A Family Adventure in Spain

In Spain’s northwestern corner sits the proudly independent comunidad autónoma of Catalonia, with the charismatic city of Barcelona as its capital.

One of Europe’s greatest cities, Barcelona has a rich history with iconic architectural treasures dating from Roman temples to winding gothic streets, with Gaudi’s uniquely playful modernism cut with stark millennial flashes of glass and steel. There is a tangibly buzzing culture in the streets and squares, an inspiration for some of the 20th century’s greatest artists and writers, that makes exploring tucked away bars, cafes, restaurants, museums and galleries endlessly captivating.

Barcelona is a city that comes alive at night, and you’ll experience the bright lights and the buzz with an evening sidecar tour. Whizz through the streets, taking in sights such as the Columbus Monument, Barceloneta Beach, El Born, Sagrada Familia, Montjuic Hill and much more. The city's buildings and avenues take on a different personality at night and you'll enjoy seeing a whole new side to Barcelona.

Barcelona is known for its beautiful and often eccentric architecture. Gaudi contributed much to the cityscape and you can appreciate his artistic vision as you explore the Güell Park, located on Carmel Hill. La Sagrada Familia, although not finished, is considered his masterpiece and is a real feat of engineering incorporating stone, brick, tiles and glass. Enjoy wandering along the cobbled streets of the Gothic quarter and visit El Born which feels like a small village nestled within the city.

Chocolate was first introduced to Spain from the New World in the sixteenth century and its popularity across Europe quickly spread. Today visit a specialty shop to learn about and buy the ingredients needed, then walk through medieval narrow streets to a cooking school to make different types of hot chocolate and melindros, a famous pastry dipped into the delicious drink.

The jewel in the Moorish Caliphate of Cordoba and the capital of the most powerful Castilian Kingdom, Seville has been left with eye-popping architecture and majestic grace. While Seville reached its peak in the 17th century and then suffered terribly in the Spanish Civil War, today it has resurrected itself as the capital and largest city of Andalusia. You'll need to spend a few days here at least to experience the true essence of Spanish grandeur.

Meet an expert resident guide an take to two wheels, exploring the beautiful city of Seville at a leisurely pace. Cycle along its pretty streets and over the bridge, passing by the Golden Tower and through parks while your host brings the city to life with fascinating stories and intriguing anecdotes.

Flamenco is the traditional song and dance of the gypsies of Andalusia and was developed over hundreds of years before becoming popular in the 19th century as a form of café entertainment. There are three parts to every flamenco show: 'grande' or 'hondo' with intense, profound songs; 'intermedio'; and finally 'pequeño', lighthearted songs about love and nature.

Meet your host, Amelia Gomez, before beginning this hands on class where you will cook and taste some of the most famous dishes of Andalusian cuisine. Enjoy the traditional salmorejo, beetroot and avocado cream and Spanish omelette or fried aubergine with honey. You will learn how to prepare Paella with saffron, vegetables and chicken or seafood.

Seville's brooding Andalusian sister sits at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the Iberian Peninsula's highest massif. Renowned as the last stronghold of the Moors who were driven out of Western Europe in the 15th century, it's here that you'll best discover Andalusia's splendid Arabic architectural heritage including the beautiful Alhambra Palace.

The lavish Alhambra is Granada's most visited site. Once a palace and fortress for the city's Muslim rulers, the Alhambra means ‘red fort' and is named after the red clay used in its construction in the mid-13th century. The Generalife was the country residence of the Nasrid king and the recreational courtyard and its beautiful gardens sit on the slopes of the Cerro del Sol, offering spectacular views.

This city in Costa del Sol is surrounded by the Sierra Blanca Mountains, sandy Mediterranean beaches and resorts. Spend your days soaking up the sun on one of 24 beaches along the coast, or explore the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) with its ancient walls and historic buildings. Discover a variety of cafes and restaurants, learn about the city's history with a visit to some of the museums, and make the most of great shopping.

Meet the crew and board the Elan Impression Sailing Boat for a glamorous half day sailing experience, navigating towards Cabo Pino and Estepona. During the cruise you may want to relax, do some snorkeling or swimming, before sailing back to Puerto Banús.