Step into the rhythm of southern Spain, where Moorish palaces, mountain trails, cobbled lanes and wild-flower covered hills await at every turn.
Experience the heart and soul of southern Spain on this 11 day hiking and cultural adventure through enchanting Andalusia. From walking trails in the lush national parks of Grazalema, to e-biking with views of the Sierra Nevada, and visiting architectural wonders like the Alhambra and the jaw-dropping Caminito del Rey, this tour offers a rich insight into the Spanish way of life.
We’ve timed our journey to coincide with spring’s vibrant burst of colour – wildflowers in bloom, fresh green hills, and rivers flowing through the valleys. Along the way, we stay in charming hotels nestled in the heart of historic old towns, and discover Andalucía’s famed gastronomy (tapas anyone?)
We finish with two glorious nights in Seville soaking up the city’s vibrant energy — from flamenco rhythms echoing through cobbled laneways to golden-hued architecture and lively tapas bars that capture the spirit of Andalucía.
Ronda – Seville
Arrive at your leisure into the charming town of Ronda and join the group for a welcome dinner at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your fellow travellers. For those arriving after our Morocco tour, a transfer from the ferry at Algeciras to Ronda will be provided.
O/N 3 nts Hotel Soho Boutique Palacio de San Gabriel (or similar)
This morning, we lace up our boots and set out to explore the Llanos de Líbar in the stunning Natural Park of Grazalema. Known for its dramatic limestone peaks, lush valleys, and rare flora, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a hiker’s paradise. Our trail winds through open meadows and rocky outcrops, with a good chance of spotting griffon vultures circling overhead. Along the way, we’ll pause to enjoy a picnic surrounded by the park’s wild beauty—fresh air and mountain views on the menu. By afternoon, we return to Ronda, where the rest of the day is yours to relax, wander the old town, or sip a coffee overlooking the famous Puente Nuevo.
Today we set out from the whitewashed village of Grazalema for one of the region’s most iconic walks—the trail to the Pinsapar, a forest of rare Spanish firs found only in this corner of the Sierra de Grazalema. As we climb, the views open to rugged limestone peaks and deep valleys, a landscape shaped by wind, water, and time. We’ll pause along the way for a picnic surrounded by nature before making our descent. In the afternoon, we trade mountain paths for village charm with a visit to Setenil de las Bodegas, famous for its houses built directly into the rock overhangs. Wandering its narrow lanes, you’ll see cafés, shops, and homes tucked beneath cliffs—a unique sight even in Andalusia. Dinner is at leisure this evening, giving you the chance to discover more of Ronda’s vibrant food scene before settling in for the night.
This morning we take a short drive to the spectacular Caminito del Rey, once dubbed the ‘world’s most dangerous walkway’ and now beautifully restored as one of Spain’s most thrilling trails. Hugging the cliffs high above the Guadalhorce River, the 3-hour walk offers jaw-dropping views into the gorge below—an unforgettable blend of nature and adventure. After a picnic lunch, we continue our journey east to Granada, the jewel of Andalusia and our home for the next two nights. Dinner is included this evening, and for those keen to dive into local culture, there’s the option to experience an authentic flamenco show in one of the atmospheric cave venues of the Sacromonte neighbourhood. With fiery music, passionate dancing, and the echo of hand-claps in the caves, it’s an experience that captures the soul of Granada.
O/N 2nts Hotel U-Sense (or similar)
This morning we swap buses for e-bikes and head into the mountains surrounding Granada, where quiet trails and gentle pedal-assist lead us to sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada, its snow-dusted peaks rising dramatically on the horizon. After a picnic en route, we return to Granada for a leisurely afternoon. Take the chance to rest, wander the city’s winding streets, or simply soak up the atmosphere of one of Spain’s most enchanting destinations. Dinner is at leisure tonight, with plenty of tapas bars and local eateries to tempt you.
