like the Ribeira, Vitoria and Miragaia to its charismatic locals. Be taken by its beauty and soak up the atmosphere that is bound to tantalise all of your senses.

Mainland Portugal

The Coast and Islands

3 Northern Portugal, a mountainous area lavished in rivers, natural parks and sloping hillsides covered with flourishing vegetation. While the Douro River and its vine filled valley are a highlight of the north, there are also countless historic monuments, castles, quaint villages and manor houses that are waiting to be explored.

6 Algarve, one of the most popular holiday destinations for tourists and locals alike. While the enthralling coast owes much of its fame to its breathtaking cliffs and golden sandy coves, there is much more to this region. Explore the historic villages, natural parks, golf resorts, beach bars and take part in water sports and activities with your family!

4 Central Portugal has an abundance of culture and history. Here you will find an extensive collection of some of the most significant cities in Portuguese history. Explore the cities in depth or branch out to the rural areas of the region. The highlights we recommend are the Serra da Estrela Mountains, the capital of the region Coimbra, which is host to a famous university and the pilgrimage destination of Fatima.

7 Madeira Islands, a place to escape, relax and be at one with nature. Situated in the middle of the Atlantic, the islands of Madeira flourish with natural beauty and warm temperatures all year round. Roam the capital, Funchal and discover mountains, caves, waterfalls and some of the most exotic flowers that contrast against the blue hues of the ocean.

5 Alentejo, the largest region of Portugal, stretches south from the Rio Tejo to the northern mountain ranges of the Algarve. Boasting a mixture of landscapes; rolling hillsides, rugged coastlines, traditional whitewashed villages, medieval and marble towns are plentiful. A considerable portion of the region features huge cork plantations, wheat fields and vineyards, putting the Alentejo region on the map.

8 Azores Islands, an archipelago situated in the middle of the Atlantic has long been overlooked as a holiday destination. An unspoiled treasure of nine islands that feature some of the best landscapes and activities for the nature lover and adventure traveller. Enjoy diving, hiking, whale watching and more!

51

adas

as Arm

en

lb

e

Gu

lo

Eduardo VII Park

e Ju

lho

5

Reis

ai

s

So

ar e

iran te

s

National Tile (Azulejo) Museum Saint George Castle Military Museum

2 Alfama

a

8

1

Madalen

24 d

Rua da Prata

Av.

Rua da

6

or

Alm

4 Rossio Square Bairro Alto Santa Justa Lift Santa Baixa Catarina Chiado e rdad Libe

Estrela Basilica

M

Av .

ta

Museum of National History

Av. C eu

a

da nida Ave

Marques De Pombal

National Museum of Ancient Art

Ru

3

Av. Engenheiro Duarte Pacheco

7

iar

u Ag de

A de v. F M ont el es o Pe re ir a

to

Ca

Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

us

Av.

t us

na

Ber

g Au

EIXO NorteS ul

Av.

n

a ki

nio

Surrender to the romanticism that fills the air and lingers throughout the streets of Lisbon. Set amongst seven steep hillsides, the lively and charismatic capital is a perfect reflection of the Portuguese culture and is an essential stay for any Portugal itinerary. Delivering an effortless blend of history and modernism, Lisbon embraces its reputation as one of the most vibrant and innovative cities of Western Europe. The ambience of this city is undeniable, get a taste by wandering through the colourful neighbourhoods and marvel at the many monuments, museums, modest cafes and bars while the rumbling of bright yellow trams pass you by.

Av. da Republica

Av. Forc

nt o .A Av

About Lisbon



About Lisbon

About Lisbon

Praca do Comercio

Belem District

Highlights Gardens: • • • • •

Eduardo VII Park Torel Garden Principe Real Garden Ajuda Botanical Garden Estrela Garden

Museums and art galleries: • • • • • •

Lisbon Story Centre Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Lisbon Oceanarium National Museum of Ancient Art National Tile Museum Berardo Collection Museum

Baixa and Praca do Comercio 1 The downtown district of Lisbon has an extensive variety of restaurants, cafes and galleries as well as famous sights like Rossio Square, the Santa Justa Lift and Rua Augusta Arch. The Arch is situated on the northern side of the famous Praca do Comercio, set on the edge of the Tagus estuary.

Alfama

Avenidas Novas and Campo de Santana

2 Discover a labyrinth of cobblestoned lanes, steep staircases and winding alleyways that create the poetic Alfama district. The oldest, most charming neighbourhood of Lisbon is one of the few that survived the earthquake of 1755 and thus medieval remnants still stand today.

3 Located further north of the waterfront, the Avenida Novas and Campo de Santana districts house two of the iconic sights in Lisbon. The Avenida da Liberdade is a 19th Century boulevard of high-end boutiques, hotels, restaurants and banks. Another monumental feature of these districts is the Marques de Pombal Square.

Santos and Santa Catarina

Principe Real, Estrela and Lapa

Bairro Alto 4 Quiet by day, the Bairro Alto district, spread out across a hilltop, will be welcoming to the nocturnal night owl. Renowned as the city’s bohemian quarter, an enthralling collection of restaurants, boutiques, bars and residential properties fill the densely packed streets. By night, the traditional voice of melancholy Fado fills the air.

Monuments: • • • • • • • • • • •

52

Belem Tower Saint George Castle Rua Augusta Arch Praca do Comercio Rossio Square Jeronimos Monastery The Discoveries Monument Santa Justa Lift Carmo Convent Estrela Basilica Tram 28

Chiado 5 Undisputedly the heart of Lisbon’s elegant boutiques, international brands, charming old bookshops and coffee spots, the trendy neighbourhood of Chiado dates back to the 1700s. Try a coffee from the famous art deco A Brasileira Cafe, stroll along the glamorous Rua Garrett or pay a visit to the remarkable Saint Roque Church.

6 Both districts attract a diverse variety of locals and foreigners alike. Santos is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Filled with galleries, museums and wine bars, Santa Catarina offers winding, steep cobblestoned streets with preserved architecture. There is a glorious mixture of tradition and youth to be found here.

7 Principe Real stands out in elegance as palaces and gardens occupy the district, with many picturesque squares and antique shops available. In Portuguese ‘Lapa’ and ‘Estrela’ are synonyms of ‘history’ and ‘class’. Most of the traditional families of Lisbon reside in Estrela, while international embassies and authentic Fado houses fill the narrow streets of Lapa.

Belem 8 To the west of central Lisbon, Belem shares significant history with the early Portuguese explorers and the city’s seafaring heritage. Some of the most iconic moments in Belem’s history are linked with the famous monuments standing today, like Jeronimos Monastery, the Discoveries Monument and Belem Tower.

53

Stay in Lisbon



Discover the hillside landscape of Lisbon. Spain & Portugal Travel Connection offers a wide range of accommodation in many of the city’s sought after districts, to suit you and your style of travel. Do you want the lively nightlife of the Bairro Alto at your doorstep or do you want to be minutes from the high end shopping opportunities that await you along the Av. Da Liberdade? We have a large selection of both hotels and serviced apartments to choose from.

HOTELS The hotels displayed in our brochure are only a very small selection of our range. The prices shown should be used as a guide only and to compare different properties. We have access to thousands of hotels via cutting-edge technology, which gives us the best available rates and room availability.

HOTELS – 3 STAR GAT ROSSIO M

Restauradores

 Campo de Santana

The Gat Rossio sets a high focus on the enjoyment of its guests. An innovative and contemporary vision for its design is tastefully displayed throughout its 71 rooms. Here you will find minimalist decor and decoration with high quality facilities, ensuring a great stay in Lisbon.

MY STORY OURO M

SERVICED APARTMENTS The benefits of staying in a serviced apartment are countless. For the seasoned traveller, this is a new and authentic way to experience the city of Lisbon like a local. Whether you are travelling independently or with your family, we offer the option of studios, one bedroom, two bedroom and three bedroom apartments. Reside in the heart of the city and enjoy the freedom of your own space. Appreciate prime location and be within walking distance of many of the main sights and attractions. FLORA CHIADO APARTMENTS M

Baixa-Chiado

M

Rossio

With a magnificent view of St George’s castle, Hello Lisbon Rossio offers 20 apartments that were completely refurbished in 2015. Designed for families, they are equipped with modern facilities and decor and feature a kitchenette for your self-catering needs.

LISBON SERVICED APARTMENTS – LIBERDADE

MARTINHAL CHIADO FAMILY SUITES

M

M

Marques de Pombal

Avenida da Liberdade

Strategically located on a quiet street only minutes away from the bustling Av. Da Liberdade, these apartments have been designed specifically for short to medium stays. Modern and stylish in its decor, you are in the perfect location for exploring the city.

Cais do Sodre

Baixa

Baixa-Chiado

 Baixa

A new addition to Lisbon that values good taste, you are sure to enjoy this completely renovated hotel that opened its doors in 2015. Offering double, twin and studio rooms as well as being in prime location for the best view points of the city!

MY STORY ROSSIO M

Rossio

 Baixa

Sophistication and modernism merge to create a sense of elegance and comfort for your stay. The hotel is spread over five floors and is set in a truly privileged location for exploring the city. Enjoy total relaxation at the restaurant and bar that offers a signature cuisine, inspired by its Portuguese origins.

