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Spain: Andalusia, Córdoba & Granada

While other bike tours merely touch the tourist centers of southern Spain, this comprehensive Andalusian cycling vacation takes you deep into the region’s heart. Starting in the sensual southern city of Seville, you’ll cycle into the ancient Moorish city of Córdoba, where we’ve found an authentic Andalusian villa for you to stay in—complete with carved wooden ceilings and a traditional Spanish courtyard. Our itinerary brings you through the famous Ruta Del Vino wine road, spinning past white-washed villages and stopping at an authentic, Andalusian cortijo for lunch with VBT’s local friends. After pedaling past medieval castles in Jaen, you’ll return home to your own ancient castle (now a Parador hotel) where you’ll discover the secrets of Andalusian cooking during a class with a local chef. As you cycle the Ruta de las Fortalezas and roll into Granada, you might even hear the haunting chords of a flamenco guitar calling your name.  

Tour Highlights

  • Embark on a guided tour of Córdoba featuring a visit to the amazing Mezquita.
  • Ride through olive groves and vineyards along the Ruta del Vino Wine Road.
  • Sangria!
  • Spin downhill past castles, Roman ruins, and mountain villages toward enchanting Granada.
  • Explore the Alhambra Palace—one of Spain’s biggest attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Positive Impact

VBT is proud to support Wine to Water with a donation on behalf of each guest on this tour. Wine to Water is an international organization providing access to clean drinking water and emergency supplies in water-challenged regions. We believe in giving back to the places that have enriched the lives of our guests. We’re committed to identifying and supporting sustainable initiatives in a variety of areas including education, world health, economic equality, safe drinking water, the environment, and the preservation of cultural traditions.

What to Expect

This tour offers a combination of easy terrain mixed with moderate hills and is ideal for both beginner and experienced cyclists. Our VBT support vehicle is always available for those who would like assistance.

  • Daily Mileage: 18-45 miles|
  • Biking: 2-5 hours|
  • Max Group Size: 14-20
Activity Moderate
Moderate
Bar Graph Beginner - Experienced
Cyclists
Vehicle Support Vehicle
Support

Average High /
Low Temperature (°F):

Mar70º/47º

Apr73º/50º

May80º/56º

Jun88º/62º

Sep90º/64º

Oct78º/56º

Nov68º/49º

Average
Precipitation:

Mar1.4 in

Apr2.2 in

May1.5 in

Jun0.5 in

Sep0.8 in

Oct2.2 in

Nov3.2 in

Air Package

Tour Only

Roundtrip international airfare

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Airport car service for arrival and departure

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One night in Palma del Rio and one night in Granada in conveniently located hotels with daily breakfast

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6 nights in 4-star hotels

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14 meals: 6 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 3 lunches, 4 dinners

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2024 2025

Step-Through Electric-Assisted Bicycle (E-bike)

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Road Bicycle (Carbon frame)

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Step-Through (Mixte Hybrid) Comfort Bicycle

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Step-Over (Diamond) Comfort Bicycle

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2024 2025

Step-Through Electric-Assisted Bicycle (E-bike)

See More >

Electric-Assisted Bicycle (E-bike)

See More >

Road Bicycle (Carbon frame)

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Biking Packages Include:

Custom VBT Bike and Helmet

Two Local, Bilingual Trip Leaders

Support Vehicle

Luggage Transportation

Ride with GPS and Daily Route Notes

Welcome Reception

Facilitated Cultural Experiences

Your Choice of VBT Branded Gear for Your Adventure

Itinerary

Tue, Mar 11 to Thu, Mar 20, 2025

Show Itinerary:

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

A VBT representative will greet you at the Seville airport to start your adventure off right. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel in Palma del Rio. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

After an included breakfast, meet your VBT trip leaders at the Palma del Rio hotel at 10:00 a.m.  Please ask for the exact location of the meeting at the hotel reception desk.

This morning, your trip leaders will host an informative tour overview, as well as a safety and bike-fitting session, followed by a warm-up ride around Palma del Rio. You will be riding on the fertile lowland of the Guadalquivir River. Please be dressed for riding since your warm-up ride begins immediately follows the safety talk and bike-fitting.

