Self-Drive Tour through Spanish Countryside

Departing Madrid today, you will set off by high-speed train to the city of Cordoba to pick up your vehicle before plunging deep into the heart of Andalusia and the mountains of the Sierra de Montilla. Spain is the largest producer of olive oil in the world, and 80% of that oil comes from this region. As you make your way to your destination, you will be able to stop at a rural olive press and winery to learn the secrets of producing the mouthwatering varieties of oils and wines of Andalusia.

With history and food always top Spanish themes that have been attracting visitors to Spain for decades, not many realize the abundance of natural beauty and protected lands that the country possesses. The Subbetica Natural Park is a rugged and wild expanse of protected land between Cordoba and Granada with impressive biodiversity, panoramic views of the mountains, and enough hiking trails for even the most active traveler. With shady groves and stunning views as your companions, you will be able to enjoy a trek along the Via Verde to bask in the region's ambient beauty.

Today, you will depart your rural accommodation in Subbetica Park and make your way to your hotel on the banks of Lake la Vinuela. Upon your arrival, you will have a chance to settle in before enjoying a variety of options to enjoy the remainder of the day in this panoramic new setting. A trip to the nearby Costa del Sol will offer ample opportunity to sunbathe and snorkel while you can also hop in the saddle and witness the sights from horseback on a guided ride through the rural communities of the Axarquia region.

The reliable companions of Nerja and Frigiliana will be yours to enjoy as you explore these two areas after a fortifying breakfast from your hotel staff. The famous Nerja caves will be your first stop. Here, you will embark on an audio tour of the ranging geologic features, including the world's largest natural column and oldest Neanderthal cave paintings. In the afternoon, you can pay a visit to the award-winning town of Frigiliana, which consistently ranks as one of Andalusia's most beautiful villages.

Today, you will venture your way further into the Andalusian highlands and depart Lake Vinuela to enjoy a meandering day trip to Ronda. As with most trips, this will be about the journey and not the destination. You can enjoy a scenic stop at the Caminito del Rey, where you may stretch your legs on a thrilling cliffside trek above the Gudalhorce Lakes. In the afternoon, you will arrive in Ronda and conclude your day with a walking tour that includes the scenic old town, bull ring, and spanning bridge.

The high country of Andalusia remains a world apart. Far from the bustling seaside crowds of sun worshippers, the land here is more rugged, and the people are hearty. As you explore this region, it is the terrain and topography that will capture your attention. Today, you will be able to enjoy both as you visit the whitewashed villages of Grazalema Natural Park before returning to Ronda to quench your thirst at a boutique winery. Here, you will enjoy a tour through the picturesque vineyards.

As the region of Spain with the longest span of continuous Islamic influence, everywhere you turn in Andalusia will show some evidence of Muslim culture in the architecture, music, and even the names of the cities. During the late medieval period, Spain began a long process of reconquering the Iberian Peninsula, resulting in numerous towns that now have names to indicate their position on the frontier between the Christian and Muslim worlds. Today, you will visit two such towns as you depart Ronda and make your way to Vejer de la Frontera while enjoying a stop in Arcos de la Frontera.

The culture in Andalusia can be encountered in any number of ways, such as through the food, the culture, or a stroll through the colors and ambient richness of a village town. Today, you will have many options for how you explore the magical region around Vejer. Day trips to Conil, Tarifa, or Cadiz will introduce the dynamic waters of the Atlantic and the Strait of Gibraltar, which was once the only gateway from the Mediterranean to the outside world. If you prefer to stay local, a cooking course in Vejer will introduce you to the magic of Spanish food.

Today, you will descend from the rugged highland of Andalusia to the fertile farmlands and laid-back atmosphere of Seville. As the capital of Andalusia, Seville enjoys special prominence in displaying the rich history and colorful character of this region. After depositing your rental car, you will be able to transfer to Madrid by train and enjoy some stunning views of the countryside. Upon your arrival in the Spanish capital, you will have the remainder of the day to spend at your leisure.

With the memories of your Andalusian adventure still floating in your mind, you will awake to your final morning in Spain, impressed that so much beauty can be contained in such an understated region. From the depths of the Nerja caves to the heights of Ronda, you will have encountered a side of the region that many miss by never leaving the resorts or big cities. As you make your way to Madrid's main airport for your departing flight, you may already begin to feel the urge to plan your return trip to this stunning land.