Comfort, location and modernity can be found within the walls of the My Story Rossio. The building itself dates back to the 18th Century, so you are constantly surrounded by history, but you are also a hop skip and jump away from Rossio Station, connecting you to other parts of the city.

PORTUGAL BOUTIQUE HOTEL 

H10 DUQUE DE LOULE

M

Baixa

An oasis of light and space, these apartments are decorated to enhance the historic heritage of the building. This property has been reinvented by the imaginative effort of recycling wood and secular tiles, incorporating comfort and design in the elegance of vanguard furniture.



M

HOTELS – 4 STAR

HELLO LISBON ROSSIO Chiado

Baixa-Chiado

THE 7 HOTEL

Stay in Lisbon

Stay in Lisbon

Rossio

Baixa

Here the comforts and amenities of a 4 star hotel combine with traditional Portuguese materials. In a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere, each of the 53 rooms are decorated with a selection of real Portuguese tiles and modern facilities.

HERITAGE BRITANIA M

Chiado

Avenida

 Campo de Santana

With its a boutique art deco charm, located along a quiet street alongside the elegant boulevard of the Av. Da Liberdade, this hotel reflects the glamour of the 1940s in its design while keeping its facilities modern for the comfort of its guests.

Experience style, luxury and elegance in one of these 37 carefully designed apartments, established specifically for families. The Martinhal Chiado is in a prime location which will make exploring the city a breeze. Each apartment is equipped with a kitchen complete with a stove, dishwasher, washer-dryer, fridge, basic crockery and more.

M

Marques de Pombal

 Avenidas Novas

Opened in March 2015, this property oozes traditional aspects of Portuguese design. Set in a historical building close to Marques de Pombal, there is a glorious fusion of traditional and contemporary elements in the rooms and public areas. Enjoy the impressive views over Lisbon and the Tagus Estuary from the Limao Chill Out Terrace.

HERITAGE SOLAR DO CASTELO M

Martim Moniz

 Alfama

Passion and romance meet in this boutique hotel in the heart of Alfama. The hotel is located within the walls of St Jorge’s castle, the only hotel situated within the medieval Castle village. Set in an 18th Century building, the interiors show the influence of traditional Portuguese design. Experience the exclusivity of this hotel in all of its splendour.

HOTELS – 5 STAR LISBON SERVICED APARTMENTS – BAIXA CASTELO

HELLO LISBON SAO BENTO VALLEY

POUSADA DE LISBOA – PRACA DO C.

M

M

M

Baixa-Chiado

Baixa

In the heart of downtown Lisbon, this restored 18th Century building has retained much of its original personality and design. Offering studios, one bedroom and two bedroom apartments, you are steps away from the Se Cathedral, elegant Chiado district and the metro station.

54

Baixa-Chiado

Sao Bento

Only 100 metres from the Bairro Alto, the newest Hello Lisbon property offers 18 elegant and comfortable apartments. Accessible by lift, your apartment comes with daily housekeeping, free Wi-Fi, 24 hour reception and a totally equipped kitchen including a dishwasher. You are very close to terraced bars with views over the Tejo River and city.

Baixa-Chiado

 Baixa

Set in one of the chicest destinations of the city, the Pousada de Lisboa offers all of the facilities of a 5 star hotel while sitting in a prime location along the Tejo River. Having been completely restored, the hotel has been transformed into a launching pad for a luxury urban experience.

SANTIAGO DE ALFAMA M

Terreiro do Paco

 Alfama

A 15th Century palace houses a beacon of authenticity, the Santiago de Alfama. Restored and updated for the comfort of its guests, the building retains much of its original character. This hotel is perfectly located for the curious traveller, right in the heart of Alfama.

55

Lisbon Packages

Lisbon Sightseeing, Day and Multi Day Tours All of our Lisbon packages are customised. We create tailor - made itineraries to suit the time you have and your style of travel. Every package includes transfers, accommodation, activities and more. We’ll organise everything for your stay in Lisbon.

Build your own package:

Build your own package for your stay in Lisbon. We recommend a minimum of 4 nights to discover the capital of Portugal and beyond.

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Coach Tour + Show

Pass

CLASSIC LISBON HALF DAY

LISBON FADO NIGHT

LISBON STORY CENTRE AND RUA AUGUSTA ARCH

Daily: 9am or 2:30pm (Year round) (4hrs)

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat: 8pm (Apr-Oct) (3.30hrs) Wed, Sat: 8pm (Nov-Mar)

Daily - At your own pace

Discover magnificent Lisbon! Enjoy the unveilling of the capital’s history and traditions while you visit the Portuguese Discoveries Monuments, the city’s most traditional quarter and the emblematic city museum.

Admire the charm of Lisbon’s main sights under the illumination of the night sky and city lights. After exploring the city, you will be taken to an intimate, traditional restaurant with dinner accompanied by wonderful performances of Fado and folklore.

An interactive, technology based facility that narrates the main events in the city from past to present. The arch, built in 1755, is one of the most popular attractions in Lisbon, due to its design and also as it gives great panoramic views of the city.

Private Tour

Guided Coach Tour

Private Tour

Include your transfers:

We offer private transfers in and out of Lisbon Portela Airport, Lisbon Oriente Station and Lisbon Port and your hotel.

Choose your accommodation:

Tell our team what style of property and facilities you like and they will find the perfect area and accommodation for your time in Lisbon.

Choose your tours:

Explore the city on one of our sightseeing tours or take a day trip out to magical Sintra or the wine region, Alentejo. We have many options for you!

Choose your passes:

Travel independently with the confidence of the Lisbon Card by your side! Offering numerous options for museums and attractions throughout Lisbon.

Choose your nightlife activities:

Enjoy the melancholy musical genre ‘Fado’, that can be traced back to the 1820’s, with dinner and a show!

Lisbon Discovery - 2 Night Package

Lisbon and Beyond - 4 Night Package

• Return private transfers between airport/train station and your hotel

• Return private transfers between airport/train station and your hotel

• 2 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• 4 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• Lisbon By Night And Fado Dinner

• Full Day Private Fatima, Obidos and Nazare Tour

• Classic Lisbon Half Day Tour

• Full Day Evora Wine Tour with lunch

+

+

2-night package, price per person from*

+ *$420

Receive our complimentary ‘Gran Reserva’ Bonus Pack when you book Return Transfers + 4 Nights Accommodation + 2 Lisbon Tours

56

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

EVORA WINE TOUR

SINTRA - MAGNIFICENT VILLAGE

Daily: 9am (Year round) (8hrs)

Tue, Sat: 9am (Apr-Oct) (10hrs) Sat: 9am (Nov-Mar) (10hrs)

Daily: 9am (Year round) (4hrs)

A day discovering historical Portuguese landmarks. This tour will give you the opportunity to explore each town in depth. Fatima is known worldwide for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary. A sanctuary was built in the same place she was said to have appeared. Nazare, both a fisherman village and the home to some of the worlds biggest waves and Obidos with its village that has remained fortified since Paleolithic times.

On our way to the charming UNESCO World Heritage Site of Evora, we travel along the rolling landscape of the Alentejo, passing by olive tree and cork tree fields as well as many vineyards. Enjoy the highlights of Evora like the Roman Temple, Romanesque Gothic Cathedral, Bones Chapel and end the day with a visit and wine tasting at a recognised wine cellar.

Filled with historical monuments, take the time to discover the charming town of Sintra. Known as the place of inspiration for kings, poets and renowned writers, it has become a privileged space for artistic creation. We will visit the Pena Palace then wander through the village centre. You have the choice of seeing Sintra’s National Palace or spending the remaining time at Quinta da Regaleira.

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Small Group Tour

Guided Coach Tour

SINTRA LUXO

PORTUGUESE INDULGENCE

THE BEST OF PORTUGAL - CL11

Daily: 9am (Year round) (9hrs)

7 Days - Departures: Specific Saturdays (Jun-Dec), Departure : Lisbon/ End: Lisbon

11 Days - Departures: Year Round - Specific Saturdays, Departure : Lisbon/ End: Lisbon

+

4-night package, price per person from*

Lisbon Crumpled City Map

FATIMA, OBIDOS AND NAZARE

*$910

Lisbon Story Centre and Rua Augusta Arch

* On twin share basis

Enter the whimsical village of Sintra, where you will wander around town and then explore the romantic Pena Palace. Travel to Cabo da Roca and appreciate the view from Europe’s westernmost point to finally, end the day along the coast, passing by Cascais and Estoril.

Discover the best of Portugal from every aspect, its culture, charming hotels, remarkable monuments and gastronomy. Your time is spread carefully across the 7 days to ensure you do not miss a thing and your group is kept at a small number to provide a more personalised approach.

Lisbon Sightseeing, Day and Multi Day Tours

Lisbon Packages

Enjoy the many famed sights of Portugal. Enjoy the villages of Obidos and Nazare, see the sanctuary of the Virgin Mary in Fatima before continuing north. Experience UNESCO listed city Porto, the Douro Valley and a stop in Santiago de Compostela, before returning to Lisbon.

57

About Porto

Stay in Porto

Found in the northwest of Portugal, this jewel glistens against the reflection of its famous Douro River. Expect to be welcomed by an inspiring blend of pink and orange hues that whimsically fall over the stately bridges, providing a storybook landscape to the city. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Porto is an ancient city that gave its name to both Port wine and to the nation of Portugal. Known for its production of port, a vast collection of cellars is located in the city and along the stretch of the Douro Valley.