After the warm-up ride, you will have time for lunch on your own at the hotel or at one of Palma del Rio’s restaurants. Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing by the quiet swimming pool, strolling through the extensive grounds and vegetable gardens, or exploring the town’s sites. Ambitious riders may opt for an afternoon ride toward the foothills of the Sierra Morena.

Tonight, gather with your trip leaders and travel mates for a welcome reception, including tapas and sangria, two of Andalusia’s regional specialties. You’ll learn about the history of Spain and Andalusia before dinner is served.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Warm-up Loop — 13 km (8 miles)

Afternoon: Sierra Morena Loop — 27 km (17 miles)

What to Expect:

Your ride in Andalusia starts with an easy warm-up loop. You will cross the Genil River as you exit town.  From there, you will see the fertile plain of the Guadalquivir River and pass a typical Andalusian farm called a cortijo. If you choose to ride after lunch on your own, you can cycle out of town toward the foothills of Sierra Morena, looping back down to the Guadalquivir River valley.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 — 40 km (8 — 25 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

En route to Córdoba, you’ll ride up to the foothills of the Sierra Morena Mountain Range and the Parque Natural de Horanchuelos. Following the Guadalquivir River, you will make your way into the Campiña Cordobesa-Córdoban countryside. Along the way, you’ll stop for an included lunch.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll arrive at your beautiful and centrally located four-star Córdoba hotel. In the 11th century, Cordoba was the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Europe with a well-developed system for running water and streetlights, along with vast libraries where Arabic, Latin, and Greek manuscripts were translated. Jews, Muslims, and Christians all coexisted in this cultural crossroads. Exceptional monuments like the Mezquita of Córdoba are a good representation of the blend of these different cultures. Famous sons of Córdoba include the philosophers Seneca (Roman), Averroes (Arab), and Maimonides (Jewish). Córdoba has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984.

Your hotel is a few steps from the Mezquita in the Judería—the charming Jewish district and the heart of Córdoba. It consists of ancient, private homes from the 17th and 18th centuries with lovely patios and fountains. The property was carefully restored in 2009.

Spend the rest of the evening at your leisure, enjoying all the amenities of your hotel or venturing out to explore Córdoba’s historic sites. Dinner is on your own.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Palma to Posadas — 33 km (20 miles)

Afternoon: Posadas to Lunch — 15 km (9 miles) OR Posadas to Lunch and Córdoba — 33 km (20 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride starts through Palma del Río and continues gently uphill toward Hornachuelos. You’ll leave the Guadalquivir River plain behind as you bike along the border of the Sierra. The ride is mostly easy, but there will be some uphill cycling no longer than half mile. By noon, you will approach the quiet town of Posadas for a break. If you are taking the short option, you can take our shuttle to our lunch location. If you continue cycling from the town of Posadas after your break, you’ll cross the Rio Guadalquivir for an easy ride to the Cortijo el Temple for lunch. After lunch, you will shuttle to Córdoba or continue cycling on longer option that includes a series of hills to the outskirts of Córdoba. From there, you will be shuttled to the hotel.

Cumulative Distance Range: 33 – 66 km (20 – 40 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, meet your local guide and set out on foot. Start by visiting a nearby synagogue and then continue to the Mezquita.

Originally built as a temple, lighthouse, and warehouse, the Mezquita was once the second-largest mosque in the world and later consecrated as a Christian church after Córdoba was captured by the Spanish in the 12th century. Today, it is considered one of the world’s greatest examples of Moorish architecture. From the Mezquita, you’ll see the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, and the Archiepiscopal Palais, the Roman Bridge with 16 arches spanning the Guadalquivir River, as well as the synagogue built in 1315 in La Judería. Córdoba is also an excellent place to shop for pottery, silverwork, abanicos (fans), cotton and leather goods, embroidered mantillas (scarves), shawls, and wooden crafts. A Bullfighting Museum pays homage to the controversial sport.

Take time on your own this afternoon to explore the many sites and shops of Córdoba. You might want to enjoy an ancient local tradition: an Arab bath in one of the nearby hammams. Immerse yourself in its warm waters, followed by a relaxing massage with essential oils.

