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Moorish Andalusia Bike Tour |
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10 days / 9 nights • Seville to Granada via Córdoba
or 7 days / 6 nights • Córdoba to Granada
Fully Guided & Supported • Quality Hotels and Country Retreats
Cycling for All Levels
Route and Hotels Upgraded for 2013!
Late offer: 10% off our May departure
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Let us, a local and experienced Andalucian tour company, delight in showing you the best of this traditional and beautiful area. With English speaking guides who live here with a wealth of cycling and cultural knowledge, charming hotels and some impressive dining experiences, this best selling adventure is not to be missed.
Eight centuries of Muslim medieval rule imprinted this area with a rich cultural grain touching everything from the Andalusian love of sticky honey pastries to graceful curving arches and courtyard gardens. It is a province unlike any other found in Spain in its evocative and highly romantic landscape infused with the Moorish delight of beauty and elegance.
Starting from the refined city of Seville and its stately cathedral Tower and Alcazar, you wind yourselves through the great plains and horse farms to the delightful city of Córdoba. Ramble the old Jewish quarter and a visit to the fascinating synagogue before enjoying the awesome Mezquita with its intertwining of Arab design and Christian piety. Cycle off into rustic Andalucia, home of olive groves, rolling hills and white washed farmhouses.
In the distance the mountains of the Sierra Nevada rise, as you arrive at the jewel in the Moorish crown, Granada. Whiling away time in the Teateries of the old quarter or just strolling around the romantic gardens of the Alhambra, its a fitting way to end this tour of Al-andalus.
HOTEL SELECTION
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"This was a trip of a lifetime"
S. & E. Bridgeson, Canada
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HIGHLIGHTS
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1 |
Seville |
We meet in this historic city of Seville and enjoy a private and guided walking tour of the city. View the magnificent Cathedral, the largest gothic church in the world, climbing the Moorish minaret for a stunning panorama, before exploring hidden neighbourhoods. Spend the evening in a 4 star hotel, close to the historic centre. |
2 |
Palma del Rio
55km/
34m
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After a short transfer out of the hustle and bustle of Seville, we enjoy the stunning heritage city of Caromona. Cycle through pleasant countryside plains and orange blossoms, winding our way slowly to a tranquil Andalusian village, with time to try the local tapas. This is the heartland of the famed Seville oranges.
Spend the night in an unique and beautifully converted 15th century monastery of outstanding charm, sampling the best of Andalusian cuisine in its atmospheric, wooden beamed dining room. This hotel was once the place where Christopher Columbus stayed before departing to Seville to discover the New World! |
3 |
Cordoba
63km/
40m
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Ride out onto the Campiña Cordobesa, the fertile region known since Roman times, which produces everything from peppers, artichokes and olives. Onwards to the heritage city of Córdoba where you can enjoy the last vestiges of sunset on the beautiful stone bridge with the city backdrop behind you.
Join the group for a dinner in an elegant residence dating from the 16th century, and boasting Cordoba's traditional patio courtyards. At the end of the meal, have time to enjoy a local flamenco show, a must when in Andalucia. |
4 |
Cordoba |
Start the day off with a private and guided walking tour of the city, the former capital of Moorish Al-Andalus, taking in the awesome Mezquita (mosque-cathedral) with its bountiful arches. Be led through the medieval and Jewish quarters (visit the old synagogue), stroll the picturesque cobbled streets, jasmine scented gardens and geranium festooned balconies. The afternoon is free for you to explore.
N.B. It is possible to join the tour today in Córdoba (7 day / 6 nights) |
5 |
Zuheros
62 or 88km/
40 or 55m |
The way to Baena is known as the Ruta del Aceite (Oil Route) for good reason, as it is one of the biggest olive oil producers in the world. Cycle through open expanses of wheat, cotton and sunflower fields, spotting the wild hawks high above.
Head to Zuheros, one of the prettiest villages in Andalucia, its Moorish castle literally hanging from the rocks. Spend the night in a rustic retreat, trying the local goats´ cheeses in the late afternoon...yum! This evening we will dine together, sampling a famous Spanish dish, paella. |
6 |
Zuheros
0 upto 60km
0 upto 38m |
Start the day off by becoming a connoisseur of great oils on our private guided tour of an organic olive oil press. Enjoy an optional rest day (walking options available) or take a guided loop ride, exploring the olive area and surrounding villages.
Have time in the afternoon to ride the relaxing 'rails to trail' traffic free path to a lagoon passing the old olive oil railway stations, now converted cafes. Experience views of olive groves for as far as the eye can see. A very special area to explore. |
7 |
Lake
District
60 km/
37 m
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We cycle through a national park, stopping for lunch in a truly baroque town. Admire the fine churches and fountains after enjoying a leisurely lunch. Head through rolling countryside of olive trees and plateaus before arriving in the Lake District area of the Malaga Province.
Spend the night in a hacienda, overlooking an impressive lake surrounded by mountains. Enjoy the evening sunlight with a drink from the swimming pool patio, before we dine together. |
8 |
Alhama
65km/
40m
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Start the morning ascending the lake side valley before freewheeling down a spectacular descent into the fertile Genil valley, keeping your eyes peeled for the locally grown asparagus. Time for lunch sampling the local specialty of roscos (donut shaped treats) before climbing up the valley to the medieval town of Alhama, with its impressive gorge, Roman brige and thermal spas.
Architectural buffs will relish tonight's 19th century townhouse with its original features and rock carved wine cellar/bodega. We dine tonight in the restaurant and home of a flamenco singer. |
9 |
Granada
60km/
37m
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Climbing past an aqua blue lake, you swoop downwards into the historic plains where Moorish battles where fought and Queen Isabella met with Columbus to commission his explorations to the New World.