SERVICED APARTMENTS PORTO RIVER APARTMENTS M

Sao Bento

FLORES VILLAGE Ribeira

A combination of history and comfort await you in one of the 16 apartments at the Porto River Apartments. The building dates back to the 17th Century, which is notable in its architecture. The interiors are dominated by stone and wood materials that make this an ideal place for your stay.

M

Sao Bento

Vitoria

The apartments strive to provide a high quality service to its guests. Located minutes from the Sao Bento railway station, you are walking distance from restaurants, cafes and bars. The property offers large outdoor spaces and views of the city.

Stay in Porto

About Porto

HOTELS HOTELS – 3 STAR

Aliados

Rua de Santa Caterina Rua

Av. dos

Clerigos Tower

osa

Pass

os M

Sao Bento Railway StationR

ua

uque

aA

lfa

nd

a

M

dre

2

e Av. d

ifell

vo E

Gusta

Freitas

rcu lan

aiv

aC

CARRIS PORTO RIBEIRA M

• Port Wine Museum

ou

cei

Bolhao

 Se

A privileged setting for artists, bohemians and intellectuals and a hotel that maintains a dramatic 19th Century charm. You will notice a harmonious combination of comfort, timeless design and modern facilities. Located in Rua Santa Catarina in the historic city centre.

ro

Monuments:

Sao Bento

 Ribeira

PORTO A.S. 1829 M

Sao Bento

 Ribeira

Each of the emblematic streets of Porto are in your reach from the Carris. Enjoy its effortless blend of refurbished modern rooms and minimalist design with exposed stone throughout the hotel. A special stay for exploring the city.

Careful consideration has gone into the design of this hotel to ensure you feel at home during your stay. Spacious rooms and modern, practical decor is evident. Enjoy the Galeria do Largo Restaurant on site, where you will find an authentic showcase of typical Portuguese flavours.

THE ARTIST PORTO HOTEL AND BISTRO

DESCOBERTAS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

• Sao Bento Railway Station

or re s

• Clerigos Tower

lT

• Stock Exchange Palace

en e

ra

3

M

HOTELS – 4 STAR

• Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art Av .P

• Dom Luis I Bridge

aG

io

Av. D

• Infante Dom Henrique Garden

• National Museum Soares dos Reis

Ru

Cais de Gaia

• Cristal Palace Gardens

Museums and art galleries:

He

Dom Luis I Bridge

eite go L

GRANDE HOTEL DO PORTO

Ribeira

Sao Bento

• Virtudes Garden

o

1

eg

Gardens:

o

xan

Se Cathedral

San Francisco Church

e

at

M

• Morro Garden Ale

Joao II

ov

l

Av. Dom

aN

a

Ru

anue

Loule

Ru

do

a rg

us

Av. Rodrigues de

Rua D

Stock Exchange Palace

Alegria

Aliados Square

Form



M

Conveniently located in the Old Town’s centre and only walking distance from the Porto Cathedral. This hotel offers elegantly decorated rooms in the hub of the city’s cultural life and is the ideal place to stay when looking for comfort and location.

Highlights

Rua da

Rua

DA BOLSA

M

• Lello Bookstore • San Francisco Church

Vila Nova de Gaia

24 de Agosto

 Santo Ildefonso

Unique in its design, the hotel is inspired by the artistic heritage of the Soares dos Reis School. Located north of the Ribeira, you are still surrounded by cafes and walking distance to monuments. Enjoy the modern design and comfort of this 4 star hotel.

M

Sao Bento

 Ribeira

Situated along the Douro riverside, on the Rua Fonte Taurina. This is one of the oldest, most characteristic streets of the Ribeira. There are 18 spacious rooms here, offering a combination of classic elegance and comfort.

HOTELS – 5 STAR PESTANA VINTAGE PORTO

Ribeira 1 Located on the south hillside is the alluring Ribeira district. Comprised of medieval streets, colourful merchant’s houses and countless restaurants is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Porto and declared as an UNESCO World Heritage site. Appreciate the views of the Port Wine houses and Cais de Gaia across the river.

58

Se, Vitoria and Miragaia 2 Wander through the inner districts that will remind you of the Ribeira. Similar in their medieval descent, you are not short of historic monuments to see. The heartbeat of the city can be felt here with a mixture of locals and foreigners, the atmosphere is welcoming and typical of the Portuguese hospitality.

Vila Nova de Gaia 3 Cross the bridge of Dom Luis I and explore Vila Nova de Gaia. Toward the banks of Gaia, you can appreciate panoramic views of the city, taste some of the best port wines of the region and dine at internationally renowned restaurants.

M

Sao Bento

 Ribeira

In the most prestigious position of Porto, the Pestana Vintage Porto is constructed as a group of 18 buildings that have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be welcomed by the Portuguese hospitality along with five star service. Some rooms offer views of the Douro River, the Wine Cellars of Gaia and the Dom Luis I Bridge.

POUSADA PALACIO DO FREIXO M

Campanha

 Freixo

Set in an 18th Century Baroque palace that has been classified as a national monument since 1910, the hotel offers opulent architecture and intricately ornate interiors. You are sure to have a unique and authentic cultural experience during your stay. Live like a queen/king!

59

Porto Packages

Porto Sightseeing and Day Tours

Pass

Guided Small Group Tour

Guided Small Group Tour + Show

BLUE BUS + RIVER CRUISE 2 DAY PASS

PORTO CITY TOUR

FADO EVENING TOUR

Daily - At your own pace

Daily: 9am or 2pm (4hrs)

Daily exl. Sun: 8:30pm (Apr-Oct) (3hrs) Fri, Sat: 8:30pm (Nov-Mar) (3hrs)

For a full experience of Porto, take a journey by land and river. You can hop-on and hop-off the bus and enjoy a fantastic cruise on a traditional rabelo boat on the Douro River.

Discover Porto’s remarkable UNESCO historic centre, the Se Cathedral, Sao Bento Train Station, the Lello Bookshop and the Port Wine Cellars, where you’ll have the chance to have a tasting! Explore this city so rich in history, tradition and culture.

Enjoy a magical evening admiring the historic monuments and ancient streets of Porto by night. This tour also introduces you to Portuguese gastronomy and Fado music. Enjoy a Portuguese dinner at a traditional restaurant, while being serenaded by the melancholy sounds of the Fado singers.

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Small Group Tour

Guided Small Group Tour

Just like Lisbon, all of our Porto packages are customised. We create tailor made itineraries to suit the time you have and your style of travel. Every package includes transfers, accommodation, activities and more. We’ll organise everything for your stay in Porto.

Porto Discovery - 2 Night Package

Porto and Beyond - 4 Night Package

• Return private transfers between airport/train station and your hotel

• Return private transfers between airport/train station and your hotel

• 2 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• 4 nights in a central hotel with breakfast daily

• 2 Day Blue Bus + River Cruise Pass

• Wine Tour in the Douro Valley with lunch

• Porto Half Day Tour

• Minho Full Day Tour

• Porto with Fado by Night

• Full Day Cruise Porto / Pinhao / Porto

• Accommodation Recommendations: 3*: Da Bolsa, 4*: Carris Ribeira Porto, 5*: Pestana Vintage Porto

• Accommodation Recommendations: 3*: Grande Hotel do Porto, 4*: Descobertas, 5*: Pestana Palacio do Freixo

+

+

2-night package, price per person from*

+ *$430

Receive our complimentary ‘Gran Reserva’ Bonus Pack when you book Return Transfers + 4 Nights Accommodation + 2 Porto Tours

60

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

+

+

4-night package, price per person from*

Porto Crumpled City Map

*$885

Porto Blue Bus + River Cruise

* On twin share basis

AVEIRO CITY TOUR

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA FULL DAY

MINHO FULL DAY

Daily: 9am or 2pm (4hrs)

Daily: 8am (9hrs)

Daily: 9am (9hrs)

A harmonious city, crossed by four incredible canals is known as ‘The Venice of Portugal’. Learn about this city’s heritage from an expert guide and experience the traditional Moliceiro boats first hand with a canal cruise.

Santiago de Compostela is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. Visit the historic centre, then on to Valença do Minho, dominated with a famous fortress of two towers and a double great wall constructed in Vouban Style.

Explore Braga, one of the oldest religious cities in the world and also the sanctuaries that constitute the faith triangle: the Cathedral and the Sanctuaries of Sameiro and Bom Jesus. Enjoy a delicious lunch then head off to Guimaraes, the cradle of Portugal, and whose city centre is classified a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Guided Small Group Tour

Cruise

Cruise

WINE TOUR ‘DOURO VALLEY’ WITH LUNCH

CRUISE PORTO / PINHAO / PORTO (UPSTREAM)

CRUISE PORTO / REGUA / PORTO (UPSTREAM)

Daily: 8:30am (9hrs)

Mon-Fri: 8am (Apr-Dec) (11hrs)

Mon-Fri: 8am (Apr-Dec) (11hrs)

Admire the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Douro Valley in all its glory on this full day discovery. You will have a guided visit of Port Wine Estates as well as a wine tasting! Enjoy lunch in a traditional restaurant and marvel at the panoramic views before you.