Tonight, choose a restaurant for dinner on your own in Córdoba. You might visit a flamenco house in front of the Mezquita or one of the restaurants in La Judería, the Jewish district, where you can also taste local specialties like caldereta de cordero, ragout of lamb, or sausages such as morcilla, caña de lomo, and salchichón de Pozo Blanco. Salmorejo and flamenquines are the most famous Cordovan dishes. Arab influences can be found in the sweet alfajores and pestiños with almonds and honey.

Today's Ride Choices

What to Expect:

Non-biking day: Explore Córdoba

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will leave Córdoba and shuttle to the Cordillera Subbética and the Ruta del Vino wine road. As the name suggests, this hilly region is full of olive trees and vineyards, producing and exporting excellent white wines and olive oils. One of the most renowned wines produced in this area is the Pedro Ximénez sweet wine, particularly recommended to complement local postres desserts. For brunch, you will stop at a beautiful bodega and taste locally produced wines with your meal.

From there you will ride toward the Subbética mountain range, where you have the option of cycling on the Via Verde rails-to-trails path. Avid cyclists looking for some hills can opt for a more challenging route.

On your way to the perched village of Zuheros, keep your eyes open for a variety of birds, including two of the many protected species of this area: the peregrine falcon, symbol of the Natural Park of La Sierra Subbética, and the griffon vulture.

Near Luque, you’ll stop at a cortijo for a late picnic lunch, with ingredients sourced almost entirely from the garden of your host, Balbino, who also proudly serves the farm’s prize-winning, organic olive oil.

After lunch, hop on a shuttle to your next hotel. The 18th-century Parador de Jaen, one of Andalusia’s most beautiful castles, sits high above the city of Jaen, atop Santa Catalina Hill, on the site of the former Santa Catalina Castle, an 8th-century Moorish fortress. This evening, you may enjoy an included dinner at your leisure at the hotel.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Wine Road to La Primilla — 20 km (12 miles)

Afternoon: La Primilla to Cortijillo on bike path — 40 km (24 miles) OR La Primilla to Cortijillo on road PLUS — 44 km (26 miles)

What to Expect:

You will take a bus from Córdoba to the Montilla-Moriles hills, one of the famous wine regions of Andalusia, and start riding from Espejo, passing several lagares, farms where grapes are grown and pressed. You will stay on rolling terrain in the morning with just a few hills, arriving at Lagar La Primilla for brunch and a wine tasting. Afterward, you can shuttle to your starting point on the Vía Verde rails-to-trails path, where you can expect a beautiful easy ride all the way to Cortijillo. Other riders may opt for some hills on the longer moderate ride.

Cumulative Distance Range: 20 – 64 km (12 – 38 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, your loop ride follows the road to Gardia, the ancient Roman and Visigoth city of Mentesa Bastia, guarded by its 12th-century castle built on a rocky promontory. You’ll also visit the Puente de la Sierra, the so-called entrance to the Sierra de Jaen, the small group of mountains on the old road to Granada. After you pause for lunch on your own in Puente de la Sierra, you may choose to challenge yourself with a ride to the Otiñar Castle, surrounded by stunning mountains and deep limestone canyons. Or return to the Parador and perhaps visit the Santa Catalina castle on your own, just steps from your hotel.

Enjoy time to relax before you meet up with the rest of your group to learn how to make a popular Andalusian dish this evening. Dinner will be served in the Parador’s beautiful dining room with its combination of Moorish and Spanish décor.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Jaén to Puente de la Sierra — 35 km (21 miles)

Afternoon: Otiñar Canyon PLUS — 15 km (9 miles)

What to Expect:

Start your ride with a descent and mainly flat road before you begin a long but gradual climb to Guardia, with its castle above. From here, you will continue on a gentle and undulating road with views of the mountains of Jaen, all the way to the main entrance of the Sierra de Jaen mountains. Here you stop for lunch on your own, or if you are looking for more mileage, you may opt for a challenging ride to the castle of Otiñar, rewarding you with probably the most stunning views of the entire trip. Today may offer an additional independent ride for experienced cyclists. Ask your trip leader for details or opt for shuttle back to Parador.

