History and Hedonism: London to Andalucia by Train

Today you will be swapping pica pica for tapas proper as you travel south almost the length of Spain to that Andalusian gem, Granada. You will arrive in Granada in time for lunch at your hotel's restaurant, sitting on the outside terrace soaking up the Spanish sun. After lunch you can choose to start exploring Granada and its historic architecture or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage or other treatments in the hotel's spa.

This morning treat yourself to a delicious fresh breakfast before heading out to meet your guide for a tour of the Alhambra. First constructed in 889 AD, the palace was later converted into a royal palace in 1333 and was the crown jewel of the Emirate of Granada, the final stronghold of the Islamic Moors before the reconquest of the Iberian peninsula in 1492. The Alhambra's construction makes it more than just a building; it embodies an entire era in its fortress, beautiful gardens and much more. After learning about the history of the Alhambra, you will then head on to explore the heritage and legacy of this Arabian and latterly Christian city. You will explore buildings such as the Real Hospital and the Monastery of San Jeronimo, where Christian Granada is represented in this paragon of Renaissance architecture. Continuing from here you will be introduced to the one-time Muslim medina (old town) to learn even more about the Moorish era.

Today you will be taken on a private tour to explore the charming streets of Albaycin; visiting carmenes - the traditional houses of Granada with an interior courtyard much like Moroccan riads - and small picturesque squares such as San Nicolas and San Cristobal. From Albaycin, you will be shown to the famous cave-houses found in Sacromonte, as well as the zambras - flamenco dances - and the Chapel of Sepulcro. Your tour will end on the hills surrounding the city, providing panoramic views of the Alhambra and the city. If you want to extend the trip, we can tailor-make any extension, and we would recommend you consider completing the 'holy trinity' of Andalucian cultural destinations with visits to Cordoba and Seville as well. By train, naturally. After the tour, you have the rest of the day at leisure. Tomorrow you will be leaving Granada and starting your train journey home, so take this opportunity to be tempted by tapas, browse the shops of Granada, or simply relax at your hotel.

Enjoy another morning in Granada and a leisurely lunch before heading back to the station for the return rail route back to Barcelona. The train takes six-and-a-half hours, arriving into the Catalan capital in the late evening. As ever, though, you're on Spanish time, so people will only just be heading out on a pica pica tour when you arrive.