Granada – The last Spanish Muslim Kingdom
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It is the perfect setting for one of Europe's most stunning monuments - The Alhambra Palace, the romantic palace-fortress of the Nasrid Sultans, rulers of the last Spanish Muslim Kingdom. Modern Granada is both worldly and mystical - a vibrant melting pot of east and western cultures with eclectic contrast of Muslim and Spanish culture.
Day 1 Arrive and transfer to Alhambra Palace Hotel, our base in Granada. First opened in 1910, this faux-Moorish palace is still a good luxury option - especially for connoisseurs of full-on Orientalist kitsch. There are fabulous views from the terrace. Welcome reception and dinner in hotel.
Day 2 The Alhambra is one of the most visited monuments in the world. Its construction was begun by the founder of the Nasrid Dynasty: Mohammed Ibn Alhamar, in the XI Century, at the red hill known as Assabic, which overlooks Granada. The fortress or alcazaba was built in first place, and afterwards, the Royal Palace and the highest part of the Alhambra which became the court member residence. Later on, Charles V commissioned a palace to be built at the same site. We shall visit the most important halls and courtyards of the Alhambra including the Patio de los Arrayanes (myrtle courtyard), the Patio de los Leones (lion courtyard), the Salon of the Embajadores (ambassador’s hall), and the Sala de los Abencerrajes, which was the scene of a tragic legend. In addition, we shall also visit the Alcazaba or fortress, the royal baths, the partial gardens and the palace of Charles the Fifth.
The visit will then continue to the Generalife, situated next to the Alhambra, and which was a place of leisure and recreation for the moorish kings of granada. The Generalife contains magnificent gardens whith many varied sorts of flowers and fountains, described by the poet "the hidden water weeps". The visit includes two further courtyards, the Patio de la Acequia and the Patio de la Sultana. Lunch in Granada. Remainder of afternoon at leisure.
Evening Flamenco at “La Canastera” an unique opportunity to watch a genuine flamenco show at its best. Any visit to Granada would not be complete without visiting the Alhambra and seeing live authentic gypsy dancing. The Alhambra stands majestically beneath the backdrop of the snow tipped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains and to the right you have a bird's eye view of the rest of Granada. The gypsy flamenco evening accurately encapsulates the essence and colourful ambience of the sacromonte. We provide a free drink of your choice to consume during the performance or a typical andalusian dinner. The cave "La Canastera" specialises in Zambra that is normally performed by a gypsy family. The performance represents the rich tradition of gypsy folklore. The Zambra is generally happy, enchanting and full of the abundant grace exuded by the gypsies.
Day 3 Thrilling Hot air balloon adventure flying above Granada and Sierra Nevada, including delicious champagne breakfast. Unique visit to a prestigious winery in a gorgeous location. Private tour including wine tasting of best wines. Spectacular drive to the famous Alpujarras, including lunch at the highest village in Spain. Return to our exclusive hotel for luscious gourmet dinner in magnificent surroundings, arranged by a prestigious chef.
Day 4 Nerja´s caves Tropical Coast full day excursion The granadine coast boasts a mild climate with a mean temperature of 18 degrees centigrade, thus enabling the farming of custard apples, papaya, advocado, sugar cane. Motril is an important fishing & commercial port serving the region. Turning in the direction towards Malaga, we come accross Salobreña, a white town perched on a hill and crowned by an acient arab castle from where the panoramic views of the surronding fertile plain and beaches can be admired. Almuñecar is the tourist haven along the coast, acient Sexi for the phoencians, and boasts important monuments: sites in the Majuelo park, the castle of san miguel and a beautiful old quarter where lunch will be served. The caves of Nerja are visited in the afternoon with their extensive grottoes with archaeolical remains, a popular venue for concerts.
Day 5 Breakfast and free morning for shopping. Transfer to airport.
Itineraries can be changed or customized according to your preference.
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