Cumulative Distance Range: 35 – 50 km (9 – 30 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, you will start your morning ride in the small town of Benalúa de las Villas. Begin with a gradual descent through a valley with the Sierra Nevada mountain range in the distance, and head toward the enchanting city of Granada. You will pedal through towns that were heavily fortified in the Middle Ages prior to the final conquest of Granada in 1492, including Colomera with its castle and towering church. As you continue on the Ruta de las Fortalezas, you will find traces of Roman influence, including a 2,000-year-old bridge. Leaving the mountains and small villages behind, you will enter La Vega Granada’s main valley and finish your ride with lunch and a celebratory toast under the shade of pine trees with a cool breeze coming from the Cubillas Reservoir.

This evening, join your trip leaders for a festive farewell dinner and sample some regional culinary delights.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Ruta de las Fortalezas to Olivares — 25 km (15 miles) | Olivares to Campus Nautico — 21 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

Your final ride takes you from the mountains north of Granada down to the Genil River lowlands. Begin by leaving Benalúa de las Villas and heading down a mountain valley with the impressive Sierra Nevada mountain range as the backdrop. You will pass a 2,000-year-old Roman bridge and the towns of Colomera and Moclín with their Arab fortresses and Christian churches. The ride is a gently rolling route with a continuous descent into the valley and along the Genil riverbank. Today may offer an additional independent ride for experienced cyclists. Ask your trip leader for details or choose the short option from Olivares.

Cumulative Distance Range: 21 – 46 km (13 – 28 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, you will meet your local guide and walk to the Alhambra Palace for an included visit to the Palace and Generalife Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After your visit to the Alhambra Palace, the rest of the day is yours to explore. VBT provides you with city information that includes recommendations on what to see and do in Granada during your stay.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation to the airport will be provided (an approximately 90-minute drive, depending on traffic) for your departing flight.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Spain: Andalusia, Córdoba & Granada

Download Sample Itinerary:

Air Package (PDF) Tour Only (PDF)

Thu, Mar 13 to Wed, Mar 19, 2025

Show Itinerary:

Meet your VBT trip leaders and the rest of the group at the Palma del Rio Hotel at 10:00 a.m. Please be dressed in your riding attire.

Your trip leaders will host an informative tour overview, as well as a safety and bike-fitting session, followed by a warm-up ride around Palma del Rio. You will be riding on the fertile lowland of the Guadalquivir River.

After the warm-up ride, you will have time for lunch on your own at the hotel or at one of Palma del Rio’s restaurants. Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing by the quiet swimming pool, strolling through the extensive grounds and vegetable gardens, or exploring the town’s sites. Ambitious riders may opt for an afternoon ride toward the foothills of the Sierra Morena.

Tonight, gather with your trip leaders and travel mates for a welcome reception, including tapas and sangria, two of Andalusia’s regional specialties. You’ll learn about the history of Spain and Andalusia before dinner is served.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Warm-up Loop — 13 km (8 miles)

Afternoon: Sierra Morena Loop — 27 km (17 miles)

What to Expect:

Your ride in Andalusia starts with an easy warm-up loop. You will cross the Genil River as you exit town.  From there, you will see the fertile plain of the Guadalquivir River and pass a typical Andalusian farm called a cortijo. If you choose to ride after lunch on your own, you can cycle out of town toward the foothills of Sierra Morena, looping back down to the Guadalquivir River valley.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 40 km (8 – 25 miles)

Included Meals: Dinner

En route to Córdoba, you’ll ride up to the foothills of the Sierra Morena Mountain Range and the Parque Natural de Horanchuelos. Following the Guadalquivir River, you will make your way into the Campiña Cordobesa-Córdoban countryside. Along the way, you’ll stop for an included lunch.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll arrive at your beautiful and centrally located four-star Córdoba hotel. In the 11th century, Cordoba was the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Europe with a well-developed system for running water and streetlights, along with vast libraries where Arabic, Latin, and Greek manuscripts were translated. Jews, Muslims, and Christians all coexisted in this cultural crossroads. Exceptional monuments like the Mezquita of Córdoba are a good representation of the blend of these different cultures. Famous sons of Córdoba include the philosophers Seneca (Roman), Averroes (Arab), and Maimonides (Jewish). Córdoba has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984.

Your hotel is a few steps from the Mezquita in the Judería—the charming Jewish district and the heart of Córdoba. It consists of ancient, private homes from the 17th and 18th centuries with lovely patios and fountains. The property was carefully restored in 2009.