Experience the Douro Valley from the famous river itself on this day cruise to Pinhao. Cruise upstream and absorb the beauty of this region. With a structured itinerary, you will have some time to explore Pinhao before returning to Porto by train.

Porto Sightseeing and Day Tours

Porto Packages

Experience the Douro Valley from the famous river itself on this day cruise to Regua. Cruise upstream and absorb the beauty of this region. You will have time to roam the streets of Regua before returning to Porto by train.

61

Regional Portugal

Viana do Castelo

AZORES ISLANDS

Braga Porto

Beyond the main cities of Lisbon and Porto awaits fantastic landscapes, exciting gastronomy, ancient history and an abundance of art and culture. Spain & Portugal Travel Connection provide the link to visiting these beautiful cities, offering a wide range of authentic Portuguese hotels from three to five stars, as well as apartments and a selection of tours. Choose from private tours, guided small group excursions and guided coach tours, hosted by knowledgeable local experts who pride themselves in delivering a more personal touring experience.

Viseu

Guarda

CENTRAL PORTUGAL Coimbra

Belmonte

Nazare Castelo Branco

Obidos

Spain & Portugal Travel Connection offers a wide selection of guided tours, ranging from small to large groups. These tours usually depart daily, year round. These tours are an excellent way to discover regional Portugal. All coaches used in our tours are modern, comfortable and air-conditioned.

Portalegre

Sintra

Lisbon Setubal

Guided Small Group Tours

Evora

ALENTEJO

MADEIRA ISLANDS

Private Tours

Beja Milfontes

Funchal Sagres

62

Pinhao

NORTHERN PORTUGAL

Aveiro

Guided Coach Tours

Our private tours are an exceptional way to see the many regions of Portugal. Our expert guides are friendly, knowledgeable and want to provide the best experience possible. A private tour is a great option for a family or group who want a more personal and intimate experience.

Vila Real

Ponta Delgada

Spain & Portugal Travel Connection has created three night packages in each of Portugal’s regions. Alternatively, you can create your very own regional itinerary by simply combining elements of interest from our module-style product range.

Spain & Portugal Travel Connection is proud to offer a wide range of small group tours throughout regional Portugal. These tours provide a more personal touring experience, ensuring you get the most out of each monument, city or town that you visit. A minimum of two passengers is required on most of these tours.

Guimaraes

Faro

ALGARVE Map not to scale

63

Regional Portugal

Central Portugal Why we love it

Why we love it

Portugal had its origins as a nation in the northern regions in the 12th Century. Today, the north is a culturally varied region. You are not short of castles, shrines, churches, natural parks, mountains and more in this part of Portugal. Ancient towns like Guimaraes and Braga are some of the oldest in Europe.

The central region offers a sensational contrast between ancient and modern villages, granite mountains and cosmopolitan beaches, green forests and flat plains. The centre is also home to some of the most important UNESCO sites of the country: Coimbra University, the Monasteries of Alcobaca and Batalha and the Convent of Christ in Tomar.

Highlights

Highlights

• Cruise along the Douro River • Explore the UNESCO classified city of Porto • Discover Guimaraes, the ‘Cradle of the Nation’

• Visit the university of Coimbra, the oldest in Portugal • Wander through the streets of Aveiro, ‘The Portuguese Venice’ • Admire the ‘Shrine of Fatima Chapel of the Apparitions’

GUIMARAES 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

COIMBRA 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

Available all year round. Departs from Guimaraes

Available all year round. Departs from Coimbra

DAY 1 - Arrived at Hotel Da Oliveira. Evening at leisure.

Regional Portugal

Northern Portugal

DAY 1 - Private transfer from Coimbra Railway Station to Quinta Das Lagrimas. Evening at leisure.

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Hotel Da Oliveira. Enjoy an afternoon tour of the ‘Cradle of the Nation’, Guimaraes. (B)

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Quinta Das Lagrimas. Day at leisure. Enjoy the cultural centre of Coimbra by night. (B)

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Hotel Da Oliveira. Experience the sensational charm of the Douro Valley by land and by river. (B, L)

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Quinta Das Lagrimas. Today, travel to Fatima and Tomar, two cities rich in history and culture. (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Hotel Da Oliveira. Depart at leisure. (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Quinta Das Lagrimas. Private transfer to Coimbra Rail Station. (B)

+

+

+

+

+ *$455

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS

GUIMARAES

PINHAO

HOTEL DA OLIVEIRA

THE VINTAGE HOUSE HOTEL



This restored Pousada is now a contemporary hotel located within the historical centre and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, standing only 150 metres away from the Guimaraes Castle.



COIMBRA

SINTRA

QUINTA DAS LAGRIMAS

TIVOLI PALACIO DE SETEAIS



History and elegance are perfectly combined in this 18th Century palace. It was once a private sanctuary that welcomed Kings and Emperors. Admire the magnificent gardens surrounding you.

This charming hotel is part of an 18th Century estate. Exquisitely renovated, it provides all of the comforts, facilities and service of a five star hotel.

GUIDED TOURS



This hotel offers unbeatable views of the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace, traditional rooms, modern facilities, a swimming pool, tennis courts and an equestrian centre.

GUIDED TOURS

Guided Small Group Tour

Cruise

Private Walking Tour

Private Tour

Private Tour

GUIMARAES HALF DAY CITY TOUR

DOURO VALLEY FULL DAY TOUR

CRUISE REGUA/PINHAO/REGUA

COIMBRA STEP BY STEP

COIMBRA BY NIGHT

TEMPLARIOS AND FATIMA TOUR

Daily: 2pm, (3.30hrs)

Daily: 8:30am, (9.30hrs)

Daily: 12:15pm (Year Round excl. Jan, Feb, Mar) (5.45hrs)

Daily, (3hrs)

Daily, (4hrs)

Daily, (9hrs)

On this half day city tour. Visit the 13th Century Castle, Ducal Palace Square, the timeless streets of the Medieval Village declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the former convent of Santa Clara, the legendary Largo da Oliveira and taste the gastronomic products that will delight the senses.

64

*$930

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS

Guided Small Group Tour

+

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the birthplace of authentic traditions, where man and nature produce one of the purest nectars in the World Port Wine. Learn about the history of this charming region, enjoy a typical Portuguese lunch, a port wine tasting and a boat cruise along the Douro. B= Breakfast

L= Lunch

Enjoy this half day cruise along the Douro River. A perfect opportunity to indulge in the beautiful scenery of this region. Begin in the middle of the day, embarking on your journey to Pinhao. Enjoy lunch on board and some free time in Pinhao before returning to Regua Quay.

D= Dinner

* On twin share basis

Discover this medieval city through its streets, lanes, monuments, facades, coffee shops, sounds, rhythms and landscapes. Walk at your own pace, step by step, from the uptown to the downtown, stopping at some of the most emblematic spots of the city.

* On twin share basis

B= Breakfast

Embrace the city like a true Coimbra local. Enjoy a typical dinner; continue onto Cafe Santa Cruz to taste a ‘Crúzio’, the city’s famous pastry. In the cultural centre, Casa de Fados a Capella, listen to Coimbra Fado music, which will leave you with a haunting and remarkable memory of this city.

L= Lunch

D= Dinner

Starting in Fatima, visit the Shrine of Fatima Chapel of the Apparitions, Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Holy Basilica Trinity and the House of Pastorinho. Continue to Tomar, city of the Knights Templar to admire the Seven Hills Park, the Convent of Christ and the 180 arches of Pegoes Aqueduct. All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

65

Regional Portugal

Algarve Why we love it

Why we love it

The largest region of Portugal hosts a striking combination of rolling plains and rugged coastline. Towards the coast, discover sheltered coves and unspoilt beaches. Further inland, you can explore the many wineries as well as ancient villages like Elvas and Evora that are well preserved UNESCO sites.

The Algarve is full of variety, from historic towns to luxurious beachfront resorts; the warm and radiant climate intrigues travellers from around the world! Visit the small fishing villages like Santa Luzia in Tavira or for a peaceful and idyllic setting, the small port of Sagres at the most western point of the coastline.

Highlights

Highlights

• Learn about the ancient history of the UNESCO city of Evora • Visit the Castle & Palace of Estremoz • Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery in Vila de Frades

• Visit Silves, the ‘Old Moorish Capital’ • Explore the Ramparts, Tip the Flag Fortress and Church of Santo Antonio in Lagos • See the Sagres Fortress

EVORA 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

PORTIMAO 3-NIGHT PACKAGE

Available all year round. Departs from Evora

Available all year round. Departs from Portimao

DAY 1 - Arrive at Pousada Convento de Evora. Evening at leisure.

DAY 1 - Arrive at Hotel Da Rocha. Evening at leisure.

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Pousada Convento de Evora. Enjoy a private walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed city, Evora. (B, L)

DAY 2 - Breakfast at Hotel Da Rocha. Enjoy a full day private tour of the coastal jewel that is the Algarve. (B)

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Pousada Convento de Evora. Explore the central and northern parts of the Alentejo region in this full day tour. (B)

DAY 3 - Breakfast at Hotel Da Rocha. Travel to two ancient cities of the Algarve, Lagos and Sagres, in this half day tour. (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Pousada Convento de Evora. Depart at leisure. (B)

DAY 4 - Breakfast at Hotel Da Rocha. Depart at leisure. (B)

+

+

+ *$845

3-night package, price per person from*

EVORA

PORTIMAO

POUSADA CONVENTO DE EVORA

M’AR DE AR AQUEDUTO

HOTEL DA ROCHA

Located within the historic city walls of Evora, this boutique hotel of 64 rooms is an adaptation of the 15th Century Sepulveda family palace. All rooms are decorated in a modern style.