This morning we enjoy a guided visit to the magnificent Alhambra, Granada’s Moorish palace and fortress, where intricate carvings, serene courtyards, and fragrant gardens reveal centuries of history and artistry. Afterward, we transfer into the heart of the Alpujarra Mountains, arriving at the picturesque village of Pampaneira. From here, we set off on a scenic hike through this beautiful valley, winding our way past terraces, streams, and chestnut groves to the traditional whitewashed villages of Bubión and Capileira. Tonight, we stay in a charming mountain hotel in Capileira, surrounded by fresh mountain air and Andalusian hospitality.
2 nts Hotel Finca Los Llanos (or similar)
Lacing up straight from our hotel, we set out on a beautiful hike linking a string of Alpujarran villages—Capilerilla, Pitres, Mecina, Fondales, Ferreirola, and Busquístar. Each has its own charm, with cobbled lanes, whitewashed houses, and sweeping views across the valleys. We’ll pause along the way for a picnic before continuing to Trevélez, the highest village in mainland Spain and famed for its cured ham. Here we step inside a traditional jamón drying room, where legs of ham hang in neat rows, filling the air with the aroma of centuries-old tradition. By evening we return to our mountain base in Capileira, where dinner and a well-earned rest await.
Today we journey north to the historic city of Córdoba, once the dazzling heart of Moorish Spain. On arrival, we take a guided visit of the breathtaking Mosque-Cathedral (Mezquita), a masterpiece of Islamic architecture later transformed into a Christian cathedral. Its forest of striped arches, ornate chapels, and centuries of layered history make it one of Spain’s most remarkable monuments. The rest of the day is yours to soak up Córdoba’s charm—wander the narrow lanes of the Jewish Quarter, pause in flower-filled patios, or simply relax in a shady plaza. Tonight, we gather for dinner together before settling into our central accommodation.
O/N 1 nt Hotel Eurostars Los Patios (or similar)
This morning we travel to Seville, the flamboyant capital of Andalusia, where history and passion meet in every square and alley. A guided tour introduces us to the highlights of the lively city centre—majestic plazas, orange-scented courtyards, and winding medieval streets. The afternoon is free for your own discoveries. You may wish to explore the soaring Cathedral, climb the Giralda Tower for sweeping views, or wander through the lavish halls and gardens of the Royal Alcázar. The evening is yours—Seville comes alive after dark, so don’t be surprised if you stumble upon spontaneous flamenco rhythms drifting out of a local bar.
O/N 2nts Hotel Dona Maria (or similar)
A free day in Seville means you can dive into whatever piques your curiosity. You might hire a bike and pedal along the Guadalquivir River, step inside the quirky Metropol Parasol (the ‘mushrooms’ of Seville) for panoramic views, or simply lose yourself in the tangle of cobbled lanes in the Santa Cruz quarter. Feeling whimsical? Take a leisurely stroll through María Luisa Park and keep an eye out for peacocks strutting about like they own the place. In the evening, we gather for our farewell feast – tapas and wine of course. It’s the perfect way to wrap up our Spanish adventure—sampling local bites, sipping fine wines, and toasting to new friendships and unforgettable memories.
All good things must come to an end. Depart anytime after breakfast. If you are not ready for the adventure to end, take a look at our 12 day Portugal hiking and biking adventure. Or if you want to spend more time in Spain, let us help you extend your itinerary.
Fearlessly taking on any challenge, Kerri works closely with Suzanne to curate unforgettable travel experiences for ICON Adventure clients. This dynamic duo can handle any situation, including the odd tricky one, to ensure your travel experience is seamless and worry-free.
Starting with Flight Centre in the 90s, Kerri has worked with various retail and wholesale travel companies. She has spent the last 20 years in local tourism and event management but is enthusiastically back working as a travel consultant (or Adventure Wizz as we like to call her).
Kerri’s contagious passion for exploration shines. From hiking the parks and forests of her local area, to sharing insider tips and planning international adventures, her enthusiasm for travel is evident in all she does.