Spend the rest of the evening at your leisure, enjoying all the amenities of your hotel or venturing out to explore Córdoba’s historic sites. Dinner is on your own.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Palma to Posadas — 33 km (20 miles)

Afternoon: Posadas to Lunch — 15 km (9 miles) OR Posadas to Lunch and Córdoba — 33 km (20 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride starts through Palma del Río and continues gently uphill toward Hornachuelos. You’ll leave the Guadalquivir River plain behind as you bike along the border of the Sierra. The ride is mostly easy, but there will be some uphill cycling no longer than half mile. By noon, you will approach the quiet town of Posadas for a break. If you are taking the short option, you can take our shuttle to our lunch location. If you continue cycling from the town of Posadas after your break, you’ll cross the Rio Guadalquivir for an easy ride to the Cortijo el Temple for lunch. After lunch, you will shuttle to Córdoba or continue cycling on longer option that includes a series of hills to the outskirts of Córdoba. From there, you will be shuttled to the hotel.

Cumulative Distance Range: 33 – 66 km (20 – 40 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, meet your local guide and set out on foot. Start by visiting a nearby synagogue and then continue to the Mezquita.

Originally built as a temple, lighthouse, and warehouse, the Mezquita was once the second-largest mosque in the world and later consecrated as a Christian church after Córdoba was captured by the Spanish in the 12th century. Today, it is considered one of the world’s greatest examples of Moorish architecture. From the Mezquita, you’ll see the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, and the Archiepiscopal Palais, the Roman Bridge with 16 arches spanning the Guadalquivir River, as well as the synagogue built in 1315 in La Judería. Córdoba is also an excellent place to shop for pottery, silverwork, abanicos (fans), cotton and leather goods, embroidered mantillas (scarves), shawls, and wooden crafts. A Bullfighting Museum pays homage to the controversial sport.

Take time on your own this afternoon to explore the many sites and shops of Córdoba. You might want to enjoy an ancient local tradition: an Arab bath in one of the nearby hammams. Immerse yourself in its warm waters, followed by a relaxing massage with essential oils.

Tonight, choose a restaurant for dinner on your own in Córdoba. You might visit a flamenco house in front of the Mezquita or one of the restaurants in La Judería, the Jewish district, where you can also taste local specialties like caldereta de cordero, ragout of lamb, or sausages such as morcilla, caña de lomo, and salchichón de Pozo Blanco. Salmorejo and flamenquines are the most famous Cordovan dishes. Arab influences can be found in the sweet alfajores and pestiños with almonds and honey.

Today's Ride Choices

What to Expect:

Non-biking day: Explore Córdoba

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will leave Córdoba and shuttle to the Cordillera Subbética and the Ruta del Vino wine road. As the name suggests, this hilly region is full of olive trees and vineyards, producing and exporting excellent white wines and olive oils. One of the most renowned wines produced in this area is the Pedro Ximénez sweet wine, particularly recommended to complement local postres desserts. For brunch, you will stop at a beautiful bodega and taste locally produced wines with your meal.

From there you will ride toward the Subbética mountain range, where you have the option of cycling on the Via Verde rails-to-trails path. Avid cyclists looking for some hills can opt for a more challenging route.

On your way to the perched village of Zuheros, keep your eyes open for a variety of birds, including two of the many protected species of this area: the peregrine falcon, symbol of the Natural Park of La Sierra Subbética, and the griffon vulture.

Near Luque, you’ll stop at a cortijo for a late picnic lunch, with ingredients sourced almost entirely from the garden of your host, Balbino, who also proudly serves the farm’s prize-winning, organic olive oil.

After lunch, hop on a shuttle to your next hotel. The 18th-century Parador de Jaen, one of Andalusia’s most beautiful castles, sits high above the city of Jaen, atop Santa Catalina Hill, on the site of the former Santa Catalina Castle, an 8th-century Moorish fortress. This evening, you may enjoy an included dinner at your leisure at the hotel.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Wine Road to La Primilla — 20 km (12 miles)

Afternoon: La Primilla to Cortijillo on bike path — 40 km (24 miles) OR La Primilla to Cortijillo on road PLUS — 44 km (26 miles)

What to Expect:

You will take a bus from Córdoba to the Montilla-Moriles hills, one of the famous wine regions of Andalusia, and start riding from Espejo, passing several lagares, farms where grapes are grown and pressed. You will stay on rolling terrain in the morning with just a few hills, arriving at Lagar La Primilla for brunch and a wine tasting. Afterward, you can shuttle to your starting point on the Vía Verde rails-to-trails path, where you can expect a beautiful easy ride all the way to Cortijillo. Other riders may opt for some hills on the longer moderate ride.