Along the beachfront of Praia da Rocha, within minutes of all of the main attractions. Restaurants, cafes, the casino, golf courses, Portimao marina and more! The hotel offers fresh, spacious and modern rooms.



Originally a 15th Century convent, it has since been carefully restored. Admire the ornately painted walls, the lavishly decorated rooms and public areas with rich velvet upholstery.

ALBUFEIRA

66

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Tour

DISCOVERING CENTRAL AND NORTHERN ALENTEJO

THE SOUTHERN ALENTEJO: WINES, GASTRONOMY, ART AND HERITAGE

Daily, (4hrs)

Daily, (8hrs)

Daily, (8hrs)

Learn about the heritage of Central and Northern Alentejo. Enjoy sightseeing in Evora before embarking to your next destinations. Some of the highlights you can expect from today are the Cova Water Mill in Portagem, craft shops in Marvao, the Castle and Synagogue in Castelo de Vide and the Cork Factory in Azaruja. B= Breakfast



Located on the famous Praia da Falesia seafront. Rooms include modern facilities and Moorish design. Enjoy their 9 hole golf course, tennis court, spa and a variety of local and international culinary delights.

GUIDED TOURS

DISCOVERING EVORA HALF DAY TOUR

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

PINE CLIFFS RESORT



GUIDED TOURS

Be led through the city, classified by UNESCO as world heritage since 1986. Learn about its history and impressive monuments, their characteristics and details. Enjoy the sights of the San Francisco Church, the Bones Chapel, Aqueduct, the Medieval Wall, Cathedral and more.

*$720

HOTELS

EVORA

Private Walking Tour

+

3-night package, price per person from*

HOTELS

Regional Portugal

Alentejo

L= Lunch

Learn about the heritage of the Southern part of the Alentejo region. Enjoy sightseeing in Evora before embarking to Vidigueira and Vila de Frades. You will visit an olive oil producer, the regional winery and art gallery, traditional regional open fields filled with vineyards, olive groves and cork oak fields. D= Dinner

* On twin share basis

Guided Coach Tour

Guided Coach Tour

ALGARVE - A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

HISTORICAL ALGARVE FULL DAY

LAGOS AND SAGRES HALF DAY

Daily (Year round) (8hrs) Departs from Algarve

Praia da Luz - Quarteira (Year round) (Tue, Thu, Sun) (8hrs), Monte Gordo - Tavira (Year round) (Tue and specific Sun) (8hrs)

Praia da Luz - Quarteira (May-Nov) (Mon, Wed, Fri) (4hrs)

Enjoy the historical lands of the Algarve. Visit the Castle of Aljezur, the artistic treasure the Vila do Bispo Church with decorative elements conveying Baroque style, the Sagres Fortress, the Ramparts, Tip the Flag Fortress, Church of Santo Antonio and Museum Dr. Jose Formosinho in Lagos and more! * On twin share basis

B= Breakfast

Explore the old Moorish Capital, Silves. Climb the Monchique Mountains to Foia. Discover the beautiful town of Lagos. You will experience this and more in the full day tour of the Algarve. Travel along the famous coast and learn about its history while taking in its breathtaking scenery. L= Lunch

D= Dinner

Be taken back in time to the era of the Portuguese Discoveries. Highlights include the Golden Church of St Anthony in Lagos, the breathtaking rock formations of Ponta da Piedade, Sagres and its unspoilt harbour before travelling to what is known as ‘The End of the World’. All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

67

Regional Portugal

Azores Islands Why we love it

Why we love it

Located in the heart of the Atlantic, the island is surrounded by blue seas and exotic vegetation. Dedicated to conserving its natural environment, the diverse landscape is seen as one of Madeira’s main attractions.

The Azores are a remote archipelago of nine islands, hidden in the Atlantic. Containing two of Portugal’s fifteen UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Azores are home to dramatic landscapes and exciting opportunities for the nature lover. The islands offer a captivating blend of adventure and relaxation in a truly unspoilt environment.

Highlights

Highlights

• Ride the Monte cable car in Funchal • Take a Wicker Toboggan Sled Ride in Funchal • Admire the famous levadas irrigation system in place on the island of Funchal

MADEIRA ISLANDS

• Hike up Pico Mountain at 2351 metres of altitude • See Caldeira das Sete Cidades - the biggest extinct volcano crater in the Azores on Sao Miguel • Enjoy whale watching from Sao Jorge Island

AZORES ISLANDS

CORVO

PORTUGAL

Santa Cruz

FLORES

PORTO SANTO

GRACIOSA

Santa Cruz de Graciosa

Vila Baleira

SAO JORGE

FAIAL Horta

Funchal

DESERTAS

MADEIRA

Regional Portugal

Madeira Islands

Velas

TERCEIRA Praia de Vitoria Angra do Heroismo

Lajes do Pico

PICO

SAO MIGUEL Ribeira Grande Mosteiros Ponta Delgada

Vila Franca

SANTA MARIA Vila do Porto

PONTA DELGADA, SAO MIGUEL AZOR HOTEL 

PONTA DELGADA, SAO MIGUEL HOTEL TALISMAN 

Surrounded by lush subtropical gardens, expect panoramic views of the Funchal coastline. Welcoming its guests for over a Century, superb service awaits. Rooms are fresh and bright while the William Restaurant offers the finest produce from the island.

Alongside the Palace of Jesuits sits the boutique hotel of 81 rooms, blending historical architecture and modern design. Offering panoramic views over the Bay of Funchal, embrace its central location. This is the perfect place for exploring Funchal.

Bold, innovative and vibrant. Each of the hotel’s 123 rooms offer ocean views, contemporary and fresh design decorated with natural materials that serve as a reminder of the property’s remote location. Enjoy the many modern facilities and amenities here.

Close to the historical centre of Ponta Delgada and only moments away from the water, the Talisman was restored and expanded in 2008. Retaining much of its classic Portuguese design, expect to experience high quality service, comfort and modern facilities.

FUNCHAL PESTANA CR7 FUNCHAL

FUNCHAL HOTEL DO CARMO

VALE DAS FURNAS, SAO MIGUEL FURNAS BOUTIQUE HOTEL THERMAL & SPA 

ANGRA DO HEROISMO, TERCEIRA TERCEIRA MAR HOTEL 

Set in close proximity to the largest concentration of thermal waters in Europe. Experience a place of unique beauty, rest and nature. Tastefully decorated, the rooms include a mixture of modern and traditional influences.

Only moments away from the historic centre, classified by UNESCO as World Heritage, this hotel offers breathtaking views overlooking the ocean as well as a 16th Century fortress. Enjoy the many amenities offered and the superior service provided.

FUNCHAL BELMOND REID’S PALACE









Enjoy the many amenities of this hotel located only 300 metres from the marina. Featuring a contemporary design, all rooms include modern facilities, space and natural light. You can indulge in the rooftop infinity pool, outdoor Jacuzzi and take in the sunset over the island from the rooftop bar.

68

FUNCHAL CASTANHEIRO BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Set in the heart of Funchal, in an extremely advantageous location! Stylish and unique in its design, the Hotel do Carmo features a careful blend of modern amenities and decoration influenced by colourful 1960’s motifs. Take advantage of the rooftop pool, outdoor terrace and trendy restaurant.

69

Unique Experiences E

D

ORTE SC

TOUR

GUIDED TRANSFER TOURS

While you are traveling to your next destination, you can have the chance to visit additional cities on the way, to ensure a complete discovery. The transfer tours are a full day excursion, including a hotel pick up, stops in chosen cities and a hotel drop off at your new destination.

E

D

ORTE SC

TOUR

GASTRONOMY EXPERIENCES

POUSADAS

IND

T EN

EN EP D

SOLARES

Take the opportunity to stay in a typical historic Portuguese house. The Solares are privately owned manor houses, country homes and rustic farmhouses surrounded by spectacular gardens and vineyards. The majority of the houses are still in the ownership of the descendants of the founding families. You will travel back in time and have a close exposure to the history of Portugal. 70

ESCORTED TOURS

TOUR

Our Escorted Tours allow you to sit back and relax as the essentials are arranged for you - from excellent accommodation and transportation, to sightseeing, expert commentary, entrance fees and many meals. Tour guides are included on Escorted Tours.

N EPE D

INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

T EN

TRAVEL

ORTE SC

D

Explore ancient cities and end your sightseeing staying in Century-old Pousadas. Situated in castles, monasteries, palaces or fortresses, these luxurious and historical hotels elegantly mix architectural heritage and modern comfort.

E

TRAVEL

IND

EN EP D

T EN

IND

Mediterranean cuisine is full of flavour, colour and aromas. This is your chance to learn some of the Portuguese culinary secrets and discover all the secrets of regional dishes!

TRAVEL

For Independent Travel, we offer an interesting range of regional accommodation options. Our specialist team can assist with car rental, car leasing or rail – combine this with pre-arranged authentic stays and explore the area at your leisure.