Test your new found fitness as you spin along the same roads the pros take in the La Vuelta a España (Tour of Spain).
Finally the Sierra Nevada, which have been our constant companion for the afternoon, are at our doorstep as we arrive in the Royal city of Granada. Relax in the historically located 4 star hotel, full of Andalusian charm and ambience. |
10 |
Granada |
What better way to start this day than with a tour of one of the most magnificent and loved buildings in Europe, the Alhambra Palace. Be amazed by the centuries old wonderland of elaborate stucco work and peaceful gardens.
The rest of the day is free to wander the timeless alleyways and hidden plazas on your own and pick up any souvenirs before we bid adiós to eachother and transfer you on to your onward connections! (options to extend stay in Granada). |
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| Route |
Seville, Cordoba, Poniente Granadino, Granada - See Map for route
This route is A to B cycling with the only compulsory transfer to leave the busy city of Seville at the beginning. You can cycle all the way to Granada. Less van, more cycling! |
| Accommodation |
Specially chosen quality hotels and country retreats for 9 nights (6 nights from Córdoba):
-4 nights in 4 star city hotels
-2 nights in converted historic hotels, inc a 15th century monastery
-3 nights in charming rustic retreats and a hacienda
All bedrooms are private en-suite
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| Food |
-All 9 breakfasts (6 from Córdoba)
-5 dinners (3 from Córdoba) at the selected accommodation and fine restaurants (3 courses) including wine/beer and soft drinks
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| Extras Included |
- Welcome drink and meeting
- Private and guided city walking tours of Seville and Córdoba.
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Entrance and guide to Seville's cathedral and Cordoba's Mezquita
- Entrance and guide to Granada's Alhambra Palace
- Guided tour of an organic olive oil mill
- Wine, beer, soft drinks and water with evening meals
- Hire of 24-27 speed TREK hybrid bike with front handlebar bag / map carrier
- Complimentary custom designed Cycling Country Spain cycling jersey (choose your size when booking!)
- Complimentary Cycling Country water bottle
- Tour guide book of your route and all sightseeing stops
- Route notes and maps
- Experienced guides
- Daily snacks and refreshments (energy bars, fruit etc and drinks)
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| Road Bike Hire |
A TREK hybrid bike is included in the price of the tour. However if you wish to change to a road bike there are 2 options:
Option 1)
Orbea Road Bike with alu frame / carbon fork at an extra 95 Euros from Seville, 75 Euros from Cordoba;
Option 2) TREK Road Bike with full carbon frame at an extra 185 Euros from Seville, 145 Euros from Cordoba |
| Transfer |
From arrival point at Seville or Córdoba airport, train or bus stations, back to departure point at Granada airport, train or bus station |
| Activity Level |
All levels -there will be van transfers along the route enabling cyclists to cycle as little or as much as they want (Daily min average of 25 km to max of 88 km). You can cycle with the group, or independently. We add on more miles for those who want to ride further at the end of the day. |
| Terrain |
Quiet country roads or purpose made cycling paths. Rolling countryside with some steeper climbs (van transfer if required). The route is hilly so be prepared! |
| Staff |
2 leaders with full van support to pick up souvenirs, provide refreshments, act as guides, offer tips and insights throughout the day, provide directional signs where required, transfer luggage and provide on-road assistance. 1 leader cycles with the group. The van support accompanies the group all the way.
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| Group Size |
6 to 16 |
| Dates & Prices |
ALL DEPARTURES ARE GUARANTEED
From Seville (10 Days / 9 Nights tour) from 1945 Euros
| Dates for 2013 |
Price in Eur |
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| - 13 Mar to 19 Mar |
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(NOTE: 13 Mar tour only starts in Cordoba - 7 Days) |
| - 01 Apr to 10 Apr |
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| - 15 April to 24 Apr |
1995 |
SOLD OUT |
| - 29 Apr to 08 May* |
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| - 27 May to 05 June |
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NOW only 1795 Euros - save 10% |
| - 09 Sep to 18 Sep |
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*Join the 29 April or the 19 Oct tour up with the Portugal Romantic Alentejo tour to make an unforgettable Trans Iberian trip - transfers included from Portugal to Seville, Spain. 10% combined trip discount.
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| - 19 Oct to 28 Oct* |
1995 |
| - 30 Oct to 08 Nov |
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OR from Córdoba (7 Days / 6 Nights tour) from 1675 Euros
| Dates for 2013 |
Price in Eur |
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| - 13 Mar to 19 Mar |
1675 |
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| - 04 Apr to 10 Apr |
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| - 18 Apr to 24 Apr |
1695 |
SOLD OUT |
| - 02 May to 08 May* |
1695 |
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| - 30 May to 05 June |
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NOW only 1525 Euros - save 10% |
| - 12 Sep to 18 Sep |
1695 |
*Join the 02 May or 21 Oct tour up with the Portugal Romantic Alentejo tour to make an unforgettable Trans Iberian trip - transfers included from Portugal to Seville, Spain. 10% combined trip discount. Easy connection from Seville to Cordoba to pick tour up again,
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| - 21 Oct to 28 Oct* |
1695 |
| - 02 Nov to 08 Nov |
1675 |
OR Custom Dates - if booking with a private group of 6 or more (check for availability)
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| Single Supplement |
Single supplement Eur 355 (Eur 265 from Córdoba)
See Special Offers for availability and deals
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