Cumulative Distance Range: 20 – 64 km (12 – 38 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, your loop ride follows the road to Gardia, the ancient Roman and Visigoth city of Mentesa Bastia, guarded by its 12th-century castle built on a rocky promontory. You’ll also visit the Puente de la Sierra, the so-called entrance to the Sierra de Jaen, the small group of mountains on the old road to Granada. After you pause for lunch on your own in Puente de la Sierra, you may choose to challenge yourself with a ride to the Otiñar Castle, surrounded by stunning mountains and deep limestone canyons. Or return to the Parador and perhaps visit the Santa Catalina castle on your own, just steps from your hotel.

Enjoy time to relax before you meet up with the rest of your group to learn how to make a popular Andalusian dish this evening. Dinner will be served in the Parador’s beautiful dining room with its combination of Moorish and Spanish décor.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Jaén to Puente de la Sierra — 35 km (21 miles)

Afternoon: Otiñar Canyon PLUS — 15 km (9 miles)

What to Expect:

Start your ride with a descent and mainly flat road before you begin a long but gradual climb to Guardia, with its castle above. From here, you will continue on a gentle and undulating road with views of the mountains of Jaen, all the way to the main entrance of the Sierra de Jaen mountains. Here you stop for lunch on your own, or if you are looking for more mileage, you may opt for a challenging ride to the castle of Otiñar, rewarding you with probably the most stunning views of the entire trip. Today may offer an additional independent ride for experienced cyclists. Ask your trip leader for details or opt for shuttle back to Parador.

Cumulative Distance Range: 35 – 50 km (9 – 30 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, you will start your morning ride in the small town of Benalúa de las Villas. Begin with a gradual descent through a valley with the Sierra Nevada mountain range in the distance, and head toward the enchanting city of Granada. You will pedal through towns that were heavily fortified in the Middle Ages prior to the final conquest of Granada in 1492, including Colomera with its castle and towering church. As you continue on the Ruta de las Fortalezas, you will find traces of Roman influence, including a 2,000-year-old bridge. Leaving the mountains and small villages behind, you will enter La Vega Granada’s main valley and finish your ride with lunch and a celebratory toast under the shade of pine trees with a cool breeze coming from the Cubillas Reservoir.

This evening, join your trip leaders for a festive farewell dinner and sample some regional culinary delights.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Ruta de las Fortalezas to Olivares — 25 km (15 miles) | Olivares to Campus Nautico — 21 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

Your final ride takes you from the mountains north of Granada down to the Genil River lowlands. Begin by leaving Benalúa de las Villas and heading down a mountain valley with the impressive Sierra Nevada mountain range as the backdrop. You will pass a 2,000-year-old Roman bridge and the towns of Colomera and Moclín with their Arab fortresses and Christian churches. The ride is a gently rolling route with a continuous descent into the valley and along the Genil riverbank. Today may offer an additional independent ride for experienced cyclists. Ask your trip leader for details or choose the short option from Olivares.

Cumulative Distance Range: 21 – 46 km (13 – 28 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, you will meet your local guide and walk to the Alhambra Palace for an included visit to the Palace and Generalife Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Due to hotel check-out times, please settle your hotel bill and check out prior to your included visit of the Alhambra Palace. After the tour, you will return to the hotel to collect your luggage and continue to your next destination. Your flight from Granada should not be scheduled to depart earlier than 3:00 p.m.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Spain: Andalusia, Córdoba & Granada

Download Sample Itinerary:

Air Package (PDF) Tour Only (PDF)

Accommodations (Please Note: Days are based on the Air Package Itinerary. Accommodations may vary depending on departure date. )

Enjoy Your Vacation Longer With Low-Cost Trip Extensions

Airplane

Air Package Only

2024 2025

2025 Pre-Trip Extension - Seville

2 Nights From $345 per person, double occupancy
Single Supplement: From $145

  • 2 nights at the Las Casas de la Judería Sevilla
  • Airport car service for arrival
  • Daily breakfast
  • City information

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

Start off your first day in Seville right by having a VBT representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

After a delicious included breakfast at your hotel, you are free to explore on your own, using our included city information packet to guide your discoveries.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Continue your independent exploration of Seville. This afternoon, your local guide will meet you at the Casas de la Judería Sevilla and arrange transportation to Palma del Rio. The transportation departure time will be given to you upon your arrival in Seville.  Enjoy the remainder of the day and evening at leisure, exploring the small town of Palma del Rio.