71

See our example itinerary below!

E

E

Unique Experiences

Our transfer tours offer you the opportunity to visit additional cities along the way to your next destination. Travel in style, enjoy the convenience and absorb each moment during your journey! The transfer tours are a full day excursion, including a hotel pick up; three stops in our recommended towns or your chosen towns and a hotel drop off at your new destination.

Portuguese cuisine is simple and is characterised by a rich variation of regional dishes. Locals are able to gather a majority of their fresh produce and herbs from the local market, in preparation for the kitchen! Whether you want to learn the techniques, recipes and insider tips in the kitchen or you prefer to sit back, relax and enjoy the many tantalising flavours brought to you at the dining table, we have some great packages awaiting your tastebuds!

Unique Experiences

Gastronomy Experiences

D

Guided Transfer Tours

ORTE SC TOUR

D

ORTE SC TOUR

COOKING CLASSES LISBON TO PORTO  Pick up: Lisbon Hotel at 9am  First stop: Obidos. This village remains fortified since the Palaeolithic time with a lot of history to tell. The city was taken from the Moors in 1147 and has since then become the home of the Queen. Throughout Obidos, the medieval flavour is always evident. High walls surround the whole town and the urban structure is clearly defined by the castle, the entrances to the town and the parade ground  Next stop, Nazare: A picturesque seaside village, which is said to have some of the best beaches in Portugal and also used to be known for its traditional costumes worn by the fishermen and their wives. Enjoy lunch in Nazare at a traditional Portuguese seafood restaurant  After Nazare, Coimbra: Stop in Conimbriga (one of the largest Roman settlements in Portugal), also known as a city of students. It was here that the first university in Portugal was founded, nowadays it is the oldest and one of the most important in the country. See Afonso Henriques and Sancho I, the first two kings of Portugal, entombed in Santa Cruz church  Drop off: Porto Hotel at 5pm/ 6pm

Lisbon By Food Departs from Lisbon

Portuguese Cooking, Wine And Culture Program 4 Days

Pair your fresh produce specifically selected from the local market with timeless recipes and create sensational flavours throughout the week. Cooks of all levels can roll up their sleeves while learning the age old Portuguese recipes. • Airport transfers from/to Lisbon

Departs from Lisbon

8 Days

A multicultural fusion created for the curious traveller who loves to taste, cook and try some incredible new flavours. Lisbon being the innovative city it is, successfully combines tradition and modernity in its cuisine, making tantalising flavours easily discoverable.

ADDITIONAL ITINERARIES

• 4* accommodation with daily breakfast

• Private transfers

• Food and cultural walking tour

• Accommodation in Lisbon and Evora

We have a wide range of alternatives available, but if there is a specific city or town on your bucket list, we have tailor-made options too.

• Market tour followed by a Portuguese cooking class

• Some lunches and dinners in local restaurants • 5 cooking classes followed by its meals • 3 wine tastings at 3 different wineries • Guided tours of famous monuments in Evora

GOURMET EXPERIENCE Charming Romance In Douro Departs from Douro Valley Lisbon to Algarve

Lisbon to Evora

Lisbon to Seville

Lisbon to Madrid

Stops: Setubal, Alcacer do Sal and Castro Verde

Stops: Azeitao, Arrabida and Setubal

Stops: Evora, Vila Vicosa and Elvas

Stops: Evora, Vila Vicosa and Elvas

+

Inclusions 72

• Transfer Tours are a private service

• Transportation is provided in a luxury vehicle

• Available from 2-7 passengers per transfer

• Itineraries can be tailor-made

• Hotel pick up/hotel drop off is included

• One hour of guided sightseeing or free time is included at each stop

3 Days

The Douro Valley is renowned for its wine and also hosts some exquisite cuisine along its banks. Experience the exquisite blend of flavour, history and picturesque landscapes all in an intimate setting, designed specifically for couples. • Private transfers • 2 nights’ accommodation • A private sailing trip on the Douro River with skipper • 1 wine tasting dinner at DOC Restaurant • 1 visit + 3 wine tastings at Quinta do Bomfim

73

IND

Unique Experiences

TRAVEL

POUSADAS DE PORTUGAL 1

2

VIANA DO CASTELO POUSADA VIANA DO CASTELO

POUSADA MOSTEIRO DE GUIMARAES 



A combination of early 20th Century elegance with spectacular views over the old sailing port of Viana do Castelo. This beautifully furnished hotel is surrounded by the remains of an old Celtic village. 3

Overlooking the town, this majestic Pousada is a converted 12th Century Augustinian Monastery. Still retaining its original character, the property provides modernity in its facilities and serves as a luxury accommodation. 4

BELMONTE POUSADA DE BELMONTE

This building carries enormous historical importance with its medieval features from the 9th Century and is also one of the 7 wonders of Portugal. Traditional features and modern facilities make for a wonderful stay.

Pousadas P

MONCAO P VALENCA P MELGACO S S S S PONTE 7 BRAGANCA DE LIMA S CHAVES P 1 8 P P VIANA DO P BRAGA CASTELO P CAB. BASTO FAFE P S 2 BARCELOS P P GUIMARAES S P P P P FELGUEIRAS ST. TIRSO CEL. BASTO P P 10 MONCORVO LAMEGO S

Porto

9

S

P

S. PEDRO

SABROSA SERNANCELHE

S

DO SUL

P VISEU

AVEIRO IIHAVO

P

S

P

S

P

Pousadas

P

ALCOCHETE

S

PORTALEGRE

S

S

S

S

S

5

P

CASTELO DE VIDE P

P MONTIJO

CASCAIS

Solares

S

CRATO

CAPARICA P SETUBAL P

S

P

S

P

Lisbon S

P

CASTELO BRANCO

SANTAREM

PENICHE P

S

S

SERTA RIO MAIOR P

OBIDOS

S

P BORBA

EVORA S P

MOURA S

SINES

BEJA P

P

12

SERPA P

MERTOLA

PORTIMAO P S

ALBUFEIRA

S

Faro 6

74

S GUARDA

STA. COMBA DAO

S

4

11

SEIA

COIMBRA

FIGUEIRA P DA FOZ LEIRIA

P

CANAS

P

ANADIA

MEALHADA

BELMONTE 3

S

Pousadas de Portugal are a collection of over 40 exclusive hotels, located throughout Portugal. The name is synonymous with a unique form of quality accommodation, where a warm welcome and personal service awaits every guest. Situated in castles, monasteries, fortresses and places of natural beauty from north to south, the Pousadas de Portugal are real treasures of Portuguese history and have been restored in order to provide comfort throughout your stay.

5

POUSADA DE CASCAIS

FARO POUSADA PALACIO DE ESTOI





Situated only 10km from Faro city centre, the Pousada is famous for its Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo features. The historic village of Estoi is close to the centre of Faro and the wonderful beaches of the area.

Set within the walls of a 16th Century Citadel, you are minutes away from the ocean and marina as well as the Castle of the Moors. You will notice the tasteful and modern decoration, neutral colours and spacious rooms.

SOLARES DE PORTUGAL 7

Solares Situated in some of Portugal’s most picturesque locations, the historic Solares are nestled within large estates surrounded by beautifully designed gardens, vineyards that produce delicious in-house wines, fruit orchards and woodlands. This unique concept gives guests the opportunity to stay in privately owned stately manor houses, elegant country homes and rustic farmhouses. The Solares represent centuries of Portuguese heritage. The majority of the grand 17th and 18th Century houses are of noble origin and are still in the ownership of the descendants of the founding family.

6

CASCAIS

OBIDOS POUSADA DO CASTELO DE OBIDOS 

This luxurious hotel was a former convent of Nossa Senhora da Esperanca (Our Lady of Hope). With panoramic views of the Serra de Estrela mountain range, this Pousada is equipped with all modern conveniences.

S P

GUIMARAES

Unique Experiences

T EN

Pousadas and Solares

N EPE D

9

PONTE DE LIMA

8

CASA DO AMEAL

Located on a high hill of vineyards with wonderful views of the Lima Valley below, Paco de Calheiros is considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of 17th Century manor houses in Portugal. It is framed by elegant gardens and 13 acres of orchards and vineyards.

An ancient Minho house with original architecture, it is beautifully preserved and is estimated to have been built in the 16th Century. Ancient verdant trees encompass the property and offer a pleasant atmosphere, guaranteeing total privacy.

SABROSA

10

QUINTA DA VEIGA

PENICHE

LAMEGO CASA DE SANTO ANTONIO DE BRITIANDE

Located on the right bank of the Douro River, you are in between Regua and Pinhao, a very privileged position for exploring the Douro. Restoration has kept much of the original architecture, materials and traditional characteristics.

11

VIANA DO CASTELO

PACO DE CALHEIROS

This has an elegant architectural combination, integrating a house from the 16th Century and a chapel from the 17th Century. Experience the true ambience of the Lamego region and the typical features of Portuguese architecture. 12

MERTOLA

CASA DO CASTELO

HERDADE DE VALE COVO

This 17th Century manorial house is located between bountiful fields and long sandy beaches, next to the walls of a Moorish castle. With its elegant decor you will instantly feel at home. High quality service, comfort and utmost privacy are guaranteed.

