Self-guided cycling
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 3
Stretching
12.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
It could be argued that Andalucia is the most quintessentially Spanish part of the Iberian Peninsula. Defined by its Moorish architecture this land of contrasts boasts fertile land, historic hilltop towns, stunning beaches and excellent local food. This self-guided cycle takes you from the magical city of Seville, along small country roads and through Mediterranean woodland to the town of Arcos, one of Andalucia's most dramatically positioned pueblos blancos (white villages). From here you take a journey into the heart of the Flamenco traditions of Jerez - famous for its sherry wines, before ending in Cadiz; thought to be the oldest city in western Europe. The accommodation is in spectacular traditional and modern hotels of the region, and the food is plentiful, fresh and delicious.
Make your own way to Seville. We recommend arriving early or arranging extra nights to ensure you spend as much time as possible in this magical city of international fame. Its culture, history and folklore make this an exceptional tourist destination. Legend tells us that the city was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. Now it is the capital of the Andalucian region and most widely known for its ornate Alcazar castle complex, built during the Moorish Almohad dynasty, and its 18th Century Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza bullring. The Gothic cathedral is home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus and a famous belltower; the Giralda. The birthplace of Flamenco is generally accepted to be this area of Andalucia, and Seville is the perfect place to enjoy an evening show alongside your traditional cuisine.
You stay at Hotel Fernando III.
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Aircon
Tea/coffee
A classic and distinguished hotel in the heart of Seville,in the iconic neighbourhood of Santa Cruz, the city’s former Jewish Quarter. The streets are a maze, with elegant villas and jasmine-scented courtyards. Just a leisurely five-minute stroll away is the historic complex of the Cathedral-Giralda, as well as many other famous landmarks.
The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a roof terrace with city views and a seasonal swimming pool, open from June to September. The hotel’s restaurant serves both Andalusian dishes and European cuisine, in additional to traditional tapas and wines.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Leave the city using its extensive network of cycle tracks. Head north-east to reach a dedicated cycle route on a good dirt road beside the river Guadaira. Cycle amongst flat landscapes of cereals and sunflower plantations, you will pass several small towns before you reach the historic walled town of Carmona, which boasts several churches, palaces, and an imposing Arab fortress.
You stay at Parador de Carmona.
PoolHairdryerWiFiTV
MinibarAircon
SafeTea/coffee
Once a 14th-century Moorish fortress, this Parador Hotel offers spectacular views over the countryside and the Corbones River. The Parador de Carmona boasts beautiful design details including a central courtyard, vaulted ceilings, original stonework and spacious terraces.
The large bright bedrooms enjoy exquisite classic décor which, alongside the Sevillian tiling, enhance the 14th-century citadels original features. Tapestries and antique furniture compliment the history of the building.
The Turismo de Carmona's dining room serves partridge-based dishes, organic vegetables grown from the garden, and delectable pastries.
Leaving picturesque Carmona you ride south, a delightful route along quaint country lanes overlooked by sunflowers and olive groves. Today's ride takes you through several small, traditional towns where you can enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the many bars along your route. Finish in the small town of Montellano with its pink marble buildings and natural monuments; perfect for an evening of relaxation.
You stay at Hotel Andalou.
PoolHairdryerWiFiAirconSafe
Located in Montellano, one of the White towns of Andalusia. A postcard-perfect location of Spain. The whitewashed walls and tiled roofs history goes back hundreds of years.
There is a pool with beautiful views of the countryside, open from May to October, an on-site bar and a terrace to enjoy on your stay.
The rooms come with air conditioning, private bath or shower, and a balcony. Some of the rooms have Wi-fi access. The colours throughout the hotel are vibrant and playful.
From Montellano you can see the mountains of Grazalema far in the distance. Today you will experience some hills, but not mountains, as the cycle takes you into pristine Mediterranean forest. Most of the cycling is along very quiet country roads, except for a section (about 8km) along a 'Via Verde' (a disused railway line now used as a cycle lane). You will cycle past the typically Andalucian town of Puerto Serrano; a good place to stop for lunch. You end in Arcos de la Frontera; one of Andalucia's most dramatically positioned pueblos blancos (white villages).
You stay at Parador de Arcos de la Fontera.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafe
For lovers of good food and wine, rural tourism, castles and white-washed Spanish town charm. The Arcos de la Frontera Parador sits high above the town of Cadiz. Cobbled streets lead into the old town below, declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument and considered one of the most beautiful in Andalusia. Wine permeates the region and there are several vineyards to enjoy in the area.
The hotel has traditional Andalusian décor and an interior courtyard to keep cool. The rooms are beautiful and compliment the grand location as you enjoy panoramic views from this gorgeous hotel.
From Arcos you pedal across undulating terrain, following the river Guadalete downstream along quiet country roads. Mediterranean woodland and agricultural land characterise the landscape. There are many small villages to stop along the way for a welcome break! The town of Jerez holds worldwide acclaim for its sherry and brandy production, but is equally famous for its fine horses and Flamenco music and dance.
You stay at Hotel Villa Jerez.
PoolWiFiTVMinibarAircon
The Hotel Villa Jerez is an old Jerez mansion refurbished as a boutique hotel in the city centre of Jerez de la Frontera. The hotel has 18 rooms, 14 superior doubles and 4 Junior Suites, all facing outdoors with views of the garden or swimming pool. The hotel is surrounded by 4,000 m² of gardens to enjoy.
Here you are surrounded by a rich heritage and Jerez is mainly famous for 3 things: horses, flamenco and wine!
Heading south today, you reach the sea and the ancient city of Cadiz. The ride will take you into the stunning small town of El Puerto de Santa Maria, where there are many restaurants tempting you with the fish catch of the day. Cadiz is the oldest city in western Europe, with monuments such as the grandiose structure of the Cathedral Nueva, and the red brick building of the Gran Teatro, along with the stunning beaches are enough to encourage any visitor to fall in love with it. Your ride will end along the beach cycle paths, and lead you to your last Parador for one final night of luxury.
You stay at Parador de Cadiz.
PoolHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafe
For design lovers, the Parador de Cadiz will fascinate you. From the contemporary hotel there are impressive views of the bay. There is a pool with stunning sea views, Turkish bar and wellness spa to indulge in.
Offering a terrace with sea or city views, each bright, air-conditioned room at this hotel comes with modern, cosy furnishings. They all feature a satellite TV, minibar and a private bathroom.
Cádiz Parador is just 5 minutes’ walk from La Caleta Beach and is an excellent base to explore the enchanting nearby fishing villages. You can walk to San Sebastián Castle in 15 minutes.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
You trip ends after breakfast in Cadiz. If you have time it is possible to arrange additional nights here, or there are regular trains back to Seville taking around 1h 35mins.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from NZ$645.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Self-guided cycling
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 3
Stretching
12.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