Your hotel in Palma del Rio is Monasterio de San Francisco. This former Franciscan monastery was built in 1492 on the orders of VII Señor de Palma. About 20 years ago, it was turned into a charming hotel that preserves the simplicity and tranquility of a monastery. The arrival of Europeans in America is part of the building’s history, since the Franciscan monks based here founded American missions, took their language and customs to the New World, planted the famous orange groves in California, and opened the Mission de Palma del Rio in San Diego. Columbus spent time here before setting out for his journey, as the monastery was a strategic and powerful center of learning and culture. The cities of San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego owe their names to this region’s monasteries and holy places. Today, guests can drink orange juice (in season) from the garden’s 65 orange trees, some of which are five centuries old.

VBT provides you with city information that includes recommendations on what to see and do in Palma del Rio during your stay.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Las Casas de la Juderia Sevilla

Las Casas de la Judería is located a few steps from the walls of the Alcazar. The hotel is comprised of 27 private homes from the 17th and 18th centuries, nestled among 31 courtyards and ancient public roads. Take time to explore the property’s unique layout. The hotel’s quiet rooms are organized into small sections, facing charming patios, gardens, and fountains. Rooms all share a breakfast room, reception space, and common courtyards. The property is air conditioned and beautifully restored, and includes antique furniture, wooden floors, and whirlpool tubs in many bathrooms. WiFi is available in the common areas.

Wi-Fi In Room
FREE WiFi Included
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning
Airplane

Air Package Only

2024 2025

2024 Pre-Trip Extension - Seville

Nights From $ per person, double occupancy

  • 2 nights at the Las Casas de la Judería Sevilla
  • Airport car service for arrival
  • Daily breakfast
  • City information

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

Start off your first day in Seville right by having a VBT representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

After a delicious included breakfast at your hotel, you are free to explore on your own, using our included city information packet to guide your discoveries.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Continue your independent exploration of Seville. This afternoon, your local guide will meet you at the Casas de la Judería Sevilla and arrange transportation to Palma del Rio. The transportation departure time will be given to you upon your arrival in Seville.  Enjoy the remainder of the day and evening at leisure, exploring the small town of Palma del Rio.

Your hotel in Palma del Rio is Monasterio de San Francisco. This former Franciscan monastery was built in 1492 on the orders of VII Señor de Palma. About 20 years ago, it was turned into a charming hotel that preserves the simplicity and tranquility of a monastery. The arrival of Europeans in America is part of the building’s history, since the Franciscan monks based here founded American missions, took their language and customs to the New World, planted the famous orange groves in California, and opened the Mission de Palma del Rio in San Diego. Columbus spent time here before setting out for his journey, as the monastery was a strategic and powerful center of learning and culture. The cities of San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego owe their names to this region’s monasteries and holy places. Today, guests can drink orange juice (in season) from the garden’s 65 orange trees, some of which are five centuries old.

VBT provides you with city information that includes recommendations on what to see and do in Palma del Rio during your stay.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Las Casas de la Juderia Sevilla

Las Casas de la Judería is located a few steps from the walls of the Alcazar. The hotel is comprised of 27 private homes from the 17th and 18th centuries, nestled among 31 courtyards and ancient public roads. Take time to explore the property’s unique layout. The hotel’s quiet rooms are organized into small sections, facing charming patios, gardens, and fountains. Rooms all share a breakfast room, reception space, and common courtyards. The property is air conditioned and beautifully restored, and includes antique furniture, wooden floors, and whirlpool tubs in many bathrooms. WiFi is available in the common areas.