This beautifully restored 1940s farmhouse is positioned within the natural park of the Guadiana Valley in the Alentejo region. The purpose of this farm is the production of quality organic products; balanced with maintenance and improvement of the environment.

75

Cruising E

D

ORTE SC

TOUR

CRUISE

CRUISING

Cruising offers an unparalleled level of convenience with all the comforts of a luxury hotel. For many stops you will dock right in the heart of a town, only moments away from charming squares, magnificent cathedrals and bustling marketplaces. Proximity to the shore throughout the cruise means that great views are on offer from all staterooms and suites as well as the restaurant, lounge and sun deck. In this section, you will find a sample of the different variety of options we offer:  Luxury cruising  Exclusive cruising

SELF-DRIVE

76

EN EP D

T EN

IND

 River cruising

TOUR

SELF-DRIVE BOATS

You are the captain as you make your way along the beautiful Grande Lago, in the Alentejo region. Open 365 days a year, it means you can take a boating holiday in the winter months – even a boating break over Christmas or New Year! With guaranteed sunshine for 300 days a year, Grande Lago’s waters provide the perfect conditions for a successful boating holiday throughout both summer and winter. No locks, you can tie up wherever you want, whenever you want – this really is a boating holiday with total freedom!

77

E

E

Cruising

Throughout two intriguing countries and one dramatic river, an enchanting opportunity awaits you. Our luxury cruising itineraries provide an extraordinary journey through the less travelled corner of Europe for the culturally curious traveller. Immerse yourself in the historic districts, iconic monuments, distinctive art museums, innovative yet tantalising cuisine and thriving culture that surrounds you.

SHIP FEATURES

Queen Isabel — Douro Valley

Spirit of Chartwell — Douro Valley Cabins: 20 Suites, 39 Staterooms

Capacity: 30 passengers

Cabins: 1 Suite, 14 Double Cabins

ITINERARIES ONBOARD THE QUEEN ISABEL

ITINERARY ONBOARD THE SPIRIT OF CHARTWELL

Portugal, Spain and the Douro River Valley

Jewels of Spain, Portugal and the Douro River

Spirit of Chartwell

Duration: 11 Days/10 Nights (March to November)

Duration: 13 Days/12 Nights (April to September)

Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights

Itinerary: Lisbon to Porto

Itinerary: Lisbon to Madrid (Reversable)

Itinerary: Porto to Porto

Highlights:

Highlights:

Highlights:

 City tour of hilly metropolis and Portuguese capital, vibrant and picturesque Lisbon  Visit Coimbra, home to an ancient university and lavish Baroque library  Enjoy Porto, with its intriguing cuisine, vivacious modernity and historic architecture such as the UNESCO designated Stock Exchange Palace  Tour of the Douro Museum  Tasting of fruity Moscatels and rustic style lunch at a family owned wine estate  Cruise through the pristine landscapes of the Douro River Valley  Visit the historic university town of Salamanca ‘The Golden City’  Tour of the medieval Castelo Rodrigo  City tour of the Guimaraes OR Guided tour of the Ribeira district in Porto

 City tour of vibrant and picturesque capital, Lisbon

 Panoramic city tour of Porto with a visit to the wine cellars

 Guided stroll through Obidos and family style lunch

 Vintage Port ceremony

 Panoramic tour of Porto and its Stock Exchange Palace

 Tour of the narrow lanes and tree lined boulevards in Lamego

 City tour of the Guimaraes OR Guided tour of the Ribeira district in Porto  Wander through Quinta Aveleda’s gardens OR Guided walking tour of Amarante  Lamego walking tour with wine tasting  Quinta do Seixo and tasting OR Pinhao wine estate and visit to traditional quinta  Tour of the medieval Castelo Rodrigo  Full day tour of Salamanca ‘The Golden City’  Madrid city tour with Prado Museum

 Dinner at a traditional Quinta that produces wine  Tour of the medieval Castelo Rodrigo  Enjoy a Portuguese music show on board  Tour of the ‘Golden City’ of Salamanca with lunch  Feast on a barbecue dinner on board  Visit Mateus Palace and its Gardens  Tour Quinta da Aveleda and enjoy a typical lunch

 Dinner with Flamenco show at Corral de la Moreria

Departure dates

 Toledo ‘City of Three Cultures’ City Tour

20th April 2018

17th August 2018

10th August 2018

26th October 2018

Additional excursion options available.

+

Inclusions

+

+

+

CRUISE

Experience ultimate exclusivity aboard the Spirit of Chartwell in 2018. With only a limited number of cabins and departures, you can board confidently knowing you will be in an environment where every need is predicted and promptly attended to. Admire the scenic passages through the majestic Douro River Valley and prepare to embark on a journey filled with history, elegance and entertainment.

SHIP FEATURES

Capacity: 118 passengers

+

Inclusions

+

+

• All gratuities, both onboard and onshore

• Gala Dinner

• Cruise, accommodation and full board with drinks

• Wine at off ship events

• Captivating onboard local entertainment

• Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks, specialty coffee and tea and mineral water

• All on board activities

• Tours indicated on itinerary, with guide and/or tour escort

• All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients • Portugal, Spain and Douro: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners • Jewels: 12 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners

78

Exclusive Cruising

• UNESCO World Heritage sites

Cruising

CRUISE

ORTE SC TOUR

D

Luxury Cruising

D

ORTE SC TOUR

• Off ship dinner events

• Excursions hosted by English-speaking local experts

79

IND

E

Cruising

Self-Drive Boats

TOUR

SELF-DRIVE

Why we love it

PORTUGAL

Self-drive boats offer you complete control of your itinerary. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility along the charming Grande Lago River in the Alentejo of Portugal. Glide through the waters in your chosen boat, complete with the comforts and amenities of a home. Whether you are travelling in a couple, family or with a group of friends, we have different boat categories and options to suit your travel needs.

Porto and the Douro Valley MS Gil Eanes 5* or MS Miguel Torga 5* Douro Valley Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights (March, October) Capacity: 132 passengers - 66 cabins Itinerary: One cannot visit the northern region without cruising along the Douro River, providing a perfect introduction to the Douro Valley and its beauty. Enjoy a six day cruise through the fields and bask in its tranquil atmosphere with optional excursions at your disposal.

Highlights

Access and Itineraries

• Great weather guaranteed nearly all year round

The rental base, located in Amieira, is only a two hour drive from Lisbon or Faro airport and a three hour drive from Seville. We have itinerary options of two days, a mini week and a full week available.

• Clean and clear waters for swimming • Fishing: Black Bass and Carp in the rivers

PORTUGAL AND SPAIN

• Mountain biking

From Porto to Spain

• Excellent services like shopping or meals delivered on board

MS Gil Eanes 5* or MS Miguel Torga 5* Douro Valley + Salamanca

• A variety of water sports offered at Amieira Marina

Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights (April - August) Capacity: 132 passengers - 66 cabins Itinerary: Cruise through the Douro Valley and visit some of its most famous towns, Regua, Vega de Teron, Barca D’Alva and Pinhao. Discover the northern region of Portugal. Highlights include a guided tour of Porto, Guimaraes ‘the Cradle of the Nation’, the formal gardens at the Mateus Palace and Vila Real, Salamanca’s Cathedral and an evening of traditional folk entertainment.

Juromenha

Cheles

Weekend 2 Days - Course: Amieira, Mourao, Amieira Course duration: 10h00 (88,5 km - 0 lock)

Monsaraz

Mini Week - Course: Amieira, Monsaraz, Amieira Course duration: 18h00 (163 km - 0 lock)

• Wide variety of flora and fauna on the river banks • Heritage sites: Fortified villages and UNESCO monuments • Arts, crafts and traditional regional cookery

Cruising

CRUISE

N EPE D

T EN

River Cruising

D

ORTE SC TOUR

One Week - Course: Amieira, Chelez, Amieira Course duration: 24h00 (210 km - 0 lock)

Mourao Campinho Luz Amieira AMIEIRA MARINA

Alqueva

Estrela

Moura

BOATS Our boats come in a variety of layouts, so it’s easy to find the perfect one for you. Couples, families, and even large groups of friends will feel at home. You only need to consider the type of boat you would like for your trip: Estivale, Confort and Sedan. Boats vary in size and standard, but all contain separate sleeping cabins, fully-equipped kitchens and bathrooms with linen and towels. We recommend booking a boat with one extra sleeping cabin to store your luggage.

SPAIN Andalusia: Tradition, Gastronomy and Flamenco La Belle De Cadix 4* Andalusia

ESTIVALE QUATTRO

CONFORT 1100

SEDAN 1310

2 Cabins - Max 4 people

3 Cabins - Max 7 people

5 Cabins - Max 10 people

Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights (February, November) Capacity: 176 passengers - 88 cabins Itinerary: Glide along the Guadalquivir River, travelling to Seville, Cordoba, Granada and Cadiz. Highlights include passing the Donana National Park designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, a visit to a ‘ganadería’ (a property where bulls are raised) in Jerez, observe migratory birds in a nature reserve, enjoy an equestrian show, a guided tour of Granada, tastings of local specialties in a Bodega and a tour around the Caliphate city of Cordoba.