Wi-Fi In Room
FREE WiFi Included
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning
Airplane

Air Package Only

2024 2025

2025 Post-Trip Extension - Malaga

2 Nights From $495 per person, double occupancy
Single Supplement: From $345

  • 2 nights at Palacio Solecio
  • Transportation from Granada to Malaga
  • Guided walking tour of Malaga
  • Airport car service for departure
  • Daily breakfast
  • City information
1 Begin your Post-Trip Extension

This morning, you travel to the seaside city of Málaga, the heart and soul of Spain’s Costa del Sol and birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Upon arrival, settle into your luxury boutique hotel, a stunning 18th-century Andalusian palace overlooking the city from its perch in the old Jewish Quarter. An illuminating walking tour introduces you to the Alcazaba, an 11th-century palace-fortress, and many other sites. You have free time to explore Málaga’s many museums, including the Museo Picasso Málaga, just minutes by foot from your hotel.

Included Meals: Breakfast

2 Continue your Post-Trip Extension

Today you are free to continue exploring on your own, using our included city information packet to guide your discoveries.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Departure Airplane

After an included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation to the airport will be provided (an approximate 25-minute drive, depending on traffic) for your departing flight.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Palacio Solecio

Located in the heart of the historic center of Malaga, the hotel enjoys a prime location close to the most emblematic monuments. Palacio Solecio is an 18th century architectural treasure transformed into a charming boutique hotel. The palace that belonged to the Genoese Félix Solecio has been meticulously restored, rescuing authentic elements and preserving its original essence that can be felt in its vaulted courtyard, in the bright and elegant rooms, and in the intimate and stately atmosphere that pervades the palace. The palace is home to the renowned Balausta restaurant, with Michelin-starred chef José Carlos García and head chef Sergio Solano. In its porticoed courtyard and Andalusian interiors, Balausta celebrates Málaga’s gastronomic culture, always with a contemporary twist.

Wi-Fi In Room
FREE WiFi Included
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning
Airplane

Air Package Only

2024 2025

2024 Post-Trip Extension - Malaga

Nights From $ per person, double occupancy

  • 2 nights at Palacio Solecio
  • Transportation from Granada to Malaga
  • Guided walking tour of Ronda
  • Guided walking tour of Malaga
  • Airport car service for departure
  • Daily breakfast
  • City information
1 Begin your Post-Trip Extension

After an included breakfast this morning, you continue your bike tour through Spain by boarding a private coach and traveling first to the iconic hill-top town of Ronda, and then continuing on to your centrally located luxury boutique hotel, an 18th-century former palace in the heart of Malaga, just a minute’s walk from the Picasso Museum.

Included Meals: Breakfast

2 Continue your Post-Trip Extension

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will meet your local guide and walk to the center of Malaga for an included guided walking tour.

This afternoon you are free to continue exploring on your own, using our included city information packet to guide your discoveries.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Departure Airplane

After an included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation to the airport will be provided (an approximate 25-minute drive, depending on traffic) for your departing flight.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Palacio Solecio

Located in the heart of the historic center of Malaga, the hotel enjoys a prime location close to the most emblematic monuments. Palacio Solecio is an 18th century architectural treasure transformed into a charming boutique hotel. The palace that belonged to the Genoese Félix Solecio has been meticulously restored, rescuing authentic elements and preserving its original essence that can be felt in its vaulted courtyard, in the bright and elegant rooms, and in the intimate and stately atmosphere that pervades the palace. The palace is home to the renowned Balausta restaurant, with Michelin-starred chef José Carlos García and head chef Sergio Solano. In its porticoed courtyard and Andalusian interiors, Balausta celebrates Málaga’s gastronomic culture, always with a contemporary twist.

Wi-Fi In Room
FREE WiFi Included
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning
Reviews
363 out of 374 (97%)
4.8 out of 5 stars.
Read More Reviews

Great way to experience Andalusia from rural, small town, big city. Very much impressed with it all.

Mort, Dover, New Hampshire

Wonderful experience...wonderful memories

This trip could not have been better. Bikes, guides, hotels, food, history, culture, tours to the prime sights, transports ; all organized and pulled off smoothly, down to small details. The guides were special. Knowledgeable, friendly, organized,encouraging, calm, and just fun to be around. We lost a passport in Cordoba and within an hour the guides tracked it down and saved some huge hassles for us. I don’t typically write reviews, but this trip was just too good.

Steve Tippin, Colorado

VBT Andalusia trip

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