80

Weekly rental price from*

Flat Screen TV DVD Player

* Based on complete boat hire

*$3,280

Electric Toilet

Weekly rental price from*

Dual Steering Positions

*$3,270

Garden Furniture

Weekly rental price from*

Sun Awning

*$4,130

Radio, CD, MP3

All prices are shown in Australian dollars (AUD)

81

BOOKING CONDITIONS. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. BOOKINGS All reservations are subject to availability at the time of booking. Any verbal quote given is only an estimate of the price which will be effective only upon the issuing of a written advice on confirmation of the reservation. All bookings with Spain & Portugal Travel Connection (‘SPTC’) are subject to the terms and conditions and limitations of liability imposed by airlines, hoteliers, coach operators, and other service providers including, but not limited to, rail, car hire and restaurant operators whose services we utilise, some of which limit or exclude liability in respect of death, personal injury, delay and loss or damage to baggage. Bookings with carriers or tour operators are also subject to the carrier’s terms and conditions as printed or referred to in their tickets and/or timetables and/or regulations. SPTC and/or its agents reserve the right, without notice, to modify, cancel or withdraw any of the arrangements and in this event the full amounts paid will be returned to the customer, and upon rendering the same, all liability of SPTC and/or its agents in respect thereof shall cease. SPTC and/or its agents reserve the right to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of any group at any time. SPTC reserves the right to adjust any price without notice whatsoever at any time up to the day full payment is received by SPTC. DEPOSITS, FINAL PAYMENT A non-refundable deposit of $300 per booking must be paid at the time of booking. Bookings for which this deposit is not received are subject to cancellation without notice. If SPTC is unable to confirm the requested arrangements the deposit will be fully refundable. Deposits vary for each tour operator, hotel, canal cruise operator or provider of any service contained in this brochure, and will be payable according to the General Terms and Conditions of each operator. *Please note that for any service held on an option a firm reservation cannot be made until the required deposit is received. Option periods vary between suppliers - if a deposit is not received within the option period SPTC may be unable to confirm the service. The balance payment must be received not less than 45 days prior to departure. If the balance payment is not received by SPTC by the due date, we reserve the right to treat the booking as cancelled and to apply the appropriate cancellation charges. Payments by credit card are subject to merchant fees. ADDITIONAL FEES Amendments: For each amendment requested after confirmation a fee of $30 will be charged in addition to any charges levied by hotels, ground/ cruise operators or airlines. Reissue of Documents: An amendment requiring reissue of documents will incur a $50 fee in addition to any charges levied by hotels, ground/ cruise operators or airlines. An amendment constitutes a change to an existing booking and not a transfer to another tour or date, wherein cancellation fees may apply. Minimum Booking: for a booking of less than $500 an administration fee of $30 will apply. CANCELLATION AND REFUNDS Should you or any member of your party wish to cancel, you must advise your Travel Agent and/or SPTC in writing. Such written advice should be signed by the person who made the original booking. The cancellation is not effective until SPTC receives the written advice. Cancellations are subject to a fee as follows: – 45 days, or more, prior to date of first service: forfeit of deposit – 15–44 days prior to date of first service: the greater of 25% of the total cost or deposit paid. – 14 days, or less, prior to date of first service: 100% of total cost Cancellations will also be subject to cancellation fees levied by each operator according to their respective Booking Terms and Conditions. *Please note that it is your responsibility to request from your Travel Agent or SPTC the details of terms and conditions, and to ensure that you have understood their contents. The payment of your deposit constitutes an acceptance of those terms and conditions and your acknowledgement that you will be bound by their cancellation fee charges. Any unused Car Rental or tax free car leasing period is not refundable. No refund is made on any pre-booked accommodation, coach tours, villas, canal cruising or other travel not utilised. No refund is available for cancellation after the tour has commenced or in respect of any tours, accommodation, meals or any other services not utilised. No refund is available for transport and museum passes. Cancellation of confirmed services forming part of an existing booking will incur cancellation fees as listed. SPTC does not authorise any overseas supplier to promise refunds on our behalf. Copyrights

INSURANCE It is strongly recommended that, at the time of booking, you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy of your choice. We suggest that the policy should include, but not be limited to the following features: Loss of deposit through cancellation, personal baggage, loss of money, medical expenses, additional expenses to cover hotel accommodation and repatriation costs to Australia should the tour or holiday need to be extended or curtailed due to illness while overseas, or due to the need to return to Australia because of unexpected death or illness of a close relative. Please consult your Travel Agent on the insurance policy most suitable for your needs. VISA, TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Passengers should familiarise themselves with any and all health or visa requirements that may be applicable in the areas they intend visiting. They shall be responsible for all exit, entry, health and other documents required by laws, regulations, orders, demands or requirements of the countries visited or transited. Each person shall carry a valid passport at all times. An Australian Re-Entry Permit must be obtained for those not holding Australian passports. Kindly note that passport and visa requirements are not our responsibility or that of your Travel Agent and we are not liable for any loss or expense due to a passenger‘s failure to comply with the above or any statutory requirement made in any country whatsoever. LUGGAGE Luggage, including personal articles, is at all times and in all circumstances at the risk of its owners except to the extent of any insurance purchased by the customer. It is also the passenger’s responsibility to enquire prior to departure about the restrictions placed by any carrier or tour operator on the amount, weight or volume of luggage allowed and to comply with those requirements. Failure to do so might incur additional charges or refusal to carry the excess luggage. RESPONSIBILITY The obligation of SPTC to you is to make travel bookings on your behalf and allow you to obtain travel related products from third parties. SPTC acts as Booking Agent only for the persons or companies offering or providing the means of travel, conveyance, transport, accommodation or other service and all receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons or exchange orders are issued subject to the terms and conditions under which transportation and other services are provided. SPTC does not accept any liability whatsoever for the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of those Airlines, coach operators, shipping companies, hoteliers or other persons providing services in connection with your tour or travel pursuant to a contract between them and yourselves and over whom we have no direct and exclusive control. We do not accept liability in contract or in tort for any accident, injury, damage, loss, delay, irregularity, additional expenses or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by any act or event which are beyond our control, or which are not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part including, but not limited to, war, civil disturbance, fire, floods, pandemic, unusually severe weather, acts of God, acts of Government or of any other authorities, accidents to or failure of machinery or equipment or industrial action (whether or not involving our employees and even though such action may be settled by acceding to demands of a labour group). Maps and photographs are only included for the purpose of general information and do not necessarily indicate actual itineraries or location of services provided. Photographs are purely for decorative purposes and do not show any service offered or any location visited on any of the tours contained in this brochure or advertised by any tour provider. Photographs of hotel rooms are only an example of a room available and do not necessarily represent the type of room or the room which will be made available. EXTRA SERVICES SPTC, its agents and any tour operator or provider of services is not liable for any changes, fees or costs not included in the services offered, and any additional costs are the responsibility of the passenger. ERRORS OR OMISSIONS (EOE) We reserve the right to correct any errors in rates quoted or calculated for any service, notwithstanding that the invoice may have been paid in full. It is the responsibility of the Travel Agent to ensure all invoice details are correct and that the client acknowledges all cancellation conditions. PRICE All prices shown in this brochure are effective from 1st November 2017 unless otherwise specified and are subject to variation without notice.

Create. Escape. Discover. Car leasing gives you more freedom to explore the open roads of Europe between 21 up to 175 days. Escape the ordinary and discover the roads less travelled within the comfort of your own hire car. › Brand new tax free vehicle › Unlimited kilometres › Zero insurance excess

Create your self-drive holiday now 1300 858 795 | www.spanishtravel.com.au/spain/special-interests/transport/car-leasing

© 60 Balconies Atocha © 60 Balconies Recoletos © Astoria 7 © Hotel Tamariu © Hotel Vistabella © The 7 Hotel © Hotelbeds © Paradores © Renfe © Pine Cliffs Resort © Hotel Da Rocha © Pedro Magalhúes © Antonio Sacchetti © Paulo Magalhaes © Esmadrid © H10 Hotels © L&H Apartments © Visitportugal © Lisbonlux

82

› Free additional drivers* › Free delivery & return in France › GPS included in all vehicles

*conditions apply

entire-travel-draft.indd 1

30-Aug-17 4:33:43 PM

83

A I R C A L I N C A B I N S

Travel made-to-measure Fly the colours of our Pacific

For bookings: 1300 108 625 OR CONTACT YOUR FRIENDLY TRAVEL AGENT

NEW CALEDONIA TRAVEL CONNECTION 601/83 MOUNT STREET NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2060 TEL +61 2 9094 3333 FAX +61 2 9966 1455

Pacific heart

A DIVISION OF ENTIRE TRAVEL CONNECTION PTY LTD ABN 51 328 832 827

NEW CALEDONIA

Crédits photos : M. Dosdane - NCTPS

FRANCE

BARGE CRUISING

TAHITI

Aircalin, proud ambassador of New Caledonia

For more detailed information, new products and specials visit our website www.newcaledoniatravel.com.au [email protected]

Spain & Portugal Travel Connection 1300 858 795 OR CONTACT YOUR FRIENDLY TRAVEL AGENT

SPAIN & PORTUGAL TRAVEL CONNECTION 601/83 MOUNT STREET NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2060 TEL 1300 858 795 +61 2 8456 2997 A DIVISION OF ENTIRE TRAVEL GROUP PTY LTD ABN 51 328 832 827

www.spainishtravel.com.au [email protected]